“That would be most unwise,” she countered.
“Why?”
“Then he might realize how I feel.”
Philip frowned. “Wouldn’t that be a helpful development?”
“Not if he doesn’t return my regard.” She truly hoped that wasn’t the case.
“How will you know if you don’t try?”
“Exactly.” Excitement that he agreed with her logic overcame her.
His raised brow suggested he didn’t understand her answer.
Before she could offer an explanation, the dance steps drew them apart again. Thank goodness. She needed a moment to determine what to say. Yet a feeling of triumph flooded her that he agreed with her. Somehow, even though he didn’t know what he was agreeing to, it felt as if he’d given his approval.
The thought lightened the worry she’d been carrying.
But what did she tell Philip?
Based on his expectant look, he still wanted an explanation.
“What I meant to say was that I want to remind him that I exist in more subtle ways.” She waited, hoping that was sufficient.
“How could he possibly not know?”
Irritation swept over her. “I would’ve said you weren’t aware of my existence until we became reacquainted at the garden party.” Where I dropped my handkerchief to gain your notice. But she didn’t say that. There was such a thing as too much honesty in moments like this.
He seemed to acknowledge that truth as they parted ways yet again for several steps.
“Exactly how are you reminding him of your presence if you don’t speak with him?”
“By being within view.”
“There has to be more you can do than that.”
She stared at him in astonishment. “What would you suggest?”
He opened his mouth to reply several times only to remain silent. Perhaps he was understanding the dilemma of being a woman who cared for a man who was unaware of her. “I suppose you must take care to protect your reputation.”
“Quite.” Eliza drew a breath, hoping that was the end of the conversation. Never mind that they’d taken a terrible risk on the terrace earlier.
With luck, one day she would remind him of this conversation and share that she was speaking of him the entire time.
The thought was comforting.
At least it was until she caught sight of the three Graham sisters watching them closely. They were an unwanted reminder that Philip wasn’t hers and might never be.
Chapter Eleven
Philipdidn’tbothertohide his surprise at the breakfast table the next morning when Markus strode in. The fact that his cousin was up this early was unusual but that he looked the worse for wear was not.
“Don’t say it.” Markus held up a finger as he glanced at Philip.
“What? Good morning?” Philip couldn’t resist.
“Yes. And no, it isn’t.” Markus pulled out a chair as he gestured for the butler to pour him coffee.
