At that moment, Dominic could have smacked his cousin for the interruption. Frances barely sketched a curtsy before she was on her way back to her student, pulling Harriet to the side to reiterate the rules of dancing.
Either that, or Frances had seen an excuse to get away from Dominic as quickly and politely as possible, and had leaped at it.
“I should find the rest of the party before they make themselves too comfortable,” he said abruptly.
Without waiting for a response, without stealing another glance at Frances, he left the music room. And as he went in search of the other guests, he told himself that Hugo’s interruption had, in fact, been timed perfectly, serving as a reminder that he should not forget himself again.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
“Afine evening,” Hugo declared, with a firm clap to Dominic’s arm. “Truly, one of the most entertaining evenings I have enjoyed in a long while.”
Dominic clapped his cousin’s back in return, the man jolting a half step forward. “I am pleased it was a success for Harriet.”
“You are?” Hugo rubbed his shoulder. “I thought you were averse to all of this society madness? I thought you could not have cared less if she ever entered society, content for her to remain a spinster?”
“Better a spinster than a wife in an unfortunate marriage,” Dominic replied, for his opinion onthathad not changed.
If Harriet was to marry one day, he wanted her to marry someone worthy, someone who would take care of her, someone who would cherish her and love her.Thatwas what worried him about her entrance into society, that she might not choose well.
Hugo shrugged. “That is what you are for, to ensure she does not end up in such a situation.” He looked back over his shoulder as if looking for something. “Lady Frances is interesting, is she not?”
“Are you not supposed to be halfway to Bath by now?” Dominic retorted. “You are dallying.”
“I am merely saying… she is a fascinating woman. With a mind like hers, one could host the most talked-about events of the Season; the kind that thetonwould give their best jewels to attend,” Hugo said. “It does not hurt that she really is incredibly beautiful.”
Dominic bristled, uncertain of his cousin’s intent. Was Hugo saying this for his own benefit, making a vague declaration of his own interest? Or was it just his usual kind of teasing, trying to get some manner of reaction out of Dominic?
“Propose to her, if you are so enchanted,” Dominic replied, testing the waters. “I am certain her father would be glad of it, if she came here with nothing and returned with a duke for a husband.”
Hugo chuckled. “I was not talking in regard to myself, Cousin.” He nudged Dominic in the ribs. “Isawyou dance. Granted, I cannot remember if I have ever seen you dance, but I know when a couple is lost in a dance and when they are merely plodding through the steps. You and Lady Frances—you were the former, without question.”
“Goodnight, Cousin,” Dominic muttered, giving Hugo a shove toward the porch steps.
“You know I am not wrong,” Hugo tossed back over his shoulder.
“You are,” Dominic replied.
“She must be here for a reason, Cousin!”
“Yes, to teach Harriet!”
There was more Dominic wished to say, but Hugo was already at his horse, and he did not want to shout and have the entire household hear him.
So, he just stood there in the doorway, grumbling under his breath, as he watched Hugo climb into the saddle. A moment later, with a wave from Hugo that gained a scowl in return, Dominic closed the front door and took a deep breath.
Thiswas why he did not host gatherings or guests; it was all too much effort.
With the manor quiet again, all of the guests safely on their way back to Bath, Dominic turned and headed for his study. There was a rather pleasant, mellow brandy waiting for him, and after that dance, he doubted he would sleep without it.
He had barely poured the measure and sat down by the merrily crackling fire when a soft knock came at the study door.
“Who is it?” he asked, a grouchy note in his voice.
Was he to have no peace tonight? Was he not permitted to have a few moments alone with his thoughts, to make head or tail of them?
“It is Frances, Your Grace.” She sounded nervous. “I… just wanted to speak to you about something before I retire.”
He stood sharply, glancing around for somewhere to hide his drink.
