Page 263 of From Rakes to Riches

“How wonderfully convenient and orderly.” Cassandra grinned. Then her eyes narrowed. “You were gone an awfully long time. I danced two sets.”

“Prudence was quick enough to tell anyone who inquired that I wasn’t feeling well. And I made sure I was seen in the retiring room. Have I completely ruined my reputation?”

“That depends on if you were seen in the garden with Overton and whether anyone put that together with your subsequent absence for an hour or however long you were gone. If you announce your betrothal quickly, perhaps tomorrow, all should be well.”

Fiona relaxed, her body loosening from a tension she hadn’t realized she’d been carrying since returning to the ball. Probably because she’d also been too giddy to notice. “That is exceptionally good to hear.”

Seeing Cassandra reminded Fiona that her brother had been upstairs. With a courtesan. She pondered whether she ought to tell Cassandra. On the one hand, he was her brother, and on the other, his…private affairs were just that—private. Even if he was married and shouldn’t have been dallying with a courtesan. Fiona decided it wasn’t her place to involve herself.

Glancing toward the wide doorway from the staircase hall, she wondered when Tobias would come downstairs and how they would need to act toward each other. It would be very difficult when all she wanted to do was to proclaim to the world that he was hers and she was his.

As if conjured from her thoughts, Tobias came toward them. He wore an absurdly bright smile that reflected Fiona’s joy.

He was not alone. Lord Lucien was at his side, and if Tobias looked utterly delighted, Lord Lucien was the personification of irritated. His brow was deeply furrowed and his jaw clenched.

“Where is he?” Lord Lucien demanded of his sister without preamble.

“Who?” Cassandra appeared perplexed.

“Don’t be clever. Wexford. Why were you dancing with him?”

Lord Lucien was angry because his sister was dancing with someone? Who was Wexford? Fiona looked to Tobias, who barely shook his head, his eyes silently communicating that he’d explain later.

“As if it’s any of your concern, I was avoiding an overzealous gentleman.” Cassandra’s eyes glittered with an ire that seemed to match her brother’s. “Actually, perhaps it is your concern, since this is your club. Mr. Upton had clearly over-imbibed and was not accepting my refusal to promenade in the garden.”

“Sounds as though Wexford performed a great service,” Tobias said genially.

“Wexford should have taken Upton into the garden for a beating.” Lord Lucien’s mouth twisted. “I’ll speak with him later. And with Upton.” He exhaled. “I’m relieved to discover the dance was nothing more than that.”

“And if it had been, it still wouldn’t have been your business. I don’t know why you and Con and Father seem to think you can manage every part of my life. I won’t tolerate it.” Cassandra glanced toward Fiona. “I’m for the retiring room.” She left in the direction of the ladies’ side of the ballroom.

“Perhaps you should go with her,” Fiona suggested to Prudence.

Prudence flicked a glance toward Tobias before saying, “It seems you’re the one I should stay with.”

Fiona laughed softly. “I promise I will stay right here.”

Prudence hesitated but ultimately departed after Cassandra. Lord Lucien, who continued to frown, turned to Tobias and Fiona. “Allow me to offer my most heartfelt congratulations. However, I hope you’ll excuse me.”

“Thank you and yes.” Tobias gave him a meaningful look. “You heard what your sister said.”

“That I’m like my brother and father? Yes.” A slight tremor passed over him. “I’m going to find Upton.” He stalked off.

“Uh-oh, alone again,” Tobias murmured, moving to stand as close to her as propriety would allow. His fingers grazed hers.

“You can hardly call this alone.” She swept her gaze over the crowded ballroom and smiled.

“I suppose not. I’m just glad to be with you again, hopeless as that sounds.”

She couldn’t keep herself from staring into his eyes. “I feel the same.”

“Were you able to speak with Lord Gregory?”

“I was. He was disappointed, but he was also glad for me.”

“What did you tell him?”

“That my heart was engaged elsewhere. He wanted to ensure my feelings were reciprocated. I assured him they were.”

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