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She froze in her tracks. Maybe it wasn’t too late. Maybe she could pretend she didn’t hear him and race outside. Taking a deep breath, she made to continue on her walk.

But it was too late. Thomas was upon her.

“Where have you been all morning?” he demanded.

“Looking for you,” she lied.

“Well, you have found me,” he grinned. “Shall we take a turn around the room?”

She forced a smile. “Perhaps in a moment, but first, can you perhaps get me something to drink? I worked up quite a thirst trying to find you.”

“I think it would be better for us to go together. I’d hate for us to get separated again, wouldn’t you?”

“You’re right,” she said, biting back her dread.

He patted her shoulder and led her through the room. Apparently, getting a drink was easier said than done. In the end, they circled the room several times before finally finding a footman.

“There you are!” Thomas groaned. “You know, there really should be more of you people in a party of this size.”

“Sorry, My Lord.”

“You should be. The least you can do would be to move around the space more. I am seriously considering if I need to have a word with the host.”

“There is no need for that,” Amber cut in before he could cause any problems for Mary.

“It will only take a moment. Besides, it might be best for me to show you how staff should be handled. After all, it won’t be long before I’m expecting you to do it on my behalf. I can hardly throw you to the wolves without a single example.”

“But—”

“Relax, my dear, it will only take a moment. Now, let’s go find our so-called host.”

“But I’m sure she’s rather busy.”

“I doubt that. From what I can see, it seems incredibly clear that she must be slacking off.”

As he stormed through the room, they bumped into Johnathan.

“Where are the two of you off to?” he asked.

“I’m looking for your wife,” Thomas snapped.

“But whatever for?”

“This place is severely understaffed! It took me almost five minute to find a refreshment for poor Amber. Do you think that is acceptable?”

“I see,” he nodded.

“I’m not sure that you do. This is unacceptable. She needs to ensure it never happens again. Let me talk to her.”

The other man nodded. “I hear you, but I’m afraid she is indisposed at the moment. Please, allow me to pass the message along.”

“Do you think you can handle explaining the importance of this failure to her?”

“I think I can manage, yes.”

Thomas stared at him for a while then sighed. “Very well, I will leave it in your hands. Don’t disappoint me.”

Then he turned on his heels and started to walk. “Come along, Amber.”