Page 18 of The Scandalous Saga of the White Lady

“My wild Aunt Agatha—and with a young, and very handsome gentleman companion. She says they are traveling companions, but I have a distinct feeling there is more going on than just travel.”

“And they will be staying with you?”

“They will. I have given them separate rooms, but who knows what goes on in the dead of night. I shudder to think.”

“Oh, Maria, your aunt is a grown woman… surely she is able to make her own decisions.”

“Yes, but… well… what if people were to gossip?” They both laughed. “And she says there are many tales to be told. And of that, I have no doubt.”

“Are they likely to show themselves this evening? I should love to hear some of her tales.”

“I do not know. She claimed exhaustion from the journey, but she left it open and might appear.”

“And the young man?”

“He will probably do whatever she recommends. She appears to have him on a lead like a puppy.”

That set them both laughing again.

The dance ended, and Maria said, “I really must see to the champagne. It is time be hostess again.”

As Maria left, Percy returned with Dorothy, closely followed by Harry.

“Miss Dorothy,” Percy said as he assisted her to her chair.

“Percy, I see you have gravitated to the two loveliest ladies at the dance,” Harry said, clapping his friend on the shoulder.

“Only the very best,” Percy said and turned to Anna. “And Miss Anna, will you honor me with the next dance?”

“I would, but I believe we are to have a champagne break,” she replied.

“Then later, perhaps, for I never forgo the offer of champagne. Might I fetch you ladies a glass?”

“I believe you are too late, Mr. Percy, for I see Mr. Stewart coming this way with glasses for us.”

“Ladies, libations,” Christopher said, and handed each lady a glass.

“Thank you,” each sister said.

“I must say, your efforts with the flowers have been stunning. Quite an accomplishment for you both,” Christopher added. He took a sip from his own glass and turned his attention to Dorothy. “And I believe you promised me my second dance.”

“Certainly, first one after the break,” Dorothy said with a large smile.

“And might I claim a dance, Anna, my dear,” Harry asked.

Percy had already turned away and headed to the champagne table. And she watched him for a moment before answering. “I would be pleased to, Harry.”

* * *

When the dancing started up again, Christopher went over and offered his hand to Dorothy. She rose, taking his hand, and they went to the dance floor.

This was to be a waltz, so they had an opportunity to spend some time together without interruption.

They danced for a moment without speaking, enjoying the music and the dance. But Christopher could not help but notice how delightful Miss Dorothy looked. Her hair was golden, and he found the delicate shape of her neck entrancing. She was lost in her thoughts and was not looking at him, so that he could admire her graceful lines unobserved.

“Do you ever travel outside of Wiltshire?” he asked, finally.

She looked at him and smiled shyly. “We go to London occasionally. We have relatives we stay with. Father has never felt the need to keep a London house.”