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Elizabeth felt a flare of annoyance and cleared her throat. “If you don't mind, Catherine, I’ll be equally frank. Will is a grown man who needs no assistance in choosing a partner. Whether ours will be a lifelong partnership remains to be seen, but it won't be becauseyouhave a say in it. As for connections or strength of name, I have strength of character and my own integrity and worthiness to recommend me. I don't rely on wealth or social standing to recommend me toanyone, including Will. Those things are inconsequential to him, therefore they’re of no concern to you.”
Catherine's face reddened, and her voice sharpened. “You cannot possibly think you will fit into this life. You are no one and will be viewed as nothing more than the opportunistic social climber you undoubtedly are. I'm sure that's what most of the guests here tonight are saying. They know you aren't one of us. Who do you think you're fooling? He’ll tire of you and will come to recognize that choosing outside of his sphere was unwise.”
Elizabeth's annoyance turned to anger. “And Anne is within his sphere? Anne, who wants nothing to do with him or your plans for her future? Perhaps you should leave Will’s fate up to Will, instead of trying to manipulate it for your own gain.” She took a deep breath. “I have nothing else to say. In fact, I've probably said too much.”
She turned on her heel and walked out of the restroom, and plowed directly into Will.
“I was coming to check on you,” he said and held her lightly by the upper arms, which were trembling. He lowered his head to catch her eye, then drew back sharply. “What did she say?”
Elizabeth forced a smile. “Nothing I didn't expect, though she doesn't mince words, does she? She cuts right to it.”
His expression was thunderous. “Go back to the table. I'll wait here andescortCatherine back.”
She shook her head. “You’ll do no such thing. The music has started, and I've been waiting all night to dance with you. I refuse to let Catherine ruin my night. Just forget about it.”
She kissed him, gently gripping the lapels of his jacket. The strains of a familiar song drifted down the long hallway, and she tugged him playfully.
“Come on, let's go.”
He did as she asked, and they glided effortlessly across the massive dance floor amongst dozens of other couples. Elizabeth was hardly aware of the flashbulbs erupting, choosing instead to focus on the man holding her and singing to her as they danced. She closed her eyes and inhaled deeply, and he pulled her closer and kissed her temple. She lifted her head and smiled, and he returned the smile as he continued to sing softly.
She was quite surprised when, at the end of the song, he kissed her quite thoroughly, right in the middle of the dance floor. But she knew what he was doing; he was telling Catherine and Caroline, and anyone else who might have designs on him, that his heart was spoken for, and he would not be swayed otherwise.
