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Mary raised one brow and turned to Ashford.“What was that about?”
He lifted one shoulder.“I don’t know what you mean.But I’m glad we have a few moments to speak.I wanted to apologize for forcing your hand earlier.I made it seem as though you’d already agreed, but if you’ve changed your mind…”
He didn’t need to finish that sentence, and she couldn’t deny the disappointment his words had caused.She knew, of course, that Ashford wasn’t interested in her romantically, but it hurt that he was trying to back out of dancing with her.
She couldn’t tell whether Ashford sensed her disappointment or if he realized his words could be taken as a rejection of her, but he gave his head a small shake and let out a harsh breath.
“I fear I’ve made a muddle of things.Let me begin anew.I would very much enjoy partnering with you for this next dance.”
Her spirits brightened at his reassurance.“What kind of friend would I be if I abandoned you now in your hour of need?”
He smiled down at her, and her breath caught.It was a silly reaction, really, since he was just being kind.She took his arm and together they made their way to the center of the ballroom.Other couples were also taking their places.Amelia and Lowenbrock passed them, and Amelia’s raised brows as she looked between her and Ashford had Mary shaking her head.Amelia would insist on making more of this waltz.
Mary would explain the situation to her friend later.
She sighed when she caught sight of Edwina, who didn’t even try to hide her glare.There would be no waltz for her sister as Lord Fairbanks hated to dance.Mary had seen him chatting with some acquaintances, and then he’d disappeared.No doubt he’d quit the ballroom for the card room.
Remembering her sister’s shameless flirting earlier that evening, she couldn’t help but feel a thrill of satisfaction at having bested her sister in this.How it must gall Edwina to witness her dancing with the man she’d always believed should have been hers.And a waltz, no less.
The first strains of music began, and Mary moved into his arms.All thoughts of her sister, of Amelia, of anyone else present, disappeared when she met Ashford’s gaze.
