She giggled. “Only one? How many more problems do you have?”
He was looking at the biggest one of all. “Only small issues with the estate and getting the tenants’ houses back in order.”
“As well as your own.”
“Yes.”
Before he knew it, the dance had ended. Unable to find Kate, he escorted Selina to his mother for safekeeping. He needed a drink and some air. After picking up a glass of brandy, he headed out on the terrace. The warm night air had made many couples escape the heated room for a chance to kiss in the moonlight.
Perhaps he should have brought Selina out here with him. Then he could have stolen a kiss from her.
“Well, what an interesting evening this has turned out to be.”
Colin turned and smiled at his friends. “Hart, I can understand that you felt obligated to come to this party, but Middleton? What in the world brings you to a country ball?”
Both men laughed.
“It’s the social event of the summer,” Middleton quipped. “How could I possibly stay home?”
“True,” Colin said with a smirk. “Not quite up to the standards of a Season ball.”
“Hardly,” Middleton commented. “Do you see any loose married women around?” He shook his head. “Disgusting. These married ladies all seem to love their husbands.”
“And why exactly is Miss White here?” Hart asked.
“The duchess and my sister thought she should attend. After my sister was ill a few weeks ago, Sel—Miss White and Kate became fast friends.”
“Selina, is it?” Middleton noted. “How interesting.”
“Just a slip, Middleton. Nothing more.”
“Of course.” He glanced back into the ballroom and smiled. “I do see someone I know is not a happily wedded woman. Adieu, gentlemen.” He sipped his brandy and walked away to find some entertainment for the evening.
Hart leaned against the terrace balustrade. “So why is Miss White here again?”
“I told you.”
“So why did you dance with her?”
“My stepmother insisted.” Colin wondered why his friend had decided to interrogate him.
“She is quite beautiful,” Hart added. “Perhaps I shall ask her to dance tonight.”
Colin’s fists clenched around his glass of brandy. “That would not be a good idea, Hart.”
“Oh?” Hart grinned at him. “I don’t think you have to worry. I did notice the looks she gave you while you were dancing together.”
“What looks?”
“The one a woman in love gives to her man.”
“I do hope you’re right, Hart.”
“She is a good woman, Northrop. Far too good for a dullard like you.”
“You’re probably right about that.”
“Now, I’m off to find a dance partner to fill the time.” Colin decided to stay out here longer. If he went back into the room, he would want to dance with her again. He glanced about until he found a bench that faced the ballroom. He looked up to see Mr. Bainbridge escort Selina to the floor. Colin’s fingers tightened around his glass as jealousy raced within him. He couldn’t ever remember feeling this way when Mary had danced with other men. Why would he with Selina?