“It was my fault entirely,” Jemima spoke up, holding a hand to her chest. “I bumped into Miss Storey and nearly ruined her gown.”
“Please, do not worry over such a thing,” Miss Storey said eagerly. There was a kindness in that tone that surprised Luke momentarily, but then Miss Storey glanced down at her own gown, clearly checking another time that there were no such stains upon it. He felt his irritation at her return.
Who cares for your gown! Think of my sister’s well-being.
“Noah, I believe a couple of ladies collided with your wife on purpose,” Luke explained.
“Who?” Noah asked, his fair eyebrows instantly furrowing.
“Luke, do not cause trouble,” Jemima held out a hand toward him, pleading with him quickly.
“Yes, tonight is not the time for trouble but a time to find reasons to smile.” Adam took lead of the conversation, practically bouncing on his toes in his usual animation. “All this talk of violins has made me eager to join the music. Miss Grove, would you accompany me?”
Luke turned his eyes on Miss Storey and Miss Grove, who exchanged a startled look before Miss Grove stepped forward.
“Thank you, I would be delighted,” she said, placing her hand into Adam’s. As they walked away, Noah offered his hand to Jemima.
“Love?” he said softly. “I know a dance always puts a smile on your face.” When Jemima eagerly placed her hand into his, Luke’s eyes followed them for a second, with a smile of his own.
Thank goodness they found each other.
When they parted, Luke returned his eyes to Miss Storey, startled to find they were alone once more, yet this time amongst a crowd of guests.
“Well, I should….” She gestured behind her, about to make her escape.
“Something tells me you are fond of inventing reasons to get away from me, Miss Storey.”
“No, of course not. It is not that at all.”
“And now your politeness is hunting for an excuse?” he said with humour, smiling as her cheeks coloured all the more.
“Do you examine everyone to this extent with your rather dry wit, or am I the unlucky one?” She lifted her chin a little, challenging him. Her words were such a surprise that Luke tipped his head back and laughed.
At last, someone who can partake in such conversation with vigour.
“Then my next question might make you feel unluckier still. May I have the honour of the next dance, Miss Storey?” he asked, proffering his hand toward her.