“I do not mean to disparage you or the château, Marguerite,” he said, unrelenting, “but it is not worth the risk for Miss Abbott.”
“Sir, you presume too much on my behalf,” Millie said.
Marguerite put a gentle hand upon his arm. “It is trés amusing to see you fret in the manner of an old woman, but I assure you that all will be well.”
His vexation trapped all words. If she were not the hostess, he would have a few choice words for her.
Marguerite turned to escort Millie from the room, but he stopped them. Addressing Millie, he said, “Do not be a fool. I am willing to chaperone you home, but I may not be so generously inclined later.”
She straightened. “I thank you for your kind offer, Alastair, but it is not necessary.”
His nostrils flared. The chit should be grateful for his selfless gesture!
“Stop such idiocy, Millie. You do not fully comprehend what transpires here.”
“I have been well informed by both your aunt and Madame Follet.”
“And the wiser course would be for you to reconsider!”
“How is it the wiser course for me but not for you?” she cried.
“Are you truly asking such a daft question? I had thought you more sensible than that.”
She flushed with indignation. “I intended to draw attention to your hypocrisy with my question.”
“It is not my hypocrisy but that of society’s. The consequences fall much more harshly upon the female sex.”
“But here at Château Follet, the sexes are equal,” declared Marguerite. “It is a quality you appreciate, mon chéri, and benefit from.”
“But how will Millie benefit?”
“In the same manner you do, but of course.”
“That is different.”
“How?”
Why were these women asking such ridiculous question? Did they truly require him to state the obvious?
“Certain ruin awaits her if she is discovered.”
“That has yet to happen with a guest.”
“She won’t like it here.”
Millie breathed in sharply. “Surely that is for me to determine.”
“I assure you this is no place for you. My dear aunt has not been here in some time and forgets the nature of the acts here would appall you.”
“I am not easily frightened or appalled.”
“Millie, don’t be a dolt.”
“I object to your condescension, sir!”
“It is for your own good. You know no one here. What man do you expect will pair with you?”
He saw her eyes widen and regretted the harshness of his words, but it was warranted if he was to talk sense into her.