Such behavior showed a certain lack of self-control, or perhaps an infantile obsession, neither of which tendencies made her interested in becoming more closely acquainted. She turned her smile down by several candlepower and added a tinge of entirely false regret. “Oh my! I’ve been danced off my feet! I believe I ought to sit this one out. I’m terribly sorry,” she lied. “Please, do not wait upon me. There are so many lovely ladies who have yet to dance. There.” She pointed out the most bosomy of all the adult women. “She hasn’t had a partner for an hour!” She gave him a little push, then turned and fled while he leered. Not even the attentions of unworthy men could upset her tonight! She felt shimmering and light as she moved about the floor, as if her body weighed nothing, buoyed skyward by exhilaration. So this is what happiness feels like. A servant in the stylish forest green livery of Wyndham House bowed to Miranda. “A message for you, Mrs. Talbot.” Miranda widened her eyes, then took it from him eagerly.
