If she was to be discomposed by Dearbourne’s presence at the theatre, it seemed only fair that she try to inject a small amount of unease into his evening as well. To that end she had her maid take extra care with her hair, ensuring the dark curls that framed her face and highlighted her fair complexion were perfectly arranged. She chose to wear a rose-coloured gown, which she knew brought out the green in her eyes. It also had the most daring décolletage of all her evening gowns and she hoped it would lead Dearbourne to remember gaining a much closer view of what it displayed. True to his word, Lord Dearbourne found Sophie and her aunt shortly after they had arrived at the theatre. There was more than a hint of appreciation in his eyes as they swept over her. “Miss Crandle,” he said, greeting Sophie, “I was worried that perhaps you’d changed your mind.” “And miss what is said to be the best performance this theatre has seen in years? Not even your presence could keep me from that.” Her aunt inhaled sharply at her rudeness, but Dearbourne only laughed.
