You’re quite kind.”With a bow he disappeared, wending his way toward the other side of the room, where bowls of lemonade and cider, as well as cakes and candied fruits, awaited guests. Tapping her foot distractedly to the music, Cassie watched the dancers whirl and curtsy, weave and bow.Geoffrey was not among them. He’d disappeared just after she’d warned Alec. She hadn’t seen him since. Where was he? Had he seen her with Alec in the garden and gone to ambush him as he rode home?“Here you are, Cassie.” Charles handed her a glass brimming with fresh lemonade.“Thank you.” She gave him her warmest smile.For a moment they sat in awkward silence.“How is your father’s tobacco crop this season?” He cleared his throat nervously.“The rains have been good, and, barring disaster, it will be the best in many years.” Cassie searched the crowd for Geoffrey. “How many acres did he plant?” Charles shook his head apologetically.“I’m sorry. You must think me dull to ask such questions.Womenfolk find these things tedious, I know.”“Quite the contrary, Charles.
