67 The banquet (2)

The end of the dance is near, and I swirl slowly and pass my eyes in the whole hall.

I spot George in a corner, looking at me with hatred. He didn't retreat. He just pretended to have accepted his injustice.

I turn to my Duke, and I see that he noticed the man in the corner as well. The music ends, and Alexander automatically finds my hand.

«Let's go back,» he mutters. «I'm feeling a bit thirsty now...»

This doesn't sound too good. How much is Alexander planning to drink?

«Are you trying to forget something, or you're so happy that you want to drink more?» I inquire.

«I love it when you pretend to be a nagging wife. It reminds me that we're married,» he whispers.

I close my mouth in a huff, surprised by his remark. I'm not nagging, I'm worried. I need a proper Duke at my side, just for a bit more.

«I won't bother you again,» I whisper, bowing my head and pouting my lips. «I didn't want to be annoying.»