Chapter 9Jacob delivered the essentials to his aunt, narrowly before the game commenced. With everyone occupied, he took himself to the deserted refreshment room, sipping a glass of wine as his mind whirled. Before he had come to any conclusion about what had just happened, Letty entered the room.
“I thought you’d be hiding here!” she exclaimed, smiling,
Jacob was relieved she had not brought a flock of young ladies with her as she sat beside him. He unburdened his mind and related Sebastian’s proposal haltingly.
“But of course you must go,” Letty said firmly when she had heard him out. “Mr. Fforde has been so good to us that you can’t cause offence by a refusal of his hospitality.” Jacob didn’t know whether to be amused or astounded by his demure sister’s suddenly assured grasp of soci
