“I did not have to come to Mandrake to learn about human beings, stupid. Love is much the same wherever you go.” She looked her cousin up and down. “You are looking exceeding smart, Nicholas, in your new coat and your cravat is wondrously tied.”
“When I look at Vulcan’s, I know it is not up to snuff,” Nicholas said gloomily, but Serena knew that he was pleased at her praise.
Then he looked across the room and gave a low groan.
“Look at Isabel now,” he exclaimed. “What chance have I?”
It was difficult not to be sorry for him. Isabel’s hand was on Justin’s arm and she was staring up at him almost wildly, obviously pleading for something.
“Oh, lud, do not stand there wearing the willow,” Serena said sharply. “Go and stop her making an i***t of herself if you care for her at all. Be bold,
