"Sorry I'm such a mess. I didn't really think it through when I left," she said, biting her lip.
"You look lovely, Lady Zoey," he flattered boldly, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips.
I frowned in disbelief, thinking that he was trying to be polite, then quickly corrected myself and pasted a smile on my face. James laughed. It was a short one, but he couldn't stop it from slipping out. My eyes warmed to the sound of his laughter and I smiled, for real this time. A warm feeling settled inside me. I dared not hope, but I could swear that he had lowered his guard and I my own. We had, in a moment, become comfortable.
"Good evening, Your Grace. Would the lady like something to drink?" the waiter interrupted.
"A glass of red wine, please," I said pleasantly.
"No," James said instantly.
