CHAPTER FORTY-ONE
July 9, 2010
Evening
When Natalie returned to the now empty ballroom and observed the scattered dishes and smashed champagne flutes, she found Randolf waiting for her.
“Something smells wrong,” he said. “Where’s my key? And where’s the Forsyth boy?”
“Calvin and his sister were escorted safely outside. I saw to it myself, and as for your key,” Natalie patted her thigh, “it’s right here. Shall I pull up my dress and dishonor myself now, or can your curiosity wait till I find somewhere private?”
Randolf held out his hand. “Dishonor yourself? No need for pretense. You and that white flower don’t fool anyone.”
“Actually, I think I left it in my room.” Natalie cursed her trembling voice. She normally lied better than this.
Randolf’s hand flew to his Incan talisman neckl
