Page 54 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

For a fleeting moment, he considered seeking Hawthorne—

But there was no time.

If Carver approached Eliza here, in full view of the ton, it would not require accusation to do damage. A question, lightly posed. A familiarity too easily claimed. The slightest suggestion of prior acquaintance—

And everything she had so carefully constructed could begin to unravel.

Edwin knew precisely how little it took.

He reached them first.

“My friends,” he said easily, stepping into the conversation with practiced warmth, as though he had every right to be there. “A lovely evening, is it not?” He turned to Eliza. “May I have the honor of escorting you? Lady Pere wished for you to meet someone.”

Eliza studied him for only a fraction of a moment—long enough to recognize that this, too, was a performance.

Then her gaze shifted, just slightly—

Catching sight of Carver’s approach.

Understanding flickered. Sharp. Immediate.

“Yes, of course. Thank you, Lord Devon.” She turned back to Langshire with a composed smile. “If you will excuse me for a few moments.”

Langshire inclined his head. “I shall look forward to reclaiming you for the next dance.”

“And I shall look forward to it,” she replied smoothly.

Her hand tightened slightly on Edwin’s arm as they turned away.

He felt it.

Said nothing.

They passed near Carver just as he reached them.

The man paused, gave a shallow bow, and altered his course.

For now.

Edwin released a slow breath.

“I do not know what he intended,” he murmured quietly, “but I am certain it would not have ended well.”

“Thank you,” Eliza replied softly.

Her voice was steady—

But her grip was not.

“Come,” he said gently. “Let us find Lady Pere.”

She nodded, though her breath had begun to quicken.

He glanced down at her, noting the faint flush rising in her cheeks. “Are you well?” he asked quietly.

“I think I only need a moment of air.”

“Then we shall take one.”