Chapter 270: Hastings ball (5)
Ophelia didn’t believe avoiding dances was the only reason Kaden was leaving, but she didn’t question him. If Kaden wanted to return to enjoy himself, then he would. Ophelia wouldn’t stop him, but she would stop Dante from escorting him out.
Before she could be crowded again, Ophelia walked over to where Mary stood.
"Lady Hastings," Mary curtsied.
"Mary, we are close enough for you to say my name. They are both dressed up so handsomely," Ophelia said, stooping down to greet the two boys. "Finn, and Landon. I hope you two will share a dance with both your mother and me tonight."
"Oh my. They are both very shy tonight," Ophelia said, watching as both boys hid behind Mary. She stood up, but continued to look at both boys.
"The crowd is scaring them, but I assure you that once they get comfortable, they will be running around in no time. They are curious and have been staring at the knights," said Mary.
"Well, I can introduce them to a few knights, but not tonight. The men are enjoying themselves with rum. I wouldn’t want to scare the boys. Why don’t you stay here tonight?" Ophelia suggested. "You won’t have to make the ride home in the dark. I can find clothes for all of you."
"It is a kind offer, but I would hate to impose."
"Mary, you and your boys are all welcome here. Dante is forcing me to take a break, so your company would be much appreciated. The boys could have fun visiting the knights’ quarters while you and I spend some much-needed time talking. Please," Ophelia pleaded.
Mary couldn’t say no after her boys looked up at her. "Very well. I have needed a friend. The relatives have not been visiting these days, but they have been sending letters. Your company would distract me."
]
"I will select the best bedchamber for you three. Though I hate to admit it, I must thank Duke Vale for saving me. He was the one who told me where you were," Ophelia revealed.
"He did? Was it just now?" Mary asked, surprised that Kaden sent Ophelia to her.
"Yes. He said he is leaving now because he promised the ladies a dance and doesn’t want to. He is also going back to his land. He was welcome to stay, but I won’t force it. I am sure that in due time, he will be back near the castle," said Ophelia.
Mary looked at the entrance, hoping to get a glimpse of Kaden leaving, but there were far too many people around. She felt guilty about drawing attention to Kaden.
"I will have to apologise when I see him. I was the one who spoke his name out loud for the ladies to know he was present. I didn’t want to be tied to him because I wanted to be alone. I do not want anyone to think I am seeking a husband," said Mary.
"I understand. I am certain he will think nothing of it and welcome the apology next time you see him. I think Kaden gets a good laugh out of pushing your buttons, and while he can be upsetting at times, we must remember he lost his family. He must enjoy these little interactions-"
"Can you watch my sons for me?" Mary asked, leaving Ophelia before she could get a response.
"O-Of course," Ophelia replied, and grabbed the boys hands before they followed Mary. "Your mother will soon be back," she said, but with uncertainty evident in her voice. "I think I was wrong about those two."
Before the boys could become upset, Ophelia searched for a distraction. "Dante! How would you both like to meet my husband? You saw him the day we visited your home."
Dante approached Ophelia and stared at the little ones. "I didn’t leave you for long, yet you found yourself another job."
"Mary had business to take care of, so I am watching them. The crowd is a bit scary for them, but of course, they love you," Ophelia muttered as Finn tried to run out of her hold to go to Dante. "Of course."
"I’m certain it is only because he has seen me more times than he has seen you. The little one hasn’t left your side," Dante said, thankful Landon did not run to him. "What business did Mary need to take care of?"
Ophelia picked up Landon so he could see over the crowd instead of being towered over. "She went to speak to Kaden. She wanted to apologise for revealing that he is here. You mustn’t try to send him away. As long as he behaves, he can stay."
"Do not be surprised if he tries to stay in the castle tonight. He thinks there is a secret I am hiding and wants to find it. He can stay for the ball, but I beg you not to offer him to stay the night."
"Oh, I wouldn’t go that far," Ophelia replied.
"When Mary returns, will you share a dance with me?" Dante asked, eager to have a first dance with Ophelia.
"I’m afraid you’ll have to wait. I already have two dance partners-"
"Who?" Dante’s question cut through the air like a blade.
Ophelia laughed. "I was wrong. Jealousy does suit you. I asked Finn and Landon to dance with me. I cannot go back on my word now. Though I am starting to realise all this time he wanted to be lifted so he can sleep."
"Is there a bedchamber prepared if he falls asleep?" Dante asked, certain they would be in need of one shortly.
"All of the bedchambers were tidied in case we had anyone stay in the castle. I am amazed how he can fall asleep with this loud music. Is he sleeping or just resting his head?" Ophelia asked, turning her body for Dante to see.
"He is awake," Dante answered.
"It must be comforting. If Mary doesn’t return soon, I will have to assume Kaden has taken her, so you will need to go find her. It won’t be long before they make a fuss over her. If they want to dance with Mary first, then we can have our first dance at the same time," Ophelia suggested.
"I can wait until you are ready, but fortunately, Mary is returning. Kaden is behind her with a smile. I bet she regrets going after him," Dante said, watching as Kaden followed Mary. "As soon as she returns, we are to have our first dance. You are quite popular tonight, so it won’t be long before you are crowded again."
"I will send them away. I did not spend all those hours learning to dance to simply stand around all night," said Ophelia.
