“I know so,” she informed him.
“Then, look again,” Sussex said. “Because your husband is headed this way.”
“Only because he dislikes you,” she said. “I’ve flirted outrageously with every young bachelor here, and he has yet to notice.”
“He noticed.”
Alyssa snorted in disbelief. “Not likely.”
“You’re walking a dangerous path, Alyssa.” Sussex took her by the hand. “And I wouldn’t interfere if you appeared to be enjoying it, but you don’t appear to be enjoying yourself. If you’re going to play for high stakes, you need to learn to conceal your emotions a bit better.”
“What do you suggest I do?” she asked.
“If you allow me escort you down that dangerous path you’ve uncovered, you’ll find out.” He gave her a challenging grin. “Are you game. Your Grace?”
Alyssa nodded.
“Shall we dance?”
“What of…your partner?” Alyssa glanced around.
“I came alone.”
“Then, I’d be delighted.”
* * *
“Kindly unhand my wife.” Griffin barked the order at the Duke of Sussex.
Sussex looked pointedly at Griffin’s cane. “I thought your wife might enjoy a turn on the dance floor.”
“Not with you.” Griffin smiled.
Sussex raised an eyebrow. “Is that your wish as well, Your Grace?” He turned to Alyssa.
“No,” she answered, looking Griffin in the eye and daring him to contradict her.
Sussex offered Alyssa his elbow.
Griffin stopped them. “She can dance with me.”
Alyssa stared at her husband. “I could, but I won’t.”
“Why not?” Griffin asked. “You’ve danced with nearly every man here tonight except me.”
Everyone and everything in the ballroom seemed to recede into the background until Alyssa and Griffin were the only two people in the room.
“The other men here tonight don’t find my presence a chore.” Alyssa said.
“Alyssa…” Griffin began.
She glared at him. “You set me free, Griffin. Remember? You set me free to find a man worthy of me. You left me a letter telling me that’s what you wanted, so you’ve no right to interfere if I choose to do so in your presence.”
“Alyssa, you don’t understand…I made promises…”
“So did I,” she said.
“I promised myself I would fight the French and become England’s greatest hero.”