Chapter 36: Of Courtesy, Blood, and the Shape of a Lie
"And you truly have the audacity," Jacinta said coldly, folding her arms across her chest, "to ask me such a question?"
Lucian did not move.
He remained where he was, perfectly composed beside the small tea table. Only his eyes followed her.
"You did not appear for half of breakfast," Jacinta continued sharply. "And when you finally condescended to arrive, you did not even spare me a glance."
Her chin lifted.
"You stood there," she said, her voice tightening with wounded precision, "as though I were entirely unworthy of your notice."
Lucian regarded her in silence for a moment longer than politeness required.
Then he spoke.
"You were not unattended."
The simplicity of the words unsettled her more than if he had defended himself.
"You were surrounded," he continued calmly, "by a number of gentlemen who seemed eager enough to occupy your attention. I did not imagine you were in need of another."
