These things, regrettably, are bound to occur when one is married and befriended.

Floote, what is going on? Do they think I am contagious? Should I assure them I was born with a nose this size?

Conall,” “Aye, Alexia?” He looked up at her. Was that fear in his caramel eyes? “I am going to take advantage of you,” she said

Ah, Ivy, thought Alexia happily, spreading a verbal fog wherever she goes.

With a resigned shrug, she screamed and collapsed into a faint. She stayed resolutely fainted, despite the liberal application of smelling salts, which made her eyes water most tremendously, a cramp in the back of one knee, and the fact that her new ball gown was getting most awfully wrinkled.

It'll all end in tears and oil.

What if I arrange to be around Lord Akeldama during the full moon?” The earl looked daggers. “I am certain he would be extremely helpful in a fight. He could ruthlessly flatter all your attackers into abject submission.