Chapter 19: Trading Partners

When the song ended the dancers applauded the band and couples rearranged as a slower rhythm started. Isaac spun Mrs. Astor out before bowing and releasing her hand. They parted and Mrs. Astor walked deeper into the crowd. Isaac made his way over to Arabella and Lavinia.

"Izzy, you look terrible," Arabella said bluntly.

Though the gaunt circles under Isaac's eyes were prominent and there was a faint haze over his eyes, Lavinia could not bring herself to agree with Arabella. There was something terrifying but alluring about Isaac's hungry face. There was a desire in his frigid eyes, a need. He looked at Lavinia as if he were seeing more than just her newly styled frame.

"Mother felt that going into the evening without feeding would only be polite. In case I meet anyone interesting." He rolled his eyes.

"This is much more than a night without feeding. This is days."

"I will just remain on my best behavior then." He gave Lavinia a once over, then paused, looking at her anew.