He Was Present Tonight

She inclined her head, struggling to keep her emotions at bay. “Hate is a strong word.”

“And yet not strong enough to convey the feelings you harbour against him.” She looked away, shaken that he could see through her. “Did he pursue you with dishonourable intentions?”

“No!” She wished it had been her. He should have pursued her so.

“Were you abandoned at the altar?” He threw his cigar to the ground and crushed it.

She exhaled deeply. “Please, Your Grace, It was nothing of the sort. Believe me.” His hoarse voice, rather than annoy her with the badger of questions like the morning before, appeased her for he wasn’t a sycophant trying to please. And why should he try to please her? He was higher than her in wealth, status and in every possible way.

When she lifted her head, he was walking closer, she oddly stepped back, unsure of the reason for her action. He stopped and said. “I am intrigued. What was it?”

“Please, Your Grace, I mean no disrespect, but I would rather not dwell on that