Ines gave her a wide smile.
"Thank you, Countess," she replied softly. "You are very kind."
She then turned to the young man standing beside Amelia.
Ines dropped into a perfect, deep curtsy.
"Earl Montclair," she said respectfully.
Evans bowed low in return. "Lady Hamilton. It is an honor to have you here tonight."
He turned to Carcel and shook his hand firmly. There was a silent communication between both of them —a nod of understanding. Evans likely didn't know the details, but he knew Carcel was on edge.
"Duke Anderson," Evans said. "Please enjoy yourself. The wine is good tonight, and the music is lively. I won't be able to stay all night as I will be retiring early but if you need anything, meet my sister."
"We will," Carcel said. His voice was smooth, betraying none of the tension coiling in his gut.
Carcel took Ines's hand again. He tucked it into the crook of his arm, pulling her close to his side.
"Shall we?" he asked.
