Chapter 89

Esme, who had never learned the dance, couldn't react in time at all. She was flung straight out. Her footing slipped, and pain shot through her ankle. She cried out on the spot. Laughter and ridicule immediately rippled through the crowd. "What a nobody from a lowly background. She can't even dance!" "Didn't you notice? She can't even manage the most basic steps." "I really don't know what Madam Crane and Mr. Harlan ever saw in her." "They probably fancy her seductive tricks." The looks cast at Esme were filled with undisguised contempt and mockery. "Dev, I…" She burned with the urge to jump up and curse them all out, but she had to maintain her gentle, elegant image. She couldn't turn into a shrew in public, so she could only look up at Devon with teary eyes, seeking help. "Devon, I…" At the sight of how poorly Esme was holding herself together, a trace of irritation flashed through Devon's eyes. His movements were noticeably rough as he hauled her up. "Stop dancing. S