Chapter 45

Scarlett was surprised that Zachary would extend the offer to drive her home. She wanted to leave to distance herself from him and manage the truth she had just uncovered. The feelings inside her were intense, yet she found it impossible to decline his proposal. She nodded, and he guided her away from the crowd and the center of activity. Alfred and Roy approached them, fully aware of their responsibilities and eager to fulfill them, but Zachary simply shook his head. "I will take her home," he insisted. The two men acknowledged with a nod and moved away from them, rejoining the gathering. They strolled quietly for a moment, with the only noises Scarlett could hear emanating from the feast. "I had no idea you could dance." He said. His words alleviated the tension she had experienced since the dance, redirecting her thoughts elsewhere. "I don't," she mumbled. His brow arched. "You are familiar with ballet." He indicated it. She laughed derisively, "That shouldn't be considered bal