Victor had only two hesitations about moving things forward with Miss Dempsey, neither of which could be assuaged by a simple conversation with anyone in his family or hers. The first was the nature of their last conversation. He recalled it in broad strokes but not in specifics, which meant he was aware he had likely made an ass of himself but ill-equipped to muster any meaningful apology. The second was the simple newness of the acquaintance. Was it possible to be sure about a choice of bride after so few interactions? Marry in haste, repent at leisure, as the saying went.

There was no cure for the second qualm besides finding more ways to spend time with her, however — if the first had not left her too angry with him to allow it. He thought they'd ended on amicable enough terms, but tonight would be the truer test... if she came at all. He wasn't sure she would, but he hadn't been at the party long before he spotted her, and she greeted him of her own volition, which was likely a good sign.

"Miss Dempsey," he returned with a smile. "Whichever one is your opposite."

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