Victor had been more concerned with how she was faring internally than how it would look to others. It was true that an eyebrow might be raised at her leaving the party early, but he didn't think it was anything so incriminating he couldn't conjure up an excuse for. He had enough experience with Beatrice to manage a sudden headache or a dizzy spell that had necessitated her going home. Someone might still speculate, but no worse than they would if she returned to the party obviously disheveled and sneaking glances at him.

She was talking through this quite rationally, but the audible question marks in her words couldn't help but make him chuckle. "Did you know you're adorable?" he remarked with an indulgent smile. "If you want to stay then let's go back. If you want to go, I'll handle things. Either way, I'll see you soon."

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