“If you wish to return before summer is over, you need only tell me.” Daniel’s words were almost gentle. The music was winding down, the last sweeping refrains quieting into nothing as couples stilled on the dance floor, a pause before the curtseying and bowing and bubbling conversation filled the room.

“I assume you have another partner waiting for a dance?” Daniel asked, stoic as the flame of jealousy the thought ignited in him.