Why this lingering reluctance? I felt almost compelled to turn around and go back for Jack. But Hugh's grip on my hand and my own logical mind kept me moving forward, away from the young man I was certain needed my help, despite what Samuel told me.
"Whatever were you doing wandering around here?" Hugh flushed immediately after speaking when his voice cracked.
"Merely taking a walk," I said, slightly annoyed he thought it was any of his business, my need to guard his tender feelings absent in light of Jack's predicament. "I was distracted, lost track of where I was going." The sounds of the party grew louder. "This is a very large house."
Hugh seemed to swell with pride at that. At least, his shoulders went back and his smile was more self-assured. "Indeed," he said. "Uncle Samuel is a
