An Unexpected Love by Tracie Peterson, Judith Miller Read Free Book Online

“I was wondering the very same thing. She appears determined to keep Daniel near me at every opportunity. I do wish both she and Uncle Jonas would turn their attention to Amanda and quit worrying over me. I have, after all, made my future plans known. With or without their blessing, I plan to marry Michael upon his return.”
    A young man several tables away captured Sophie’s fancy, and when he smiled and pointed toward the dance floor, she nodded. He pushed away from his table and approached in record time. “May I have this dance, miss?”
    Paul grasped her hand. “Miss Broadmoor is not feeling well this evening. I doubt—”
    Sophie yanked her hand free and stood. “I am quite well, Paul, but thank you for your concern.” She turned and strode toward the dance floor without a backward glance. No doubt she’d hurt Paul’s feelings, but she didn’t need his protection, and she certainly didn’t want him taking charge of her comings and goings.
    The young man was an excellent dance partner, though his vanity soon wore thin, and Sophie requested he introduce her to the other men at his table. Much to her delight, several of the men took turns dancing with her, and soon she found herself in the arms of a roguish fellow who appeared to be at least ten years her senior. His tight embrace held her much too close, but she didn’t object, for he proved an impeccable partner. Keeping her eyes closed, Sophie followed his expert lead until he came to an abrupt stop that nearly landed both of them on the floor. While she had been enjoying the dance, Paul had apparently tapped her partner on the shoulder and requested permission to cut in.
    Rather than employing the close embrace of her former partner, Paul held her at a proper distance. He didn’t laugh or admire her as the other young men had, and she longed to escape his dull company.
    “Your behavior is objectionable, Sophie. You need to conduct yourself in a ladylike fashion. You’ve danced with one stranger after another without any thought for your reputation. Surely you must realize what those men are thinking of you.”
    She glowered at him. His pompous attitude was enough to set her on edge. For a moment she considered tromping on his foot. “They think I am a lady who enjoys life—when dancing with them. I can’t say the same at the moment.”
    “Am I not holding you closely enough? Is that the problem?”
    “No! The problem is that I detest your criticism. I receive enough censure from my elders, and I don’t appreciate it from a man who is neither my escort nor a family member.” She sighed when the music stopped. “Thankfully, our dance has come to an end.”
    “Before she returned to her cabin, your aunt requested I escort you back to our table.”
    “Aunt Victoria has already retired for the night?” A sense of elation filled her soul. At least she’d have one less pair of eyes watching her that evening.
    “Your aunt seemed to think the rich meal and the increased movement of the ship contributed to her distress. I imagine she will be fine by morning.” He led her to a chair adjacent to his mother.
    Sophie dropped beside the older woman with a thud and folded her arms across her waist to emphasize her dissatisfaction. Paul didn’t appear to care in the least.
    “You seem unhappy, my dear,” Mrs. Medford said.
    “Your son acts as though I am a child still in need of a parent’s guidance.” Sophie glared at Paul.
    “And you act like a—”
    “Paul, I would appreciate something cool to drink. Refreshments are offered at the other end of the room.” Mrs. Medford nodded toward the tables laden with sumptuous treats and a punch bowl on either end. “I would greatly appreciate a cup. No doubt Sophie would enjoy one, also.”
    “No doubt! After dancing with every man in the attendance, I’m certain she’s quite thirsty.”
    “I did not ask for your opinion, Paul. I merely requested two cups of punch.”
    Sophie grinned, reveling in the