Another Stranger?

Their Aunt approached them, two fine gentlemen on either side; her smile was broad and naughty. She stopped briefly to hold a discussion with Lucy, introducing the men to her. Beth straightened her stance while Gwen patted her hair again. “You seem happy.” She observed the younger girl.

“I enjoy the attention.” She whispered. “I choose to. Hold up your best smile, else Aunt Marrily will never forgive you.”

Their faces lit up immediately as their Aunt finally stood before them. “Go easy on the wine, sweet child.” She warned. Gwen turned red but Aunt Marrily didn’t care. “Sir George, these are my nieces, Beth and Gwen. Beautiful, are they not?” Ignoring whatever reply the men would have given, she continued. “Girls, this is Sir George, a fine Cavalry soldier, second son to the Earl of Moore.”

“Lovely to make your acquaintance.” He shook both their hands, kissing hers on the knuckle, holding on longer until Beth slowly withdrew. He gave her a too-bright smile.

A smile stuck in place on h