"I did not have a choice in the matter," Selena replied. "Lady Harrowden fell ill at the last minute, and I needed to chaperone Miss Woodsley tonight. It was not my intention to come, believe me. I’d had my fill of you the other night."

He laughed in much the same way she remembered. How could she ever have thought his laughter held warmth? "I can imagine so. It was such a shock to see you, Selena—I could not help myself. You look every bit as beautiful as you did when we were engaged. And, if I may pay you a compliment, you have not lost your proud bearing even as a paid companion. You’ve held up well.”

Selena lifted an eyebrow and managed to keep her hand steady when she lifted her fork to her mouth. She did not think it necessary to thank him. And although the errant thought of bringing the tines of her fork down on his hand—hard—crossed her mind, her training led her to continue a conversation as though they were not enemies.

“I have not followed your career. Did you achieve the position in Parliament you wished for?" Selena chewed the food in her mouth, which was as dry as sawdust.

Mr. Downing took a sip of wine and answered in his Elected Official voice. “Yes, I was elected into Parliament three months after our engagement was at an end.”

Because our engagement was at an end, you meant to say. “I know that was always one of your ambitions. How wonderful for you that you were able to realize it."

Mr. Downing fingered the stem of his wineglass on the table. “Now I suppose it is left to me to find a wife. I had not thought to do so, but seeing you again has made me realize that it was once my ambition, and it is not a bad one as far as ambitions go. It will portray me as a serious gentleman who can advance in politics. Without a family, there is a risk that I am seen as too young."

"Well.” Selena gave a tight smile. “There is nothing hindering you from finding a wife now, is there?” When would the course change, so she could be freed from this tormenting conversation?

"Your charge seems to be full of spirit.” Mr. Downing directed his gaze at Rebecca across the table, and Selena followed it. “I thought her a bit fast the other night, but one must admit she has many graces."

“She is beautiful—that is very true, Mr. Downing. And although there can be no objections to you pursuing her, Lady Harrowden has determined that she will not be presented this Season, but the one after that.”

“I have heard she is in possession of thirty thousand pounds.” Mr. Downing peeled his gaze off Rebecca and turned back to Selena. “Perhaps I will continue my visits to the Holbecks so I might steal a march on the other gentlemen in London. It is not often that one finds such a beautiful face attached to such a pretty figure."