For that, she was grateful.

“My goodness, I didn’t realize it was already time.” She turned back to the table. “Forgive me, I must go.” She sent an apologetic glance to Cassandra before standing.

Overton held her chair, then offered her his arm. She would have rather walked out without touching him, but to do so would invite curiosity—and probably his ire. More ire than he already possessed.

Holding her head high and staring straight forward so she didn’t see anyone’s reaction to her being fetched from what appeared to be a ladies-only chamber by her male guardian, Fiona departed the card room on his arm. Prudence stood just outside, her lips pressed into a firm line and her gaze inscrutable.

Fiona wasn’t sure what had happened, but she didn’t blame Prudence. “I lost track of the time, my lord.”

The earl looked to Prudence. “We’ll join you in the drawing room.”

With a slight nod, Prudence turned and left.

The gallery was empty. Presumably everyone had gone into the drawing room.

Overton pulled her along, then diverted into a small sitting room. He withdrew his arm from her grasp and closed the door.

Fiona turned, her mouth open to apologize, but the earl’s features had grown even stonier since they’d departed the card room.

“Don’t bother saying whatever you meant to say. Just what on earth did you think you were doing?” He shook his head. “Never mind. It doesn’t matter.”

“Are you angry because I lost track of the time when you told me not to be late to the performance?”

“Yes. I’m also angry because you apparently think it’s acceptable to gamble at loo during said performance.”

“It was my understanding that playing cards, and even gambling, was acceptable, provided the stakes weren’t high.”

“How were you even gambling at all? You have no money.”

“Cassandra has money.”

He wiped his gloved hand over his face. “I am beginning to think Lady Cassandra is a bad influence. I will speak to her brother at once.”

Fiona stepped toward him. “Please don’t do that. I’m sorry I lost track of time,” she repeated, growing frustrated. “It looked like fun, and I‘ve never played cards before.”

Some heat returned to his gaze. “They would have devoured you whole. It’s good that I interrupted you. Sometimes the ladies can be more vicious than the men.” He closed the distance between them, moving to stand directly in front of her. “Miss Wingate, Fiona, you must stop these…antics.”

“I fail to see how—”

He held up his hand. “Yes, you fail to see anything of import. Your behavior must be absolutely above reproach. A duke’s daughter will be excused for things that you will not. Following Lady Cassandra about will only get you into trouble. Then what will you do?”

She blinked at him. “What do you mean?”

“What will you do if your reputation is ruined? You won’t be able to marry. Do you want that?”

“I don’t want to get married.” There, she’d said it as plainly as possible, and it felt glorious. A weight lifted off her chest, and she nearly smiled.