Ralph Christie might be thought a handsome man, Ruby decides, even without his money. Smooth skin; round cheeks; pleasant, open features. But it is the wealth that makes him so attractive. And perhaps also the way he holds everyone’s attention as he speaks. Something in his manner fascinates her; the quiet power he exudes. Without imposing himself, he dominates the circle. Even Peter is oddly smaller, less significant, in his company.

The four of them talk of this and that, and nothing in particular – music, film stars and people they admire – laughing and drinking at a small table.

Ralph’s eyes keep returning to Ruby, roving the neckline of her dress and curves of her body.

She knocks back a large mouthful of champagne and tries to forget Harriet Littlemore.

A few extra members of the orchestra turn up to the stage, and they strike up an exotic-sounding piece. Couples that she had not noticed earlier, hidden away in alcoves, appear on the dancefloor. The heavy, syncopated drum throbs deep in Ruby’s stomach, and the wailing clarinet makes her feel alive and free, and sensual. She cannot prevent her body from swaying, the edge of her skirt’s hem tickling her calves as her feet tap and twist under the table.

‘Would you care to dance? You look as though you would.’ Ralph leans in close to her.

A tiny twitch on Peter’s lips allows her the answer.

‘You’re right, I would love to dance.’ She lays a hand on Ralph’s thigh. ‘Will you dance with me?’ She does not dare imitate Harriet with him but still uses one of her better voices.

‘I should like nothing more.’

He dances well, like someone who has been taught properly, but he moves stiffly at first, revealing that it is not something he does naturally. She cannot help but compare him unfavourably to Peter, who is fluid as water. Nevertheless, she compliments him as a matter of course.

‘I took a few lessons, a while ago,’ he says, swirling her around. ‘The sort of thing one should do, I believe. I’m glad to know they paid off.’

The music comes to an end, and they collapse into one another. He pulls her tight against his body and they stand on the edge of the dancefloor, waiting for the orchestra to begin again.

‘You’re the most beautiful creature here,’ he says, breathing heavily into her ear, his hand sliding over her hips, fingers groping. ‘I’ve been longing to meet you for a while.’

‘Really?’

‘Really. And now that I have you, I should like to take you home with me.’

‘Do you think I’m a fast sort of girl?’ She tries to pull away, laughing.