"Thank you." She trusted him-trusted those moss agate eyes. Even if she was wrong, she didn't care. "Miss Amanda Cynster." She extended her hand. "And you are?"

He took her hand; his lips curved as he bowed. "Martin."

She sincerely doubted he was Mr. Martin-Lord Martin, then. She vaguely recalled hearing of a Lord Martin.

Releasing her hand, Martin turned to Connor. "I assume you have no objection?"

Following his gaze, Amanda realized that Connor did indeed have an objection. A serious one, if the scowl in his eyes spoke true. Perfect! Perhaps Connor would now draw back…

Even as the thought formed, she realized how unlikely that would be. Men and their ridiculous rules!

Sure enough, Connor brusquely nodded in assent. He would have liked to protest, but felt he couldn't.

Amanda glanced at Reggie. His expression was utterly defeated, utterly aghast. He opened his mouth-his gaze flicked past her, then slowly he shut his lips tight. "I hope you know what you're doing."

His mutter reached her as she turned to her new partner.

Martin was looking at Connor. "Perhaps we should get started." He waved into the shadows.

"Indeed." Turning, Connor stumped into the gloom. "The night hours are winging."

Considering the shadows, Amanda suppressed a grimace. She looked up to find Martin's gaze on her face, then he looked over her head toward the main door. "Two fresh packs, Mellors." Martin glanced down at her again. "And two lighted candelabras."

He hesitated, then offered her his arm. "Shall we?"

She smiled and placed her hand on his sleeve, instantly aware of the steely strength beneath it. He guided her toward the corner where Connor and Meredith stood waiting.