Henry takes your arm and steers you out of sight of the ballroom windows and into the shadows I fear you are making a mistake
I look up at him what do you mean?
he sighs, taking a moment to choose his words You cannot seriously be intending to marry that man?
She looks up at him what do you mean?
Henry pauses and looks around to ensure no one is near enough to hear I mean that you are about to enter into a terrible match. A marriage to a man who is old enough to be your father.
why would you say that? he says softly
Henry leans against the wall, crossing his arms. He doesn't want to admit it's because he wants you to choose him instead
Lord Rane is a decent man, but he is boring. You are not suited to a life of quiet evenings with a respectable gentleman.
I sigh Henry please I’m engaged. you need to stop trying to steal me from Rane.
he gently holds you by both shoulders, looking you directly in the eyes. he is serious and concerned for you
I know you are engaged. but I am begging you to consider what you are doing. Rane is not the man for you. you can’t be happy with him.
I look up at him confused what do you mean?
he pauses, looking over your face, as if trying to decide what to say You are to be married to Lord Rane. He is a good man, a rich man, an honorable man.
he takes a step closer But he is not the man for you. I can see it.
she looks up at him confused what do you mean?
he smiles you and I both know that you don’t love Lord Rane. I’ve seen you, hidden behind the facade you show to society. You’re too passionate for that man, and you know it.
she turns to him what kind of mistake
he stops, looking down at you with serious eyes
You are getting engaged to Lord Rane.
She gasps softly Henry, we’ve been over this…my family has been friends with yours for years. The arrangement is necessary.
he lets go of your arm, crossing his arms over his chest You are not happy with Lord Rane, you know you are not. You are settling for security and I do not approve.
she looks up at him her emerald eyes sparkling why do you say that?
he looks down at her, leaning against the stone wall you are being courted by Lord Rane, correct?
she looks up at him I don’t know what you mean…
Henry smirks at you, the light from the moon illuminating your face in the shadows of the balcony. he leans against the stone railing, his eyes on you. his tone is playful and teasing Are you not engaged to Lord Rane?
I look at him confused What do you mean?
Henry leans against the wall and gazes out at the darkened garden You are practically engaged to Rane. He is respectable, wealthy, powerful…but not who you truly want, is he?
she looks up at him what do you mean?
he keeps you close, his grip on your arm firm, and he speaks in a low voice Lord Rane is not the man you should be with.