Part 55 (1/2)

Harry gestured to the armchair.

”Let's just wait and see, shall we?”

”No--I want you out of here.” Lucinda couldn't tilt her chin any higher.

”Your presence is totally improper.”

Harry's eyes glittered.

”Naturally--that's the purpose of these parties, in case you hadn't realised.” His gaze fell to her b.r.e.a.s.t.s.

”And speaking of improper--who the devil told you that gown was decent?”

”A whole host of appreciative gentlemen,” Lucinda informed him, belligerently planting her hands on her hips.

”And I hardly need you to tell me what the purpose of this little gathering is but, for your information, I plan to have nothing to do with it.”

”Good--we agree on that. much

Lucinda narrowed her eyes. Harry met her gaze with a stubborness as unwavering as her own.

A knock came on the door.

Harry smiled coldly. He pointed a finger at Lucinda's nose.

”Wait here.”

Without waiting for any agreement, he swung on his heel and retraced his steps. He opened the door.

”Yes?”

Alfred jumped.

”Oh--ah!” He blinked wildly.

”Oh-- it's you, Harry.

Er--I didn't realise. ”

”Obviously.”

Alfred s.h.i.+fted his weight from one foot to the other, then gestured vaguely.

”Right-ho! Er ... I'll call later, then.”

”Don't bother--the reception will be the same.” The words were a dire warning. Harry shut the door on his old school friend face, before he could think of doing anything else with the vacuously good-natured features.

He swung back--to find Lucinda staring at the door in utter disbelief. ”

Well/ What cheek!”