Theodore began to speak but stopped.
"For once you have no objections to escorting a lady." Friedrich teased, parting Theo on his back lightly.
"Let's have dinner, Everetta." Friedrich moved towards her and offered her his hand.
Theodore glanced between them at the mention of her Christian name.
She was still frozen to the spot and barely acknowledged the gesture.
"Then who would organize the ball, Friedrich?"
Friedrich stopped and glanced at him over his shoulder.
"Cortius is capable enough, is he not? Stop fretting over such things… you would only be gone for a day at most after all."
Theo let out a sigh and proceeded his brother out of the room.
Everetta remained exactly where she was, staring after his receding frame.
"He hates to be taken unawares."
Friedrich held out a hand to her once more and she took it without hesitation.
"You seem very distracted, Everetta." Friedrich said softly, squeezing her hand in his tenderly.
