Dominic couldn’t take another mindless dance partner or be accosted by an eager parent in their attempts to match their child with a marquess. He knew his title and family fortune would make him a good match, but Dominic just wanted a moment’s peace. He’d made an excuse to retire to the refreshment table, mindlessly watching the dancing as he poured himself a cup. Mary Barnett was here; that couldn’t be avoided. It was her sister’s event, but it wasn’t something Dominic was happy about. She’d clearly chosen a garnet, or some cheaper imitation, as her stone. Dominic looked around the room and saw Frederic talking with another gentleman his age, which hit Dominic. Frederic was also dressed in honour of a garnet. Irritation courses coldly beneath his ribs, and then Dominic crosses the room. He offered Frederic’s friends a quick nod before he took Frederic by the arm, guiding him out of the room. “Tell me", Dominic said, his voice low and dangerously measured, "was it intentional?” 

Before Frederic could answer, a servant hurried past, and Dominic released his grip. Between Edgar and Frederic, it was like Dominic was the only one who cared about the family. They didn’t care that the fate of their family was on all of them, not just Dominic. They were happy to spend his money and test his patience. “Do you understand what this could mean for our family?” Dominic asked, his anger and irritation almost getting the best of him.