"It does not matter," Riku insisted, giving her hand a gentle squeeze, "Dancing, there is a way yes," and Riku had learned, "But Dear Sister," and he so loved having a sister again, "We are beautifully foreign. It is okay if we do not know the dance, but simply dance for the joy of it." And other people were beginning to dance. No, not necessarily servants, but, at least Hayner's excuse was that his preferred partner was royalty, and he could never dance publicly with him.
He began to sway back and forth with her, feeling the music. "Tonight is a night for rejoicing and reunion. I am sure they will forgive us for dancing from happiness."
Belle KNEW the other ladies were watching, and listening but.... she didn't care what they thought! She was an adult - not like some of these little girls. She could spend time with a kind gentleman if she wished it. And... "Certainly." She wished it. "I would be delighted." Belle placed her hand surely on the General's arm, not afraid or like a silly child, she was a LADY and a grown woman. She picked up her dress with the other and turned toward him happily. "Did you just arrive now, with the Royal Family?"