Genevieve's interruption could not have been better timed. Though Billy did not relish the idea of watching Goodnight dance with a woman, or women, throughout the night, he appreciated Genevieve's grace and delicacy. Billy was straight-faced enough, even tipping out of sobriety, that he managed to not look too sad as Goodnight went to go ask this Theodosia Gaudet to dance with him.

After all, Genevieve was lover. And he was fairly certain he could lead, these days. "You're in luck," he said quietly. "The waltz is the only dance I know."