Cecilia pulled back from Miles, the moment of shared relief instantly replaced by cold practicality. She glanced nervously toward the glass doors leading back to the party.
"You need to leave me," Cecilia whispered urgently. "Now. Don't make things complicated. I can't risk being seen talking to a footman."
"Where are you staying? We need a rendezvous," Miles countered, his voice low and intense.
"I can only remember one place clearly enough," she admitted. "Meet me at the Grand Imperial Hotel. Tomorrow, noon. Be discreet."
Miles simply nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation and the necessity of her command. He gave her one final look, then turned and slipped back through the service door, disappearing into the flurry of the mansion's staff.
Cecilia smoothed her dress and composed her features, preparing to rejoin the party. Just as she was leaving the balcony, she found the blonde girl the one who had been glaring at her standing right in the doorway.
