To his surprise some of the pleasure faded from her face. He had meant to compliment her without being heavy-handed, but he recognised that he had said something wrong.
Bettina tried to tell herself not to be foolish. Michael had meant it kindly. It was just that when she knew that she was looking her prettiest for the man she loved, she wanted him to praise her looks, or at least her charm.
What she did not need was to be compared, however flatteringly, to a Sergeant Major.
“We are nearly there,” she said brightly. “We should be making further plans.”
“What further plans can we make?”
“Well, if we are supposed to be attending a formal function, I think you should change your clothes.”
“You are right. I need to look as fine as you do. don’t want to be cast into the shade.”
“Now you
