CHAPTER EIGHTDorina allowed herself to collapse against the Earl just as his arms went out to support her. She heard him call her name. The next moment he was lowering her to the floor, held against him.
“Miss Martin – Dorina!” he said hoarsely.
Through half open lids she could see his face leaning over hers, distraught.
“It's so hot in here,” she gasped. “Take me out, quickly.”
They were almost at the head of the line. The Earl looked around distractedly.
“Take me away,” Dorina whispered. “I feel so ill.”
A footman had seen what was happening and came towards them.
“Please give His Royal Highness my apologies,” the Earl said. “As you can see, my companion is ill and I must leave with her.”
“But you're nearly there,” protested the footman. “Perhaps if you were to meet the Prince wh
