"Would you ladies like to hear a little poem my Muffin has learned torecite, complete with choreography?" Oh, yes," said Claire."Definitely," seconded... Luna.Oh no. Lyle had to struggle not to burst out in tears. He stood therein his mortifying outfit, wishing he could run away and hide. His wifenodded toward the center of the room, where he was expected to take uphis position. Lyle did it, hands at his sides, like a reluctantparticipant in a grade school presentation.He began, in a singsong. Only one segment of the crowd was not hanging on his every word, and those were hanging upon the words and shy blushes offered by Colette. She danced with Lord and merchant alike, a vision of loveliness, with a constant flush in her cheeks — her musical laughter echoing throughout the hall.Tharsas and Colette both stole glances at each other throughout the evening, careful not to let their eyes linger long, which would reveal the carefully masked emotion behind them. Peronelle and Lavina fumed,. She is more open than we give hercredit for."Iris added,, "Claire is hosting a sleepover on Friday, I'll ask if youcan go." Rachel declined but Leslie told her, "I think you should go.They won't like leaving you out of it." Iris added, "It's her datenight" prompting Rachel to blush then say, "I don't have a choice, Idon't want to keep you from your date."Things settled down after that. Rachel was much calmer with Leslie andIris than with the Samuels. Richard continued to complain about. Are you allowed the same?" she asked as innocently as she could.Jon thought for a moment and then said, "I am quite sure Hugo is not as possessive as Karl about anything. Dina wouldn't like me to use you though." But Hugo uses Dina from time to time, doesn't he?" asked Helen."Yes, but he owns both of us, so that is different. I am allowed to live out with Dina and naturally we ... sleep together, but Hugo's needs always come first."Helen went to the study door and activated the privacy.