Cattiness (2)

"No fair. The two of you have been holding out on me. I wasn't aware you had spoken to Kate after what happened at the ball. Can I also just call you Simon?" Grace asked. She was less interested in Lila's news now that the marquis was here. Leave it up to Kate to already hook her claws into another man. 

"He has a title and it should be respected," Kate glared at Grace. Why should anyone other than her at the table just call him Simon?

"It's okay. It's tiring to be called by my title in settings like this. Please, just call me by my first name," he permitted Grace. "Were the three of you celebrating good news?"

"Yes. My best friend Lila is getting married. I can't wait to help her with the preparations. It would be good to take my mind off of my father's funeral and other family drama," said Kate.

"I see. Congratulations Lila. I wish you a lifetime of happiness. Would you two like to tag along to the party I wanted to take Kate to?" Simon asked.