Free Quick, Amanda by I Thee Wed

they played their games; quite another when she habitually won. Only Miranda seemed content with Emma's streak of good luck. Gowned in a striking black-and-gold-striped evening dress, Lady Ames held court at the card table. Many of the ladies in the circle gathered around her had continued to drink champagne and brandy after dinner. By the time the men finished their port and came to join them for the dancing, most would be quite drunk. Emma had stuck to tea, steeling herself when Miranda insisted that she try some more of the special blend. This time she had sipped much more cautiously. The result was that the dizziness was not so strong and she did not feel nearly as ill as she had yesterday. Nevertheless, the sensation she was experiencing was decidedly unpleasant. It was as if her brain were filled with a dark, roiling fog.
     
Another round," Miranda said cheerfully as she shuffled the cards. Let us see if anyone can beat Miss Greyson." Delicia rose abruptly. I've had enough of this ridiculous game. I am going to take some fresh air." She glanced around the circle. Does anyone else care to join me?" I will." So will I." It is really quite boring when one person wins every time," Cordelia Page said very pointedly. She got to her feet with a flounce. I do hope the dancing begins soon." Amid a rustle of satin, silk, and muslin skirts, the women departed for the terrace. Miranda smiled benignly at Emma. I fear they do not lose well, Miss Greyson. It is certainly not your fault that you are enjoying a bit of good luck tonight, is it?" The unhealthy excitement in Miranda's eyes worried Emma. In keeping with her employment agreement with Edison, she had promised to participate in Miranda's games. But enough was enough, at least for now. It was time to lose. Besides, she did not think it would be a good idea for Miranda to grow too confident of the effects of her nasty brew. One more round and then I believe I shall go up to my room," Emma said. Displeasure lit Miranda's expression for an instant, but it was quickly suppressed. Very well, Miss Greyson, one more round." Miranda selected three cards seemingly at random from the pack, studied them for a moment, and put them facedown on the table. Go ahead. See if you can guess the cards." Emma touched the first card. Through the gently whirling mist that filled her brain she could see a four of clubs as clearly as a sunrise. A king of hearts, I believe," she said blandly. Miranda frowned and turned over the card. You guessed wrong, Miss Greyson. Swan, pour Miss Greyson another cup of tea." Swan started forward with the pot. No, thank you," Emma said. I don't want any more tea."
     
Rubbish. Of course you do." Miranda gave the footman an angry, impatient look. I told you to pour Miss Greyson some more tea. Do it now, Swan." Swan flashed Emma a pleading glance. She did not need any of the tea or her own intuition to realize that the poor man was caught in a difficult situation. She gave him an understanding smile. Why not? I believe I will take some more tea, after all. Thank you, Swan." Gratitude flashed in his eyes. The teapot in his hand trembled slightly as he poured the tea. When he finished and stepped back, Emma reached for the cup. She pretended to lose her grip on the delicate handle. The cup slipped from her fingers and fell to the carpet. Oh dear," Emma murmured. Now look what I've done." Miranda looked ready to explode. Fetch the maid, Swan." Yes, madam." Swan fled toward the hall. I believe I splashed some tea on my gown." Emma rose. Please excuse me, Lady Ames. As it happens, I am ready to retire for the evening anyway." There was a hard glint in Miranda's eyes. But, Miss Greyson, the night is young." As you know, I do not go out into Society very often. I am not accustomed to its hours." Emma gave her a sugary smile. I doubt that anyone will notice my absence." You are wrong, Miss Greyson. I will notice." Miranda leaned forward slightly. A hot intensity radiated from