Mr. Huntress had been introduced to the young man earlier in the evening, and had been startled, as everyone else was, by his singular resemblance to the boy whom he had reared, and he had resolved to make some inquiries of him regarding his connections, hoping thus to gain some light upon Geoffrey’s early life.
“I do not know, dear,” the gentleman replied to his daughter’s question; “it is surely time that he was here. Possibly something detained him at the last moment, and he could not leave.”
“Oh, I hope not; the evening will be spoiled if he does not come,” Gladys cried, in a tone that made the blood surge angrily to Everet Mapleson’s brow, for it told him how little hope there was of his retaining Gladys’ companionship if his fortunate rival should make his appearance.
“I shall be sorry myself not to see Geoff; he needs the change and recreation, too, for he is working very hard,” responded Mr. Huntress, glancing wistfully toward the door himself. “But you must try to enjoy yourself, all the same, if he does not come. Mr. and Mrs. Loring will be disappointed if their reception does not prove a pleasant one, after all their effort.”
Gladys’ glance was bent upon her fan, with which she was nervously toying: her cheeks were flushed, her brow slightly clouded, her lips compressed, and it was evident that she was greatly disturbed.
All at once she turned her gaze again toward the door. She gave a sudden start.
“Why! there he is now! Oh! I am so glad,” she cried in a joyous tone, her beautiful face growing radiant with undisguised delight, as she saw Geoffrey, looking more handsome and manly than ever, just entering the room.
She instantly darted toward him without even thinking to excuse herself to her companions, thus leaving Mr. Huntress and young Mapleson to entertain each other.
The latter watched that graceful figure, a lurid fire in his eye, his lips compressed until they were colorless, his heart throbbing with jealous anger.
He saw her steal softly up to Geoffrey, who was looking in another direction, and slip one white hand within his arm, while she looked up at him, with a rogueish but happy glance, and addressed some bright words of welcome to him.