It was clear that Natasha did not want Finley touching her, but he basked in the attention, beaming as he said, "Madam, you've heard everyone's requests. Since they all want to see us dance, how can you refuse?"

Natasha frowned slightly. Finley was annoying as a persistent pest, but she worried that refusing him outright in front of everyone might cause a scene.

Just then, a female voice cut through the tension. "If Madam Vostokoff doesn't want to dance with Mr. Moore, shouldn't a true gentleman step back rather than put her in an awkward position?"

"Who do you think you are to meddle in my affairs?" Finley turned with displeasure.

Aspen smiled, looking sharp in her tailored suit. "Mr. Moore, you seem quite temperamental. I'm Aspen from the Bridgefields' Stevens family."

Finley nodded thoughtfully and said, "Ah, Ms. Stevens. Don't tell me you're also vying to be Madam Vostokoff's dance partner?"

"And why not?" Aspen lifted her chin proudly. "Who says Madam Vostokoff's partn