Having Maxim return so quickly did help her feel better but he seemed more threatening than necessary. She immediately held up her hands to him. "It looks like there is some history between you two, but.. Maxim, I think there is a misunderstanding. He couldn't have known we were together. After all, we didn't arrive together and we'd only had one dance before you left to check on your sister. And all he did was ask for a dance, so.."

She took a deep breath and smiled weakly hoping to effect both men. "Let's relax and no hard feelings? It is a dance, so everyone should have a pleasant time?" She was very hopeful they both would.