Lady Gregory was a wise woman. She noticed that Steve Burton's gaze had been focused on Ruby throughout, and feeling that her incessant chatter may be interrupting their conversation, she found an excuse to help out in the kitchen, leaving the space free for the two of them.
Once Lady Gregory left, the entire living room fell silent.
Seated in her chair, Ruby's figure appeared slightly rigid. She kept her head down, not looking at Steve.
The quietness between Steve and Ruby lasted until Lady Gregory walked out of the kitchen with a plate of fruit.
Seeing that Ruby had no intention of talking to him, Steve moistened his lips slightly, stood up, and said, "Aunt Gregory, it's getting late. I should head home now."
"Stay for dinner," urged Lady Gregory.
Steve glanced at Ruby but remained silent.
Lady Gregory nudged Ruby, "It's not often that Steve visits our home, let's invite him to stay for dinner."
