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'Is this seat taken?'
The soft smirk on the Abbé's lips did nothing to calm Sophie's discomfort.
Firstly, it was inappropriate for him to sit down next to her like that — what would people think? On the other hand, everyone knew that he was the Comtesse's confessor and companion. Whatever anyone else thought, it wasn't the young Fräulein Achtmann's business — not that it didn't make her blush or her heart flutter when she thought about him in a way that wasn't even allowed to be spoken of.
Sophie made an incoherent noise and motioned with her hand that the seat was free. She ruffled her skirts, gave the young man a polite nod and turned her head to look out of the window.
The omnibus set in motion, the clopping of the horses' hooves creating a pleasant clicking sound that lulled the girl inside. She almost leaned her head against the window frame beside her when she noticed the Abbé turn his head and point out of the window.
'Look, the Elbe is especially beautiful today.'
'That's true.' Sophie sat up straight and agreed with Leander. The water sparkled marvellously in the sunlight, and the ships sailing on it almost appeared magical. These were just ordinary trading ships, yet the sight was somehow enchanting.
'I almost missed the omnibus — the crowd in the street was immense.' She sighed. 'Constanze would kill me if I were late for her dinner.'
'I know. The Comtesse urged me not to be late either. It's ridiculous, of course, but it seems like she feels lost without me at the table."
Sophie eyed him discreetly. She felt a touch of envy for the noble lady who had this man travelling with her. It wasn't her concern, but she couldn't help wondering... Well, no, she shouldn't.
Ahead of them, on the street, there was some commotion. The horses shrieked and jumped, while the conductor had his hands full of reins, trying to control them. The bus rattled unpleasantly and came to an abrupt halt, causing the passengers to tumble in their seats. Sophie tried to grasp the seat in front of her, but failed and staggered sideways, landing surprisingly softly.
In the Abbé's arms.