" Tom knew he was being a surly ass, when he should have been making the most of the opportunity by trying to charm her. But this situation was not something he wanted Cassandra to associate him with.
The last time they had been together, they'd waltzed in a winter garden. Now, they were de-lousing a pestilent street urchin.
It wasn't exactly progress.
Moreover, it would make Tom look even worse in comparison to the well-bred gentlemen who were undoubtedly pursuing her.
Not that he was competing for her. But a man had pride. "

― Lisa Kleypas , Chasing Cassandra (The Ravenels, #6)