Joe was trying hard to make out the girl’s profile.

But it was dark, and all he could see were her shining eyes, glittery eyes, beautiful pale blue eyes. Her gaze glued itself to the stage.

She tucked a light curl behind her ear, and that motion struck a chord with him. A strangely familiar chord. Like seeing the girl next door.

As he turned to leave, he lifted the program from the seat and, not paying attention, rammed into her back. “I’m sorry. I’m afraid I’ve been more than a bit of a nuisance tonight.”

“Not to worry.” Her voice carried over her shoulder, cheerful in spite of all she’d endured at his expense. She’d probably get out and away from him as quickly as possible.

And then she glanced back.

His mouth nearly unhinged. That was why she looked familiar. Victoria Banks. “I guess I’ll always be saying I’m sorry to you, won’t I?”

Her large eyes widened. “Well, if it isn’t Joseph Huntington from Miss Davies’s Dance School. The graduation dance. All grown-up.” Then her eyes narrowed. “Or is that Sergeant Huntington?”

He groaned. “And I stepped on your foot...again.”