Chen Lun shook his hand politely.
Walsh glanced around, then took a handkerchief from his pocket and rose onto his toes to wipe the cream from Noah's mouth. Noah scratched the back of his head and thanked him sheepishly.
"Whoo-! Happy birthday!"
The guests began cheering.
Chen Lun looked over to see Rebecca surrounded by the guests, closing her eyes to make a wish before blowing out the candles. Viscount Pompey then cut the cake, and the maids handed it out to the guests so everyone could celebrate together.
Before long, the meal ended.
"Next is the ball. Please enjoy yourselves, everyone."
After Viscount Pompey finished speaking, the maids cleared away the dining tables, leaving a spacious drawing room. A small band hired for the occasion took their seats on the central steps, with the pianist, violinist, cellist, drummer, and other orchestral musicians all getting into position.
Clear piano notes rang out, followed closely by the lilting strains of a violin.
The guests stepped into the center of the drawing room with their partners and danced to the music. Young men and women also paired up as invitations were offered and accepted, joining the dance floor with laughter.
Rebecca danced a number with her father, Viscount Pompey.
"Happy birthday, Rebecca... I'm getting old. Just a few minutes of dancing has tired me out."
Viscount Pompey joked.
"Thank you. You're still young, Dad."
Rebecca giggled.
The viscount led Rebecca off the dance floor, and Mrs. Pompey came over to meet them. He released Rebecca's hand and took his wife's, then glanced around. Quite a few young noblemen and other gentlemen were eager to make their move.
"Oh, it seems our daughter is quite popular."
Mrs. Pompey smiled.
"Now it's time for you young people. Go on, Rebecca."
Viscount Pompey patted Rebecca's