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Miles’s pause had lasted just a little too long. Genially…

“Miles’s pause had lasted just a little too long. Genially taking his turn to fill it, Illyan turned to Ekaterin. “Speaking of weddings, Madame Vorsoisson, how long has Miles been courting you? Have you awarded him a date yet? Personally, I think you ought to string him along and make him work for…” quote by Lois McMaster Bujold
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““Miles’s pause had lasted just a little too long. Genially taking his turn to fill it, Illyan turned to Ekaterin. “Speaking of weddings, Madame Vorsoisson, how long has Miles been courting you? Have you awarded him a date yet? Personally, I think you ought to string him along and make him work for it.” A chill flush plunged to the pit of Miles’s stomach. Alys bit her lip. Even Galeni winced. Olivia looked up in confusion. “I thought we weren’t supposed to mention that yet.” Kou, next to her, muttered, “Hush, lovie.” Lord Dono, with malicious Vorrutyer innocence, turned to her and inquired, “What weren’t we supposed to mention?” “Oh, but if Captain Illyan said it, it must be all right,” Olivia concluded. Captain Illyan had his brains blown out last year, thought Miles. He is not all right. All right is precisely what he is not . . . Her gaze crossed Miles’s. “Or maybe . . .” Not, Miles finished silently for her. Ekaterin””

Lois McMaster Bujold

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Characters navigate social expectations and hidden tensions during a wedding conversation, revealing power dynamics and personal insecurities.

In simple terms: People hide feelings and test each other in social settings.

Key Takeaway

Observe cues and communicate clearly.

Themes

social dynamics power communication insecurity humor

Mood

tense playful wry

Type

dialogue humorous dramatic

When to use this quote

  • wedding planning
  • team meetings
  • family gatherings
  • political negotiations

Key Concepts

courtship social pressure misdirection authority emotional intelligence

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you handle unspoken expectations?
  • What signals reveal true intentions?
A Different Perspective

Assuming consent can lead to misunderstandings.

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