“Daphne,” Anthony said pointedly, “I should be delighted to act as your chaperon.&

“Daphne,” Anthony said pointedly, “I should be delighted to act as your chaperon.”
“Really, Anthony,” Violet cut in, “they hardly need one if they are to remain here in the ballroom.”
“Oh, I insist.”
“You two run along,” Violet said to Daphne and Simon, waving her hand at them. “Anthony will be with you in just a moment.”
Anthony tried to follow immediately, but Violet grabbed onto his wrist. Hard. “What the devil do you think you’re doing?” she hissed.
“Protecting my sister!”

— The Duke and I by Julia Quinn (Bridgerton #1)