Return of the Native Book 4 Chapter 3

In which the weary yet resolute Eustacia seeks distraction from the heavy burden of her circumstances by venturing alone to a lively village dance, where the gaiety of others both tempts and tortures her. Amid the swirling dancers and moonlit heath, unexpected encounters awaken old tensions, weaving a quiet drama of secret glances, unspoken regrets, and the delicate balancing of social ties.