CHAPTER 13
“Aball? You want togo to a ball tonight?” She had not thought Dariux was the type to enjoy social gatherings.
“Yes. Is there a problem with that?” He raised his eyebrows.
“Well, no. But I wasn’t planning to attend any events. I don’t know if I have the proper attire—”
“Kalli, you have several trunks full of clothes. I’m sure you can find something to wear. Now, if there’s any other reason you don’t want to go...”
“No, it is not that. I just wasn’t expecting it. Do you want to go?”
“I think it could be fun, yes.”
She had to smile at that. “I had not pegged you as the type who would enjoy a nineteenth century ball.”
He raised an eyebrow and pressed a hand to his chest in mock reproach. “And why not? Which type of man do you think would enjoy a ball?”
“Oh, I don’t know. Someone more lighthearted and sociable. You know, someone who likes to party. You are very serious and... logical. I didn’t think you were into frivolous entertainments.”
He walked up to her where she stood at the foot of the bed and smiled, looking straight into her eyes. Raising his hand, he tucked a strand of her hair, grazing her ear and eliciting goosebumps all over that side of her body.
“You don’t know many things about me. I’m a man of hidden talents and many facets.”
And she liked this facet. This playful and seductive Dariux. She had always thought him sexy, in a brooding, no nonsense way. But he was irresistible when he turned on the charm.
“In that case, I look forward to the ball, to keep discovering your many facets.” Her voice came out a little breathless, and his eyes smiled in understanding. He knew exactly what he was doing to her. The rogue.
***
AT PRECISELY EIGHTo’clock, they descended the staircase arm in arm. Kalli had found a splendid gown, just as he predicted. A confection in pink and apple green that set off her coppery curls and creamy complexion. How had he not noticed before how luminous her skin was? The delicate mounds of her breasts tantalized him from the confines of her bodice. It made him wonder if the ball was such a good idea after all. Maybe their time would be better spent in their room making love—no, not making love. Having sex. What was it with him and all these sentimental thoughts? They had agreed to have sex to satisfy each other’s needs during this mission. No love involved. Love was nothing more than an unproven theory. And he would continue to believe that until proven otherwise.
The ballroom was a dazzling kaleidoscope of brightly colored dresses swirling in time with the music, illuminated by dozens of gas chandeliers. He inclined his head towards Kalli.
“Do you know how to waltz?” he asked, sotto voce.
“You’re only asking me now? A little late, don’t you think?”
“Not at all. If you don’t know how to dance, we can—”
“I know how to waltz, Dariux. I learned for this mission’s sake. Do you dance?”
“Oh yes. It looks like a waltz is starting. Would you do me the honor of this dance, milady?” he asked with a courtly bow that made her smile. He liked her smiles. She put her hand in his and he swept her into the sea of dancers.
All at once, he felt the familiar exhilaration of the music, the notes flowing through his body and moving him in tandem with his partner. His very surprised partner. Who was looking up at him as if he had grown another head.
“You dance very well,” she said in a breathless voice.
“Thank you, I think. You sound insultingly surprised.”
“No. Well... yes. I hadn’t pegged you for the dancing type. At least not this—”
