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Jane could practically feel the heat radiating off Richard as his face flushed red. His breathing quickened, and his hands curled into tight balls.

“This is my fiancée, Miss Jane Grant,” he said coldly. “And she’s not free for a dance, Kelford, because she promised the next dance to me.”

She had done no such thing, but it was endearing that Richard was suddenly so possessive, so she nodded to Kelford, whoever he was. “I am otherwise engaged, sir.”

“I’m sure the duke would find other agreeable ladies to dance with who are not occupied,” suggested Lady Whitemouth, pushing Lady Isabella forward slightly.

Kelford cocked his head in acknowledgment, his long-lashed eyes smiling in amusement. His gaze glanced over Lady Isabella and landed on Calliope, never leaving her. For the first time since Jane had known her, Calliope seemed to be at a loss. She stood completely immobile, wide-eyed, as though trapped in the strength of the officer’s gaze.

The master of ceremonies announced the next dance.

“How about it?” Kelford asked Calliope.

“This is my sister, Kelford,” growled Richard.

“Ah,” said Kelford, his eyes never leaving Calliope. “She’ll be in good hands.”

“Calliope,” said Richard through gritted teeth. “Have you not promised the next dance to Preston?”

Despite the pleasantries that occurred just a few moments before, Jane could see Lady Whitemouth’s face screwing in on itself as though she’d eaten a lemon. Jane was sure Lady Whitemouth had intended for Kelford to dance with Lady Isabella, but now he was overlooking her daughter.

“I do not recall,” said Calliope.

Richard’s face practically collapsed.

Kelford grinned like a cat about to devour a well-deserved saucer of cream. “In that case… May I have the honor of your next dance, Lady Calliope?”

Jane was sure Calliope would say no. Clearly, this man was a scoundrel and a rake, not caring for any social manners. Richard, most certainly, disapproved. And besides, Calliope wasn’t interested in dances or flirting or men.

“You may,” said Calliope.

Kelford nodded to her, the picture of gallantry. With that, Calliope accepted his hand, and they walked into the crowd to take their place among the couples in the middle of the room.

Jane looked at Richard, who tore his glare from Kelford’s back and turned back to her, his expression immediately warming.

“Shall we?” he asked, and she barely contained a broad grin.

They both nodded politely to Lady Whitemouth and Lady Isabella and made their way through the guests, as well.

“Why are you objecting to him so much?” asked Jane.

“He’s a rake and a fortune hunter,” said Richard. “The Duke of Kelford has not a penny, and three younger sisters that he must support. He’s a navy officer. I know him from Oxford. I’ve seen him at some of the wild soirées where men like him go to drink and to sleep around with women.”

They finally took their place on the dance floor, the guests around them in a circle. Many pairs of eyes were on her. She was at the center of their attention. Yet, unlike a few days ago, all awkwardness was gone from Jane. She felt relaxed and wonderful. Most importantly, she was at the center of Richard’s attention. He looked at her as though no one and nothing else existed.

“Do you mean men like you?” Jane asked.

“Not anymore, love. Ever since I met you, I haven’t thought of another female.”

The orchestra struck the first chords of the waltz, and Jane and Richard flowed. Her heart beat so fast as Richard’s strong arms held her, guiding her through the steps and movements. She couldn’t take her eyes off his handsome face and neither, it seemed, could he take his eyes from her. As other couples around them swirled and moved, she was warm, the heat of his body like an oven through his clothes.

“Isn’t this nice, Jane?” he asked, his eyes sparkling and glowing, only on her, a soft, beautiful smile on his lips. “You and me. Dancing.”

“It is more than nice,” she admitted.

It was happiness. The man she loved held her in his arms and whirled and swirled her about.

His blue gaze captivated her, and his fingers caressed her back through the fabric of her gown. “In four days it will be our wedding, Jane. This could be our forever. Just don’t say no.”