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“I know.” Ford grinned. “So this is a costume ball. A bunch of fops running around in tights and curly wigs.”
“Isn’t it ridiculous? And I’m the Princess of the Wallflowers. My mother will be livid. You should have seen the costume she wanted me to wear. It was stuck all over with actual dead butterflies.”
“I gather that the change was a surprise?”
“An unwelcome one for my mother. I’m always disappointing her and tonight I decided to do so in an ostentatious and irrevocable manner. Thank you for applauding.”
“Of course. I understood the statement you were making. You look enchanting.”
Her skin heated despite the cold air. “I really do have to go back inside. But I was hoping, that is... would you do me the honor of waltzing with me?”
He smiled. “Wallflower princesses don’t follow the rules of propriety, I see.”
“Propriety? I don’t even know what the word means.”
“Then allow me to recommend an excellent etymological dictionary by a studious lady I know...”
They entered the ballroom together, but before they reached the dance floor Lady Millicent intercepted them.
She flicked her gaze up and down Beatrice’s gown. “And what are you supposed to be?”
“I’m a wallflower,” said Beatrice.
Lady Millicent laughed. “I know that, silly. Why would you wear an old gown like that to a ball? No one’s going to want to dance with you.” She turned to Ford. “Aren’t you the dashing highwayman? Do I know you? You may steal me away for a waltz if you like.”
“I’m spoken for,” said Ford, taking Beatrice’s hand.
They walked to the dance floor, leaving Lady Millicent gaping after them.
“She looks like a trout,” said Ford.
Beatrice giggled. “She does, rather.”
“You know that’s my favorite gown of yours?”
“I know. You told me.”
The waltz began and Ford took her into his arms.This time they had an audience. Everyone in the room was staring at them.
“No one knows who I am,” Ford said. “Except your family.”
“You’re my mysterious highwayman.”
“And you’re my wallflower.”
His hands were so large and capable. They built her bookshelves, defended her from harm, and sent desire racing through her body.
“I love you, Ford,” she whispered.
She’d said the words. Now it was his turn.
But if Ford said those words, everything would change. He’d have to admit that he believed there was a way for their two worlds to collide, to overlap. When there was none.
And yet she was waltzing with him in plain sight of her mother, for everyone to see.
Yes, he wore a mask, but she didn’t. Not anymore.
“You don’t have to say anything, Ford. Because I know you love me, too.” Her smile sliced through his clothing and lodged in his heart.
