AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Yes. And with the right words in the right ears, it will become the most sought-after ball for this season. Everyone will want to meet you. Even this…mysterious miss, if she is of quality.”
Her tone said she did not believe it to be so. A lady of quality traveling alone. Darkly, Thaddeus mumbled, “She might be the sister of a duke.” Even if he couldn’t be certain. How many dukes in London had sisters? He suspected he wouldn’t make many friends if he started asking around the clubs.
Aunt Beatrice started tucking away her implements into the little basket she kept at her feet. “You have to dance with someone during the ball. It would be unconscionable if you did not. And, if you dance with only one woman, she’ll get it in her head that you mean to show her particular favor. No, much better if you dance with them all.”
“You think you have me caught.” He felt like a fish on a hook.
She glanced up from her work and smiled. “Prove me wrong.”
He stood and finished off the rest of his whisky in one swallow. “I will.” It was false bravado talking, or perhaps the spirits.
Even if Perdie had gotten an invitation, there was little chance she’d come to London. Not if she wanted to avoid her brother. Unless…unless she decided to return and face her brother. His aunt’s scheming aside, he doubted very much that he would have the pleasure of Perdie’s company during the unwanted ball hosted in his honor.
But damn him if there wasn’t a glimmer of hope in his chest too. If he couldn’t find her, perhaps he could find someone who knew her.
