Page 46 of Not the Duke's Virgin

Schooling her features into a pleasant mask, Victoria thanked her maid and departed to join Madeline.

Descending the grand staircase on Madeline’s arm sometime later, Victoria glided into the dazzling ballroom as though she had not a care. Chandeliers blazed overhead, illuminating the elegant guests beneath twinkling crystals. An orchestra played a lively tune in the corner.

Madeline caught her breath at the splendor. “Oh my. I shall never grow accustomed to such magnificence.”

Victoria smiled, thankful to have her artless cousin’s company this evening. It would bolster her courage.

No sooner had they reached the ballroom floor than Oliver appeared before them. Impeccable in black evening attire, his cool gaze swept over Victoria in frank assessment.

“My dear Lady Victoria, what a vision you are tonight.”

Taking her hand, he lifted it smoothly to his lips before tucking it into the crook of his arm. Victoria suppressed a shudder at his touch.

“You are too kind, Lord Oliver,” she managed, hoping the warmth in her voice sounded genuine. She did not dare meet Madeline’s eyes.

“Come, let us take a turn about the room together,” Oliver suggested, already steering her away. “The sooner they all see us looking so handsome together, the better.”

Victoria swallowed hard and summoned every ounce of poise she could muster. Tonight’s ordeal was only just beginning. She could not falter now. The eyes of the ton were upon her.

CHAPTER11

The musicale had drawn to a close, and the guests began filing into the drawing room for refreshments before dinner. Victoria moved through the elegantly dressed crowd, nodding politely but unable to focus on the chatter around her.

Madeline walked at her side, casting the occasional curious glance her way. “That was a lovely concert, was it not? I was quite carried away by the soprano’s solo.”

“Yes, quite lovely,” Victoria murmured.

In truth, she had barely heard the music. Her thoughts had been consumed by apprehension over what the rest of the evening held. Oliver had been most insistent that she convey utter devotion tonight.

As they entered the drawing room, footmen floated around with trays bearing champagne flutes. Madeline eagerly accepted one. Victoria hesitated before taking a glass. Though unwise before needing all her wits about her, the wine might help steady her nerves.

She took a small sip, dismayed to feel her hand trembling slightly.

Get hold of yourself. One evening of pretense, and then you are free of this place.

Drawing a calming breath, she glanced around the room.

Her heart clenched as she saw Oliver holding court near the fire, his brother at his side. As if sensing her attention, his pale gaze shifted to meet hers. Something like triumph sparked in his eyes before he gave her the barest nod of acknowledgment.

Victoria’s stomach twisted. He intended to keep her on edge until the last possible moment. She watched warily as he turned back to his companions, smiling and conversing with ease. How she envied his composure!

“Victoria?” Madeline’s gentle voice interrupted her thoughts. “Let us find a seat, shall we?”

Grateful for her cousin’s soothing presence, Victoria allowed herself to be led to a silk-upholstered settee. She perched tensely on the edge while Madeline chatted about inconsequential matters, providing a distraction. Victoria offered an occasional murmur, keeping one eye on Oliver across the room. His continued nonchalance unsettled her.

When the gong sounded for dinner sometime later, she rose hastily, desperate to leave the drawing room. At least at the dining table she need not worry about maintaining a facade for her “betrothed.”

Madeline had just accepted the arm of a kindly older gentleman when Oliver materialized at Victoria’s side.

“Lady Victoria,” he intoned courteously, already tucking her hand in the crook his arm.

Victoria attempted a gracious smile. “Good evening, Lord Oliver. Shall we go in?”

“Eager for dinner? I cannot say I blame you.” He smirked. “You will need your strength for what comes after.”

Victoria stiffened, hating his innuendo. Yet, she could not make a scene.

As they crossed into the dining room, Victoria tried to steady her nerves.

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