Page 48 of Claimed By the Beastly Duke

She stood there, looking like an angel as she smiled down at him. Her dress trailed on the floor behind her and swished around her ankles, lending her a regal air.

When she finally began to descend the staircase, he was able to get a proper look at the cut of the dress. It cinched her waist and gently hugged her hips, capturing her curves just right.

Edwin swallowed as his eyes lingered a little too long on her chest.

When she stopped in front of him, her eyes gleaming and her lips curled into a small smile, he found his words.

“You look…”

He was not quite certain what to say.Beautifulwould be an understatement, andradiantwould be far too cheap.

“You are utterly breathtaking,” he murmured.

Her lips stretched into a full, stunning smile.

He felt something stir in his chest at that moment.

“I am certain your business partners will approve,” she said, before looking away and walking towards the door.

Her action surprised him.

“Aren’t you going to take my arm?” he asked, following behind her.

She cast a brief glance over her shoulder at him as she continued walking briskly. “We can spare the dramatics for the ball, where your business partners shall be watching.”

There was a slight edge to her voice, as though she was annoyed.

What could possibly have annoyed her?

As he climbed into the carriage after her, however, he realized he would not have enough time to find out the reason behind her annoyance.

It did not take long for them to arrive at the estate of the Duke of Wellington. A long queue of carriages extended from the drive down to the end of the street, while people dressed in finery and fancy masks made their way to the entrance of the mansion.

“You brought your mask, I suppose?” Edwin inquired.

Today was one of the few days when he wouldn’t feel particularly out of place for wearing a mask. After all, everybody would be wearing one at the ball.

Ava lifted a golden mask with lace trimmings and secured it on her face. “I would not want to embarrass you in front of your partners now, would I?” she said, smiling sweetly at him.

Edwin was not quite certain what to make of that.

She was smiling sweetly at him, and yet her words were not quite as sweet.

“Ava, have I?—”

“Edwin, we must step out of the carriage. We should not arrive late to our first ball as a married couple,” she urged.

She was right. If he arrived too late, he may be labeled an arrogant bastard.

“Fine,” he relented as he climbed out. “But you must tell me why you are being so short with me.”

He held out a hand to help her down, and she took it.

“I do not know what you are talking about,” she muttered as she adjusted her dress. “Now, we must go.”

The hosts of the ball, the Duke and Duchess of Wellington, were at the door, welcoming the long line of guests.

“Now, this is a face I am familiar with,” the Duke boomed as soon as they stepped in front of him. “Gillingham and his Duchess. You are most welcome.”

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