Page 6 of Treating a Sinful Earl
Jasper smiled warmly. Yes, Catherine seemed like the kind of lady that would make an excellent friend. “I am happy to hear that. My relationship with Mr Andrews is much the same.”
Just then, the dance concluded, and those on the dance floor applauded, awaiting what the next dance might be. For Jasper, he wished to remove himself from the dance floor as quickly as possible, for that familiar knot came to his stomach and sweat clung to his brow.
“Would you care to dance again?” Selina asked. “Although I know that it would create a scandal.”
“Lady Lockhart, if you will excuse me, I am in need of refreshment.”
She seemed momentarily taken back that he had not invited her to go with him but considering that a fit of ill health was upon him, Jasper wished for privacy.
“It has been a pleasure, my lord,” Selina said with a curtsy.
As Jasper walked away, fear took hold. The fits were gaining in frequency, and it left him to wonder if one day, every moment would feel as gruelling. What if he were to faint for all eyes to see? No, no. He shook his head and banished that thought. Although the prognosis was grim, there was still a chance that the Lord might be merciful and set him free. At least, that was what he hoped.
Taking a cool glass of lemonade, Jasper turned to scan the ballroom, noting that Felton was still dancing with Abigail. This brought a smile to his lips, for Jasper liked to see his friend so full of gaiety. But still, there was momentary jealousy, for Felton was still in prime health, and alas, Jasper was not.
All of these thoughts melted away on a cloud as he viewed Catherine once more, speaking with someone whom he assumed to be her chaperone, based upon the woman’s appearance. He remembered what Selina had said about their chaperones keeping a distance. Still, this was a prime opportunity to speak with Catherine since they would not be alone.
Feeling his health instantly return, Jasper set down his glass of lemonade and approached, watching Catherine’s stunning green eyes turn to him. His gaze was unwavering as Jasper wanted her to know exactly how much interest he had in her.
“I hope that I am not intruding,” Jasper said, bowing his head.
Catherine appeared to be quite shocked by his approach. “Of course not, my lord. I am grateful to have your company.”
“That is a kind sentiment,” Jasper replied with a smile. He turned his attention towards the chaperone, who blinked several times then turned away. “Your friend Lady Lockhart is a kind woman.”
“She is my dearest friend. I do not know how I would get on without her.”
“I am sure that you would find a way,” he suggested warmly.
“Might I ask, my lord, why it is that you turn down so many invitations?”
Jasper briefly considered this. “I suppose it is because these events make me rather nervous.” It was an admission that he had not anticipated making.
“Is that so? Why, that is precisely why I rarely come! But I do not receive countless invitations. There are very few that know of me.”
What a horrible disadvantage to them, Jasper thought to himself.
“You should attend more balls. I am sure that there are many who would benefit from your company.”
Catherine laughed. “I do not know if my more introverted ways bring much of a benefit to anything. Often, I cannot even think of the right thing to say.”
“I share that same sentiment. I am always saying the first thing that pops into my head,” Jasper quipped. “And I can say with some certainty that is not the right course of action.”
They both laughed with ease. As Catherine did so, Jasper took the time to examine her profile, which was both delicate and lovely in every way. Was it that Catherine reminded him of someone? Was that why he could not help but stare? For looking at her, he was quite convinced that she had a familiar face and that he had known her all of his life.
“You must have danced heartily,” Catherine remarked.
“Why do you say that?”
“You have sweat clinging to your brow,” she said, no small measure of concern in her voice.
Jasper brought a hand up to his forehead and wiped the sweat away. Oh, but that horrible dread returned as he realized that it was from his illness and not from the dancing at all. Of course, it was too soon to explain, but he did feel the inclination to tell her all, even when their friendship was so new. He had the keen sense that she would understand and express her concern.
“I suppose that I did,” he finally said. “As I mentioned, these events make me quite nervous, and I admit to not being the best of dancers.”
Catherine’s face lit up. “Oh, but I watched you! You were an expert dancer, my lord.”
She had watched him? Hmm…There was nothing unappealing about that in the slightest. Jasper enjoyed the notion that Catherine was watching him whilst he danced. Had she been the one dancing, he would have done the same.
