Page 14 of The Odd Riddle of the Lost Duchess
Lady Alford sighed, “Yes, indeed I do. I also believe that it is time to put that absurd quarrel to an end.”
Emmeline spotted a gentleman in a dark cape stalking towards them, his stride agitated, and his face flushed–her brother George.
“Heavens!” she gasped. “I have to go find Ann.”
Emmeline escaped George by mere moments, in no mood to listen to his lecture on propriety and family honor. She found her friend at the back of the room.
Ann grinned cheekily at Emmeline and nodded over to where the Duke of Newberry was. “I could see you enjoying yourself, my dear friend.”
Emmeline released a breath. “I just ran away from George. He did not look pleased. I think he saw me and the Duke of Newberry.”
“It is just one dance, Em,” shrugged Ann. “What can he do about it? Put you over his knees and flog you? We’re at a ball to dance. What did he expect?”
“His Grace asked for three dances but was only allowed two, Ann. My aunt seems to like him,” Emmeline groaned mournfully.
Ann smiled, “Why would anyone not? I have investigated him, and it appears he is not exactly a rake. Although, he was rumored to have an affair with an opera singer last season.”
“An opera singer?” Emmeline repeated in dismay.
“You can hardly expect gentlemen of his title, wealth and influence to be abstinent,” Ann said logically. “After all, ladies of fewer morals run after gentlemen such as him.”
Emmeline watched the Duke of Newberry laugh with a beautiful flaxen-haired lady and something like anger simmered within her.
Ann followed her friend’s gaze, and her lips thinned. “I think we need a plan to catch the Duke.”
“Ann, I told you that our family history makes it impossible,” Emmeline said sourly. “Besides, why would he consider me, when he has beautiful ladies throwing themselves at him?”
“You are beautiful, too, Em,” Ann said forcefully. “Also, you have the advantage of intelligence, that most of those ladies lack.”
“George would be most displeased,” Emmeline said half-heartedly.
“Well, His Grace is not the one who has to look for a husband and spend the rest of their life with him!” Ann uttered primly. “The Duke of Newberry is titled, wealthy and handsome. There should be no objections, and an old family feud is small compared to the perfect match you would make.”
“What do you suggest?” Emmeline decided to humor her friend.
“Our capricious Duke needs competition,” said Ann, thoughtfully. “Once he notices gentlemen surrounding you, he is likely to come to your rescue.”
Emmeline knew her friend’s far-fetched notions would hardly be successful in attracting the Duke. However, she did feel it would be adventurous, so she agreed. “You exaggerate, my dear Ann. I do not have so many admirers.”
“That is because you are flighty,” Ann said loftily. “You disappear the moment more than two gentlemen approach you.”
“Try as you might, Ann, I am not the belle of the ball.” Emmeline replied.
Ann leaned in with her cobalt eyes dancing, “Let us try it, and you’ll see that I’m right.”
* * *
Almost an hour later, as the last set finished, Emmeline was laughing at a jest told by one of her admirers as her aunt hovered nearby. A discreet flirtation was not second nature for Emmeline’s naturally shy disposition, but she was hoping to earn Noah’s jealousy. However, she did not account how long she had to keep the act going. The fake smile she wore was on the verge of failing but she forced it to stay.
“What do you feel about the new club for ladies, that Lady Crawford founded recently, My Lady?” asked Lord Jackson, his eyes blue behind a devil’s mask.
“I have not heard of it, My Lord. Although if I had, I would not admit to it!” Emmeline remarked. “If you do not mind me asking, though, My Lord, do devils have blue eyes?”
Lord Jackson laughed appreciatively, “I think my devilish appearance is one-of-a-kind, My Lady. You should come for a visit to my country home, with your lovely aunt. I am certain we will enjoy each other’s company profoundly.”
“Why, thank you for the offer, My Lord. I will certainly discuss it with my aunt,” Emmeline said politely. “Although I am sure it will be difficult in the midst of the season.”
“I understand, of course, My Lady,” Lord Jackson said quickly and bowed, “The quadrille is starting. May I have this dance?”
