Page 61 of Duke of Bronze
Colin's expression sobered a little, though his eyes retained their playful sparkle. With a slight, exaggerated bow, he replied, "As always, Lady Anna, your counsel is impeccable. Until later."
Anna watched him retreat down the hallway, her heart fluttering annoyingly at the confident ease of his stride. Their sharedlaughter echoed faintly in her ears, stirring an unfamiliar warmth within her chest. Gathering her skirts decisively, she turned toward the ballroom.
Her lips betrayed her with a persistent smile as she navigated the elegant rooms, nodding politely at familiar faces. This feeling had nothing whatsoever to do with Colin Caldwell, she firmly told herself. And yet, even as she asserted this belief, a quiet voice within whispered with maddening clarity:
Liar.
Anna halted abruptly, her heart hammering painfully as a new wave of confusion washed over her. Blast the man!
Colin paused at the threshold of the music room, arrested by the delicate strains drifting into the hallway. For a moment, he stood perfectly still, captivated by the graceful figure seated at the pianoforte. Fiona's slender fingers danced effortlessly over the ivory keys, coaxing forth an enchanting melody that filled the air with warmth and elegance.
Before he realized it, Colin had stepped quietly into the room, drawn by the gentle, soothing tune. Fiona suddenly stilled her hands, sensing his presence, and turned abruptly. Her eyes widened, and she swiftly rose from the bench.
"Oh! Your Grace," she stammered, cheeks flushing prettily. "Forgive me, I did not mean to disturb—indeed, I had no right?—"
"Pray, do not trouble yourself," Colin interrupted gently, waving off her concerns with a reassuring smile. "Your playing was delightful, Miss Fiona. Far from disturbing; it was most welcome."
Her blush deepened, and she clasped her hands together nervously. "You are very kind, Your Grace. I confess, I could not resist. Such a magnificent pianoforte, and yet it seemed quite lonely."
"Indeed," Colin agreed softly, stepping further into the room and glancing briefly around the elegant space. "This instrument sees far too little use, I fear."
Fiona offered a hesitant smile. "Do you not play, Your Grace?"
He laughed, shaking his head lightly, feeling slightly foolish. "Alas, my talents lie elsewhere, I fear. My mother always wished me to learn, but I confess I lacked both patience and aptitude."
Her smile deepened, and she tilted her head gently. "Perhaps your future duchess will breathe life back into this room."
Colin's brows lifted slightly. "Provided she possesses both passion and skill, of course."
Unbidden, Anna's face appeared before him, her eyes bright with challenge. He hastily pushed the thought aside, confused and annoyed by its intrusion.
He cleared his throat lightly. "And do you play only the pianoforte, Miss Fiona, or are you adept with other instruments as well?"
"I do favor the harp and violin as well, Your Grace," Fiona admitted softly, her voice gaining strength as she spoke. Her eyes shone with genuine excitement, animating her features beautifully. "Music has always held a special place in my heart. My governess—she was Russian—had the most remarkable gift. She would often play for hours, allowing me to join her and instructing me with great patience."
Colin lingered by the music room doorway, thoughtfully observing Fiona as she continued her explanation, her face alight with genuine enthusiasm. Her graceful manner, the eloquence of her speech, and the delicate poise she naturally carried were undeniably appealing. And as Sterlin's earlier suggestion echoed in his mind.
Word is she would make a fine Duchess. Impeccable breeding, excellent connections, a sterling reputation…
As soon as the idea formed, Colin dismissed it, shifting his weight uncomfortably. It was absurd, truly.
"She insisted I learn not only the pianoforte but also the harp and the violin,” Fiona was saying. “It was she who taught me that music could be one's dearest companion."
Colin smiled warmly. "Your governess sounds a remarkable woman indeed, Miss Fiona. You must honor her lessons by continuing to play."
Fiona's gaze dropped modestly. "You are very kind, Your Grace. Perhaps one day this room will once again echo with regular performances."
"Perhaps," Colin murmured distractedly, his eyes drawn to the tall windows overlooking the garden, where laughter drifted up to meet them.
He stepped closer to peer out, instantly recognizing Anna. She stood with two other young ladies, her friends, engaged in spirited conversation. Her laughter, light and infectious, seemed to brighten the scene below. Colin felt an unfamiliar warmth spreading through his chest as he watched her animated gestures and the ease of her smile.
"She possesses an enviable liveliness," Fiona said quietly from beside him, clearly following the direction of his gaze.
Colin started, briefly embarrassed to be caught staring. "Yes," he agreed, clearing his throat. "Lady Anna is quite vivacious."
Fiona glanced sidelong at him, a faint smile curving her lips. "Indeed, Your Grace. Her spirit seems rather infectious."
Feeling an uncomfortable warmth creep into his cheeks, Colin adjusted his cravat, quickly regaining composure. "Shall we join them?" he suggested smoothly, offering Fiona his arm.
