Page 83 of How Not to Marry a Duke

“Yes, but you sold it on your own. Never forget that.”

A shy smile lit Mary’s face. “Yes, I did. Didn’t I?”

Just then a waiter delivered their ices in glass dishes. Adeline picked up her spoon and smiled. “I’m honored to be your sister.”

Mary wrinkled her nose. “Posh! I’m the lucky one. Now, what better way to celebrate than ices?”

They both raised their spoons. The lemon ice tasted even sweeter than Adeline remembered.

…

A week later, the Kirkland ball was upon them. If all went as planned, soon Adeline would be able to return to the country, free of Edwin’s schemes. She’d told Hasmik she would stay for one or two more small parties, no longer. If Mr. Stan Slade sought a marriage with a daughter of the aristocracy, then he’d best find another match before then.

As they waited at the top of the ballroom stairs for a liveried majordomo to announce her arrival with the countess, Adeline took in the glittering scene spread out before her.

The colorful silks and satins of the ladies along with an abundance of precious gems of diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald, sparkled beneath hundreds of candles in crystal chandeliers. The gentlemen were dashing with their striped and paisley waistcoats, crisp cravats, and polished shoes. White pillars graced the ballroom’s entrance and marble statues rested in oval niches. Artwork hung on the walls in a display of decadent wealth.

Adeline smoothed her gown, the rich sapphire silk rippling beneath her hand. The dressmaker was skilled, and the dress was truly spectacular—the finest Adeline had ever owned. Her hair was upswept in an elegant chignon and her maid had applied a dash of rouge to her cheeks and lips.

“You are the mystery everyone is whispering about,” Lady Heywood remarked.

“I’ve been in Town for some time now and have been out and about, so hardly mysterious.”

“Yes, you have been out and about—with Warwick by your side. The duke has never been fond of social events or any romantic entanglement. Now he’s been seen engaged in both. You intrigue them.”

It was exactly what she’d wanted. What both had wanted.

“Smile. Chin up. Shoulders back. Remember to smile.”

“Was I not smiling?” She sounded scared, which scared her even more.

“I didn’t mean to alarm you. You look stunning, my dear.”

The lady’s words reassured her. Rather than focus on the crowd before her, Adeline looked to the majordomo. A middle-aged man dressed in a red coat with gold trim, white breeches and stockings, and a powdered wig, he motioned for them to approach the top of the stairs.

His voice echoed off the marble pillars. “The Countess of Heywood and Lady Adeline Cameron.”

Head held high, Adeline smiled as she descended the stairs.

Their progress was slow as they wove through the thick of the crowd. Eventually, others parted to allow them passage. She was aware of eyes watching her behind fluttering fans, while gentlemen nodded and smiled.

“Wonderful. It’s as if you have never left Town,” the countess said.

They reached Lady Kirkland, and the countess made the introductions. “This is Lady Adeline Cameron. I’ve had the privilege of having her stay with me this Season.” Lady Heywood’s voice was loud enough for those around them to hear.

Other women joined them, Lady Jersey and Lady Cowper, two influential patronesses of Almack’s.

Lady Jersey fanned herself and smiled at Adeline. “There is one Wednesday night assembly left of the season. I shall send you a voucher to Almack’s.”

Adeline knew vouchers were coveted. “You are too kind, my lady.”

As soon as the two ladies departed to mingle with others, Lady Heywood drew Adeline aside. “A voucher! You did well, my dear.”

“Lady Jersey and Lady Cowper are both kind.”

“Posh! Kind has nothing to do with it. You are the talk of the ton. The patroness cannot turn you away.”

“They anticipate the duke will attend as well, don’t they?”