Reality intruded to remind she was determined to find a husband who would accept her as an equal, despite the possibility she could never bear children. Despite she was less. The smile fell from her face and she blinked back the threat of tears. With a deep breath she regained her composure.
All the more reason to enjoy a little excitement away from London. A rare thrill of forbidden pleasure. Who knew what the future held?
Louisa had cautioned her that men often behaved a certain way to obtain the wife they wanted and then adopted entirely different habits once the vows were spoken. Couldn’t the reverse be true? Couldn’t a rake suddenly decide to settle down?
When had she begun considering him husband material?
With a sharp wag of her head she pushed the questions from her mind and made her way downstairs. Unready to remain alone with her conflicted thoughts, she rushed toward the ballroom. The estate hummed with activity and a tangible sense of excitement, the festive mood contagious and more than invigorating.
Summoned forward by the melodic notes of an orchestra spilling from the large doorway, Caroline crossed the threshold and gasped. The interior of the Henleys’ vast ballroom had transformed into a captivating wonderland. Featherlight gauze adorned with fresh flowers and leafy bouquets draped from every cornice and molding piece to create a magical woodland aptly described at the end of a child’s fairy tale. Musicians played otherworldly tunes, the light notes of a flute and piccolo accompanied by a harp and the tinkling sounds of bells and chimes.
Each floor tile glistened like a mirror to reflect the crystal chandeliers overflowing with candles overhead. Refreshment tables brimmed with sugary desserts, marzipan sculptures, and crystal goblets with a variety of beverages all set upon intricately laced tablecloths as fine spun as gossamer webs. Guests milled about, their jovial conversation and laughter adding to the fascination. Everyone wore a mask or decadent domino with their costume. A few ladies wore sheer fairy wings, others donned brilliant crowns, whereas most every gentleman appeared some kind of animal, whether bear, wolf, or hound. Servants wore charcoal-grey livery that ensured they blended into the background and didn’t detract from the festive interior.
Caroline scanned the room, her eyes wide with wonder. Where was Lindsey? What disguise had he chosen? She glanced to her white satin gloves decorated with tiny ribbon rosebuds. Would he approve of her costume? How silly to wish it so.
A goddess dressed in flowing white drape with a coronet of sage leaves atop her head approached Caroline’s elbow.
“Teresa, the ballroom looks beautiful. I’m transported to an absolute paradise,” Caroline said.
“Thank you.” A smile grew below Teresa’s half mask, trimmed with ornate feathers to conceal most of her face. “It’s a wonder the staff manages such a dreamy experience every year.”
“I know the gentlemen attend your annual event for the fox hunt competition, but surely the ladies must live for this masquerade.”
“Oh, yes.” Teresa laughed. “The expectations of the season can become so weary, I think everyone enjoys dressing in costume and pretending to be someone else for a change.”
A wealth of knowledge was encompassed in those words, and Caroline eyed her new friend pensively.
“I’ve had several themes through the years, but this one might be my favorite. Now, let me see you.” Teresa laughed as she took a step backward. “Why, you embody the perfect woodland enchantress. All you need is a diamond tiara and I’d believe you were queen of the fairies.”
“It was easy to choose from the assortment of lovely costumes you provided. I’ve never seen such fascinating fabrics. The seamstresses who worked tirelessly to adjust the fit should be rewarded. How they managed to make the appropriate alterations in the span of a day or two is amazing.”
“Oh, don’t doubt they charge me a scandalous amount, but it’s worth it.”
The two ladies turned their view to the dance floor as an energetic tune began. A whirlwind of green, umber, and honey swirled past as couples moved to the music, their clothing a riot of earth tones in the candlelight.
“It’s odd to see animals scampering about a ballroom.” Caroline accepted a glass of champagne from a servant’s silver tray, her attention snared by a man in a peacock mask with long teal plumes.
“I don’t see anyone who resembles Lord Mills in height or stature, though it’s near impossible to tell one guest from another. He won the day and the fox tail, and I’m anxious to see to whom he presents the prize. He’s made no secret he wishes to find a wife this season.”
Caroline remained quiet, unsure if Teresa would pursue the subject with an attempt at matchmaking, most certainly after her friend had discouraged any further interaction with Lindsey. But then the conversation took an unexpected turn.
“I wonder what became of the Earl of Lindsey. He wasn’t present at the finish of the hunt and it seems unlike him, although now that I reflect upon it, while he garners everyone’s attention, he’s too clever a fellow to ever be cornered.”
For no reason she could name, Caroline turned her attention toward the entrance of the ballroom and no sooner than her eyes settled on the doorframe, Lindsey walked through. Teresa followed, her attention drawn by Caroline’s.
“As if my words reached his ears.” Teresa glanced in Caroline’s direction and then back again. “I’m not sure if I should be charmed or angry. He’s the only guest who has chosen to eschew the masquerade and attend without costume. I’m rather disappointed.”
“As am I.” Caroline caught the forlorn note in her voice and hurried to continue. “Though it may be he doesn’t plan to stay very long.” In her mind this made the situation worse, though she tamped down any show of disappointment.
Still, reality reminded, with the earl unmasked and his identity revealed, there would be only one chance to share a dance. She amended the thought, aware even if he had come in costume she wouldn’t have been able to accept his partnership repeatedly. She shook her head, angry with herself for allowing hope to muddle her thinking. He’d said he would give her all his dances, but that was impossible now. Why had he offered her that foolish promise? Should she feel honored he would offer her his solitary engagement of the evening, or slighted that as before he wouldn’t keep his word? Perhaps all his dances referred to one in number.
She chastised herself further. Lindsey was an experienced and worldly man of the realm and she behaved as a naive ingénue, hanging on his every word as if he meant even one of them sincerely. Still, with knowing this, she couldn’t tear her attention away.
“No doubt he wishes to distinguish himself from every costumed creature in attendance.”
Good lord he looks dashing. More wicked and wild than any disguised gentleman at the masquerade.
Curiosity licked through her. No, not curiosity. Desire? Was that it? She couldn’t label the emotion that kept her mesmerized but never had she been so vitally aware of another person.
Perhaps she’d become enchanted. Unable to look away. Outlined by candlelight, from his black eveningwear to snowy white cravat, he looked more the fairy tale villain. His eyes, with their glittering depths and long lashes, promised forbidden pleasure, not salvation.
And then his gaze locked with hers and no matter the distance, despite the elaborate wigs, costumes, and masks, it was as if he knew exactly where she was and delighted in peeking into her soul.
“He’s walking over here.” Teresa’s hushed whisper caught Caroline by surprise and she startled. “You’re hidden behind a mask, silly. There’s no reason to feel nervous.”
“I’m not nervous.” She gave a giddy laugh that revealed the opposite.
“Ladies.” Lindsey bowed politely before them. “Your costumes are intriguing. I daresay there isn’t another guest in the ballroom who compares to either one of you.”
He might have meant the words to be shared, bu
t his attention was riveted to Caroline and her heartbeat thundered in response.
“Ah, I see a stag on the other side of the ballroom who looks unmistakably like my husband. Excuse me, will you?” Teresa didn’t say more and slipped away before Caroline murmured a soft goodbye.
“My lady.”
“My lord.”
“Caroline.”
His deep tenor made her name a caress as sensual and inviting as warm velvet.
“How did you—”
“I would know you anywhere.”
“Why?”
“There are too many reasons to name and, besides, I’d rather dance.”
“But I don’t understand.” And she didn’t. She didn’t understand her attraction to the earl or his returned interest.
“Nor do I, but that makes it no less true.” He smiled and she delighted now in the fact he wore no mask. “And so, may I have this dance, my lady?”
* * * *
Lindsey intended only to enter the ballroom and confirm Powell was among the guests before he went upstairs and searched his half brother’s rooms. With everyone running around in disguise it would be virtually impossible to pinpoint a specific culprit if he donned a mask and was seen near the man’s quarters. More importantly, any information concerning the Decima, its whereabouts, or Powell’s current address would prove useful. Then Lindsey planned to return to the masquerade, make his presence known for the obvious reasons, and pursue his promise to dance with Caroline.
But one glimpse of Caroline in costume and his entire plan went awry. Lust, insistent and visceral, conveniently blanked his brain of thought, while his blood heated, anxious to pursue this new avenue of interest.
She looked otherworldly tonight, dressed in sheer silk, layer upon layer, all of which he’d prefer to tear away with his teeth. He itched to run his lips over her silky smooth skin, breathe in her light fragrance, taste her lips, and kiss her, kiss her again in hope he’d elicit that same soft wanting whimper of rebellion as he’d done in the stairwell. His cock twitched in his breeches and he forced himself to exhale.
His entire existence narrowed to one objective only.
He escorted her to the dance floor and gathered her close in time for the first waltz of the evening.
“Are you enjoying the masquerade?”
“I am now.” He looked into her searching gaze, her eyes a-sparkle to their crystalline-blue depths.
“Lady Henley mentioned you didn’t show at the end of the hunt this afternoon.”
“Mills was the victor. He won the day.”
“Hardly a feat to be proud of, at least in my opinion.”
“You are too goodhearted, Caroline.”
“And you, too jaded.”
His mouth quirked in a charming half-smile. “You’ve put me in my place.”
“Someone has to. It may as well be me.”
Their dance continued and neither of them spoke for a time, each revolution winding the tension between them tighter.
“If you didn’t finish the hunt and you dislike masquerades, what brings you here, Jonathan?”
Her use of his Christian name made his heart lurch. So few people became personal friends, familiar enough for him to allow it. Or maybe it was more hearing his name in her voice that made his pulse thrum with desire. He met her eyes and replied. “You do.”
“Ah, so the charmer has returned.”
She smiled up at him and he unwillingly lost a piece of his heart.
“What else then?”
“Kingswood.” He stated confidently. The property was the one place on the planet he cherished. “Kingswood is Lindsey heritage. The manor and property have passed through decades of generations. People believe I attend Henley’s annual event for the festivities and accolades which accompany the hunt, but at the core is the truth: it provides me another opportunity to visit the family’s oldest holding.”
“It’s important to you then.”
“Immensely.” He wouldn’t share how it was the only place that held pleasant memories of his childhood, more importantly of his mother. A woman who endured the same wrath and scorn from his father but chose to plant roses instead of rebel. He’d visited in the past only when his father remained out of house. Now, he needn’t concern himself with the complication.
The dance forced them to take a turn nearest the orchestra, and for a few moments conversation was impossible until they were once again ensconced in agreeable position beside two costumed guests, a scruffy bear and sparkling sapphire dragonfly.
At her curious glance he added, “My mother held an interest in horticulture and had extensive gardens planted behind the estate. In summer, it’s a sight to behold.” Almost as beautiful as the lady in his arms.
“The property sounds lovely.”
“Indeed it is.”
“I would like to hear more of Kingswood.”
I would like you to see it.
For a moment the deliriously reckless request almost left his tongue.
The music ended on a quiet note and she looked slightly dejected.
“Pity that our dance is done.”
“You said you would offer me all of them, and I suppose you have kept your word even if all was equal to one.” Where had that objection come from? Her mother wasted time with her abundance of advice.
He bowed over her gloved hand and nodded.
Then, when he was sure she watched him, he winked and took his leave.
Chapter Nineteen
Caroline stepped away from the dance floor, her emotions in disorder. She rejoiced in having shared a waltz with Lindsey. Better still, an unexpected revelation to the evening. Yet another part, perhaps more than she’d admit to herself, reminded it would be their only chance. Without a disguise, a repeated dance would proclaim a public interest even she wasn’t beguiled enough to believe existed.
She schooled her features into polite contentment and aimed for the refreshment table, quick to nab a glass of champagne. Her earlier anticipation paled. The masquerade would extend into the wee hours. Still, she would enjoy herself despite she couldn’t share Lindsey’s company further.
With a quick scan of the room and the assortment of costumes, she released a wry laugh. This truly was the worst environment for identifying husband candidates. She turned away and lingered near the tables in an attempt to quell a sudden wave of emotion. Lindsey was an elusive man who protected his personal life with vehemence. She’d learned that much in the short time she’d kept his company. Any scant info she’d gleaned was hard won and often achieved through a third party, and yet he’d openly conversed about his ancestral home while they’d danced. Pity the music had ended so soon.
She returned her attention to the ballroom as the notes of the next musical arrangement rent the air.
“May I have this dance, my lady?”
A tall gentleman dressed completely in amber, from his flocked velvet domino to his flowing robe, bowed deeply in front of her. He extended his hand in wait of her answer.
Caroline eyed his elaborate mask, fashioned in the likeness of a fox with pointed ears and long whiskers. His eyes were partially hidden in shadow, their outline dark.
“Of course.”
He took her fingers in his, tightly held, warm and insistent, and she followed. The heat of his grasp sent a shiver of delight to the pit of her stomach.
Something about the gentleman’s husky voice caused her to peer more closely as they took position on the floor, but the music began before she deciphered a clue. It was a lively country number, not conducive to conversation, though as soon as they joined he spoke to her directly.
“What else is it that you wish to know?”
Her heart tripped with recognition.
“About Kingswood.” His mask moved the slightest and she wondered if beneath his famil
iar half-smile had hitched it upward.
“Everything, my lord,” she said with a catch in her throat. The way he looked at her now had her melting like candlewax. Perhaps she was falling in love. Just a little bit.
“You must call me Jonathan.” It was a command. Not a request.
“Everything, Jonathan. I wish to hear all about your home.”
“Perhaps not that much.”
He might have chuckled after his last remark. She couldn’t be sure, as the arrangement forced her to move away.
Regrettably, the song ended before they discussed the subject further, and she watched him depart after he pressed a kiss to her glove. The heat of his mouth was perceptible through the satin as it lingered in kind to her anticipation.
Her next dance partner was a black bear, his hooded collar accompanied by a capelet. She scrutinized him from head to boot tips. The gentleman’s face was completely concealed, but she needed no clue this time. His eyes held a familiar sparkle. No one would have dared suggest it was Lindsey in disguise, but Caroline knew it as surely as she knew her own name. She’d memorized his gait. Understood the honorable slant of his chin and broad strength of his shoulders. He would keep his word and offer her all of his dances, and not one of the two hundred guests in the ballroom would be wiser.
Etiquette be damned. The Earl of Lindsey was a sly and clever devil. One who’d undertaken an extravagant inconvenience to ensure they would dance all evening.
“Caroline.”
Her name in his voice produced a heady reaction, a swirl of delight quick to skitter through her and settle low in her belly. They were dancing a quadrille just as they’d done all those weeks ago.
“Yes?” She had trouble catching her breath.
“Are you pleased?”
“I am.” She paused for only a moment. “And impressed by your extravagant ruse.”
“Coincidence takes a lot of planning.”
“Indeed.” He led her through the turn, their bodies perfectly tuned.
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