by GG Shalton
Amelia tried to suppress her smile but was too excited not to gleam. “I couldn’t accept anything more, Rachel. You already lent me this dress and the use of your lady’s maid.”
“Nonsense. Dressing you is as much fun as dressing myself. Don’t take away my enjoyment.” She opened her jewelry box and removed a pearl necklace. She helped put it on Amelia’s neck. The girls giggled all afternoon as they made finishing touches for the party. They were served light snacks and hot chocolate to hold them over until the supper dance.
Amelia went downstairs when the guests started arriving. She left Rachel upstairs to make a grand entrance when they announced her. Amelia scanned the area choosing a chair by a few other girls who were not dancing. They smiled but were not speaking to her, feigning interest in their surroundings.
Amelia knew that her father’s reputation and his upcoming trip to the debtor’s prison would probably keep most dance partners at bay. But she enjoyed watching the guests arrive in style and admired the beautiful ball gowns displaying the latest London fashions. A few men nodded at her, but no one stopped to speak to her. She tapped her foot trying to keep herself entertained. A wallflower existence was in her future. Laughing at herself, she preferred that label than being married to Edward.
After a while, she went to the refreshment table and accepted a cup of punch from a servant. She wished for at least a chaperone to speak too. Anything was better than isolation. She walked back to her chair noticing that the announcement of Lady Rachel was beginning. Guests clapped as she descended the staircase. Amelia smiled at the beauty of her friend. The musicians started to play, and Rachel took her first dance with her brother. Amelia watched the couple, wishing she could dance.
“We meet again.” A raspy voice came up behind her. She turned around noticing the massive man from earlier in the day. Her face turned red thinking of her embarrassment.
“Good evening, sir,” she whispered, finding her voice yet trying to avoid his stare.
He leaned down, whispering near her ear, “May I introduce myself? I know the earl should formally introduce us, but he is otherwise engaged. Could we overlook propriety, so I can know your name?” His scratchy accented voice vibrated through her.
She smiled at his persistence. “I am Miss Abbott. And you are?”
He smiled back roguishly. “Mr. Baird. I am a business associate of the earl’s. Now that we are acquainted, would you honor me with a dance later?”
She stared at him studying his face. The lines at the corner of his eyes showed he was a lot older than her. His risqué tones and shadowing height were a bit overbearing. His eyes held some mystery and a little danger. Although he was dressed fashionably, his features were rough. She noticed men following him around like protectors. Not knowing how to respond she nodded slightly, giving him her dance card.
He signed it, “I thank you, Miss Abbott.” His gaze swept over her head lingering on her breasts and moving down to her toes. Appreciation combined with a bit of lust shined in his eyes. He whispered, “I will see you later.”
Shocked by his brazen behavior, Amelia watched him walk away and then went to the lady’s drawing room. Perhaps this was the way of men? Undressing women with their eyes. But truthfully, her experience had been limited. She took care of some private needs and made her way back out into the ballroom.
“There you are.” Rachel’s voice was out of breath. “I have been looking for you.”
Amelia turned around to see Rachel’s smirking expression. She had two gentlemen with her. They were both handsome with sandy hair and looked related. Her grin gave away her folly. “Amelia, these are my cousins from York. Thomas and Roy Martin.”
She took Amelia’s arm. “Cousins, this is my beloved friend Amelia Abbott.” Rachel nodded toward one of her cousin’s raising her brow.
Her cousin nodded back assuring that he understood her not so subtle request. “Nice to make your acquaintance, Miss Abbott. Would you care to dance?”
Amelia embarrassingly handed him her dance card trying to conjure up some dignity. She knew Rachel was only trying to be nice. “How nice of you, Mr. Martin.”
He flashed his dimples in a big smile trying to put her at ease. “Please call me Thomas. After all, you’re my cousin’s friend.”
Although she was embarrassed by Rachel’s pity, she was grateful for Thomas’ offer no matter how hard it was to admit. He chose a country dance and escorted her to the dance floor. Thomas was very charming and attentive to her. After the dance, he asked her to accompany him to the refreshments table. Rachel met them there with a gentleman named Lord Ryan, a viscount that took an interest in her. The earl stood close by their group talking to some of his friends.
Amelia began to relax as the group included her in their conversations. She smiled and enjoyed some laughter when she felt someone touch her arm. The group’s enjoyment ceased as they were interrupted by a strong presence. Everyone stood still watching Andrew whisper to Amelia. “Lass, our dance is coming up. May I escort you to the dance floor?”
Rachel looked shocked, turning toward her brother to intervene. He tightened his hold on his glass taking a drink of his brandy and said nothing of the exchange. Hesitantly, Amelia raised her brow at Rachel as she took Andrew’s arm.
He led her away from the group. She could feel his muscles tighten through his jacket as he guided her through the crowds toward the dance floor. Amelia felt so small compared to his bulky frame. She glanced up at her partner sneaking a look at his face as he showed no emotion. She wondered what kind of business he did with the earl? They seemed worlds apart.
The orchestra started playing a waltz and he put his hand on her waist. “Is this your first waltz? I hear some mothers find the dance scandalous.” He raised his mouth to a half-grin watching her expression. His arms tightened around her pulling her closer to him.
She looked at his chest trying not to make eye contact. Her nerves were causing her head to spin. Taking a deep breath, she muttered, “I have practiced it on occasion, but this is my first ball. My mother died when I was small, but I don’t think she would have minded.” Amelia cringed after her admission, that was too much information to share.
He closed his eyes. “Forgive me. I didn’t realize about your mother.”
She lifted her head meeting his eyes. “No, please forgive me. I don’t usually speak about it. I must be nervous for the dance. I do have a stepmother.”
His eyes moved down her face as he pushed her around the dance floor and Amelia brought her attention back down to her feet. She didn’t want to miss a step as he guided her across the floor.
“Are your parents at the ball?” He leaned over talking closer to her ear.
“No, they couldn’t come.” She did not want him to know the truth about her family. “They don’t usually attend social engagements.”
He waited a few seconds studying her face. “How are you acquainted with the earl’s sister? Are you related?” He turned her around flowing to the music and changing the subject.
Puzzled by his interest, she shrugged her shoulders. “Not much to tell. We are only friends and went to school together. My father is a baron. He remarried when I was young. I have two younger siblings.”
“Ah. So, your blood is blue and noble.” His mouth twitched letting out a deep chuckle.
Not liking his reply, she tried to explain. “Hardly. Not all nobility is noble.” She regretted saying it as soon as she said it. He was a stranger to her. She should not reveal too much about herself. The music was ending and she tried to step away, but he held on to her hand.
She looked up at him noticing his smoldering gaze. He took her hand to his mouth kissing her knuckles, not breaking his stare. “It was a pleasure, Miss Abbott.” His words were smooth and suggestive causing uneasiness to course through her. He walked away not saying another w
ord.
“A waltz?” Rachel’s voice came up beside her. “You must have made quite the impression today with your missing barrette.” She giggled as she covered her mouth.
Amelia shrugged her shoulders. “I am as surprised as you are.”
Rachel turned toward her, biting her bottom lip. “My cousin has asked me a hundred questions about you.”
Amelia blushed and walked with Rachel to the terrace for some fresh air. Her cousins joined them and they broke into conversations about the festivities. Thomas made a point to stand by Amelia and engaged her in conversations. Amelia’s ego enjoyed his attention, which was not common among polite society. She knew he didn’t know of her family’s sordid past. Her heart ached knowing he would not acknowledge her in the same way again once he found out. But for now, she would relish in the moment.
“Would you like to take a walk in the garden?” He smiled showing his dimples again. Amelia was apprehensive to be alone with him and looked to Rachel for support.
She acknowledged her hesitancy. “It is a lovely evening. Why don’t we all take a walk?” Amelia let out a breath of relief and accepted Thomas’s arm as an escort.
She held his arm tightly following Rachel and Roy into the garden. He was very tall, but lanky and smelled of a woodsy cologne. Thomas guided her through the paths as Rachel and Roy walked several steps ahead of them.
“Are you having an enjoyable time?” Thomas slowed his pace, dragging his eyes over her face, searching for an answer.
Amelia looked up appreciating his interest. “I am having a wonderful time. It’s my first ball.”
He lifted his brow. “You’re jesting? I would have thought you would be at all the balls. Your beauty certainly adds to them.”
Her face flushed at his compliment. “I do believe you are jesting now,” she said, looking away.
He patted her hand giving her a wink. “Modesty is a virtue.” The corner of his mouth curled up into a satisfied smile. “I was hoping to spend some more time with you.”
Rachel interrupted the couple. “Roy wants to play whist next week. A card party at Aunt Margaret’s house. Should we plan it?”
Thomas looked at his brother. “If Aunt Margaret agrees, then I think a card party would be fun.”
Roy looked at Rachel. “You must ask her.”
Rachel put her hand to her chest. “Me? It was your idea.” They all laughed and followed Roy through the garden.
Andrew watched the couples from the window. Remembering their dance, he could still smell the flower scent coming from her. The curve of her neck was so tantalizing he tried not to react to the smoothness of her skin. He wanted nothing more than to take her out of this ball into his carriage and have his way with her.
His jaw flexed, watching her with her friends. Trying to keep his anger controlled, he pushed back a tug of jealousy that touched his chest. A possessiveness came over him and he wanted no man to touch her. Glancing over at one of his men, he told him to get the earl.
Johnathan was playing cards with his friends but stopped his game after a heated discussion with the guard. He finally relented and made his excuses to quit the game. He found Andrew by the window. Andrew said nothing but took a long sip of his brandy waiting a few moments.
Johnathan let out a sigh. “You summoned me, Mr. Baird?”
Andrew focused his attention outside, waiting for the couples to reappear. “There is a man you were speaking with earlier with blond hair. I believe I overheard you introducing him as your cousin.” His serious features showed his discomfort.
Bewildered, Johnathan squinted his eyes trying to understand. “Thomas?”
“I want you to engage him the rest of the night with someone other than Miss Abbott. He is getting in my way, and she is the reason why I am here.”
The earl lifted his brow. “Miss Abbott? I don’t understand.”
Andrew cracked a sarcastic smile. “Come now, Johnathan,” he said stressing the use of the earl’s first name. “You went to Oxford. Surely you can understand what I am asking you. Out of respect, I am asking you to get rid of him or I will.”
Johnathan appeared shocked at Andrew’s blatant boldness but to appease his guest replied, “As you wish, Mr. Baird.”
Andrew smirked. “Thank you, my lord. I knew you would catch on quickly. Now, what do you know about Miss Abbott?”
Johnathan hesitated and raked his fingers through his hair. “I don’t know much about her. She is my sister’s friend from school. I know her father is a baron and has had some problems. She doesn’t socialize much with the town because of some improprieties of her father. I am actually surprised my mother allowed her to attend.” His chin rose unable to keep his aristocratic manners at bay.
Andrew wanted to smack the pride from the young lord’s face. He kept his calm. “What sort of problems?”
Johnathan shifted his feet peering over his shoulder, obviously uncomfortable with his request. After a few seconds, he stepped closer to him not wanting others to hear. “He lost all of his money and is on his way to debtor’s prison is what I heard. He was involved in some unscrupulous business deals and accused of stealing investment money from a group of peers, although nothing was proven. He owes moneylenders as well. They are losing their London residence this week. Rumor is that he is a harsh father and husband causing many to not want to socialize with him. I don’t know the extent of the abuse, but meeting the man on a few occasions, I can only imagine that it is not good.”
Andrew’s thoughts went to that beautiful sweet girl. The urge to protect her consumed him. “What is to become of Miss Abbott?”
Johnathan shook his head. “I heard my sister tell my mother that she is being given in marriage to an older cousin on her father’s side. A merchant if I remember correctly. He has offered her father a piece of his business if he would give him his daughter. Apparently, it is not much but will keep the family from starving while he is in prison. Miss Abbott is devastated about it, but has no choice.”
Andrew took a sip looking again outside. “Pity.”
The earl took a glass of champagne from the footman. “Will that be all, Mr. Baird? I have other guests to attend to.”
Andrew nodded his head not making eye contact with Johnathan. He walked toward the terrace doors. Johnathan took his leave carefully not bringing attention to others around him. Andrew knew if guests figured out their association, then he would have to explain to the town why he invited a crime lord to his sister’s ball. He smirked at the discomfort he was causing. If the truth be known, a lot of guests in there probably had owed him money at one time or the other.
Andrew gathered from his conversation that nobody wanted to be associated with the baron. His influence could help the poor girl’s family. Andrew glanced over watching Johnathan join his friends again at the card tables. He saw him whisper to a few footmen who took off toward the terrace hopefully taking care of the cousin.
Andrew walked outside to find Amelia. The wind was slightly blowing on the terrace cooling off the night. A smile crossed his mouth when he saw her appear. She was stunning with her luscious curves that filled out her light green gown. Her brown hair with golden highlights complimented her green-gold eyes. He wanted her. Her shyness challenged him and her innocence captivated him even more. Most of the women in his acquaintance could be beautiful, but they were damaged. Not the kind of woman you pursue for more than a few days. Miss Abbott was different. Not a typical spoiled debutante. She may be noble, but her life was not easy.
“Miss Abbott, may I have word?” He approached their group as they climbed the terrace stairs out of the garden.
A footman approached Thomas and whispered in his ear. He looked back at the group. “If you will excuse me. Johnathan needs me.”
Amelia and Rachel waved goodbye. Andrew stood in front of th
e two girls as Rachel looked between them. She whispered to Amelia. “I will be over there by the terrace doors with Roy. I will see you in a few moments. I believe the supper dance will be coming soon.”
Amelia nodded turning her attention to Andrew. “As you wish.”
“Did you enjoy your walk?” Andrew tried to comfort her with small talk. He could sense her edginess and wanted her to relax.
“Yes.” She was short and to the point.
Andrew gave her a crooked smile trying to break her indifference. “Very well. I wanted to know if I could have the supper dance if you were not already taken.”
Amelia looked over at her friend. Hesitating, she shrugged her shoulders. “Let me check my dance card.”
He took her dance card and wrote in his name. He cocked a grin and walked away leaving her alone on the terrace.
Amelia’s hand shook looking at the dance card. His attention was unwanted and he was a bit frightening with his domineering features. The smell of his cologne lingered in the air filling her nostrils. He had stood so close to her brushing his thigh against her dress. It was inappropriate. Sheltered as she was growing up, she knew his attention to her was not honorable. The last thing she needed was more gossip about her family.
She had itched to have Rachel near her, but she was deep in conversation with some other guests. Why was he pursuing her? He must think she is an heiress.
Rachel approached her. “What was that about?”
Amelia shook her head. “It seems he wanted the supper dance. Although I am not sure of his intentions. Do you know him?”
Rachel looked concerned at her friend’s hesitation. “No, but I will ask my brother about him.” Amelia nodded watching the viscount approach and ask Rachel for the next dance. Amelia waved her away and went back inside.
