Chameleon by Jillian Kent

Author:Jillian Kent
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Charisma House
Published: 2012-05-14T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 12

To be fond of dancing was a certain step towards falling in love.

—JANE AUSTEN

THERE YOU ARE,” Witt said as she entered the ballroom. He held out his hands to her. “It’s time for another lesson.”

“Lord Witt. If you insist, you will most likely have very sore toes tomorrow.”

“Why do you think I wore my boots?” He laughed and turned to Madeline. “I promise to be on my best behavior, Countess. You can watch for yourself.”

“I’ll be doing the watching, to be sure.” Nora bustled forward. “There you are, Lady Victoria. I thought you were still in the library.” She frowned and crossed her arms.

“I’m sorry, Nora,” Madeline said and placed a gentle hand on the maid’s arm. “I went looking for your charge at Lord Witt’s request. He was just suggesting that I watch to assure his best behavior. But since you are here, Nora, I am going out by the entrance to get some fresh air. The cigar smoke has given me a headache.”

“Of course, Countess.” Nora cocked a narrow brow in Lord Witt’s direction. “And I intend to watch you very closely, yer lordship. I don’t take me responsibilities lightly.”

Witt saluted her in all seriousness and then turned his smile and his attention to Victoria. “Are you ready?”

“Are you?” She beamed with excitement, not caring whether she could dance or not. She was going to enjoy herself.

Witt whirled and twirled her around the ballroom as if she were the best of dancers. She thought she’d drop from exhaustion after he taught her the intricate steps of the quadrille. Definitely not a dance for the inexperienced. Yet she couldn’t have enjoyed herself more, she imagined, than if she’d been at Almack’s. Maybe she’d conquer that famed place next. She smiled to herself, but it must have shown.

“What are you thinking, Lady Victoria? Your smile begs the question.”

“I don’t mind telling you that this has been the most exhilarating evening of my life.” She kissed him on the cheek before realizing her fatal faux pas. “I’m so sorry.” She pulled back, flushing several shades of pink.

“I’m not sorry in the least.” Witt bowed.

Devlin materialized behind Lord Witt. “Well, you should be. Victoria, I think it’s time we go. It’s been a festive evening, and I’m glad you have enjoyed yourself, but I don’t want you getting overly tired.”

“I don’t think that could happen this evening, my brother. But I understand your concern. I promise I will control myself if you allow me to remain. I simply responded to the thrill of the moment.”

“That’s exactly what I fear.” He cleared his throat. “Victoria, it is late, and I know there are other ladies present who would like to dance with Lord Witt. Let’s give them opportunity.”

Victoria looked about her. “There are? I don’t see anyone.”

Devlin put his arm through hers. “Yes, my dear, there are. Excuse us, Witt, but since my sister has shown that she’s a quick study on the ballroom floor, I would like to dance with her myself.

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