Tempting the Prince by Patricia Grasso

Author:Patricia Grasso [Grasso, Patricia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Historical Romance
ISBN: 9780821780725
Google: ulOE_yO9UAQC
Amazon: 0821780727
Barnesnoble: 0821780727
Goodreads: 1406100
Publisher: Zebra
Published: 2007-04-30T12:00:00+00:00

Daringly gowned in ruby red, the Duchess of Inverary marched down the line of stepdaughters like a general before her troops. Immense satisfaction curled her lips into a feline smile.

Blush pink, lily lavender, violet whisper, willow green, and ice blue. Each Flambeau sister sparkled like a jewel in the perfect setting of a fabulous gown. Taken together, the vivid streak of color blended in harmony, a portrait created by one of the masters.

“In society, friends come and friends go,” the duchess told them, “but enemies accumulate. Beware of smiles that could mask menacing thoughts and emotions. Never cut and run if faced with an uncomfortable situation. Consider insult an art form, and enjoy the discord.”

The duchess stopped in front of Belle. “Darling, even healers must inflict pain on others sometimes.” She gave her a dimpled smile, her critical gaze admiring the ice blue gown. “You look spectacular. I do possess impeccable taste and an eye for color.”

Thirty minutes later, Belle sat in the front pew of St. Paul’s Cathedral and listened to the words that would transform her sister from opera singer to princess. She was nervous about her first foray into society but felt more confident of her appearance than she had since the attack. The theater cosmetics covered her scar almost completely.

Belle dropped her gaze to the skirt of her ice blue silk gown, the finest she’d ever worn. Silk stockings embroidered with flowers, dainty slippers, and long white gloves completed the outfit. She felt like Cinderella on the way to the ball. Her own prince sat across the aisle beside his brothers and sisters-in-law.

Unable to stop herself, Belle peeked across the aisle at him. Mikhail was watching her. She blushed when he winked at her, and the corners of her lips turned up in a faint smile.

Her gaze drifted to an older matron and a young blonde sitting in the next pew down. Grim faces stared at her, making her uncomfortable.

Two other blondes sat nearby. Both wore identical, cold expressions.

“What is more interesting than your sister becoming a princess?” the duchess asked, her voice a mere whisper.

“Being cursed by three blond witches?”

“Don’t worry, darling.” The duchess patted her hand. “They have more to fear from you.”

Becoming a princess was surprisingly easy. The ceremony was shorter than she imagined.

An hour later, Belle and Raven followed their sisters into the Inverary ballroom. Tables had been set on one side of the enormous chamber, and the other side was reserved for dancing. A small orchestra provided background music.

Violins caressed ears, expensive perfumes teased nostrils, and priceless jewels dazzled eyes. Silk, lace, and ostrich feathers abounded in the chamber. Air kisses mimicked true affection.

Belle noted the decorations, orange blossoms set against garlands of greenery. White roses and blue forget-me-nots in porcelain vases flaunted their beauty in the center of each table.

She pursed her lips, annoyed by society’s insensitivity. What a pity the ignorant insisted on amputating flowers from healthy plants.

“You look tempting in blue.”

Her prince stood beside her. “You look tempting all the time.

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