Waltz of the Wallflower (Delicate Hearts Book 1) by Mayfair Catherine

Author:Mayfair, Catherine [Mayfair, Catherine]
Language: eng
Format: azw3
Published: 2019-08-23T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Thirteen

It was known as the Fashionable Hour, a time in which ladies and gentleman strolled or rode in open carriages through St. James Park in order to see and be seen. Though Lydia did not care if those people gazed upon her, she did find that whether the Duke took notice was of great importance to her. And the truth of the matter was, he looked at her with appreciation quite often as they strolled through the park, Mrs. Ridge in step behind them.

Lydia could not help but look at the array of dresses, all with varying degrees of design, with appreciation. Women with lacy parasols or wide-brimmed hats decorated with flowers or fruit shaded their delicate features—no respectable woman allowed her face to freckle!—walked or rode beside men in tailored coats and breeches, stylish hats on their heads. Some sat upon blankets placed on the ground as one person read aloud from a book while the others in their party listened. The people, coupled with the rich green surroundings, created a walking painting, a sight to behold, and one Lydia doubted she would ever forget for as long as she lived.

“Every year, I come to the Park,” William said as he walked beside her, “and I find the crowds growing in size. Have you noticed the same?”

Lydia shook her head. “I have only come here with my father when I was quite young,” she replied. “Though I must admit, I do not recall there being this many people back then.”

A couple walked past, the woman smiling as though she had not a care in the world, and at that moment, Lydia wished to be her. Though she had promised Helen—and herself—she would not worry, she could not help but do exactly that.

“Last Season was the worst,” William said. “It seemed that everyone in London made their appearance all at the same time. Of course, Clancy complained the entire time, to the ire of the Lady he was accompanying.” Then he let out a laugh. “I apologize. I do not mean to ramble.”

“No, please. Continue. I enjoy hearing your stories.”

The Duke smiled at her, and for a brief moment, Lydia felt a strange feeling of wanting to collapse into his arms. Her mind returned to the night in the alley, when she stood scared for her life and how his strong arms held her and brought her comfort. It was strange that his smile could bring on that same sensation.

“There were six of us, including Barnard,” William continued. “Clancy had brought along food in his pockets, as the man is apt to do.”

Lydia giggled at the thought, remembering the man who had abandoned her during their dance in order to partake in food that had been set out on the refreshment tables. This story explained much.

William chuckled. “Lady Louise had asked for his handkerchief after an exceptionally brisk dance, and when Clancy obliged, he brought the woman to tears.”

“Tears?” Lydia asked in surprise. “How so?”

“Oh, yes. Tears. You see,

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