Deverell's Obsession: by Sahara Kelly

Author:Sahara Kelly
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Published: 2016-06-16T05:00:00+00:00

Chapter Fourteen

“Mr. Delaney Deverell, Lady Bertrande Dubois-Deverell, Miss Léonie Girard.”

Dev could have sworn he heard neck bones snapping as heads turned at the butler’s ringing announcement. But he ignored it, as he always did, and escorted the ladies down the small flight of stairs to greet their host and hostess.

Next to him, Aunt Bertie was in great form, at least what he could see behind the acres of pastel peach silk. Her hair was concealed this evening by a turban in a deeper peach, sporting a rather ostentatious diamond pin in the shape of a peacock. Not altogether inappropriate, but she had the dynamic personality to carry it off and already she was being warmly welcomed by Lord Gallunder.

She was also being very closely observed by Lady Gallunder, whose eyes were a perfect match for her hawk-like nose.

Dev restrained a shiver and led Léonie forward.

“Good evening, Lord Gallunder, my Lady.” He bowed. “It’s my honor to present Miss Léonie Girard, visiting London under the auspices of my aunt.”

“Dev, lad.” Gallunder shook his hand. “And Miss Girard.” He smiled. “I believe I’ve heard of your father, but I’ve not had the pleasure of meeting him.”

Léonie curtseyed, including Lady Gallunder as she dipped into an elegant and gracious salute. “You are very kind.” She rose, straight and without any effort at all, it seemed. “I have heard mention of your enviable talents, my Lord. Your wisdom was much praised in Vienna. It is an honor to meet you and Lady Gallunder, and I thank you for allowing me to attend this delightful evening.”

Even her Ladyship was pleased to smile at Léonie’s words. “How charming. Glad you’re here, dear.” She turned to Dev. “Take care of her, now. Make sure she meets the right people.”

“Of course, my Lady.” He bowed and they were through the line and into the ballroom. Although Dev couldn’t but hold his breath for a few seconds, just in case his hostess revealed her true nature and descended on him, talons unsheathed.

“Goodness, I wouldn’t want to get on the wrong side of Lady Gallunder.” The soft whisper came from his left side.

“She liked you,” he returned. “Me, I’m not so sure. Which isn’t fair when you consider I’ve known her and his Lordship for years.”

Léonie’s cool smile met his gaze. “Whoever said society was fair?”

“Point taken.”

“Dev, darling…”

He winced. There was only one woman with that voice. It was rich, sensual and promised all kinds of wicked delights. He was one of the few who had managed to resist the call of this particular siren, for no other reason than because he really didn’t care for her at all. She was trouble wrapped in extravagant gowns.

“Good evening, Amelia.”

She was in front of them, a tall goddess in blood red silk, wearing a ruby the size of a guinea around her neck.

“Trying for subtle this evening, are we?” He cocked an eyebrow at her.

To give her credit, she laughed, a sound that made men turn for a moment and stare wistfully at her.

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