To Ensnare a Duke: An Mf HistromVerse Dark Romance by Vivian Murdoch

Author:Vivian Murdoch [Murdoch, Vivian]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2024-08-15T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 21

AUGUSTA

As I whirl about on some duke, earl, baron, or viscount's arm, my gaze never strays far from Portswell. He stands at the edge of the dance floor, simply glowering at me with each turn about the room I take. If the poor man is jealous, then he only has himself to blame.

Not once did he offer to dance with me or find a place on my card. No. He's more concerned with who I'm entertaining. Besides, we're in public. It's not as if I can do anything untoward here. Not with everyone watching.

Unfortunately, I'm not well acquainted with the Duke of Whiteham's London house, and so finding a spot where I may hide away while I concoct my plan is proving difficult. Turning back to my partner, I do my best to give them a bright smile. The last thing I want is to have more suspicion cast upon me.

The dances seem to go forever, and every so often, I do wonder if I should have taken Portswell up on his advice to pace them out so as to not overexert myself. My backside aches as I move about, pretending to be in the best of health. But then, the stubborn man probably already knows that.

Another quick glance his way, and our eyes lock. His gaze sears me to the soul, robbing me of breath. How are we not the best match of the Ton? How can he not see what is clearly right in front of his face?

All too soon, the number ends, and I'm led back to my little cadre of supporters. Off to the side, Miss Campbell beams at me and claps her hands in delight.

"Oh, but your feet look as if they never touch the floor. How are you so well accomplished? I've tried to master the steps but still feel like a clumsy fool whenever I take even a small step."

"Come now," Norhaven booms behind us, causing Miss Campbell to jolt forward. "I have seen you dance and find you neither clumsy nor inept."

A light flush creeps up her neck as we curtsy to the newcomer. "Your praise is most appreciated, Your Grace. If only it were enough to snag the sights of a willing suitor."

I study the duke as he clears his throat and loosens his cravat. "Take heart, Miss Campbell. Once the current ladies of the season are spoken for, I'm sure another will come to claim you."

Her face falls, but it is so imperceptible, I might miss it if I were not watching. Poor thing. I know what it's like to be besotted with one who will not yield. Doing my best to change the subject, I lift my shoulders and look out onto the floor where Lord Harhall makes his way forward.

"I do say I am rather intrigued by Lord Harhall. He seems quite the gentleman. Portswell takes some unknown umbrage with him but refuses to tell me what it is. Perhaps you can enlighten me, Your Grace?"

Norhaven's blue eyes quickly slide over to Portswell.

Download

Copyright Disclaimer:
This site does not store any files on its server. We only index and link to content provided by other sites. Please contact the content providers to delete copyright contents if any and email us, we'll remove relevant links or contents immediately.