Page 73 of His Scarred Duchess
“Shall we, Duchess?”
The ballroom of Lord Weatherby’s estate was a glittering spectacle of crystal chandeliers and polished marble. As Edmund and Adeline made their entrance, she felt the weight of countless eyes upon them.
“The Duke and Duchess of Holbrook,” the master of ceremonies announced, his voice carrying over the hum of conversation.
Adeline lifted her chin, steeling herself for the usual whispers and sidelong glances. To her surprise, several people nodded politely in their direction. Lady Margaret even approached with a warm smile.
“Your Grace,” she said, addressing Adeline directly. “How lovely to see you. That gown is absolutely stunning on you.”
Adeline blinked, momentarily taken aback by the unexpected kindness. “Thank you, Lady Margaret. You’re very kind.”
As they moved further into the room, Adeline noticed a shift in the atmosphere. While some still turned away with barely concealed disdain, others seemed genuinely pleased to see them. It was a far cry from the universal cold shoulder she’d grown accustomed to.
“Shall we dance?” Edmund’s voice in her ear made her start. He was looking at her with pride and something darker, more intense.
Adeline nodded, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor. As the first strains of a waltz filled the air, Edmund pulled her close—closer than was strictly proper.
“Do you have any idea,” he murmured as they began to move, “how difficult it is to keep my hands to myself when you look like this?”
Adeline’s breath hitched. “Edmund,” she hissed, scandalized and thrilled in equal measure. “People will hear.”
His low chuckle made warmth pool in her belly.
“Let them,” he said, his lips grazing her ear. “Let them see how much I desire my wife.”
As they twirled across the dance floor, Edmund’s words grew increasingly bold, painting vivid pictures of all the things he longed to do to her.
“I long to unlace your bodice,” he murmured, his breath hot against her neck. “To trail kisses along your collarbone until your knees tremble.”
Adeline’s breath hitched as he continued.
“I want to feel your fingers in my hair, to hear my name on your lips as I flick my tongue against your nipple.” His hand on her waist tightened possessively. “Later, I’ll taste every inch of you until you’re breathless, until you forget every name but mine.”
By the time the music ended, Adeline was flushed and breathless, her heart racing.
“Your Grace,” a voice interrupted their heated moment. Lord Weatherby stood nearby, flanked by a group of serious-looking gentlemen. “Might we have a word? There are some business matters we’d like to discuss.”
Edmund’s jaw tightened almost imperceptibly, but he nodded. “Of course, Lord Weatherby.” He turned to Adeline, his eyes softening. “Will you be all right on your own for a bit?”
Adeline smiled, touched by his concern. “I’ll be fine,” she assured him. “Go, attend to your business. I’m sure I can find some way to occupy myself.”
As Edmund walked away with the group of men, Adeline took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart. She scanned the room, wondering how to navigate the complex societal waters without her husband by her side.
Just then, she spotted a familiar face across the room. Lady Alderton was holding court with a group of dowagers, her eyes twinkling with mischief.
Adeline smiled to herself. Perhaps the evening wouldn’t be so daunting, after all.
As she made her way through the crowded ballroom, a familiar voice called out to her.
“Adeline! Oh, you look absolutely breathtaking!”
Turning, Adeline saw Isabella rushing towards her, resplendent in a pale blue gown that brought out the color of her eyes.
“Isabella!” Adeline beamed, embracing her sister. “It’s wonderful to see you again. You look radiant!”
Isabella blushed prettily. “Oh, stop. But truly, Adeline, you’re the one who’s glowing. Married life must agree with you.”
Adeline felt her cheeks warm at the memory of Edmund’s heated gaze. “Thank you, Bella. Now, tell me more about your recent adventures. How many suitors have come calling since we last spoke?”
