Page 73 of The Duke's Spinster Bride
“What do you mean?” She tilted her head at him.
“There is a formula to it. Just like there are steps to a waltz, and all you have to do is learn them.” He shrugged.
“I have had twenty six years to learn them and have had staggeringly little success.” She bit her bottom lip.
“That is because you have not had me.” The music finished, and Frederick stopped, catching Andrea and then dropping into a bow, lifting her hand to his mouth and brushing his lips across her knuckles.
The smell of jasmine filled his nose and when he looked up, there was a distinct flush on Andrea’s cheeks. He led her towards the crowd, searching for people he could introduce her to.
It needs to be someone amenable. Preferably not one of the gossips.He adjusted course when he spotted one such gossip and made a beeline towards a group of older people, many of whom he had known since he was a child.
As he approached them, he murmured in Andrea’s ear, “the trick is just to ask them questions. People love talking about themselves and if you are struggling to think of something to say, ask them about something.”
“Like what?”
“Anything. Their children. Their dogs – dogs are probably a safer bet, people are always far more keen to talk about their pets.” Frederick shrugged as they drew level with the group.
“Duke Caverton, how wonderful to see you!” A tall woman with a warm smile beamed at him. “How is your grandmother? I thought I might see her here tonight, but apparently it is not to be.”
“Oh I expect she will make an entrance later, you know what she is like.” Frederick made a vague gesture, still holding Andrea’s arm in his own. “Have you met my wife, Andrea Felton? Duchess of Caverton.”
“No, I do not think I have had the pleasure. After all, you got married so quickly very few of us could make the wedding. Naughty boy!” She pointed a finger at him before turning her attention to Andrea. “I am Lady Edwina Peregrine, Marchioness of Arlham, and this is my husband Lord Michael Peregrine, Marquess of Arlham.”
“Pleased to meet you, Your Grace.” Lord Arlham bowed to Andrea.
“And you, Lord and Lady Arlham.” Andrea curtseyed. “Have you had a good evening?”
“Oh yes, splendid.” Lord Arlham grabbed a drink from a nearby servant and offered one to his wife.
“The Cotswalts know how to host a good soiree. Though, not quite as grand as a Caverton event.” Lady Arlham gave Frederick a meaningful look.
“I think there is something rather nice about a more intimate affair.” Frederick shrugged, grabbing a drink for himself and for Andrea, while he kept his smile bright and airy.
“Oh I quite agree. More opportunity to get to know people and make introductions.” Lord Arlham chimed in.
Frederick clapped him on the back. “And less people I am related to!”
The group burst into laughter. “Which reminds me, have I remembered correctly, Lady Arlham, that you are quite the artist?” Frederick canted his head towards her.
Lady Arlham fanned herself, playfully batting at him with the object. “Oh, you flattererer! I have some middling talent but I am by no means an artist!”
“That is exactly what my wife says when I say that to her, though by all accounts you are both rather talented.” He grinned at Andrea, whose cheeks were pink.
“You paint?” Lady Arlham turned to Andrea, her eyes wide.
She shifted from foot to foot. “A little, mostly landscapes, occasionally some portraiture.”
“She is being modest,” Frederick interjected. “She is very talented.”
“I would love to see some of your work.”
“And I yours.” Andrea flashed Frederick a grateful look.
Lady Arlham leaned towards her. “Have you managed to capture much of Caverton? There is some truly wonderful scenery in the area.”
“Not as much as I would like.”
Lady Arlham made a sympathetic noise. “I imagine with being so newly married, there have been other things to occupy you.”
