Page 33 of The Duke's Accidental Wallflower
Cedric grinned. “That’s the spirit.”
“I hope Lord Thorne is here,” Chastity said smoothly, as she adjusted the jeweled pin in her hair. “He promised me a waltz at the last ball.”
Minerva gave Chastity a sideways glance, dubious of how honest Chastity was being. However, her sister did not even notice Minerva’s withering look.
The carriage rolled to a stop outside the grand estate, the glowing lanterns casting flickering light across the long line of carriages that had already arrived. Minerva shifted in her seat, smoothing down the soft fabric of her gown with fingers that trembled ever so slightly. She glanced at Chastity, who was practically buzzing with excitement beside her.
Minerva gave a tight-lipped smile, her heart not in it. “I am sure he’ll be here,” she murmured, more out of duty than enthusiasm.Chastity was always the center of attention at these gatherings, effortlessly capturing the interest of suitors. Minerva, on the other hand, often felt left on the sidelines, playing the part of the dutiful sister while watching the world spin around her.
As they stepped out of the carriage and made their way into the grand house, the sounds of laughter, music, and conversation filled the air. Minerva’s stomach churned. She had no intention of spending the night in Evan’s presence—not after their last encounter—but somehow, the mere thought of him had already unsettled her.No,she told herself firmly.I am here to enjoy the evening and, perhaps, find a suitor of my own.
They entered the women’s dressing area, where other guests were bustling about, adjusting gowns, smoothing out wrinkles, and ensuring every curl was in place before they made their grand entrances. The mirrors gleamed under the soft glow of chandeliers, and the air was filled with the sweet scent of perfume.
“Minerva, Chastity!” Cherie’s voice rang out as she hurried toward them, her eyes lighting up. “You look beautiful!”
Cherie was already a vision, her pale blue gown flowing around her like water, her golden hair pinned up in intricate twists. She gave both of them a quick once-over, nodding approvingly. “You are ready to take the ballroom by storm.”
Chastity laughed, spinning in a small circle to show off her gown. “I do hope so!”
Minerva, however, wasn’t feeling quite as optimistic. She tugged at the sleeves of her gown, adjusting the neckline as if fussing with her appearance could shield her from the awkwardness of the night ahead.
Cherie noticed her fidgeting and tilted her head in concern. “What’s wrong with you, Minerva? You look out of sorts.”
Minerva let out a sigh, her fingers stilling as she met her friend’s gaze. “I just—” she paused, searching for the right words. “I am not in the mood for all this.”
Cherie frowned, stepping closer. “You are being a wallflower again, aren’t you? You cannot just stand in the corner and hope something happens, Minerva.”
“I am not trying to be a wallflower,” Minerva muttered, though she knew it was a lie. She hated these balls—the pressure to flirt, to be charming, to win over men she barely knew. It all felt so hollow. And yet, she also knew that Cherie was right. It wouldn’t help anyone if she let herself wither on the vine.
“Then do not stand on the sidelines tonight,” Cherie urged, her voice soft but firm. “Go out there, talk to someone. Let them see you.”
Minerva’s brow furrowed. “It is not that easy, Cherie. You know that.”
Cherie let out a small, exasperated laugh. “Minerva, you are a beautiful, intelligent woman. There are eligible men at this ball who would be lucky to even catch your attention. You just need to give them a chance.”
Minerva opened her mouth to argue, but Cherie raised a hand to stop her. “No excuses. You have been avoiding this for too long. You are always so busy worrying about Chastity or whatever else is going on that you forget about yourself.”
A small knot formed in Minerva’s stomach as she glanced at Chastity, who was busy fixing a loose curl in front of one of the large mirrors. She wasn’t wrong—Minerva had spent so much time focused on her sister that she’d almost forgotten about her own future. But how could she think about meeting a potential suitor with Evan lurking around? The thought of crossing paths with him again sent a wave of anxiety through her.
Cherie seemed to sense her hesitation. “Is this abouthim?” she asked, lowering her voice.
Minerva stiffened. “What? No,” she lied, her cheeks flushing slightly.
Cherie’s lips curved into a knowing smile. “Oh, so it isnotabout eluding a certain bachelor that shall not be named?”
Minerva bristled, folding her arms over her chest. “I am not eluding anyone,” she said, though the defensive edge in her voice betrayed her true feelings.
Cherie arched an eyebrow, clearly unconvinced. “If you say so.”
Minerva huffed, turning to adjust her gloves. “I am serious, Cherie. I have no interest in spending the night around him.”
“Then do not,” Cherie said simply. “But do not let him ruin your night either. There are plenty of other men here who would love to dance with you.”
Minerva’s lips pressed into a thin line. She hated how easily Cherie could read her, but she also couldn’t deny that her friend had a point. It wasn’t just about Evan. It was about her future, about not ending up on the shelf because she had refused to try.
She is right, Minerva thought reluctantly. I need to take care of myself too. If I do not make an effort, I will be left with nothing but regrets.
She drew in a deep breath, letting it out slowly as she turned back to Cherie. “Fine. I will make an effort.”
