Page 41 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“You aren’t truly attempting to justify his actions, are you?”

His mother stiffened. “It might be best if we continued this conversation when you come to visit your father.”

“I think that would be for the best.”

She brought the same blasted smile to her face. “A ball is not an appropriate place to air family grievances.”

“I agree.”

“I hope you intend to dance at least one set this evening.”

He nodded. “I have every intention to.”

“I am pleased to hear that.”

The music ended, and he watched as Mr. Haskett escorted Jane back to Lady Hawthorne. “If you will excuse me, I intend to go secure my dance partner,” he said.

“Of course,” his mother replied.

He took a step closer to his mother and kissed her on the cheek. “I hope you know that I love you, Mother.”

“I love you, too, Son.”

Corbyn brushed past her and approached Jane. He came to a stop in front of her and bowed. “Would you care to dance the next set with me?”

“I would be honored to,” she replied, “but I should warn you that it’s the waltz.”

“I assure you that won’t be an issue.”

She smiled and her whole face lit up. Or maybe it was his. The only thing he knew for certain was that her smile had a profound impact on him.

Baldwin’s voice came from next to him. “It is good to see you this evening, Corbyn.”

“I was obligated to come tonight, due to it being my aunt’s ball and all,” Corbyn said, hoping he kept the irritation out of his voice.

Baldwin chuckled. “It’s all right to enjoy yourself.”

“I would prefer to work.”

“As would I,” Baldwin agreed with a side glance at Madalene, “but my dear wife enjoys attending these social gatherings.”

Madalene bobbed her head. “It’s true,” she replied. “I enjoy dancing with my husband.”

“How very scandalous of you,” Jane teased.

The music started up and Corbyn extended his hand towards Jane. “May I escort you to the dance floor?”

“You may,” she replied, slipping her gloved hand into his.

He took her hand and placed it into the crook of his arm. They didn’t speak as they walked the short distance to the dance floor.

Once they arrived, he took her right hand and held it up. Then he placed his other hand around her waist. He heard her sharp intake of breath and felt her body tense.

“It’s all right,” he reassured her. “I’m not going to hurt you.”

“I know,” she replied as she brought her hand up to his shoulder.

“Then why are you so tense?”

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