Page 50 of Devoted to the Duke (The St. Clairs 1)

“May I see your programme?”

Catherine handed it over and the ambassador’s wife studied it. “I see you already have a few partners. Let’s see if we can find you some more.”

With a flick of her wrist, a dark-haired man with brown eyes appeared. She spoke quietly to him, so low that Catherine couldn’t hear what was said. Then the man nodded abruptly and left.

“It’s taken care of. You should not lack for partners tonight.”

“You are optimistic, Countess Lieven. I realize I have several years on me, especially when compared to most of the young women present.”

“I wouldn’t worry, my dear. You’re a beautiful woman among pretty girls. I know you gave years of your life to your father’s care. Nursing a loved one can take its toll. My advice is for you to relax and enjoy yourself tonight as you reenter society.” The countess leaned close and touched her cheek to Catherine’s. She whispered, “If you need anything while in London, let me know.”

Astounded, she said, “Thank you.”

After that, a stream of gentlemen came her way, quickly filling her dance card. As each gentleman left, Charlotte told her exactly who he was and his position in society. Dumbfounded by the list of prominent gentlemen who’d agreed to partner with her, Catherine was at a loss for words.

Clasping her elbow, Charlotte said, “You’re already a success, Catherine, and the first song hasn’t even played yet. You will have your choice of husbands. I’m sure of it.”

She glanced about the crowded room and heard the orchestra tuning up and then saw Lord Aubrey making his way toward her.

He bowed and offered his hand. Leading her to the center of the ballroom, he said, “Thank you for helping me open the ball.”

“What?” she asked, noticing that no other couples joined them.

“Ah, I see you’ve never been to a Rutherford ball. My parents and siblings always start off the proceedings and dance the first measures before others step in.”

Catherine stopped in her tracks. “I... I didn’t know. I... I haven’t danced in several years.” She thought of her slight limp and how that would translate to dancing—especially with so many eyes on her.

Aubrey smiled. “I’m considered an excellent dancer, Lady Catherine. Follow my lead and all will be well.”

He encouraged her to keep moving and they came to the center of the room. By now, Lord and Lady Rutherford were there and Amanda and Stanley joined them. Aubrey took her right hand in his and placed an arm snuggly about her. The musicians awaited their cue. Catherine saw Lord Rutherford nod to them and the music began.

*

Jeremy tapped hiscane on the roof of the carriage and his driver stopped. He hopped out.

“We’re still three blocks away, Your Grace.”

“And the road all the way there is clogged. I’ll walk from here. Stay nearby.”

He headed toward the Rutherford townhouse. By the time he reached it, the receiving line was so long, he decided to avoid it. He moved toward the ballroom, anxiety filling him as his eyes passed over so many women embarking upon their come-out. They’d looked young to him five years ago when he’d chosen Mary as his bride. At twenty-eight now, he felt ancient because they looked barely out of the schoolroom.

The dancing wouldn’t begin until the receiving line died down, so he decided to get a drink. He weaved through bunches of women and their protective mamas who eyed him with speculation. By the time he returned from the card room to ask a few partners to dance, he was sure the news of the Duke of Everton’s presence would have spread like wildfire.

He entered the card room and accepted a drink from a servant. As he sipped it, he made his way around the room, visiting with a few old friends and other acquaintances from his business ventures. When he thought enough time had passed, he set down his empty tumbler in order to return to the ballroom. As he ventured there, he spied Morefield and raised a hand in greeting.

His friend rushed up, clearly out of breath. “I’ve been looking everywhere for you, Everton. I was gone all day. Looking at new horseflesh. I only received your note after I dressed for this evening.”

“That’s quite all right. I wasn’t expecting a reply. I merely wanted you to know I would be in attendance tonight. It’s Cor’s idea. She thinks it high time I took a new wife so that Jenny will have a mother. With Rachel’s come-out in the near future, I thought it best to begin attending Season events again and try to get into the good graces of society.”

“Will you stop talking?” Morefield demanded.

Jeremy frowned, noticing his friend’s agitation. “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing’s wrong. I merely need to tell you something.” He paused. “Lady Catherine is here.”

His heart lurched in his chest and then began pounding wildly. “Catherine—is here?”

“Yes.” Morefield pulled him aside, next to a large potted plant in a corner. “She came in the carriage with us. Statham passed and she is reentering society.”

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