Page 13 of Allured By a Lord's Touch

Chapter 5

The ball was well underway before Lady Sarah Crawford and Lady Lisbeth came down the stairs. Despite her desire to escape, Sarah had to admit that merely basking in all the finery was enough to feast one’s eyes for an entire year.

The ladies wore various different colours, mostly soft pastels. There was the occasional pop of bright red or green, but these were not the current fashion. Sarah herself wore a light violet dress that accentuated her curves and caught the attention of several gentlemen.

What was more impressive to Sarah were the jewels. She spotted emeralds, rubies, and sapphires, all shimmering in the candlelight. Pearls were also quite popular.

These were certainly the creme de la creme of theton, all having made their way from London just to be in the presence of Lord Edward Guilford.

Lisbeth waved her fan in front of her face. “Oh, Sarah. Isn’t it divine?”

“You know, I must admit, this is lavish.”

“I’m frightfully hungry,” Lisbeth said. “Might we go to the refreshments?”

“We may.”

Making their way to the dining room, a full feast was laid out for guests to pick and choose what they preferred. As they entered, several gentlemen greeted them with a bow, and Sarah and Lisbeth curtsied in return.

The aroma of the dining room was delectable. Sarah admired the charming centrepiece of fruit and flowers, and the various courses including baked ham, various kinds of fish, braised lamb, and even caviar— a rare delicacy that Sarah had only tried once in her life. Accompanying these were various side dishes made of potato, fresh vegetables from the garden, and what appeared to be a spinach soufflé.

“Pudding will be served at ten,” a voice said.

Sarah turned to discover the Duke of Faversham standing behind them.

“Your Grace, you’ve outdone yourself,” Sarah said, waving her own fan in front of her face.

“This is my favourite night of the year. I always anticipate greeting my distinguished guests.”

“You’re a remarkable host.”

“Your rooms are well-appointed, I trust.”

Lisbeth said, “Wonderfully so!”

“I’m glad to hear it.” The duke nodded his head. “Please, dine to your hearts’ content.”

Before departing, the duke made eye contact with Sarah for several moments. Oh, why was her heart not stirred? He was kind, graceful, and of course, very wealthy, but all these things were not what Sarah longed for. She desired something that she couldn’t quite put her finger on.

“Come, Sarah. I simply can’t wait,” Lisbeth said.

“You go along. I’d like to take a turn around the room first.”

Lisbeth crinkled her nose. “If you insist.”

As her sister made her way to the table to procure supper, Sarah continued to fan herself and walk about the room. She cared not that she did so alone. Sarah liked to observe people, admire the paintings, gaze up at the frescoes and chandeliers, and smell the fresh-cut flowers. If one couldn’t enjoy these treasures, then there was simply no sense in attending a country ball.

The duke approached yet again.

“Lady Sarah, might I have a word with you?”

“Of course, Your Grace.”

The duke led Sarah outside onto the veranda, where the fresh, warm air caused Sarah to inhale deeply. In the night sky, the stars twinkled magically. It was yet again another benefit to living in the country. The stars were always clear at night, but in London, this was simply not the case.

“I hope that you’ve enjoyed yourself so far,” the duke said.

“Yes, Your Grace. Your estate is remarkable.”

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