How often had Charles examined that day? Replayed those moments in his father’s study over and over. The betrayal by two of the people Charles had loved most in the world—
Glancing down at the floor, he struggled to regain his composure. Thinking too much on Cecily always did this to Charles because he recalled how his heart had beat only for her. How pathetically romantic he’d been.
How he would never allow himself to be such a bloody idiot again.
He looked up once more to see Aurora spinning about in Healey’s arms, more lovely than a sunrise on a spring morning. Had Healey held her in his lap and heard the sounds Aurora made as she climaxed? Had she told him aboutThe Bloom of the Rose? About the older, slightly debauched rake she adored?
His chest squeezed tight.
He hoped Aurora still adored him. Charles had taken that for granted. Too stupid to see—
No, he didn’t think Healey knew Aurora at all.
Healey swung her expertly about as he watched. Kenebruke’s nephew was a good dancer. If Aurora wed Healey, Charles would be treated to this sight until he could no longer bear to look.
Strange, he’d seen Cecily dance with the Marquess of Dutton and not once had he wanted to tackle Dutton on a ballroom floor and beat him senseless.
When the dance ended, Healey did not return Aurora to the care of the dowager duchess. Nor Miss Maplehurst, of course. As usual, Aurora’s chaperone had abandoned her duties. Which allowed Healey to lead Aurora to the terrace doors open to the much cooler evening air.
Charles followed.
Chapter Twenty-Two
“Much better, don’tyou agree? I confess I nearly fainted while we danced, the air was so warm.” Aurora released Healey’s arm and slid away from him. The dancing had made her heated, and an unpleasant dampness pooled beneath her arms and gathered at her temples. Once the dance ended she’d coaxed Healey into taking her outside, mainly because he’d immediately suggested finding Lord Kenebruke so he could check on his uncle. Suspecting Aunt Lottie was already assessing Kenebruke’s condition in that hideously decorated parlor, Aurora thought it best to distract Healey with escorting her out to the terrace.
The terrace was far quieter than the ballroom had been but not devoid of other guests. Couples and small groups were clustered about, most intent on avoiding the lanterns spilling light along the terrace. Others wandered about the gardens, if the burst of giggles Aurora could make out were any indication.
“It is a splendid idea.” Healy’s teeth shone in the spill of light as they walked, side by side, passing a lamp.
Aurora thought Healey quite handsome tonight in his formal wear. Healey’s lips, in particular, could be considered inviting. Not as full or sensual as Worth’s but—
Stop this instant.
“Quite a few moths about tonight.” Healey batted one away. “Terrible things.”
“Arctia caja.” Aurora thought her Latin was approving. Ware would be pleased.
Healey’s brows drew together. “I beg your pardon?”
“The moths.” She nodded at the pair circling the lamp. “Arctia cajais the name in Latin. A tiger moth. You may recall, my sister’s husband, the duke, studies insects. Ware has taught me everything I know about moths and beetles.” Aurora grinned at him, wondering if Healey would be amused or horrified that she’d helped Ware prepare specimens. “He’s a well-known entomologist and spent several years studying and collecting moths. His research is now on display at the Entomological Society. He’s quite famous amongst academics.”
“I’m not familiar,” Healey gave her a rueful smile. “But I think the duke far more intelligent than I. Despite the fact that if I see an ant or a beetle, I am more likely to stomp on it than collect it.”
“I won’t tell Ware. He would be quite cross with you.”
Healey’s hand dropped from her elbow as he faced her. “I—would like to speak freely, if I may, Lady Aurora.”
“That sounds ominous, Mr. Healey.”
He pulled her into an area full of shadows. The scent of the garden, a combination of flowers sifted in her nostrils. It was a lovely night. The sort meant for stolen kisses. Healey might not approve, but Aurora was determined to steal a kiss if he didn’t do so first. Not terrible, in her opinion, to kiss a man she was considering marriage to, though if the wrong person came upon them, Aurora would be considered compromised. Or her wanton nature confirmed.
She sunk further into the darkness.
Healey didn’t arouse her as Worth did, but Aurora reasoned it was unlikely any other man would. She was attracted to Healey and that was a good start. Given enough time, Aurora was certain she could love Healey. It wouldn’t be the wild, passionate tearing at her heart that she felt for Worth, but more steady and solid in nature. Less painful in nature, but still beautiful.
The story of Cecily Millstone was yet another reminder that no good could come of a relationship with Worth. He’d warned her. Worth was broken and had been for some time. Unable to form a meaningful attachment as evidenced by his broken betrothal to Cecily Millstone. Aurora was sure there were others, but she didn’t need to know more. The dowager had done Aurora a great kindness in relaying such a cautionary tale.
“Lady Aurora,” Healey said softly, taking her hand. “I think you know that I hold you in great affection and esteem.”
