“Everything,” Isadora replied dramatically, “She’s shy—painfully shy—and no amount of coaching seems to help. She freezes up during introductions, and the last ball we attended… let’s just say it was not a success.”
Violet frowned. “That sounds difficult—for both of you.”
“It is,” Isadora said, her tone quieter now. “She’s so overwhelmed by it all.”
“I understand how she feels,” Violet said softly. “The Season can be… intimidating, to say the least.”
Daphne nodded. “Perhaps she just needs time. Some of us are late bloomers.”
“Let’s hope she blooms soon,” Isadora muttered.
Before Violet could respond, the doors to the drawing room opened, and a familiar figure stepped inside.
Nicholas.
His presence filled the room immediately. His gaze swept over the three women, lingering on Violet for just a moment longer than the others.
“Ladies,” he greeted, his deep voice smooth and unhurried. “I hope I’m not intruding.”
CHAPTER 10
“Oh, not at all.” Daphne was the one to answer.
Nicholas stepped further into the room, his hands clasped lightly behind his back as he surveyed them.
“Good. I heard the sound of laughter from down the hallway and decided to see what has gotten the Duchess so amused.” His gaze flicked to Violet for just a moment, the gesture sending a ripple of warmth through her, before he turned his focus back to her friends.
“I trust your journey here was pleasant?” he asked.
“Very pleasant, thank you,” Isadora replied smoothly. “Your estate is as breathtaking as Violet described. She’s been most gracious in showing us around.”
“Ah, has she?” Nicholas said. “Then I must commend you, Duchess, on your hospitality.”
Violet flushed but managed a composed nod. “It’s been lovely having them here.”
“Of that, I have no doubt. Though I do hope you’ve had time to rest after your travels. The roads this time of year can be… unforgiving.”
Daphne laughed lightly, brushing a strand of hair from her cheek. “It was well worth it. Violet’s company is always a balm after such travels.”
“Then I’m relieved to hear you arrived safely,” Nicholas nodded. “Any friends of Violet are always welcome here at the estate.”
“Yes, and it is a gorgeous estate!” Isadora chimed.
Nicholas inclined his head slightly. “Your praise is appreciated though I fear I can take little credit. The house has stood long before my time. Any elegance you see is due to its enduring charm—and, of course, my wife’s influence.”
Violet’s head snapped up at that, her cheeks flushing once more. Daphne and Isadora both turned to her, barely managing to fight the smiles off their faces.
“She’s been rather modest about her contributions,” Daphne replied teasingly.
“Oh, I am not surprised to hear that. But I assure you, her changes have been thoughtful and well-executed. She has been hard at work these last few days.”
He was being so forward with his compliments towards her. Violet knew that she was not going to hear the end of it from her friends later.
Nicholas straightened, his tone shifting slightly as he addressed all three women. “Well, I shan’t keep you from your conversation any longer. I merely wished to ensure you were comfortable. Enjoy your afternoon, ladies,” he said before stepping toward the door.
As he left, the air in the room seemed to change. Daphne turned to Violet almost immediately, her eyes wide with intrigue.
“Well, he’s certainly… compelling.”
