“I am not known for saying things that I do not mean out of courtesy,” he reminded her sharply. “So please, try to relax now.”
She nodded, toying with her hands. “The most intimidating part is still to come,” she admitted after a moment. She could feel his gaze on her, studying her intently.
“Enlighten me on what that is.”
“Interacting with the ton,” she passed him a sheepish smile. “Can you remain by my side through it?”
Nicholas raised an eyebrow at her bold request, his dark eyes searching her face for a moment. He looked almost taken aback, as though the idea of her asking for his presence was entirely unexpected. She did not know what compelled her to ask either, just that tonight sheneededhim by her side.
“That is…”
Before he could respond fully, the sound of familiar voices drew her attention. She turned to see her brothers, Jasper and Leopold, making their way toward her.
“Jasper! Leopold!” she exclaimed, excited at the sight of them.
“Well, don’t you look radiant,” Jasper said, his tone affectionate as he leaned in to kiss her cheek. Leopold followed suit, his grin wide as he glanced around the room.
“I have to say that I am quite impressed, little sister,” Leopold admitted, his tone laced with surprise. “I didn’t think you had it in you, Violet.”
“Leopold!” Jasper scolded lightly though he couldn’t hide his own amusement. “Don’t ruin her moment.”
Violet laughed softly, shaking her head. “I’ll take that as a compliment, though it’s hardly just my doing. The staff worked tirelessly to make this happen.”
“She is being humble,” Nicholas interjected smoothly, his deep voice cutting through the conversation. All eyes turned to him as he continued, “Your sister was tirelessly involved with every stage of the planning. From selecting the flowers to finalizing the guest list, nothing escaped her attention.”
Jasper’s gaze shifted to Nicholas, “And you, Your Grace? Did you lend your hand to this?”
“Only as much as the duchess allowed me. She’s quite capable on her own, as you can see.”
The tension between the two men lingered for a moment before Jasper nodded, seemingly satisfied with the answer.
As the brothers moved to greet other guests, Violet turned to Nicholas. “Thank you,” she said softly. “For… for being here.”
He inclined his head slightly, his dark eyes holding hers for a beat longer than necessary. “I suppose you gave me no other choice.”
The evening continued smoothly with guests mingling and complimenting the event. Violet began to feel a flicker of pride in her accomplishments, and her nerves began to fade ever so slightly.
She had just finished speaking with an older couple when a trio of elegantly dressed ladies approached her.
“Your Grace,” one of the ladies said, sweetly, “this ball is… charming.”
The slight pause before the last word was enough to make Violet’s smile falter though she quickly recovered.
“Thank you,” she replied. “I’m glad you’re enjoying yourselves.”
“Oh, indeed,” another lady chimed in, her tone no less pointed. “It’s always refreshing to attend an event that feels so… intimate.”
The implication hung in the air, and Violet’s cheeks flushed. She knew what they meant. The guest list wasn’t as extensive as some of the grander balls held by the ton, but that was by design. Still, their veiled criticism stung.
Before she could respond, Nicholas appeared at her side, his expression cool but his eyes sharp.
“Ladies,” he said, his voice smooth but edged with authority, “I trust you’re finding everything to your satisfaction?”
The ladies exchanged glances, their smiles faltering under his gaze. “Of course, Your Grace,” the first woman replied, her tone less confident now. “The Duchess has certainly put in… considerable effort.”
Nicholas’s smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Indeed, she has. And I expect her efforts will set a standard for others to aspire to.”
The ladies’ expressions shifted, their discomfort evident as they mumbled their agreement. Nicholas’ gaze didn’t waver, though. It was enough to send them retreating.
