Three
Emmeline entered the grand ballroom, her heart pounding with anticipation as she took in the opulence surrounding her.Chandeliers glittered overhead, illuminating the elegant gowns and coiffed hair of the attendees.She glanced around nervously, feeling out of place amidst the upper echelons of London society.
“Chin up, my dear,” her great aunt, Lady Constance Lockwood, said as she took Emmeline’s arm and steered her into the crowd.Lady Lockwood cut an imposing figure in her sapphire silk gown, her silver hair coiled tightly beneath her jeweled turban.
“I know this is all new for you, but you must make a good impression tonight if you wish to secure your place.”Lady Lockwood’s voice was brisk.“Back straight, smile subtly.Do not appear too eager.”
Emmeline adjusted her posture, hoping her simple gown of pale pink muslin would not draw scorn from the other ladies.She had to remind herself that despite Lady Lockwood’s cool demeanor, her aunt only wanted the best for her.
As they made their way through the sea of glittering jewels and rustling silks, Emmeline felt the weight of theton’sjudgmental stares.She was an outsider here, her future reliant on their approval.It was almost enough to make her turn and flee into the night.
But she would not let her aunt down.She had come this far, and she would see it through.Chin high, back straight, just as her aunt instructed.She was more than her simple gown and country manners.She was Miss Emmeline Brooks, and she belonged here.
Emmeline’s gaze swept across the ballroom, taking in the twirling couples, the orchestra playing a lively tune, the hum of conversation punctuated by occasional laughter.Despite her nerves, excitement quickened her pulse.This was her first true glimpse into the glamorous world of theton.Her official come out, and she meant to enjoy it.
As she scanned the crowd, her eyes suddenly met an intense green gaze from across the room.Her breath caught at the sheer magnetism in the gentleman’s stare.
His hair fell rakishly over his forehead, and his tailcoat showcased broad shoulders and a lean waist.He stood with an indolent grace, his presence commanding the surrounding space.When their eyes locked, She felt an instant spark of attraction shiver down her spine.
She quickly lowered her gaze, cheeks flushing.He was probably used to innocent young ladies swooning over him.She would not be one of them.Still, her traitorous heart pounded at the thought he was looking at her.
Emmeline lifted her fan to shield her mouth.“Who is that gentleman staring at us from across the room?The one by the veranda doors?”she asked.
Lady Lockwood paused for a heartbeat, her gaze taking in the gentleman.“That is Lord Tristan Breckenridge.Come, it’s time you met some suitable gentlemen,” she said briskly, steering Emmeline toward a group of young lords.“I vowed to your father I would see you married before season’s end, and I mean to do just that.”
As they approached, Emmeline felt a tap on her shoulder.She turned to find Lord Tristan smiling down at her, green eyes dancing.“May I have the honor of this dance?”
“That is highly improper,” Lady Lockwood said, her eyes narrowing on Lord Breckenridge.“You have not been properly introduced.”
Emmeline’s stomach fluttered with nervous excitement.
“My apologies, Lady Lockwood.”He gave a toe-curling smile.“Please do introduce me to your lovely charge.”
Lady Lockwood’s stern gaze softened, a ghost of a smile tugging at her lips.“Oh, very well.But do remember to conduct yourself with decorum from now on, my lord.”
“I vow to try my best,” he winked.
Emmeline would swear her aunt blushed at the lord’s teasing before she turned to make the introductions.
“Lord Breckenridge, allow me to introduce my niece Miss Emmeline Brooks.”
“It is a pleasure to meet you, Miss Brooks.”Lord Breckenridge took Emmeline’s hand and bowed over it.He did not release her hand as he straightened, then said, “Now that we are properly introduced, may I have this dance?”
“You may,” Emmeline said.
He tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow, sending little thrills up her arm.As he led her to the dance floor, Emmeline glimpsed her aunt’s disapproving stare.She would deal with that later.Right now, she intended to savor every moment in Lord Tristan Breckenridge’s embrace.
His hand settled lightly on Emmeline’s waist as they took their positions.His touch was feather-light, but she was acutely aware of the warmth of his palm through the thin fabric of her gown.
As the music began, they moved together effortlessly, their steps perfectly in sync.Tristan guided Emmeline through the movements with an effortless grace, his body attuned to hers.She leaned into him, inhaling his sandalwood scent.
“You dance divinely, Miss Brooks,” he murmured, his eyes never leaving hers.
Her cheeks grew warm at the compliment.“As do you, my lord.”
“Please, call me Tristan.”His voice was like velvet.“If only for this dance.”
“Tristan,” she repeated softly, a thrill running through her.It was delightfully improper to address him so familiarly.Her aunt would never approve.Emmeline grinned at the thought.
