Theo and April’s eyes were still locked when the dance ended and the music stopped, and they held on a moment longer, as if they were appreciating each other anew. Before either could speak, a familiar voice sliced through the hum of the ballroom.
“April, how radiant you look.”
She turned, and the knot formed instantly in her stomach.
Loretta Roth stood beside her husband, Gregory, who offered a warm smile. April did her best to maintain her composure though she felt Theo shift slightly beside her.
“Mr. Roth,” she said with a cordial nod.
“Your Grace,” Gregory replied. “A pleasure to see you. You look resplendent this evening.”
“Thank you,” April answered. “You are very kind.”
Loretta, still half-hidden behind her fan, gave a long look from the hem of April’s dress to the top of her pinned hair. “And such a stunning necklace,” she observed, her gaze lingering.
“Ah, yes,” Gregory said with a fond glance at the sapphires. “That is one of Stone’s heirlooms. If I recall correctly, it has adorned the necks of at least three duchesses.” He smiled at April. “You must be pleased, Your Grace. It is surely among the most beautiful pieces in the kingdom.”
April’s fingers rose to touch the necklace, almost absently. Her eyes drifted up to her husband, who was watching her with quiet fondness. Their gazes held, the unspoken passing between them louder than any words.
I don’t want to let you in this deeply, and yet, I already have.
Then Loretta’s gloved hand slipped into her arm. “Come, let us take a turn about the room,” she said.
It was not a request.
April glanced at Theo. He gave her the barest nod. She allowed herself to be drawn away.
As they walked, Loretta raised her hand and waved cheerily at a nearby group of ladies. One detached herself and approached.
“Mrs. Tollens,” Loretta said brightly, “may I introduce the Duchess of Stone?”
April inclined her head. “A pleasure.”
Loretta beamed. “We are sisters-in-law now, you see.”
Of course. That is what this is. A public display to attach herself to me.
April smiled, responding with the polite warmth expected of her. Mrs. Tollens offered her greetings and moved on, and Loretta, satisfied with the impression she had made, resumed their stroll.
“You must truly love Gregory,” April said, her tone light but the meaning unmistakable. “To turn away so many titled gentlemen during your season, Loretta.”
Loretta’s step faltered, barely, then she let out a laugh and looped her arm more tightly through April’s. “But of course. Gregory is everything to me.”
She said it just loud enough for those nearby to hear, even adding a bright laugh. From a distance, they might have looked like the dearest of companions.
April smiled. “Even if Theo returned to you, wishing to rekindle a former passion?”
Loretta’s laugh was sharper now, brittle behind her teeth. “My heart is spoken for. Besides, even if he were to come begging, I would still choose Gregory.”
You chose comfort over scandal, didn’t you?April thought.You don’t act like a woman in love. It’s Gregory who watches you like the world hangs on your every word.
“And how are your children?” April asked. “Samuel and Everett, is it?”
“Quite well.”
“And Samuel—when was he born? How soon after your wedding, I mean?”
Loretta laughed though it came with less ease. “What a ridiculous question.”
