Page 76 of A Stranger’s Gamble

Chapter Twenty-Five

Adam arrived with Shaw and Madeline fashionably late to find Balfour’s party in full swing. A large orchestra had set up near the right wall, and the dancefloor overflowed. Guests even milled about the balcony that ran the length of the room and overlooked the ballroom. Rumors circulated that Balfour operated outside the law, yet everyone wanted to be at this party. Society loved drama.

“Monthemer.”

Adam turned to face Mr. Hancock as he entered the ballroom behind them. The man extended a hand, which Adam accepted.

“Congratulations.” Hancock pumped Adam’s hand. “Where’s the lucky lady,” he spoke loudly to be heard over the din.

“Henry,” Madeline said. “I haven’t seen you in an age.”

“Maddie.” Hancock beamed, and Adam had the distinct impression they had a romantic history.

“I hope you will save me a dance,” Hancock said to her.

“Of course. First, shall we have some champagne?”

He grinned and leaned close. “If I recall, you like champagne very much.”

Madeline gave a throaty laugh. “You remember correctly.” She slipped a hand into the crook of his arm, then winked at Adam as they descended the stairs.

“The woman always did enjoy male company,” Liam said.

“Why not? She’s a beautiful woman,” Adam replied. Liam lifted his brows, and Adam grinned. “Simply an observation.” He began to scan the room. “I wonder where Balfour is.”

“Probably playing cards,” his father-in-law said. “The man cannot seem to resist a game.”

Adam looked at Liam. “Speaking of cards, where did Sophie learn to play?”

“From her cousins. They taught her to play from a young age. She is a tolerable player, though I forbade her from playing with anyone save family.” He narrowed his eyes. “Did she play with you?”

Adam laughed. “Nae.”

Liam regarded him but didn’t pursue the subject. They descended the stairs, then meandered through the crowd and were stopped every few minutes by well-wishers.

“Lord Monthemer,” a woman called.

Adam recognized that voice and grimaced. Mrs. Walker. She stepped in front of him, her young daughter at her side.

“Congratulations on your marriage,” Mrs. Walker said.

Adam bowed. “Thank you.”

“I do hope you will be as happy with the widow as you would have been with our innocent Lucy,” she said in a loud voice.

“Mrs. Walker, may I introduce my father-in-law, Liam Shaw,” Adam said.

The woman paled. “Um, so nice to meet you, sir. This is my daughter Lucy.”

Lucy smiled shyly. “Very nice to meet you, sir.”

A gleam appeared in Mrs. Walker’s eyes, and she pinned Liam with a stare. “Lucy’s dance card has room for one more gentleman, sir. She is a superb dancer.”

“Very kind of you, ma’am,” he replied. “But I am otherwise engaged.” Lia looked at the girl. “I’m sure Miss Walker will enjoy herself by dancing with the young men who are sure to fight for the honor of a dance with her.”

Lucy dropped her gaze to the floor.

“Nonsense,” Mrs. Walker said. “Older gentlemen are far more skilled and know how to treat a lady. She would be honored to dance with you.”