Page 71 of Only Pleasure Will Do

She curtsied and caught sight of the pinched lips of her three friends. Obviously, they were much amused by her current partner. But the man was a titled gentleman and that meant he must be afforded every bit the courtesy and respect she’d showed Lord Waverly. Even if the man’s style was as ludicrous as anything she’d ever seen in the House of Pleasure. “Shall we join the dancers?”

“Of course, my dear.” Verwood offered his arm, rather stiff in his tight-fitting jacket, but she took it just the same. “Allow me.”

All eyes were again on her, but Maddy took comfort in the belief that most people were staring at Verwood rather than her. They took their places for another country dance, “The Black Nag,” and arrived just in time to bow and curtesy before taking hands and beginning the short promenade up and back.

“You are enjoying your debut into society tonight, Miss Forrester?” Lord Verwood inquired politely as they returned to center then sashayed down and back up.

“I am not used to being out in company, my lord. Especially so much company,” Maddy glanced around the crowded room, now seeming fuller than just a few minutes before, “but yes, I find myself beginning to enjoy the evening very much.” Maddy hadn’t thought she’d relish partnering the macaroni, but the man danced extremely well. She had to be careful when they were required to pass left around their partner, however, not to be hit by his sword. Other than that, he was actually very graceful.

They had begun the second pass down the set when Lord Verwood leaned toward her. “You dance extremely well, Miss Forrester. I would very much like to be your partner again.”

Not an unexpected request. “I am honored, my lord, but I fear I have already promised the rest of my dances for this evening. However, I have not promised all of them for the ball at Lady Trevor’s.”

“You misunderstand me, Miss Forrester.” At that moment, they had to part as the gentlemen heyed amongst themselves then the ladies did so as well. When they came back to promenade, he continued.

“I think you did not understand my request, my dear. I wish to partner you for eternity. As your husband.”

Maddy’s feet stuttered as they sashayed up and back. Well, Kat had forewarned her she might receive more than one proposal tonight. Why did men insist on rushing into something as important as marriage? Of course, she had been just as hasty when the gentleman was…

Drawing a deep breath, she smiled into Verwood’s face. She’d been schooled rigorously on how to gently refuse a proposal. “I beg your pardon, my lord, but I did misunderstand your intention. I am greatly honored by this profession of your regard for me, and your desire to bestow upon me the distinction and protection of your name. However, I am afraid I am not able to accept your kind offer at this time. Lord and Lady Dalbury—”

“Oh, I think you must accept, Miss Forrester.”

Frowning, Maddy shook her head as they began the third pass through the steps. “I assure you, Lord Verwood, I will not do so. We have only just met tonight and neither I nor Lord or Lady Dalbury believe it prudent to marry when one is not fully acquainted.”

“But we have met before, Miss Forrester.”

An icy chill swept down Maddy’s back as her breath stilled in her chest.

“Or should I say, Madam Vestry?”