Chapter Twelve
Over the next few weeks, Alice hardly had time for anything other than the cottages and preparing for the ball, which was only a few hours away. Her mama had taken her and Victoria up to Town for new gowns for the Season, which, too, was to commence in only a week.
Alice wondered if she’d taken on too much. Everything seemed to be happening at once. Her maid pulled her hair and she gasped.
“I’m sorry, my lady. I cannot seem to get your hair to do as I wish tonight.”
Alice passed her a strand of diamonds that would thread through her hair. “It looks perfect as it is, Mary. Don’t fuss too much more with it.” Only a couple of strands of hair sat against her shoulder, and she smiled, loving the soft but structured coiffure Mary had achieved.
“There, my lady,” her maid said, standing back and smiling. “Are you pleased?”
Alice studied her hair a moment and thought it the best her maid had ever done. “You’ve surpassed yourself. Thank you, Mary.” Alice stood and pulled on her silk gloves. “No need to wait up for me tonight, I can put myself to bed.”
“Thank you, my lady.”
Alice walked from the room and already the sound of laughter floated upstairs.
She headed down the staircase and could see a flurry of people arriving, her mama and brother greeting them in the foyer before a footman showed them toward the ballroom, which looked near full to capacity.
Excited at the thought of dancing, laughing, and drinking champagne until the early hours of the morning, she smiled. It had been so long since she’d attended a ball, well, at least since last Season, but a party was always welcome, especially when held at home, at her beloved Dunsleigh.
Spying her sister, Alice headed toward Victoria. “You look beautiful. Are those Mama’s pearls?”
“Yes,” Victoria said, touching her necklace. “She let me borrow them for the night.”
“You will turn heads.” Alice teased, gaining an eyeroll from Victoria. “I think not, but even if I do, I’m not interested. In fact, I may leave early.”
“Why?” Alice took a glass of champagne from a passing footman, smiling her thanks.
“My pointer is in labor. I may have puppies even now, and here I am, at a ball where no one holds my attention.”
“No one?” Alice looked about the room. Lord Cavendish certainly seemed interested in Victoria, if his study of her was any indication. Poor man, her sister was oblivious to him, as she rattled on about her dogs.
“I am glad that the storms that threatened earlier passed without causing too much strife. It is warm, though, probably too warm for a comfortable ball. We may have to have the staff open some windows to allow in some air.”
“Or we could go outside.” Alice winked at Victoria, taking a sip of champagne. “Has Lord Arndel arrived yet? I cannot see him.”
“I don’t know how you cannot. He’s over near the supper room doors and has been staring at you since you arrived. He’s awfully handsome this evening, even if he is a criminal.”
Alice shushed her. “He’s promised never to act in such a way again. You should not speak in such a way, and here, of all places.”
Victoria sighed. “I apologize. I’m just not in the mood for a ball. I didn’t mean to snap at you.”
“Apology accepted. Why don’t you go talk to Mama. She seems to have finished greeting everyone, and once you’ve done that, you can slip away. Nothing will happen here tonight that you’ve not experienced before.”
Her sister’s eyes brightened at the notion. “Do you think I could dare?”
Alice shrugged. “Why not? No one will notice.” Her sister didn’t stop to wish her a good night, but strode toward their mama like a woman on a determined mission. Alice laughed, shaking her head at her younger sibling.
Casually, Alice looked to where Lord Arndel stood. Was he really watching her? He was and the moment she met his eyes Alice realized her sister had been correct. Heat radiated from his look and the breath in her lungs vanished.
Of course, men had looked at her in such a way before, but normally she’d ignored them. She could not ignore Lord Arndel…Callum. He made her yearn for things she shouldn’t. Over the past three years, seeing both her sisters marry in love matches had made her more determined than ever to find the same kind of union. To love and be loved in such an unrelenting, intense way would be wondrous. Something told Alice that to be loved in such a way from Callum would be even more so.
His lips lifted in a small smile, and her heart did a little flip. Alice took in his attire for the night, the superfine coat that accentuated his lordship’s fine physical form. For the past two weeks, they had been in each other’s company quite often but tonight was different. To be near him again where there was no work to do, no choices to be made, or supplies to be ordered, changed things.
And to know that within the next few hours they would dance, enjoy each other’s company simply because they could and for no other reason, left her body in turmoil in the most delicious way.
Heat crept across her skin, and she flicked her fan open, waving it idly before her face. She hoped his lordship would disregard the rose hue that burst across her cheekbones. He pushed away from the wall and strolled toward her.
“Lady Alice,” he said, finally making her side and bowing.
Alice curtsied, ignoring how the deep tone of his voice made her insides melt like ice on a hot summer’s day. She smiled. “Good evening, my lord. I hope you’ve been enjoying yourself.”
“It seems you’re most talented, Alice,” he said, leaning close to ensure privacy. The breath of his words sent shivers across her skin.
“How so?” Alice asked, noting that she could smell the delicious scent of lemons wafting from his skin. Had his lordship taken a bath prior to attending the ball? Within a moment of thinking of such a thing, the image of Callum in a hip bath, laying back, relaxing with soapsuds about him, left her speechless. She swallowed.
“It seems that you’re not only capable of renovating cottages, but you’re able to pull a ball together with nary a bit of trouble. You should be very proud. The room looks marvelous.”
He smiled and the secure little world she lived in that kept Lord Arndel at a distance shattered about her. Of course, she’d seen him smile before, had even heard a laugh or two, but tonight it was carefree and true, and he looked more handsome and relaxed than she cared to admit.
With less wit than she ever thought herself capable of, she stared at his mouth that continued to talk of the guests and how accommodating everyone was being. His voice was a seductive hum, and his lips looked so soft that she wanted to whisk him outside so she could feel them against hers. The corner of his eyes crinkled and a dimple appeared on his left cheek. She was lost. But worse, was the fact that she was not the only one to notice.
Alice cast a slaying glare to those who dared look at him. “Thank you for the compliment. I am glad the ball meets with your approval, as it is in your honor, after all, to introduce you to the local gentry.”
Concern flickered across his face.
“What is it, Callum?”
“I don’t feel comfortable for the ball to be in my honor, after what I’ve done. It’s not right.”
“Only Victoria and I know of that, and we intend to keep it that way. So for tonight you must play your part. The ball is in your honor and so it will stay. Make peace with it, my lord, for I’m going to introduce you to a great many people, and you’ll need to keep your wits about you.”
Her words brought forth a grin. “How so?”
Alice gestured to the room and the many eyes that were upon them. “Look around. You, my lord, are the most popular gentleman this side of London. I hope you’ve brought your dancing shoes, for they’ll be in for a lot of use tonight.”
“And if I only want to dance with you? What then?”
How wickedly delightful that he was being so honest with her. “I can but dance with you twice, any more than that and we’ll be the talk of the county.”
His hand clasped hers and he placed it on his arm, holding it there. “You’re the only woman I want in my arms.”
She bit her lip, pleasure coursing through her. “Come, my lord. You have guests to meet.”
He conceded, and over the next half hour, Alice took Lord Arndel about the room and introduced him to an array of people, all of whom lived in Surrey.
The orchestra started up the strains of a minuet, and Alice watched as her mother opened the ball, wishing everyone a lovely evening. Alice turned back to the small group she and Lord Arndel stood with, only to see him bow before Miss Keyworth, Baron Lymington’s eldest daughter, and ask her to dance.
For a moment, betrayal coursed through her, before her manners came to the fore and saved her from causing a scandal with her glowering visage, especially when the simpering miss all but fluttered her eyelashes at Callum and gleefully took his arm.
Alice made a quick departure from the group and walked toward her mama, who stood watching the ball beside the musicians.
Alice took her mother’s arm and watched the dancers, while really only watching one set, who right at this moment, were laughing and chatting amicably.
Her mother considered her a moment before she said, “Are you well, my dear? You seem a little out of sorts.”
Alice shook her head, not liking that her mama was so insightful or that she felt on the brink of tears. How absurd to be disappointed that she was not dancing with the most handsome man in the room. Feeling his arms about her, his laughter and smiles just for her.
The dancers seemed to float together and then apart, and Alice fought not to grind her teeth. Miss Keyworth was too short to be suitable for Lord Arndel, and should this dance ever end, she would be sure to tell him of that fact.
Not that she was considering his lordship for her husband, not now that she was aware of his past as the Surrey Bandit. She was a duke’s daughter. She couldn’t marry a man with such a shady past. If the secret ever came out, her family would be ruined.
A passing waiter stopped before them, and Alice procured herself another glass of champagne. “I am well, Mama, maybe a little tired, if anything. Do not get overly concerned. Perhaps we should mingle. There are a lot of people here tonight who we haven’t seen in some time.”
“In a moment, dear,” her mama replied. “I’m not sure if you’ve noticed, but there is a flurry of fine gentlemen here this evening. Many of whom are looking in your direction, not that you have taken the time to notice, so fixated on Lord Arndel.”
Alice met her mama’s eyes and read the mirth that sparkled within them.
“Of course, there are many gentlemen looking in our direction. Am I not standing next to the most beautiful duchess in all of England?” Alice laughed at the high color that covered her mama’s cheeks.
“You tease, but I’m serious.” The duchess smiled and nodded toward one man in particular. “That is Sir Liam Sledmere, a baronet. I believe he is the most handsome man here. Don’t you agree?”
Alice shrugged.
“He has a small estate here in Surrey, but spends a great deal of time in York. How I would love to visit that part of the country, should I have family there, of course.”
Alice chuckled at her mama and her barely veiled hint about whom she should marry and where she should live. “York is a very great distance from Dunsleigh. I would hardly see you, should I consider such a match.”
“I think you should consider any offer that makes your heart not your own.” Her mama threw her a knowing look. “And I do believe he will ask you to dance very soon, and I should so love to see you dancing, just as your sister is.”
“She is?” Alice looked out onto the floor, having not expected Victoria to still be at the ball, or dancing, for that matter. “Lord Cavendish is very handsome and kind, from all reports. He has three sisters.”
“Yes, and all younger than him, with stepsiblings from his father’s second marriage.” Her mama paused. “Victoria wished to leave only a half hour ago. I’m so glad I wouldn’t allow her departure, for we would’ve missed how lovely she looks dancing and enjoying herself with something other than horseflesh or dogs.”
Alice laughed, knowing only too well how much Victoria loved her animals.
“Lord Arndel also seems to be enjoying himself.”
Much to her annoyance, Alice looked to where Callum danced with Miss Keyworth. “I introduced them before the dancing commenced. She seems quite taken with his lordship.”
“And he as well, although perhaps you ought to tell Lord Arndel that his hand needs to be on her hip and not so far about her waist.”
“I will do no such thing.” Alice gasped. “I cannot tell his lordship such a thing. Even for me, that’s a little forward.”
“You are his friend, are you not? The two of you have certainly been in each other’s company a great deal over the last few weeks. I don’t believe he would see such advice as crass or uncalled for. He’s new in Society and we should help those who’re capable of making a faux pas without their knowing.”
Alice conceded the point, although with any luck she would forget her task by the time she saw Lord Arndel again. “I will see what I can do.”
Her mama patted her hand. “Good girl. Now, check your gown, my dear, Sir Liam seems to be heading in our direction.”
“York is too far away, Mama. I’m sure I can find a husband by Season’s end that is closer to southern England.” She didn’t want to think about how very close Lord Arndel lived. Although Alice had not wanted to be too close to her family, her thoughts had changed on the subject. Home was beautiful and a safe haven for her whenever she wanted. And Surrey was very pretty, and everyone knew her here.
“Just think, my dear. Having you situated thus would be a blessing for when I travel north to visit Elizabeth in Scotland. We could break our journey with you in Yorkshire. I believe his lordship spends the better half of six months a year at the estate. Beautiful gardens, I’m told.”
Alice studied the baronet, watching as he procured her brother before heading more purposefully in their direction. Nerves battered her innards, and she fought not to lose her equilibrium about her forthcoming meeting.
She’d never met Sir Liam before, although there was much gossip about him. His scandalous lifestyle in London had always intrigued her, but to think of herself as his wife, of having to live with a lifestyle that was not what she wished for, made her decision easy.
He checked his cravat as they came to stand before them, and she smiled, liking the fact he was anxious. Maybe his lifestyle had been an exaggeration of the truth. It wouldn’t be the first time, she mused, dipping into a small curtsy as he bowed.
“Mama, Alice, may I present Sir Liam Sledmere.”
Her brother called over a footman for drinks, and Alice took the opportunity to study his lordship. He was handsome, to be sure, but not as dark as Lord Arndel, the angel of the underworld. No, Lord Sledmere was golden-haired and blue-eyed.
“Pleasure to meet you, Sir Liam. I understand you reside in Yorkshire?” the duchess asked, giving Alice a pointed glance.
“Yes, madam, at Holbrook Hall.” Again he fidgeted with his cravat and Alice wondered if he had a nervous tick.
Her attention stole over his attire. The silver embroidered waistcoat, which suited his complexion very well, made his lordship seem ethereal.
“Sir Liam is Lord Arndel’s cousin, although once removed.”
A member of Callum’s family was here? Alice gathered herself, having not expected such a thing. “You’re the first gentleman we’ve met of his lordship’s family. How lovely for you to come and celebrate his entrance into our small society.”
“Ah yes, Lord Arndel. We are not close, but as I also have a house here in Surrey, I wished to attend, if only to see you, Lady Alice.”
She smiled, although his response was odd, as if he wanted those about him to know Lord Arndel and he were not friends and never would be. “Surely, I should think you’d be happy Kester House is in such capable hands again.”
“Again?” Sir Liam asked.
Alice narrowed her eyes, not liking how he was eluding her statement. “The previous earl was also your cousin, I presume. I should think you know very well as to what I suggest as to the running of the estate, or lack thereof.”
Sir Liam’s eyes narrowed and so, too, did Alice’s. “The late viscount ran the estate into the ground and near lost everything before it was inherited and saved by Lord Arndel.”
Sir Liam laughed, but even to Alice, it sounded condescending. “It seems you hold Lord Arndel in great regard. How very kind of you.” She decided, on the spot, she disliked the man.
Alice shrugged. “I don’t shy away from the truth, and what I said is the truth, is it not?” When he didn’t answer, she smiled to buffer her assault. What an ass of a man. “Does Lord Arndel know you’re here? I should think he would like to see his cousin.” At the accentuation of his familial relation, Sir Liam looked out toward the dancers, biding time before he spoke.
“I’m sure I shall see him soon enough.”
“As a gentleman, I should expect nothing less.”
“Alice,” her mother chided, glaring at her before smiling at his lordship. Alice stopped listening when the conversation turned to gardens and the hot weather that was well received, but terrible for some of the more delicate plantings.
She looked out onto the dance floor, the strains of the dance slowing toward an end. Although it didn’t stop Lord Arndel’s dance partner from gazing up at him with a look that bordered on adoration. Silly little fool. What was she trying to do? Have him propose on their first introduction?
“Would you care to dance, Lady Alice? I believe a cotillion is next.”
Alice fought not to roll her eyes. Or perhaps by the little muscle twitch on his temple she didn’t succeed. More than likely it was another odd twitch the man had.
At her mother’s pointed stare, she took a deep breath and nodded. “Thank you, my lord, I would like that very much.” She allowed him to lead her onto the floor.
The dance, as Alice expected, was uncomfortable and long, so grueling, in fact, that she thought seriously about walking off the dance floor. Sir Liam was a rude, uncouth, boring man—one she didn’t need to see, or talk to, ever again. That he hated his cousin Lord Arndel was evident with every barb he could muster against him.
Eventually, she was able to escape, only to see Lord Arndel dancing yet again with the same chit he’d stepped out with earlier. Did he not know the rules within the ton? She would have to remind him it was frowned upon to step out too many times with the same young woman or it would be seen as a statement of imminent interest, or betrothal even.
Alice did not find either consideration amusing, and by the time supper arrived, even she’d had enough of the night. The ball was nothing like she’d expected. Her sister had escaped, her mama was deep in conversation with the matrons who patroled the outer fringes of the room, and she was alone.
Alice stood to the side of the ballroom with a glass of champagne, her only company, while not even the bubbles that floated up through the crystal glass were enough to affect her mood. It had soured the moment Lord Arndel walked Miss Chambers, a gentleman’s daughter, into supper. Did he not want to spend any time with her at all?
Not once had she caught him looking in her direction to see if she were enjoying the night, nor did he seek her out for a dance. She’d had plenty of gentlemen asking for a dance throughout the night, but the one man she wanted to dance with had denied her the opportunity.
It was not to be borne.
Alice wandered into the supper room, placed a crab cake onto her plate, and went to sit with a group of women friends. Their chatter was amicable enough but filled with talk of the handsome Lord Arndel, which was exactly what Alice wanted to avoid.
She quickly ate and made her escape, walking through the ballroom and exiting through a door beside the gaming room. The hallway was dim, with only a few scarce candles alight, as she made her way toward the terrace.
Outside, she sighed in relief, as this side of the terrace had not been opened for the ball and remained in darkness. The moon was a perfect circle in the night sky, and she studied it a moment, before sighing and walking over to a stone seat nestled within a cluster of ivy.
She caught a flash of movement to her side and Alice stifled a squeak.
“You’re free, I see.”
The statement, spoken with the deep baritone she’d longed to hear all night, made her stomach clench, along with annoyance at being ignored.
Lord Arndel stepped into the light from farther along the terrace and strolled toward her. Alice remained seated as he came to sit beside her.
“I’ve been free most of the night, if you’d bothered to look, although by the amount of dancing you’ve partaken in, I doubt you have.”
He grinned, and she ignored the awareness he always brought forth in her, not wanting a reminder as to why all the women in the ballroom were tittering over his lordship.
“I would not have taken you as the jealous type.”
Alice gasped. “I am not, sir, and you should apologize for saying such a thing. I’m merely concerned for your reputation. You seem to have forgotten that to step out more than twice with a young lady is frowned upon. Or that your hand, when dancing, needs to be above their hip, not on their ass.”
He scoffed, leaning back into the vine. “My reputation is quite sound, I assure you, but as for you, out here in the dark with a gentleman, unmarried…well, I cannot say the same for you. Now who is being scandalous?”
Alice gritted her teeth because his remark was true. Damn it. “I’m safe with you, for we, my lord, are not romantically involved, nor will we ever be.” He was scant inches away from her, and Alice was reminded of the last time they’d sat too near each other. Her breathing hitched and she shuffled away.
“My cousin, Sir Liam, is not a gentleman I would suggest as your future spouse.”
“That, my lord, is not up to you,” she countered, a small part of her delighting in the fact that he sounded as jealous as she was. “And please, pray tell me, who you have in mind for the position, if not him? Until the Season commences, there are not many to choose from here in Surrey.”
“He’s a pompous ass and I’ll not let him have you.”
There was vehemence to his statement that sent her heart galloping. “Will you not? And please, do tell me how you’re going to stop me if my head is turned in the baronet’s direction?”
He looked at her. “Is it?”
Alice shivered from his heated stare and she shook her head, words eluding her. “No, but one day a gentleman will turn it, and then what will you do?” She looked back toward the gardens, her cheeks burning from his continued study of her. “You cannot stop love and I’m determined to find it, whether you like the gentleman or not.”