CHAPTER 14
The Bilkshore ducal mansion was decidedly one of the most beautiful properties in London. To make matters more enticing, the new eligible Duke was American, as were his not one, nor two, or even three, but four younger brothers.
London society could overlook quite a bit when it came to money and rank. Normally, they tended to snub their brethren across the pond—vulgar Americans. But the Stanford family was welcomed with open arms.
Hetty’s mother had lectured her all day about the eligibility and handsome brothers. Now, as they rode in the carriage towards the ball, the Dowager gave her final thoughts on the subject. Surely, out of the five Hetty could find one that was tolerable.
“Mother, I am sure that every lady in attendance is going to be vying for the Stanford men. Why would you think I stood a chance? And I thought that you were pushing for Miles Warner?”
The Dowager tut tutted, “Nonsense darling, you are every bit as fashionable and well-appointed as any deb out this season. And you insisted that there wasn’t a connection between you and Lord Chambers. Or was I mistaken?”
Hetty’s lips compressed into a line, “If you are trying to trick me into admitting something, it isn’t going to work.”
The Dowager fluttered innocently, “I was doing nothing of the sort. I just want what’s best for you, Henrietta. And perhaps that might be one of these Americans. They are quite handsome, you know.”
Hetty fought the urge to roll her eyes. She knew that if she agreed with her mother, the Dowager would be matchmaking all evening. And they were handsome, anyone with eyes could see that.
“Let’s just have a nice evening, mother. No matchmaking or any other evil plots.”
The Dowager smiled, “I wouldn’t dream of it.”
Hetty knew that was about as good of a response that she was going to get.
After they had removed from the carriage and walked up the grand steps, Hetty could see the Stanford brothers greeting each of the guests. It was quite a crush this evening. This seemed to be the event of the season this year.
Hetty was introduced to the duke first. Having just inherited the title, Oliver Reginald Stanford, had gone from a merchant heir to royalty in a matter of months. It was a surprise to all, most especially himself.
His Grace was tall and slender with wide shoulders that didn’t seem to be enhanced by his tailor. He had a ready smile and kind eyes, that endeared him to nearly everyone in attendance.
“It is a pleasure to meet such a lovely young lady,” his golden eyes flashed at her and for a moment Hetty was quite dazzled.
“It is lovely to meet you as well, Your Grace. I hope that you are finding England a comfortable new home?” Hetty curtsied prettily.
He grinned, “I am still getting used to it, I must admit. But all in all, it has been a good experience. I almost do not wish to introduce you to these scoundrels that I call brothers.”
Ryan, the next brother in line turned to his brother, “Stop hogging all of the pretty ones, Oliver.”
Hetty blushed, it wasn’t every day that eligible bachelors fought over her.
The Duke elbowed his brother good naturedly, “I saw her first, I just want that noted.” He turned back to Hetty, “These lovely creatures are Lady Henrietta Moberly, and her mother the Dowager Viscountess of Moberly. Ladies, this is my twin brother Mr. Ryan Egbert Stanford.”
Ryan elbowed his brother in return, “He likes to tell people my middle name because he thinks it will embarrass me. Little does he know that I use it to my advantage.”
Hetty giggled, “How so, if I might be so bold to ask?”
Ryan beamed, “Most girls feel sorry for me if I play my cards right. A gentleman needs to be consoled about these things.”
“Oh, for the love of…” The Duke feigned incredulousness.
Ryan’s eyes danced, “Not now, Oliver, you wouldn’t want Miss Moberly to think you were jealous of our new-found friendship.”
The Duke shook his head, “Do you see? He is a scoundrel in every sense of the word. And he’s not the worst of the lot.”
Ryan laughed outright, “That would-be James, no doubt about it.”
Hetty hadn’t expected such charming down to earth young men. They meet Ian next, who shared the Duke’s golden eyes, unlike his twin who had deep brown ones.
Jacob stood next to Ian, and seemed to have a quiet confidence, despite not being as outlandish has his other siblings.
After Ian and Jacob, there was the ever-dashing James, who true to their word was by far the most outspoken and even so boldly asked Hetty to save a dance. Once he did that, each of the previous brothers called foul and soon they all had a spot on her dance card.
As they walked away, the Dowager was thrilled by what she considered Hetty’s new conquests. “They spent such a long time speaking with us. I have never seen anything like it! Henrietta, you have quite out shown every other young woman here. “
Hetty felt flush, “Mother, they were simply being friendly. Americans do things differently than we do here.”
“Nonsense, darling, they were bowled over by your beauty and grace. I have a feeling we are in for a night to remember.”
Hetty shook her head in amusement, “Or, for the usual ball, with the same suspects, dancing the same dances, and speaking the same idle chatter.”
The Dowager shook her head, “No, I am telling you, Henrietta, I have a feeling that tonight is going to change our lives.”