Ten
Matilda held her breath as the announcement of their arrival was made to a full room. “Captain Ford and Mrs. William Ford.”
Her first ever ball.
Her first evening out as William’s wife.
Matilda’s heart began to pound in time with the thrumming of a dozen dancing feet as her husband led her into a room lit by a hundred candles at least. The light reflected off four enormous mirrors that hung on the four walls of the Cavendish ballroom and dazzled her eyes. The sparkling windows were shrouded by an abundance of heavy burgundy drapes, and gold braid held them back to reveal the darkness of night beyond.
She grew weary thinking of the work involved to keep this room clean, only to notice a heartbeat later how many disapproving stares were aimed in her direction.
A tall man of middle years swung around. “You’re late,” he complained to William. He held out his hand though. “I thought you would miss my ball altogether.”
“Forgive me, Cavendish.” William glanced her way. “I lost all track of time.”
The man—whom she finished cataloging at wearing three rings on each hand, one obscenely large ruby cravat pin, and gold-headed walking stick—glanced her way with a raised eyebrow. “You should speak to her about that.”
William muttered softly. “Later.”
“I would advise not to delay.”
“Matilda, darling.” William released her. “Might I present His Grace, the Duke of Cavendish?”
Matilda dipped a curtsy to their host, remembering William’s instructions on the length and depth that would be required for meeting this particular man. He was not of royal blood, but he was extremely important in society. William expressed a wish that of all the instructions, she must pay most attention to this one. “Your Grace. It is an honor to meet you.”
Apparently appeased, the man bowed. “Madam.” He clicked his fingers, and a younger but elegant gentleman appeared almost immediately. Not dressed as flamboyantly as the host but very impressive just the same. “Lord Fox. Captain Ford. I trust you remember each other.”
“I do indeed. A pleasure to see you again, my lord,” William said.
The younger man, much warmer in manner than their host, grinned widely. “Captain and Mrs. Ford. I have looked forward to this meeting most eagerly.”
The fellow took her hand and squeezed her fingers. “Welcome among us, my dear woman. I hope you will allow me to introduce you to my wife very soon.”
“I should be very pleased to make her acquaintance.” She eased closer to William. Such a warm greeting after the frost of their host was just a touch disconcerting.
“Fox, see that my guests are comfortable.” The duke moved away without waiting for a response.
Lord Fox drew them deeper into the room, signaling to a nearby waiter. After William had handed her a glass of punch, they drew closer together to speak. “Everyone is talking about the shock of your marriage,” Lord Fox said in a low tone that reached her ears too.
“Let them.” William scowled.
“I just wanted to warn you that Cavendish is very concerned you have made a grave error in judgment.” Lord Fox glanced her way, frowning. “You know how he feels about misalliances.”
William straightened, capturing Matilda’s arm to wrap about his. “I know what I’m doing.”
Fox appeared ready to say more but suddenly glanced around. He grinned, a look of pure joy crossing his features. “Ah, here comes my one and only to say hello.”
A voluptuous woman a little older than Matilda, eyes bright with excitement, approached and held out her hand to William. “Darling.”
Matilda stared at William in shock as he returned the affectionate greeting. “It is good to see you again, Lady Fox. I have missed our discussions.”
Coldness filled Matilda as she was introduced. The woman was exquisitely dressed and had a pampered air about her. She also knew William very well. Matilda managed an adequate curtsy. “My lady.”
Lady Fox glanced away to William. “So this is the woman who replaced me in your affections.”
William coughed, glancing at the still smiling Lord Fox. “You’ve been married many years, pet.”
She shuddered and pasted a smile on her face. “The happiest five years of my life, Billy.”