Every eye fixed on him. Damn. Nothing more frightening than three determined ladies waiting for him to pronounce judgment. “I don’t know a thing about simple coiffures or outrageous hair fashions. But I know what I like, and I like yours.”
Rosy beamed at him, and Mother gave him an approving nod. It made a lump stick in his throat. Their duckling had turned into a swan. He didn’t know when or how it had happened, but he was proud of her for being able to transform into a diamond of the first water. Meanwhile, he’d barely managed to become iron of the first water.
And just like that, he remembered why he couldn’t marry the likes of Diana. Because he could never be part of her world.
Or could he? She kept saying he was already part of it.
“Well, then,” Diana said. “Let’s all proceed to the formal drawing room, where the receiving line will begin.”
He stepped forward to block her way. “Can you spare a minute to discuss something with me?” At least he could remedy one difficulty that lay between them.
She arched a brow as the other women went on without her. “Before you even mention it, the answer is no. I am not going to attend the ball, and you cannot make me. There are too many things still to be done, and I need to consult with your housekeeper.”
“Oh. No, that wasn’t it, although if you change your mind about that—”
“I won’t. And you still haven’t had dance lessons, so it’s not as if we could dance together.”
“Actually, I have had lessons. What do you think I was doing while you lot were discussing flower arrangements? I’m not very good, but . . .”
Her jaw dropped. “You had dance lessons? You wonderful, sneaky man! I had no idea.”
“Does that mean you’re willing to change into a ball gown and join me?”
“No, indeed. It means you can go out there and do something other than stand on the side glowering at Rosy’s every partner.” She added in an arch tone, “You might even meet a woman worthy of your trust.”
“I already have,” he said. “She’s standing right in front of me.”
For a moment she looked nonplussed. “That’s not what you said the last time we were together.”
“I know. I was a fool. But then, I’m sure you already realize that.”
Her features softened a fraction before she turned suspicious. “How am I to believe you?”
“I’m not sure. Perhaps by considering that most of the time, I’ve told you the truth.”
“Hmm,” she said, and crossed her arms.
Rosy darted back in the room. “Diana, we’re ready.”
“I’m coming,” she called out, then turned to him with a frown. “You’re telling me this now? When there’s nothing on earth I can do about it?”
“I just wanted you to know.”
“Well, then, thank you. Now, if you’ll excuse me . . .”
“Actually, that’s not even what I was waiting to tell you. I wished to make you aware that I no longer require Rosy to have five male visitors a day in the ensuing week in order for me to pay you double your fee. I will do it no matter how many visitors she ends up having. Because the things you have given her are beyond price.” He meant every word.
Diana stared at him for half a minute at least. “What . . . has brought on this rush of generosity? Are you well?” She touched the back of her hand to his forehead. “Wait, is this your idea of a prank?”
“I’m serious, damn it!”
She laughed. “You must be if you’re using bad language.”
“Diana . . .”
“It’s all right. I’m only teasing. And later we can discuss this all you please. But right now we really must go to the drawing room.”
“Fine.” He offered her his arm, and she took it, causing something in him to swell with pride. It was the most peculiar sensation—to be proud of having a certain woman on his arm—a peculiar sensation for him anyway.