Page 10 of The Earl’s Marriage of Convenience

Chapter Four

Eliza smiled at her partner and then curtseyed when the dance ended. The strains of the supper waltz carried through the ballroom, and she turned to look for her next partner. Lord Langshire approached from the middle of the ballroom, and she watched as people’s attention turned to him as he passed, their gazes curious and interested.

She’d certainly be a source of speculation tomorrow. It could work in her favor, however. Attention was what she needed, as long as it was the right type of attention. Of course, no one could look into her past. Though difficult, it might not be impossible to discover the truth, but if she were distracting enough, the benefits of the attention would only secure her more dances, more suitors, and all she needed was one. One could change everything. She glanced back to Langshire.

He stopped in front of her and bowed. With a welcoming smile, she offered her hand and settled into the frame of the waltz. His hand was warm and oddly comforting at her hip, and she glanced up at him, letting her smile soften as she met his inviting expression. He stepped lightly and led her into the other swirling dancers.

“Enjoying your evening?” he asked conversationally.

“Indeed, it improves by the moment,” she replied, keeping her tone shy, rather than brazen so her words would come across softer.

“A sentiment I agree with,” he added, studying her expression. “Tell me about your family.” It was a polite, easy question.

For most. But for her, she carefully organized the story, so she’d be able to repeat it flawlessly, for anyone, just as she’d practiced.

She gave a delicate shrug, a whisper of movement, to set the stage to her words. “There’s not much to say.” She smiled softly, wistfully, as if missing a home that had been blessing rather than a cover-up.

“I’m sure there’s plenty to be said,” he encouraged, almost flirtatious.

She continued, “I grew up near Ludlow … though quite removed from the town itself. My family’s estate was a few miles from town, and so you can imagine that this size of gathering is quite mammoth to me,” she added.

“Yes, I believe you. As I said, I spend most of my time in Surrey at my country estate. To be sure, it’s much closer to London that the Welsh countryside you call home, but the life is quieter to say the least.” He gave a soft laugh and then glanced around the room. “This is … certainly a lot.”

She answered his laugh with her own soft giggle. “Indeed, it is.” She met his gaze. “It’s nice to talk with someone who understands.” She held his gaze for a moment then glanced down, and away, counting to two, and then she glanced back to him.

His expression had softened, and he’d gone from curious to kinship.

Common ground, it was an oft-unused tool, and she made a mental note to remember the chink in his armor. “There was nothing remarkable about growing up surrounded by the forests and endless hedgerows, except I learned to enjoy riding my gelding for hours on end, if only to avoid my governess.” Eliza gave a sidelong glance as if imparting a secret.

“I find I’d much rather be out among the trees than be confined by walls and teaching.”

“Of that we are in complete agreement. I was a terrible student, but I did learn to dance.” She arched a brow. “It was one of the few subjects I enjoyed.”

“And you’re a lovely dancer at that.”

“Flattery,” she teased. “But since it’s one of my few learned skills, I’ll accept whatever compliments you wish to give without reservation.”

“A lady who knows her strengths. I approve,” he flirted, his lips drawing into a welcoming smile. “You know, this evening has taken a delightful turn. For that, I must give you credit as well.”

“Then we are in agreement once again. Although, I’d give the credit to you, my lord.” The music faded, and he slowed their steps before releasing her, as if wishing for an additional excuse to keep their conversation going.

She debated on how to proceed. Should she keep him wanting more, to ensure he’d pay a call tomorrow? Did he need further encouragement? She tried to study him quickly. Resolve seemed to solidify in his expression, and she took that as encouragement that he’d be calling tomorrow.

Her next partner was quickly approaching, and so she used the few moments remaining to her advantage. “Thank you for making my first London waltz such a memorable one.” Her words were soft, inviting, and she gave him a shy expression.

“The pleasure was mine, Lady Eliza. Would you care to take a turn about the room with me? Provided your cousin approves, of course.” He offered his arm, already sure she’d accept.

Her heart swelled with assurance that she’d sealed his interest.

“Ah, Lady Eliza, I believe this is our dance?” A younger gentleman greeted them and offered his hand as well.

Eliza met Lord Langshire’s gaze, giving an apologetic smile, and said, “Apparently, I’m otherwise engaged. My apologies, I would have enjoyed it,” she offered, making sure to remind him it wasn’t her choice to decline; it was out of propriety and a previously engaged dance.

This was the perfect ending, she decided, as he bowed, kissed her hand, and whispered, “Indeed, later, Lady Eliza.”

She’d give her last farthing in a bet that he’d be one of the first to call upon her tomorrow.

Which suited her perfectly. Respectability, age, and interesting enough to not be utterly dull but happy with a retired life. Those were all elements on her list.