The Reckless Love of an Heir: An epic historical romance perfect for fans of period drama Victoria. Jane Lark
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Название: The Reckless Love of an Heir: An epic historical romance perfect for fans of period drama Victoria
Автор: Jane Lark
Издательство: HarperCollins
Жанр: Историческая литература
isbn: 9780008139834
isbn:
Pride burned with a roaring flame in his chest. It must be the first time Sarah had experienced such recognition and it would be the first time she would dance outside their home, or a member of their family’s home. When the season began she would come to London and dance too. His sister, all grown up, and there was Christine to follow her.
A different sensation clasped in his chest, one that was more brutal and aggressively masculine. A need to protect her. He knew too much of London. Too much of what occurred outside the ballrooms. When she came to London he would need to watch her. There would be rakes and scoundrels all about her; men like him and his father.
The thought stabbed him with embarrassment. From that perspective perhaps he could appreciate his father’s view. He would not care for Sarah to know anything of his life in town.
“Wine?” he offered when they neared the refreshment table. When she nodded, he picked up a glass and handed it to her.
“Thank you, Henry.”
Their mother and father approached. “Mama?” He picked up another glass for her.
Several people in the room stared at them yet others came forward, and then the introductions began. “This is my eldest daughter, Sarah… This is my son, Lord Henry…”
The people Henry was introduced to were mostly the merchants and businessmen of York, though there were a small number of untitled relations of aristocratic families. Of course the businessmen and merchants benefited from his father’s patronage and so they were very keen to be introduced to his heir and compliment Sarah. Sarah would have been complimented even if she looked hideous because these men and their wives were merely scraping to gain the interest of an earl.
Henry was glad when the current dance came to its end so he and Sarah could escape all the bowing. His intent, then, was to dance all night and avoid anymore fuss.
He smiled at Sarah, conspiratorially, and lifted his good arm. “Shall we?”
“Yes please.”
Sarah’s fingers lay on top of the fabric of his evening coat. He escorted her on to the floor.
It was another country dance, they stood and faced one another. Her cheeks had turned pink. She was holding the attention of many people in this room, and as many women as men. He presumed the women jealous of his sister’s wealth and beauty. She would have a dowry that would be sought after as much as herself. Yes, he would need to protect her in town.
He winked at her, to make her relax.
She smiled, and then the music and the dancing began.
They smiled at each other every time they came together in the set, and he whispered some quip about their companions. She was laughing each time they parted.
When the dance ended they returned to their parents to take a few sips of wine. Sarah was breathing heavily yet the colour in her cheeks was now from exercise and enjoyment.
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