SHE DANCED ALONE IN THE EMPTY BALLROOM AFTER MIDNIGHT-UNAWARE THE DUKE WAS WATCHING

absolute quiet. This silence was thicker than the first; Vivien could hear the clock on the mantel, a horse in the yard, and her aunt’s breath held tight while Petra’s face turned white.

“I thank her for her hospitality and her time,” the Duke said, his voice even and stating a fact without cruelty. “She is a fine young lady and will make some man a continue reading …