She swallowed thickly, blinking rapidly to bring her mind back into focus.
"I want to hold you in my arms," he continued in that seductive whisper. With each syllable that fell from his lips, she felt herself shiver.
"We are in public, Victor," she warned weakly.
"Well if we cannot, I know of another way to get what I want," he said, stretching to his full height while she watched him with a question in her eyes.
"Can I interest you in a dance, Your Grace?" Victor requested, a naughty smirk on his face.
"Yes, I would love to," she replied, taking his outstretched arm and watching as a smile of victory claimed his lips as he led her to the dance floor.
As the musicians struck up the strings to a waltz, she understood why he thought this dance could substitute for a hug.
The waltz was the most intimate of all English dances, and that was one reason it was shunned by the matrons when it firstappeared in English high society. Her husband aimed to take advantage of its scandalous nature.
Sure enough, when they faced each other for the dance, he pulled her into his body more than was considered proper.
"Victor, everyone is watching," she hissed in warning.
"What did I do wrong this time? I am just dancing with my beautiful wife. If they are offended, they should dance with their own spouses," he said with a wolfish smile.
"I never knew you had it in you to be so... naughty."
"I am many things, wife," he said, his grin widening. "You will find out with time."
"Thank you." she blurted out, locking eyes with him to convey her gratitude.
"For what, pet?" he asked, genuine confusion on his face.
"For everything, for bringing my sister here and for loving me despite my flaws."
"You are welcome, my darling, but on the last count, I disagree. You saved me with your love and determination. I should be the one thanking you," he said, his voice hoarse with emotion.
"I love you Alice, my duchess."
"I love you too," she replied, her eyes shining with unshed tears.
He took her arm and led her away from the dance floor, bringing to her notice that the dance had ended.
"While I am all for having you to myself, I think you might want to rescue your friend from the big bad wolf." Victor said beside her, restrained laughter bleeding into his voice.
Alice looked up to see Lavinia in what appeared to be a heated conversation with Andrew. It definitely looked odd because Lavinia had always favored the seats close to the wall. She had, too, two years ago before she had married the duke. This was the first time she was seeing her with a titled young man, especially one that was clearly a rake.
Lavinia might be a wallflower and a bluestocking, but her mild appearance and friendly nature hid a spine of steel. She was sure she could hold her ground even in an argument with the prince regent himself.
"I do not think she needs my help. I think your friend might be the one who needs to be rescued," she replied, smiling up at her husband.
"I don't even know why I was bothered. She is, after all, your friend. Every bit as bold and fearless as you are," he said, looking at her in adoration.
