He looked out the carriage window, the glow from the streetlights illuminating his face. “I see things differently now, Leonard. Joanna has this incredible ability to bring out the best in me. I’ve realized that my ability to overcome my fears, to address what needs to be addressed, has been largely because of her.”
Leonard raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. “So, what are you saying, Kenneth?”
Kenneth’s smile widened. “I’m saying that I want Joanna by my side, not just tonight but for all the nights to come. I want us to face the challenges together and build a future together. Joanna has been my strength, and I can’t imagine my life without her. It’s time to make things right.”
“I am glad to hear it. At last, you see sense. Your mother will be delighted.” Leonard paused and tilted his head to the side. “Or will she? What are her thoughts on Lady Joanna these days?”
Kenneth shrugged. “She called on me daily this past week and seemed rather pleased to see me out and about. I gave all the credit to Joanna, which has gone a long way to make my mother feel better about the two of us. I think she would be pleased if I married Joanna.”
Married Joanna…
The words were so strange and yet so very right. Kenneth wanted to marry her. But first, he had to tell her that he was about to bring her father down in front of the entire ton… Not a prospect he was looking forward to.
Alas, it was the last big obstacle before he could have the happiness he’d long denied himself.
The grand manor, lit by a cascade of chandeliers, welcomed Kenneth with an air of opulence that spoke of wealth andaristocracy. Tall marble columns adorned with trailing ivy framed the entrance, and a sweeping staircase curved elegantly toward the upper levels. Gilded mirrors reflected the glittering gowns and polished attire of the guests, and the distant melody of a string quartet filled the air with sophistication.
He had never met Lord Worcester’s brother-in-law—a marquess in his own right—before, but he clearly had far more money than he knew what to do with.
Taking in the splendor around him, Kenneth’s eyes scanned the crowd. He recognized several attendees at once. Judith Birks, her eyes bright and her gown resplendent, engaged in animated conversation with a group of distinguished gentlemen. Nearby, the laughter of Rosy and Sally Blackmore echoed as they danced with their partners, their joy contagious.
As Kenneth’s gaze swept over the crowd further, he spotted Lord Worcester, a man of considerable influence himself, engaged in animated discourse with other esteemed guests.
The person he did not spot was Lord Carlisle, however.
Where was the man? And more importantly, where was Joanna? Before he could track her father down, he had to speak to her.
Finally, he spotted her. A vision of grace in a mauve gown that shimmered with delicate embroidery, she stood near a floral arrangement, her eyes scanning the room. As if sensing his presence, Joanna turned around, and her eyes met his.
The world seemed to slow as they locked eyes. Joanna’s face lit up with a radiant smile, and Kenneth felt a surge of warmth within him.
“Excuse me,” he said to Leonard, who winked at him.
Kenneth navigated the crowded ballroom with purpose, determined to reach Joanna’s side. He approached her with a fond smile, his eyes lighting up at the sight of her. “Joanna,” he said, taking her gloved hand and pressing a gentle kiss to it.
“Kenneth, I am so glad you are here. I received your note, and I was so… pleased,” she breathed.
Kenneth bit his lip. It wasn’t like him to send sentimental notes to young ladies, but he had felt the need to tell her just how much she meant to him. That day, after he’d returned home from seeing Edward’s memorial, he had truly understood what Joanna meant to him.
“I’m glad you received my note. I was unsure what you would think, as we haven’t had a chance to talk. I have been at the orphanage, of course, but I did not see you…”
“I know. I heard you were there. I am glad you were able to help.”
Kenneth gulped. He had to tell her about her father. Now. “Joanna, I?—”
“I’ve been looking forward to this dance.” Joanna beamed, a twinkle in her eyes. “I’ve saved the waltz just for you. Is your mother here? She might be alarmed if she sees us dancing it. She made her opinion of it quite clear.”
Kenneth chuckled, a warm feeling settling in his chest. What harm would it do to talk about something else for a moment? “No, she’s not here. And even if she were, I intend to dance this waltz with you at every ball from now on. Speaking of parents, are your parents here?”
“My mother could not come due to a megrim, but my father is here. He and Lord Worcester have not been as close since…” She cringed. “Since we put an end to their plans. But he was invited, so he had to come. I think he is rather miserable, however. On the ride here, he announced his intention to leave sooner rather than later.”
This alarmed Kenneth, and he looked around just as her father hurried across the room.
Joanna followed his gaze. “There he is. Likely going into the music room to be alone. He has been somewhat miserable as of late,” she continued. “I tried to confront him about the orphanage, but he…”
Kenneth’s smile faded, replaced by a determined look as he gently interrupted her. “Joanna, I need to take care of something first. It won’t take long.”
Concern flashed across Joanna’s face. “Is everything all right? Can I help? I’ll gladly accompany you, and we can talk to him together,” she offered hurriedly.
