Caught in the Storm of a Duke's - Abby Ayles Page 0,107

visited London before, she would never tire of the constant bustle of activity. It ignited an energy within her that only enhanced her excitement.

Eventually, the carriage stopped outside their townhouse, and their butler, Jenkins, greeted them warmly. Annette couldn’t stop grinning as she stepped inside her new home away from home. She couldn’t help but feel that this London season was going to be one of the best times of her life.

***

Annette collapsed onto the sofa, completely drained of energy.

She and her mother had spent three days running around London, shopping for various items of clothing and meeting important people, whom Annette would also see at the season’s balls. While it had been fun, after three days, she was absolutely exhausted.

“Are you feeling quite well, Annette?” her mother asked with concern as she entered the room.

Annette managed to sit up and nod her head. “I’m fine, Mama, just tired after everything we’ve done over the past few days.”

Her mother sat down beside Annette and took her hand. “I know this can be overwhelming, but tonight is your first ball! You’re going to charm everyone you meet. Remember we set aside that beautiful green gown for you to wear tonight?”

At the thought of the ball, Annette perked up. She had always loved balls; the candlelight, music, dancing, and all the pretty gowns. Not to mention that one always had the opportunity to meet new people, which Annette also rather enjoyed.

That night, Annette found herself outfitted in a brand-new green gown that matched her eyes. Her rich brown hair was done up in curls and ribbons, and the silk gloves she had purchased the day before completed the beautiful ensemble.

Her mother smiled and gasped as she saw her daughter fully dressed. “My dear! You look so beautiful!” Her eyes sparkled with delight. “How are you feeling? Are you nervous?”

Annette considered her own feelings and smiled at her mother. “No. In fact, I feel quite excited!” This was something her mother had talked about since she was a girl, and Annette had always looked forward to her first London season.

Besides, she had never had trouble fitting in. She found it easy to talk to people, which was something she had never taken for granted, since seeing it was not so easy for everyone.

She remembered all too well how Ben would complain how difficult it was for him to engage in conversation with anyone other than her.

Annette could hardly keep from bouncing in her seat, as the carriage took her and her mother through the dim streets of London. They arrived at a great estate packed with carriages and people, where large torches lit the driveway.

Inside, the sight was so beautiful that Annette had to stand still for a moment and admire it. Every detail, down to the candlesticks, told of elegance and refinement. The chandeliers displayed elaborate swirled patterns, the wallpapers were full of intricate designs in soft colors, and everyone was dressed their very best; from the ladies in their gorgeous gowns to the men in their dark coats.

“Annette?” her mother urged.

Annette shook herself out of her study and saw a face she recognized. It was Lady Rushworth, a woman her mother had introduced her to while they’d been shopping two days ago. The woman caught Annette’s eye and made her way towards her.

“Lady Rushworth,” Annette said with a curtsey. “It is good to see you again.”

“And you, Lady Annette, Lady Rutmont.” The middle-aged woman smiled and gestured to a young lady beside her. “May I introduce my daughter, Lady Julia Allen?”

Annette curtseyed to Julia, noting her friendly smile, bright blue eyes, and shining blonde hair. Julia curtseyed in return, grinning.

“It is such a pleasure to meet you, Lady Annette.”

“And you too, Lady Julia.”

Annette was soon introduced to several other prominent people in society of her age, but she could remember their names and faces with ease. Her parents had taught her well. Several times she found herself running into Lady Julia and discussing the people they had met so far.

It did not take long for Annette to be invited to dance. After her mother had introduced her to a young man named Lord Huddington, they talked for scarcely two minutes before he smiled, his cheeks a little red, and asked her to dance. Annette saw her mother’s bright smile out of the corner of her eye and promptly accepted.

It was a lively dance which they found themselves taking part in, and Annette realized that Lord Huddington was an excellent dance partner.