formal evening coat and britches were black brocade, but the crowning glory was his waistcoat. It matched the trim on Katherine’s dress and her shoes.
Morgan lifted an appraising eyebrow, then grinned. “I couldn’t have done a better job myself, sir. Tonight will mark the end of the handkerchief-throwing parades.”
Christian grinned in return. “It’s not every night a man announces his betrothal to the loveliest and kindest woman in all of England.”
“She’ll be delighted,” his valet answered. “And so will you.”
Christian waved toward the door. “Shall we wait for Lady Meri and Willa in the ballroom?”
They turned left in the hallway, the shortest route to the stairs that led to the ballroom balcony. Once they arrived, the sound of the orchestra warming up and the low chatter of his men filled the room with a strange cacophony of comforting noise. The men were putting the finishing touches to the linens and lap desks on display. Roses from the conservatory provided a riot of color to the room while his servants stood ready to serve the guests that would soon arrive. Wheatley stood at attention by the main doors.
His charity would be the talk of the ton tomorrow, and tonight, he’d finally put the shame of his family behind him with Kat by his side.
Christian couldn’t wait to see Kat. Perhaps it would be best if they married tomorrow. Inside his desk was a special license he’d acquired at Doctors’ Common. Taking Grayson’s advice to heart, he would give the ton another on-dit to fill their heads with.
“There she is.” Morgan’s voice deepened in awe. “She’s beautiful.”
Expecting to see Kat, Christian turned to see that Willa had just entered the ballroom by herself, looking splendid in her finery.
“If it’s all right, I’m going to greet her.” The endearing regard on Morgan’s face for the woman was undeniable. It was heartwarming that those two had grown so close. It boded well for when he and Kat joined their households together.
“Please do,” Christian answered as his own anticipation mounted. He scanned the room, looking for Kat. His gaze tracked every door in the ballroom looking for her entrance. By then, Morgan had reached Willa. Clasping her hands in his, his valet was saying something in her ear. A beautiful blush colored her cheeks.
The incessant pounding of his own heart urged Christian forward. Where was Kat? He turned to make his way down the steps when a vision of ethereal radiance stood not more than five yards away.
“Looking for me?” Kat’s dulcet voice soothed his restlessness immediately.
He released a breath and took in the vision before him. The gown flowed over her body in a perfect fit. When the pearls and crystals caught the light, she resembled a fairy queen ready to command her subjects. Whatever she decreed, he’d gladly obey as long as she allowed him to be by her side for the rest of eternity.
His gaze locked with hers. “You are beautiful,” he said softly.
Her eyes twinkled. “So are you.”
Without hesitating, he closed the distance between them and took her hands in his. “I can’t find the words to do you justice. But stunning comes to mind.”
“Thank you.” She ran a hand down his waistcoat. “This is perfect.” She leaned close and whispered, “But not anywhere near as exquisite as the man wearing it.”
He took her in his arms, careful not to wrinkle her gown. With the gentlest of touches, he pressed his lips against hers in the most reverent of kisses he’d ever given her. He pulled away and memorized her face. Tonight would represent their future, and he’d make certain she knew how much he loved her every day.
He pressed a kiss against her cheek then took her gloved hand with his. “Perhaps we should marry sooner rather than later.”
“We have much to discuss,” she said. “Perhaps we could find a moment or two this evening to talk in private?”
Before he could answer, Morgan strolled toward them and bowed before Katherine. He turned back to Christian. “Captain and Lady Meri, your guests are arriving.”
He smiled regrettably. “After our first dance, you and I will sneak away. You have my promise.” He offered Kat his arm, and without hesitation, she wrapped hers around his.
As they walked down the main staircase, hearty laughter erupted. The Earl and Countess of Woodhaven had arrived.
“Katherine,” Helen called out.
Kat waved in answer and smiled brightly.
Soon, Benjamin and Helen stood before them. Other guests took their place in line to greet Christian and Katherine. Already, the ballroom was