an observer, she was pleased to be a part of the music and gaiety.
They were quickly shepherded inside and into the large ballroom. The number of people packed inside the room was astonishing. She followed at a careful pace behind her sisters as Lavinia and the hostess, Viscountess Balfour, introduced Rebecca to several guests. As expected, a stir went through the throng when they noted her ravishing beauty.
Poppy turned in a slow discreet circle, letting the din of music, laughter, and chatter wash over her senses. Ladies twirled in some of the most beautiful gowns she had ever seen. How elegant they all appeared in their fineries, and with diamonds, rubies, and sapphires winking at their throats. Her senses did not feel overwhelmed but intoxicated with excitement. Ladies and gentlemen milled in every direction, seeming to fill all the public rooms of Lady Balfour’s home.
“Oh Poppy, we know it is your first London ball, but please do not appear so gauche!” Lavinia said with a mocking laugh.
“It is rather lovely,” replied Poppy with a mild smile as she surveyed the fluted column ballroom ahead of her. Each of the classical columns was wreathed in flower garlands bound by primrose ribbons. Matching drapes were hung around the walls, with floral depictions of woodland scenes. The drapery and primrose theme looked especially good against Lady Balfour’s straw-colored dress trimmed with bunches of brighter jonquil ribbons. It did not look so good against the purples and red of the matrons of society, but the paler colors of the gowns of younger ladies were shown off to advantage.
The ballroom was crowded with the floor filled with elegant couples, dancing with such grace that Poppy wished she could join in. She regretted that her position as chaperone and lack of dance training meant that was impossible.
Poppy stood by the sidelines, near a refreshment table and several chaises which seated a few ladies. They appeared much older than the dancing crowd though no less elegantly dressed or beautiful. It did not take long for a few gentlemen to make their way over and seek an introduction to Rebecca, who appeared so natural and lovely as she flicked her fan and responded to their request for dances. She displayed no nerves and radiated with lovely confidence.
“You are doing wonderfully,” Poppy said, stepping closer to her sister.
“I am so excited,” she said with a light and airy laugh, flicking her fan with studied elegance. “I do believe I might make the match of the season.”
Poppy smiled. “I daresay it might be possible. I never knew a Town ball would be such a wonderful crush. How many dances have you accepted?”
Bright blue eyes landed on Poppy. “Four so far. I am saving the waltz for Lord Kingsley.”
Poppy glanced over at the milling crowd. “Is he in attendance?”
“I do not know! I am waiting for Lavinia’s signal.”
“And what signal might that be?”
“She will open her fan, and the direction she waves it in will be the earl.”
Poppy laughed. “The place is overcrowded. Is it not possible for the viscountess to make an introduction?”
“Things are done differently here than in the country! It is perfectly permissible for the earl to seek an introduction, but it might be frowned—” with a dramatic gasp, her sister stopped speaking.
“Lavinia has unfurled her fan!”
Poppy glanced in the direction the fan presumably pointed and rolled her eyes. There were several ladies and gentlemen, and none seemed—her thoughts crashed and shattered into a thousand pieces. Was that Mr. James Delaney?
Poppy was barely aware of her stepmother and Lavinia appearing by their sides.
“I believe he is coming our way,” Lavinia said breathlessly. “Lift your chin Rebecca and square your shoulders. Smile, but do not show all your teeth!”
Poppy’s heart raced as a most handsome gentleman drifted closer. It was indeed Mr. Delaney. She took an involuntary step forward and faltered. It might be inappropriate for her to approach him, and it might create a stir and a scandal. And what would she say?
“I think the earl is indeed coming over to us,” her stepmother said. “I knew you would attract his attention, Rebecca, where all others have failed so far. Now, remember dear to command an air of mystery when you speak and dance with him.”
“Yes, mama!”
Poppy frowned, scanning quickly for the earl. The only gentleman currently walking in their direction was Mr. Delaney—who appeared so perfectly handsome in a black evening jacket and trousers, a white undershirt with a dark blue waistcoat to match his eyes, and