A Christmas Surprise by Lindsay Downs Read Free Book Online Page B

eyes off the other.
    “My darling Mr. Thomas, I’m so wishing this party could go on forever,” Aleece quietly said, giving his arm a gentle squeeze.
    “As do I, my dear. But we both know that sometimes even love must step aside for duty. We’ll exchange letters between now and when you return to London for the Small Season.”
    “Will you…” She stopped as they stepped forward to be presented to the guests.
    “Lady Aleece Taylor escorted by Mr. Thomas,” the butler announced.
    As with balls of the past, no sooner had they staked claim to a choice spot than individuals and couples started to congregate around Aleece. Gentlemen asking for a dance and ladies complimenting her on the gown and ogling her Mr. Thomas.
    Having released his arm so she could greet friends, old and new, Aleece realized that had been a mistake. Several matrons, she plainly noticed, were flirting openly with him, to the point of making him uncomfortable.
    When all hope seemed to be lost, the musicians began the first strains of a slow waltz. Even though not currently accepted as a dance at Almack’s, it had infiltrated into polite society by way of house parties.
    Aleece prayed he would be able to partner with her, considering his leg injury. She lightly tapped him to get his attention. A questioning raised brow was all the coaxing needed.
    “Lady Aleece, I do believe this is our dance?” he said, extending his arm for her to take.
    “Yes, I do believe you’re correct, sir,” she replied gracefully.
    In two steps they were on the floor, and he twirled her into his arms, making her laugh.
    “What’s so funny, imp?”
    Aleece paused in answering, she wanted to enjoy the feeling of how well they fit together.
    “You. Watching you trying to deal with those two women who definitely had things other than dancing on their minds.”
    “Yes, how well I was aware of their intentions. Never have I been so glad to see a questioning look before. Your timing was impeccable.”
    “I happened to catch the look one of those ladies gave me for rescuing you. Needless to say, I’m surprised her face doesn’t freeze in that position,” Aleece commented as he swept her through a turn at the far end of the ballroom.
    When he stumbled slightly she lifted her chin and gazed at his face only to see the slenderest hint of distress revealed in it. “Is the dance causing you discomfort? If so, we can bow out.”
    “Nothing that your tender ministrations couldn’t remedy,” he whispered.
    Her face heated, wondering if he meant what she thought. “Maybe later if it’s possible. The best I can bestow on you would be a kiss,” she said softly, not wanting anyone to overhear.
    As the music came to an end, Aleece gave him a curtsey and then accepted the proffered hand to raise her. Settling her hand to his sleeve, they returned to their group, happy to note the two harridans were nowhere in sight.
    “I’d wager they went off in search of easier prey,” Mr. Thomas said in a low voice.
    The rest of the evening passed pleasantly in comfortable conversation with friends and promises to have another house party soon.
    At the midnight buffet they chose a small round table so as to enjoy the last few private moments they’d have until late fall.
    It was arranged that the first dance after dinner would be a waltz. What surprised Aleece was when, without a hint, Mr. Thomas led her onto the dance floor.
    When safely ensconced in his arms, she let a pleasurable sigh slip from between her lips.
    “I’m so glad you’re happy, darling,” he said in a hushed voice.
    “When you hold me I am. But I fear tomorrow will be another story as we separate,” Aleece bemoaned.
    “Yes, but only for a few short months,” he said, in an attempt to lift her spirits.
    The dance ended with them at the side where the French doors were opened to let in the comfortably cool night air. With a shared glance, they slipped out. Surveying the near empty veranda , Aleece warmed as she