But I'm back and ready with part 2. Enjoy! Oh, and two more chapters left!~~~ Edited.~~~
The night air was sweet with the intoxicating smells of cologne and perfume. The nightlife was about as, one, by one black carriages lined up in front of the lower and upper sections. Bath was exquisitely popular when those lavish balls were held. Almacks were filled with fashionable ladies wearing their satin evening gowns. Gentlemen wearing black suits with white canes. The Bath residents absorbed the glamor and rich of high society.
While the rooms were filled with lively conversations, Lucy Malloy was enjoying her time gossiping about the latest rumor.
Lucy touched Helena on the sleeve of her dark green gown, “Did you hear?” She spoke quietly enough for her to understand.
“Hear what, Lucy?” She whispered back.
“I heard, Lady Burlington was seen down a dark alley with no other than the Duke of Nottingham. That's not the good part.” She paused and cast a glance around the room for nosy eavesdroppers. “The best part was that they were seen kissing. You know how she's already married. It's such a scandal, that everyone already knows about it.”
Helena immediately raised her gloved hand to her mouth as she gasped, “Is that really true?”
She nodded, “Yes, it is. I'm surprised she even showed up here.”
“Who?”
Both the girls swiftly turned around seeing Sophia. Who could they possibly be talking about?
“Just no one.” Lucy halfway rolled her eyes, not wanting to explain everything to Sophia.
All Sophia said was, “Oh.”
There was a moment of awkward silence between the girls. This silence is dreadful. I must say something.
“So, Helena-”
“Look!” Lucy squalled, enough for her lady companions to overhear. “It's the Earl of Carsdale.”
Helena leaned to Sophia and muttered, “That's all she ever talks about. Lord McCord this. Lord McCord that. You think she's in love with him.”
Sophia gasped out loud, “What?” A confused emotion filled her expression. “What could you possibly mean?”
“Lord McCord.” Sophia's unanswered question was cut off as they all nodded to Lucy's hello.
“It's a pleasure to see you all.” Suddenly Issac McCord glanced at Lucy and gave her a playful smile.
“Miss Helena?”
They all turned around to see the adorable face of Simon Malloy. “Oh, Mr. Malloy.” They all nodded in hello. “It's a pleasure to see you here.”
“I never miss a chance to go to Almacks.” His cute auburn hair made Helena blush as he smiled at her happily.
“Would you take this next dance with me, Miss Malloy?” Strangely Issac gracefully took Lucy's small, gloved hand and kissed it.
Lucy raised her right hand to her hot, blushing cheek, “I would love too.”
“Miss Ashworth would you do the same, and take this dance with me?” Simon asked.
Helena's cheeks were now different shades of pink and red, “Thank you, Mr. Malloy.”
With the two couples getting ready for the next dance, Sophia felt quite lonely. Why don't I have anyone to dance with? Maybe Lord Covington will come as he promised. I hope he will come soon.
“Ah-hem.” A low voice startled Sophia as she turned around.
“Why, Lord Covington.” I am so glad he's here.
The Lord's hazel eyes shined brightly in the room's light. “Miss Selwood, would you take this next dance with me?”
Sophia, no longer lonely smiled, “I would be honored.”
Richard lifted his arm for her as she connected hers with his. He led her to the floor and they unlinked arms. Facing each other, the English Country Dance began.
“Did you get my letter this morning?” The couples went up, clasped hands and went on.
“I did.”
“Have you considered my proposal?” Both Richard and Sophia went in and out of the dancers.
“I'm sorry. I haven't thought of an answer, yet.”
“No worries.” Everyone went through the intricate patterns of the dance.
“Thank you.” She replied.
“Tomorrow, then?” Richard went up to Sophia, so close that she could feel his breath upon her face.
“Yes, I will have my answer then.” The English Country Dance slowly dwindled down to a stop.
Richard drew Sophia to the side, “I shall call upon you tomorrow.” He said that as he raised her gentle, gloved hand to his lips and kissed.
He then let go, “Goodbye, Miss Selwood.” At those last word, he left disappearing within the crowd.
Sophia lifted her gloved hand to her mouth. His kiss. His warm lips upon my hand. How gentlemen like he is. Sophia started to drift into her thoughts about the handsome Lord Covington. He's so handsome and kind. I think he is the one. The suitor of my choice.
“Sophia!” The cheery voice of Helena was coming closer. Lucy and Helena were now alone.
“How was the dance?” She asked both of them.
“It was extravagant!” Lucy proclaimed. Then strangely the topic of conversation changed. “Oh, James saw you dancing with that Lord Covington, Sophia.”
“What?”
“It's true. I saw him gazing at you the whole time. You'd think he's in love with you.”
In love with me? “I think not. Lucy, you must stop gossiping.” Sophia paused and glanced at both of them, “Come on, let's get some punch. Shall we ladies?” She and Helena left with leaving Lucy dumbfounded. James. How dare he gaze at me. I was dancing with my future husband. Yes, I shall choose Lord Covington as my most suitable husband to be!
hehe)
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