“And who is it that you are interested in? Point her out to me right now so I can sing your praises to her.”
Cornelius laughed. He turned and scanned the room and then pointed to a woman in a blue silk and lace ball gown that fit her form beautifully. She had several braids intertwined through her long yellow-blond hair and a slender face with big eyes. “There she is. Lady Jane Caldwell. She is a very nice woman. I look forward to spending the rest of the Season with her, frankly.”
“Oh do you? Well, I will certainly pray that that happens for you.” Marie gave him a big smile.
“And I will talk to the Duke and see what he thinks about visiting the piano for a few minutes.” He scanned her from head to toe. “You do look very pretty tonight, by the way. I love your dress. It compliments your eyes well.”
Marie blushed. “Thank you, Cornie.”
He smiled. “If you can show the Duke that look right there, I know he will fall for you.”
Marie giggled softly and nodded. Cornelius bowed to her and kissed her hand. “I will see you for our dance, my dear.”
Chapter Three
Despite the fact that he was feeling a bit dizzy already, Phillip reached out and grabbed another white wine from the server as he passed. The server stopped to allow him to take the glass and then bowed slightly, moving on through the crowd. Phillip watched him go, feeling a sour anger raging through him. He didn’t know why he ever attended or hosted these dances. They were filled with egomaniacal wenches and shrews. Every one of them.
He felt a pang of regret and guilt. They weren’t all wenches and shrews. But there were enough there to undermine the confidence he spent weeks building up before the Season started. Every Season was the same for him. He wasn’t going to attend many more. He was beginning to tire of the whole thing.
He saw Cornelius heading his way, an intent look in his eyes. He grumbled to himself, wondering what his young friend was going to say. Cornelius generally talked to him about politics and finances, but Phillip had a feeling that wasn’t what this conversation was going to be about. The look his friend had on his face was more joyous, mixed with a bit of sneakiness. He admitted he found himself to be very curious.
He lifted his glass as Cornelius approached and the young man lifted his in return.
“Good evening, Phillip. How is your evening going?”
Phillip shook his head, relieved that his friend was there to talk to. “It’s just another ball. Just another dance to watch all these ladies spinning in circles going nowhere.”
Cornelius shook his hand while at the same time shaking his head. “A sour puss, you are, my friend, but I understand. Are you setting your sights on anyone in the place?” He stood next to Phillip and gazed out at the crowd.
“No. I can’t say that I am.”
“Have you danced with Marie Downing?”
Phillip was quiet for a moment as he scanned the women before his eyes settled on Marie, who was still standing at the piano, now accompanied by Lucinda and Jenny. They were talking about something that was making them laugh.
“The piano player?”
Cornelius was a bit discouraged by Phillip’s plain description of Marie but pressed on. “Yes, that’s her. She doesn’t always play the piano.” He looked at Phillip. “Though I admit that’s where she usually is.”
“I hadn’t thought of her. She doesn’t dance or open herself up to dancing.”
“She would. She just hasn’t been asked by the right man.”
“I doubt very much I am that man,” Phillip said.
“You sell yourself short, my friend. You should ask her for a place on her dance card. It’s very open. So far, she only has one spot slotted. And that’s with me.”
“Why don’t you dance with her then?”
Cornelius laughed. “Oh, I plan to. We are great friends. But I am interested in Lady Caldwell. It concerns me that you are not having a good time. I thought I would suggest a change in your routine.”
“Your concern means a great deal to me.” Phillip looked at his friend with amusement.
“Does it?” Cornelius smiled at him.
“I am thinking about the piano player’s sister. Jenny. I find she is the only one who shows proper respect for me.”
Cornelius’ smile faltered. Marie would be hurt to hear that the Duke was planning to choose her younger sister over her. She felt her prospects were limited. Jenny’s were not. Cornelius suppressed a sigh. “Do you plan to move forward with Jenny?” He asked hesitantly. “I know that Marie would also treat you with respect. You should dance with her, at least once.”
Phillip looked at him closely. “She is a dear friend of yours, and you are encouraging me to dance with her? Don’t you know what a bastard I am?”
Cornelius laughed suddenly. “My friend! You are no such thing. You have many fine qualities.”
Phillip’s mood was lifted, and he felt much more spirited since his friend came over. “You are being polite,” he said.