Page 80 of Dancing with an Enigmatic Duke

“It has to be an engagement party,” Emmeline said with excitement.

Nash shrugged. “Perhaps. But does not the lady’s family normally do the initial announcement?”

“Oh, you know that it can be either really. Besides, Lady Anderson’s family might have opted to have it here because there is more space. Lord Hawley and Lady Anderson are sensible people. I think they would have opted for a joint announcement.”

Nash put his arm around her waist. “I suppose you will have to go in to find out, or we could just stay out here and guess some more.”

“Remind me why I married you, Lord Torrington,” Emmeline said as she let him guide her toward the entrance.

Nash whispered, “Because I am a very good dancer.”

Inside the party was well under way. Emmeline was sure by the celebratory mood that they had miss any announcement. She eagerly urged Nash to push through the throngs to get her to Lord Hawley, who she could see through the next doorway.

When they broke free of the crowd, Emmeline waved at Lord Hawley and Lady Anderson, who both saw her at the same time. “We are late! I am so sorry, but we got stuck in traffic.”

“I told you they were not here yet,” Lady Anderson said as she gave Lord Hawley a pat on the upper arm. “He thought you were hiding somewhere.”

“Nash does not hide that well,” Emmeline pointed out to them.

Lord Hawley agreed with a hearty guffaw. “That he does not. But since you missed the whole thing I shall have to tell you personally that Lady Anderson and I are officially engaged.”

“Congratulations!” Emmeline hugged them both, with Nash reaching around her to give Lord Hawley a handshake as Emmeline tugged Lady Anderson aside. “I am so happy for you, Darla.”

Darla smiled as if she could not believe it was all really happening. “I keep thinking it is a dream. I think I might never touch the ground again.”

Emmeline nodded her understanding as she looked over at her husband. “I know that feeling.”

THE END