Page 134 of Stolen By the Heartless Duke

Dozens of heads turned. For months she would have dreaded that attention. Tonight, she merely lifted her chin.

Her mother leaned closer. “They’re talking.”

Jane slipped her arm through hers. “Let them tire themselves.”

Lady Wynten smiled faintly. “You’ve become remarkably composed.”

They continued through the crowd until a familiar voice called across the room.

“Jane!” Lavinia swept toward her with her usual energy, her pale blue gown fluttering around her ankles.

Without hesitation, she embraced Jane. “I have missed you terribly.”

Jane laughed. “I saw you only four days ago.”

“It feels much longer than that.” Lavinia grinned.

Lady Wynten smiled warmly at the younger woman. “Lavinia.”

“My lady.” She curtsied before immediately turning back toward Jane. “Tell me what you have been up to these past few days. I have heard nothing from you.”

Before Jane could answer, Emmeline and Rowan Huntley, the Duke and Duchess of Ironford, approached.

“Lady Jane.”

Jane turned with pleasant surprise. “Your Grace.”

Emmeline smiled warmly. “It is wonderful to see you again.”

Jane embraced her gently. “You as well, Your Grace.”

Standing beside Emmeline, Rowan looked every inch the devoted husband, his expression softening whenever his wife spoke.

“It seems London has finally regained some sense,” Rowan said pleasantly.

“We’ve been missing Lady Jane from every gathering.”

Jane smiled. “You flatter me.”

“Not at all.” Emmeline laughed. “My husband has become quite unbearable since we married.”

Jane found herself smiling more genuinely than she had in weeks. It was pleasant seeing happiness that had endured.

Emmeline reached for her hand. “I hope you’re well.”

“I shall be.”

Something in Jane’s answer must have pleased her, because Emmeline squeezed her fingers. “I rather think you shall.”

Rowan offered a polite bow. “We’ll leave you, ladies, to your conversation before my wife adopts Lady Jane entirely.”

The married couple disappeared into the crowd, still quietly teasing one another.

Lavinia sighed dramatically. “They remain disgustingly happy.”

Jane laughed. “They do.”

Lavinia linked their arms. “Come. We have gentlemen to charm.”