himmered like a galaxy under the ballroom chandeliers. Every step she took drew stares-the "country bumpkin" had vanish

she met Charles Sexton's furious gaze. "My apo

sed under his breath. "Are you tryin

ried gesture that spoke of quiet poise and uns

shot up. "Wh

ession a perfect blend of innocence and gratitude. "She said you wanted it to be a surprise, Father. She even had the Bent

ng was quite elaborate, which is why I w

p was p

ister show up in rags, shaming the entire family. If she admitted it, she

ry gaze shift

d a smile that looked more like a grimace. "Yes.

ara, a flicker of approval in his eyes. "Well. It

compliment he h

id, lowering her eyes demure

s with a practiced, respectful grace. "You've been working so

al piety, puffed up with self-importance. He nod

felt like clowns in their own circus. Kara had not only

sing herself from the table, she drifted

tunning," one of the ladies gush

s face. She leaned in close. "Good

iginally wanted our Emilia. But Emilia refused to marry a man

nton has never even given her the time of day

ed with delicious, sca

ryone knew that no matter how dazzling Kara looked, she

gan to snake its way

milia's ear. "Don't worry. I still have a plan. I promise y

rekindled in

, swirling the deep red liquid, a cold, unnoticeable smil