Free Upon Your Return by Marie Lavender Page B

attended with her uncle as her escort. She silently hoped she might see Capitaine Hill at least once more before her uncle chose yet another suitor. She wore a gown of pure white with matching adornments and a trace of gold ribbon threaded throughout. Her uncle wore a gray suit lined with navy, a simple fashion for a businessman of his stature.
    She could not be certain why the man had never married…perhaps he'd not wanted more reminders of his place in society. He'd only wanted the best of business ventures. She knew now that even his social life was business-related. She was a hindrance to him, a piece of property, not a niece, and certainly not a relative. His relentless pursuit of a suitor made his obvious desire to be rid of her quite clear. Perhaps then, she thought bitterly, the ball might offer untold advantages to him.
    Upon their arrival they were greeted by their hosts, Monsieur and Madame Borden, who were very kind. The woman grasped Fara's hands in her own. “ Mademoiselle ! You are absolutely stunning tonight. Oh, what I would give to be young again!” she cried.
    Fara smiled. “ Merci ,” she replied politely and turned with her uncle in the great hall. The music was already starting and many couples had taken to the floor for dancing. As they found a place to sit, Fara noticed many gentlemen looking her way in apparent appraisal. She wondered if her uncle would object on the chance that one might request a dance with her.
    Servants passed by with trays of food, and everyone flocked to fill their plates with the marvelous choices. It was exquisite. Every bite filled her mouth with delightful flavors, and Fara could not help but think her hosts must have an extraordinary cook. After satisfying the hunger pains in her stomach, Fara settled back against her chair. She sipped a little wine as she glanced around the room. Couples danced once more, and the music was perfect for the usual waltz. As her gaze wandered, one figure caught her eye.
    The woman looked splendid in a gown of crimson velvet, which showed off her bosom well. She was much older than Fara, yet still beautiful. Seated across the room, she had no companions at her side, but her appearance and obvious status certainly warranted otherwise. Her hair was brown and her eyes were blue. Fara glanced over at Michel de Bellamont, who leisurely sipped wine. He stared at the woman with a look of disdain. “ Oncle ?”
    He turned to his niece. “ Oui ?”
    “Do you know that woman? What is her name?”
    “Tis' Madame Devereux, Fara. She has been a widow since you were a child…”
    Mockery laced his tone. Fara lifted a brow. “Should I recognize her?”
    “No, I do not see why you should. You may have seen her when you were much younger, but that was too long ago.”
    She frowned. “Do you know her, oncle ?”
    “I knew her once. It's been awhile.”
    “But…” The look he shot in her direction warned Fara she risked his wrath by pursuing this curiosity. She closed her mouth and looked away. For a few moments, she was content to watch the couples on the floor. Then she grew restless and wondered what her potential suitors were so afraid of, they would not approach and ask her to dance.
    “ Mademoiselle , you are indeed the picture of innocence and beauty this night.”
    Fara looked up into the handsome features of Grant Hill. He was dressed in somber black, yet still contrived to look better than the other gents in the room. She flushed at his compliment, but did not look away. “ Merci, Capitaine ,” she said softly.
    “It would be a great honor, Monsieur , if you would allow me a dance with your niece,” he asked her uncle while keeping his gaze fixed on her.
    She looked at her uncle, who was obviously weighing the consequences of the decision in his intelligent mind. “Twill' be all right, oncle . I will not make a scene of it.”
    He nodded grimly. “Very well, Capitaine Hill. I expect Fara back at my side in one piece.”
    “ Oui,