The Duke's Dangerous Wager

Chapter 5

Isla smoothed the soft silk of her gown, her gaze sweeping over the crowd with a practiced eye. Tonight was not a night for idle chatter or frivolous dancing—tonight was a night for strategy.

She had chosen her gown carefully, a deep emerald green that brought out the gold in her eyes and the warmth in her complexion. Her mask, adorned with delicate feathers and tiny false pearls, hid just enough of her face to add a flirtatious mystery.

Inside, however, her mind swirled with calculations and considerations.

Every detail mattered. The cut of a man's coat, the richness of the fabric, the shine of his boots—each was an indicator of wealth and status, the very thing she needed to secure for her family's future. Isla had no illusions about what she was doing. This was a hunt, and she was determined to bring down her quarry before the night was through.

Her gaze lingered on a group of gentlemen clustered near the refreshment table, their laughter carrying over the music. Each one wore fine clothes, and she could tell by their easy laughter that they were accustomed to privilege. But which of them was most promising? Which one could offer her the security she so desperately needed?

As she considered her options, a movement caught her eye—a tall figure weaving through the crowd, calm and smooth, like a predator. He was dressed in black, his coat so well-crafted that it could only have been made by Mr. Grangewell, the best tailor in the ton. His mask, a red devil, deepened his brown eyes.

Isla's heart quickened as he drew closer, his gaze locked on hers. Something about the way he moved through the crowd, the way it parted for him, sent a thrill of anticipation through her. This was no ordinary gentleman.

"Good evening, my lady," he greeted her, his voice rich and smooth as he halted before her. "I could not help but notice you standing here. I admit I felt quite drawn to you."

"You are kind to say so, sir." Isla offered a demure smile, inclining her head slightly. "Had I not been so distracted by the wondrous architecture of this room, I would have noticed you sooner.."

He looked around and shrugged dismissively. "The room may be beautiful, but it pales in comparison to its most striking occupant."

She let out a soft laugh, feigning modesty as she allowed herself a closer look at him. The cut of his coat and the subtle gleam of his cufflinks spoke of wealth, but the way he carried himself, the smooth way in which he walked, spoke of power.

"You flatter me, sir," Isla said, her tone light. "But I must confess, I find myself at a disadvantage. You seem to know me, yet I do not recall your name."

He tilted his head slightly, as if considering how much to reveal. "A disadvantage easily remedied. I am but a simple gentleman entranced by the sight of a lady whose wit and beauty are said to be unmatched."

Isla raised an eyebrow, her curiosity deepening. "Oh, and who, pray tell, would spread such rumors?"

"Even if no one told me, I would already believe it. A wise man knows quality when he sees it," he said with a slight bow, a hint of mischief in his smile. "But perhaps I could persuade you to learn more about me over a dance?"

The offer was delivered with just the right mix of charm and confidence, and Isla found herself fighting back a smile. Whoever this man was, he was clearly no fool, and if his clothes were any indication, he was precisely the sort of gentleman she needed to align herself with.

She allowed a small smile to curve her lips. "I suppose I could be persuaded."

He extended his hand, and Isla placed her gloved hand in his, allowing him to lead her onto the dance floor. The next set began, a slow, beautiful tune that swirled around them as they took their places.