Secret Heiress by Anne Herries Page A

could. However, Miss Henderson had overset his plans by mentioning the assembly. He had been unable to resist the unconscious appeal in Miss Bancroft’s eyes when she spoke of her first public ball. The prospect of dancing with her had awoken something inside him that had lain dormant for a while and he anticipated the evening with some eagerness.
    Surely it could not matter if he did not speak to Lord Roberts immediately?
    Eliza Bancroft.
    Daniel wanted to see laughter in those expressive eyes. He wanted to dance with Eliza, hold her body close to his and perhaps take her out into the moonlight to steal a few kisses.
    He remembered a previous stolen kiss. He could almost taste her, smell the perfume that was uniquelyher own. He wanted so much more! Forbidden thoughts of Eliza lying in silken sheets, her hair spread on the pillow and her lips swollen by his passionate kisses, slightly open as she waited for more…
    The sight of a curricle driving past in the opposite direction, interrupted his pleasurable thoughts. A cold shaft of anger shot through him as he saw the cause of all his troubles. The Marquis of Cheadle was in Bath, which meant that they would be bound to meet in company. Therefore, he must arrange a private interview as soon as possible. He would see what advantage was to be gained from bargaining over the ring he held as surety for a few hundred guineas.
    Why did the marquis’s ring bear the same inscription as that in Eliza’s ring? She said it had belonged to her mother—had there been something between Mrs Bancroft and Cheadle? Surely not! The lady was the wife of the Reverend Bancroft and, as far as Daniel knew, of spotless reputation. It was mere coincidence and a trifle that should not enter his head again. He had more important things to consider.
    For a moment, Daniel’s thoughts dwelled on the possibility that Cheadle might know something of his cousin’s death. He must seek him out and ask a few questions before handing over the ring.
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    Eliza glanced at herself in the mirror as she prepared for the assembly that evening. Her gown was a miracle of white silk tulle, lace and elegant styling. Trimmed lightly here and there with tiny knots of black ribbon, it looked so expensive and fashionable that Eliza was almost frightened to leave her room.
    Surely Lady Sarah would not approve of her companion wearing a gown such as this one?
    Her heart was sinking as she walked the short distance down the hall to her employer’s bedchamber. Lady Sarah could not have intended her companion to look so stylish.
    â€˜Come in, my dear,’ her employer’s voice invited her to enter as she tapped the door.
    â€˜I am so sorry,’ Eliza began immediately to apologise. ‘I thought madame would make something more suited to my situation. Shall I change?’
    â€˜What nonsense, Eliza. You look beautiful…’ Lady Sarah beckoned her forwards, her expression intent as she looked at her closely. ‘The gown is elegant and perfect for you, my dear. I knew madame would do you justice, but I had not expected such a change. You look…very different. Do you not like your gown?’
    â€˜I love it,’ Eliza assured her. ‘I thought…well, does it not make me look as if I am a young lady of fashion?’
    â€˜Exactly. Just as you should look, Eliza. You deserve something nice and I am happy to be in a position to give it to you.’ Lady Sarah smiled at her. ‘I am very pleased with madame’ s work. You must thank her when she comes again.’
    â€˜Are you sure it is not too good for a companion?’
    Lady Sarah hesitated, then, ‘You have become my friend, Eliza…almost like a daughter to me. We have not known each other long, but already I am so fond of you. I want you to be happy while you stay with me.’
    â€˜I am happy. I feel so fortunate to have been chosen by you, ma’am. I would never wish to do anything to