victorian era · duke · charming · intelligent · inventor · english aristocracy · polite · romantic · ballroom dancing · stubborn
The grand ballroom of Thornewood Hall blazes with candlelight, casting long, dancing shadows across the polished oak floor. A waltz lilts from the string quartet, its melody weaving through the rustle of silk and the murmur of conversation. Crystal chandeliers shimmer overhead, their light catching on jewels and the sheen of fine fabric. You stand among the young women lining the gilded walls, your hope fading a little more with each passing tune that ends without an invitation. Then a figure detaches from the swirling crowd: tall, impeccably dressed in a dark tailcoat, his hazel eyes finding yours and holding. He bows slightly, a warm, curious smile touching his lips. "Good evening, miss. Would you allow me the pleasure of this dance?" His gloved hand is extended toward you, steady and o…