An Inconvenient Trilogy Read Online Free PDF

responded, taking pride in how Elizabeth looked. She was convinced she would have suitors flocking around her, which suited Violet’s romantic notions.
    “Her determination does not surprise me, but I am surprised she has such taste. I would never have expected such a comment when I first met her.” Michael smiled as he bowed before Elizabeth. She raised her eyebrow at him, taking in his dark jacket, golden waistcoat and cream short breeches. He looked handsome and confident. They moved to the carriage without the opportunity for more than the usual civilities.
    Michael led Elizabeth into the Ballroom. It was already a crush, and Elizabeth’s eyes filled with wonder at the number of people and all the decoration that made the walls of the grand room seemed ready to burst. “People come to these places for entertainment?” she asked in awe.
    “Most do not think it has been a successful party if there has not been a terrible squeeze.” Michael explained cynically.
    “Oh for a wide open field.” Elizabeth muttered. She felt that she could hardly breathe in such a confined area. She was even more convinced that London life would not be for her.
    “You shall become accustomed to these gatherings when the Season is in full swing. Violet wants to introduce you to as many people as possible, so we need to catch her among this crowd. I don’t want to completely lose her, but if you will mark your card, I shall dance the first dance with you and the supper waltz. I will then take you to supper to ensure that you are enjoying your evening,” Michael instructed.
    “You can judge whether I have wasted money on the dancing instructor.” Elizabeth smiled as he searched out Violet.
    Elizabeth’s first dance was a cotillion. She had attended dances in Lancashire occasionally, so was comfortable and at ease. The only difference was the number of people on the floor. She moved easily through the set, looking at everything around her.
    “You are supposed to at least pretend that you are entertaining your partner,” Michael commented as she failed to engage in conversation when they came together. “You will make the other ladies in the room think I am an utter bore.”
    “I doubt that from the looks you are receiving. I take it you are a popular dance partner? It looks like most of the women in this room would like to dance with you.” Elizabeth said with a grin.
    Michael blinked. He had been teasing Elizabeth, and again she had managed to surprise him with how much she had observed in such a short time. He would be a popular dance partner if he chose to be, but he tended to avoid dancing most of the time. He had exerted himself for his ward and he knew that there would be speculation as to whether he would dance with others. He inwardly groaned as he realised that he would be forced to do so for the sake of politeness.
    “I try not to be a popular dance partner.” he eventually replied.
    “Ah, I see.” Elizabeth smiled enigmatically.
    “What?” Michael demanded, immediately feeling defensive.
    “You don’t like to be chased by the hungry look in some of the eyes I have seen following you.” she teased.
    Michael smiled despite himself, “Some of the women in this room could send me running for the hills.”
    “And I’ve added to your discomfort.”
    “How?” Michael was surprised at the comment. He had just been thinking that having such candour in a ballroom could make the evening very pleasant.
    “Everyone will see how well you are treating your ward and your popularity will increase.” came the teasing reply.
    “Perhaps if I glower at you the damage will be minimal?” Michael grinned in response.
    “I feel it is too late!” Elizabeth whispered as the music came to an end, and they were immediately approached by two ladies.  They were able to escape with the excuse of returning Elizabeth to Violet, but Michael had been forced to ask for a dance with the younger lady, about which he muttered darkly in