An invitation to the spectacular summer ball at Danford Hall was the last thing that Emma Highsmith had expected. Though her childhood friend, Hannah Clayton, had married the eldest son of the influential Bellinghan family, the two women had not spoken for some time as Hannah had enjoyed newly wedded bliss.

Now her friend had to face the scrutiny of the entire county in her first act as hostess, and she'd requested only friendly faces around her in the run-up to the event. Emma was only too pleased to accept her most generous invitation.

Ten days away from her controlling mother sounded like bliss!She's been told that only the Bellinghan family would be in attendance in the week before the Ball, which had made the invitation even more appealing. There would be no pressure to attract male attention; afterall everyone present would be married!Emma had failed utterly during her eight years on the Marriage Mart, and was about to finally give up her search for a husband.

She was too quiet, too awkward and anxious to capture anyone's attention. Spinsterhood beckoned and, for the most part, she welcomed it.

It came as a surprise to find that a Mr Drewsbury, cousin to one of the Bellinghan wives, was also in attendance. He had been an unexpected addition who, in Emma's opinion, added nothing to the party except the ability to brood in corners.

He'd taken an instant dislike to her, for reasons known only to himself. And though she'd occasionally catch herself admiring his broad frame and blue eyes, she reciprocated his ire quite fervently.

He was the fly in the ointment, the only thing that could spoil her trip away, and she was determined to not let that happen. Though his infuriating presence did provoke her to break through some of her usual shyness, and despite his obvious disdain he always found an excuse to be near her.

There may be more to both of them than can be seen on first acquaintance. And at Danford Hall, no secret can remain hidden forever.

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