The evening air was cool and crisp as the black carriage of the Duke of Carleton rolled to a gentle stop in the courtyard of the Hamilton mansion. The gravel crunched softly beneath the wheels, the only sound breaking the quiet anticipation of the night.
Carcel sat inside for a moment, taking a deep breath. He pushed the door open and stepped down. He adjusted his coat, a habit born of nervousness that he would never admit to anyone. He looked at the Hamilton's front door. He didn't have to wait long.
The heavy oak door opened, and Ines stepped out.
Carcel felt the air leave his lungs.
She was breathtaking. She wore a gown of shimmering emerald green silk that caught the light of the carriage lanterns. The bodice was cut low, showing off the creamy skin of her décolletage, and the sleeves were delicate lace. Her hair was swept up in an intricate arrangement of curls, woven with small pearls that looked like stars caught in the night sky.
