Member-only story
The First Chapter of A Hidden Treasure
Another Season
Emily knew something was wrong the minute she stepped into the ballroom. The chandeliers were shimmering, champagne was flowing, mamas were supervising their daughters, and those daughters were determined to attract the attention of eligible bachelors. Anyone who was new to this ball scene might miss the subtle change in the atmosphere, but Emily was painfully aware of the eyes trained on her and the whispers of scandal circulating the room.
A moment later, she saw the reason. Lord Crowell was leering at her from across the room. During Emily’s first London season last year, Lord Crowell took advantage of Emily’s trust and innocence when he asked her to come to the rose gardens to see the beautiful blooms.
Unfortunately, when they reached the garden Lord Crowell was not interested in the garden. When he pulled her against him and crushed his lips to hers, Emily was too shocked to react, but when he grabbed her breasts and twisted them, Emily cried out in pain. In the next moment, they were surrounded by curious members of the ton who had been trysting in the garden around them.
Lady Charlotte, a friend of Emily’s family, stepped forward and took Emily’s arm gently.
“Lady Emily, would you like to return to the ball?”
