Deceiving the Duke of Kerrington

The air in the grand ballroom was thick with the scent of hothouse roses and the murmur of polite conversation. Pierce Chadwick, the Duke of Kerrington, stifled a yawn, his gaze sweeping over the assembled ton with weary disdain. Another ball, another parade of simpering debutantes and their ambitious mamas.

He grabbed a glass of champagne, downing it quickly, hoping to dull the edges of his boredom. The duty to marry and produce an heir weighed heavily on him, a tedious task in a world filled with women who only saw his title.

Later, seeking refuge from the crowds, he found himself in the gaming room, where a chance encounter with his friend, Lord Martineau, led him to a table with the portly, arrogant Lord Brattondale. A preposterous wager was made – Brattondale's daughter's hand in marriage against two hundred pounds. Pierce, against his better judgment, accepted.

Meanwhile, Lady Noelle Parrish, oblivious to the bet that had just sealed her fate, walked briskly through Mayfair, the spring sunshine on her face. Lost in thought, she collided with a stranger, a handsome American named Soren Johanssen, whose striking green eyes and charming demeanor instantly captivated her. Their brief, flirtatious encounter left her heart fluttering with anticipation.

Back in her room, Noelle confided in her lady's maid, Hope, about her desire to see Soren again. A daring, reckless plan began to form in her mind, one that hinged on the uncanny resemblance between mistress and maid.