She glanced around the ballroom. “As you might be able to see, I like a light and airy feel to a home. Darker colors can be interesting to add dimension and interest, but I prefer walls and hangings to be in lighter colors.”

“I agree. I do not like dark colors at all.” He appeared to shudder.

He was so emphatic about his dislike, Eleanor wondered what his house looked like. If they decided to wed, she would find out soon.

The set ended, and they began strolling back to her family. She wished she could remain with him and continue their conversation. Perhaps he would discuss the other renovations he wished to make to his house. Unfortunately, she had partners for all her dances, and she would not be able to really talk with him again until the supper dance.

Still, there was a little more information to be discovered. “Do you have dark colors now?”

“Yes.” His tone was filled with loathing. “I cannot wait to have it changed. The only problem is that I do not know which colors and patterns would be best for the various rooms.”

“Do you mean to say that all the rooms are decorated in dark colors?” She could not imagine it could be true. Who would do something like that?

“Every single one of them.”

“Oh dear. That must be dreadful.” If they decided they suited, redecorating the house would be one of the first things she would do.

“You cannot imagine. It is as if I am living in a cave.”

How horrible. Eleanor felt sorry for him to have to reside in a place that was not comfortable. She patted his arm. “I am sure something can be done.”

He stopped walking and gazed down at her. “I certainly hope so, and soon.”

Suddenly, she got the feeling he was not speaking only about his house. Was he preparing to propose? If so, she should give him some encouragement. After all, declarations of love typically accompanied proposals. “I hope so as well.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT

John couldn’t have been happier, except that he had to watch another gentleman dance with Eleanor. The more they had talked during the dance, the more he wanted to drop to one knee and propose. Fortunately, he had managed to contain himself. Not only would it be a shocking thing to do, but he had not even spoken with Worthington yet. And it might ruin the ball for her sisters. No, the Exeter ball was a much better place to propose. He just had to decide what to say to make her agree to marry him.