A Similar Taste in Books (Love and the Library) Read online

  Gads, she must have heard the entire dust-up! “Miss Haley, I apologize for not meeting you on Tuesday. My work kept me away, and I missed you in the park in the mornings—”

  “Good day, Mr. Fellowes.” She strolled toward Justin and beamed a warm smile at him. “Indeed, you have nothing to apologize for. I heard all. Before you arrived, I admit I was quite angry, but not now.”

  All his tension drained away, leaving him so boneless he could collapse. As he bowed over her extended hand, his damp cuff brushed against her kidskin glove, wetting the delicate fabric.

  Her forehead puckered. “Oh, dear, are you still wet from this morning? I did not go to the park on account of the rain. I am sorry you waited for naught. We must get you out of that soaked coat before you catch cold.” Her fine cinnamon-colored eyes sparkled with invitation. “At my house?”

  His dreams had come true! He nodded, his mouth too dry to form words.

  “And you can stay for dinner, if you like. Tonight, we dine en famille, so you can meet my parents and my brother. We can discuss finance with Papa, novels with Mama and fencing with my brother.”

  Her warmth fell away as she regarded his companions “But I am afraid I cannot extend a welcome to your friends.” Her voice was pure ice.

  Wynne and Coffey squirmed. Trant’s glare faltered.

  She stepped up to the counter. Paper crackled as she swept the wrappings away from Justin’s book. “Ah, Pride and Prejudice. A very good choice. The hero, Mr. Darcy, is strong, kind and exceedingly intelligent.” She raised her furious gaze to Trant. “Unlike some.”

  Trant’s hauteur collapsed.

  “Also, he is not afraid to admit when he is wrong.” Her frigid stare again raked his friends. “Unlike some of my acquaintance.”

  The men winced.

  “Mr. Fellowes, I believe Mr. Darcy would enjoy a book such as Pride and Prejudice, and, like you, not care who knew.” She beckoned to the clerk, who cowered half hidden among the stacks. “Please rewrap this novel. I vow, I would like to read it again.” She hooked her arm through Justin’s and then cast him a smile blazing with promise. “With you.”

  THE END

  About the Author

  Welcome to My World of Historical Hilarity!

  I'm Linda Banche, and I write witty, sweet/sensual Regency romances with nary a rake or royal in sight. Most contain humor, some fantasy, and occasionally a little paranormal or science fiction. But comedy is my love, and I've created my own wacky blend of humor and Regency with stories that can elicit reactions from a gentle smile to a belly laugh.

  Like many other romance authors, I read romances for years before I wrote my own. Once I tried, I quickly discovered how difficult writing is. Did I stop? No, I'm persistent—that's French for "too stupid to quit".

  I live in New England and like aerobics and ducks.

  So, laugh along with me on a voyage back to the Regency era. Me and my ducks. Quack.

  Connect with me online!

  Website: http://www.lindabanche.com

  Other Books by Linda Banche

  Lady of the Stars 2010 EPIC Contest finalist

  Pumpkinnapper 2011 EPIC Contest finalist

  Mistletoe Everywhere

  Gifts Gone Astray

  An Inheritance for the Birds

  All available on Amazon

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