A Curious Heart (Love Vine: A Regency Series) Read Online Free PDF Page A

Calvin Beasley hovered near her elbow, not touching her but giving every indication of wanting to do so.
    She had little to say to this gentleman, and knew that it was improper that they should be here on the veranda, un-chaperoned.
    Allie had pressed him into service as her escort to the terrace, however, and could not be rude. When her aunt and the earl had disappeared through the French doors, she'd become almost frantic, lest she miss something important. Knowing she was the very image of a scapegrace hoyden for doing so, she could not curb the curiosity that drove her on. The newfound knowledge of Alana's beleaguered heartstrings gave credence to her pursuit—and unnatural interest in—the affaire .
    So much for all of Aunt Alana's declaration of being uninterested! Not for the first time, Allie's curiosity overcame her scruples and she was hoping to espy the couple and perhaps overhear their conversation. Sometimes it seemed that Allie was more interested in the love affairs of others than in furthering one of her own.
    She smiled wanly at her escort and tried to turn her attention back to his conversation while scouring the garden for a glimpse of the other pair. Finally, she spied her aunt's lavender gown as the couple disappeared into one of the bowers nearby. Once their location was known to her, she sent Beasley on his way to get her some punch.
    As soon as he was out of sight, she scooted down the steps into the garden, took a path parallel to her quarry and fixed herself at a location just opposite them, behind a rather large hedge. She then seated herself on a stone bench and strained her ears.
    For a long while there was no sound whatsoever, giving her pause to wonder what was going on, then she grinned as she realized they might be kissing! Her assumption was correct, of course, but she was startled when a resounding slap filled the air. Allie strained to hear the muffled voices coming through the foliage.
    "Rothburn, you are impertinent! How dare you take liberties."
    "Liberties? You practically threw yourself into my arms, inviting me to stroll in the garden. How could I be blamed for assuming your interest was not wholly political?
    "Such a ruse, wanting to know about the reform bill I've put before Parliament. I am not such a fool as to believe you truly have an interest in such things." Rothburn's voice sounded rather horse, and a bit amused.
    "And why would you presume that? You know me not well enough to presume anything regarding my interests—or my inclinations."
    "Well, be that as it may, you were not exactly a non-participant in that kiss. You enjoyed it, you must admit. I'm not stupid. I felt your response."
    "Any woman would respond to you. You have such a reputation. You have taken unfair advantage of your appeal, and I will not be trifled with. Try that again, and I will do more than slap you, 'tis certain."
    "Oh? And just what must I fear from such a delicate lady as yourself? Surely you do not think me afraid of your idle threats."
    "Idle threats? I will show you just how idle—"
    "Then I suppose I will be forced to give you cause to show me—"
    The low growl of the earl's voice was the last thing Allie heard, and a very long silence ensued. Try though she might, Allie could not see through the thick hedgerow, and she could only imagine what must be taking place on the other side.
    Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she thought over what she had just heard. Though her aunt appeared uninterested in marriage, especially to Lord Rothburn—indeed, made remonstrations to that affect—it was obvious to Allie that this was not true.
    Why else would her aunt have suggested this tête-à-tête in the garden? Allie was puzzled that her aunt would say one thing and then do the opposite. Knowing little of the ways of love Allie decided that she must learn—and soon.
    She continued to listen, but no further conversation was forthcoming, so she reluctantly gave up her post. Returning to the veranda,