Jane and Bingley (Countdown to Christmas Book 8) Read Online Free PDF

her throat, she finished lamely, “It works on you.”
    He winked. “Glad to know you approve. So, are you ready to go?”
    “Yes, but I still have no idea how French hens and dressing posh correlate.”
    “Oh, ye of little faith. You must trust me. Now where’s your coat?”
     
    It wasn’t until he pulled onto the grounds of La Caille, one of the ritziest French restaurants in Utah, that she realized they might possibly be eating the French hens. She had never personally eaten there, but had heard how incredible the food was.
    She grinned as he opened her car door, knowing he couldn’t deny it now. “So you’re taking me out for French chicken?”
    “Only if you don’t like my actual plan. But knowing your love of seafood, I’m going to assume that chicken will be the last thing you order.”
    What in the world was he on about? “Seafood?”
    “Aha! The librarian doesn’t know everything!” He tucked her hand into the crook of his elbow and walked her toward the beautifully decorated restaurant.
    It looked like something straight from Europe. The grounds were elegant, and Jane jumped when a large, colorful bird flew in front of her up into one of the nearest trees. Its wings were bright blue, and feathers a distinct green against the white of the snow around them. “Was that a peacock?”
    “Yes. Pretty, isn’t it?”
    “Peacocks live in Utah?”
    “La Caille has had peafowl for years. I believe it may be the largest community of the birds in the state.”
    She glanced around the formal gardens and took in the big lake, ornamental bridges, cobblestone paths, and glowing fairy lights. “I bet this place looks breathtaking in the summer.”
    “Fantastic venue for a wedding.”
    Wedding. She caught her breath as she glanced into his dark eyes. “I don’t think I’ve ever heard a man say something like that.”
    He blushed slightly and looked down, and then those eyes met hers again. “What? Can’t a man think of planning weddings like you women do?”
    She shrugged and began to walk toward the building, trying as best she could to keep calm—though her heart was definitely betraying her. “Never really thought about it before.”
    By the time they were seated in the elegant, lavishly decorated dining room, her heart had almost returned to normal. She glanced around the room and took note of the large chandeliers and Christmas greenery boughs. Their decorator deserved whatever praise they received. It was like stepping back in time to a magical place.
    “Can I order for us both?” Charles was searching through the menu.
    “Of course, but I’m not certain I should trust you.”
    He chuckled and glanced up at her. “I always knew you were an intelligent woman.”
    “So, what do you have in mind?”
    “Three French hens, remember?”
    She tried not to roll her eyes as she shook her head. “Yes, and you said we weren’t eating chicken.”
    Just then, the waitress came over with their drinks. “Are you ready to order?”
    One final glance at Jane before he ordered. “Yes. We’d like to start with an artisanal cheese board, and then lobster bisque, and halibut a laBasquaise. Oh, and please add a lobster tail to each dinner course as well.”
    Jane nearly choked. “Charles, that’s a ton of food. How in the world will I ever eat it?”
    He winked again. “If there are leftovers—which I doubt—you’ll enjoy them too.” He took a sip of his water. “Besides, I haven’t even ordered the dessert. I thought you’d like to do that afterward.”
    “Thank you, sir. Any drinks?”
    His eyes roamed over Jane, as if he wished they were alone. She wasn’t even sure he heard. “Not yet. We’ll let you know if we need something,” she replied. He still hadn’t stopped staring at her. Once the waitress left, she asked, “What?”
    His eyes softened, and he shook his head slightly. Everything in the room seemed to freeze at once. Even her breathing became much more pronounced.
    “I don’t