Page 25 of House of Thorns
Nicholas snorted with contempt.
“Robin AdairandHighland Hearthare quite popular this year. Might I also recommend the classics? Brahms? Mozart?”
Nicholas shot a glance at the lass. She was a far different creature than the retiring Henrietta. The thought was a comforting one. He raised a brow at Lord Randall and warned in a low voice, “I’ll see you ruined if you try a single thing.”
Lord Randall’s nostrils flared.
Olivia returned to the counter, her arms overflowing. “No collection is complete withoutThe Lifework of Samuel Dunn,” she announced, dropping the music into two stacks and slamming a palm down on each. “That’s three crowns each, gentlemen.”
Lord Randall blinked.
Nicholas grinned. Nay, this feisty lass was a far cry from the shy Henrietta. If he were to bet, he’d wager his entire inheritance Lord Randall could never charm his way under Olivia’s skirts.
“For the delightful service, I’ll gladly pay more.” Nicholas chuckled and dropped a guinea on the counter.
Lord Randall hesitated.
“Surely, you wouldn’t begrudge the lass her due?” Nicholas snorted.
Lord Randall’s face darkened. “I’d wageryouare the one with creditors on your tail.” He fished a handful of small coins from his pocket and slammed them down.
Nicholas eyed him, surprised at his response as well as the coins. Why would a man keep a pocketful of pennies?
“I thank you for your patronage, my lords.” Olivia marched to the door and held it wide open. “Good day.” She nodded her chin at the street.
Nicholas dropped his eyes over her fine figure, his blood stirring. Damnation. Could a womanbemore attractive? He picked up his music but took his time strolling toward the door, not only to ensure Lord Randall was truly leaving, but to prolong his enjoyment of the visual treat standing before him.
“Good day, my lord.” Olivia curtsied as Lord Randall passed before her.
Randall touched the brim of his hat. “Good day, Miss Mackenzie.”
Nicholas paused on the threshold, standing a little closer than politeness decreed.
“Good day, my lord.” A wealth of emotion stormed in those green eyes.
Instinct informed him she was thinking of the kiss in the garden. His gaze dropped to her lips. He’d be tasting that sweetness again. He wouldn’t stop until he did.
“Good day, Miss Mackenzie.”
Then, with a gallant bow, he clapped his hat on his head and stepped into the street.
The door shut behind him. The next moment, he heard the click of the lock.
The corner of his lip lifted. She was a challenge, but he liked a good challenge right well enough. It only made victory all the sweeter.
