Page 11 of A Wallflower Never Forgets
An hour later, they walked out of the shop. Jonathan was carrying a stack of books neatly wrapped. Melanie’s maid walked a few steps behind them. “There’s a tea shop across the street. I don’t know about you, but they have the best strawberry tarts and sticky buns.” Her eyes lit up and he recalled how much she loved strawberries, biscuits, and sweets in general.
“Shall we go?” she asked.
He realized he was hedging. He had had such a wonderful time at the bookshop, seeing things through Melanie’s eyes, and realized he wanted to spend more time with her. She had changed so much since the days she and his sisters followed him and Gavin around the estates, spying on them and listening in on their conversations.
She beamed at him. “I’d love some tea,” she coaxed.
“Then, by all means, let’s enjoy a hot cup before we return home. Besides, I’d like to see if you have the same sweet tooth you always had,” he said with a wink.
“Thank you for accompanying me today,” Melanie said as she poured cream into her tea. Your advice was most helpful. I am so pleased to have found the most perfect Christmas gifts for Lillian and Lydia.”
“I suspect my sisters will be thrilled. But what is it about Frankenstein that makes the book so appealing?” Jonathan asked, sincerely interested. He hadn’t read it but knew of the book’s popularity.
“Besides being very entertaining, I think it makes the reader think about the dangers of playing God,” Melanie said, biting into the sticky bun. “This is delicious, by the way,” she added, chasing the sweet treat with her hot tea.
“I didn’t realize what it was about,” he admitted.
“Then you must read it! She perused the stack of wrapped purchases and set one on the table next to Jonathan.
“No…this is a present for your family and friends. I would rather read your copy,” he said, giving her a lopsided grin. He couldn’t help but be fascinated by Melanie. Her mind was like quicksilver, and he wanted to know more about the books she’d read. She got such excitement from stories; it was no wonder she wanted to write them.
Melanie blushed but seemed to warm to the idea. “Well…all right. I think I may have my copy at Grandmama’s. I’ll look for it.”
He nodded. As they sat together, the warm steam rising from their fragrant tea mingled with the sweet smell of freshly baked biscuits and sticky buns. He would forever associate this mix of glorious scents with the beautiful young woman sitting across from him. Their laughter filled the cozy room as they discussed their favorite books.
“I cannot recall the last time I’ve had such a good time talking about books,” Jonathan said, looking at the empty plate in front of him. “It appears there are no more biscuits and sticky buns. Shall I order a refill of hot tea and biscuits?”
“Goodness! I have talked so much, I don’t even recall eating the last biscuit,” Melanie said.
“You didn’t. I did.” He flashed a smile. “The orange biscuits and strawberry tarts were especially delicious.”
Melanie smiled, a pretty blush suffusing her cheeks. “They were delicious. Truly.” She glanced at the clock on the wall. “But we should probably make our way back to Grandmama’s.”
Jonathan felt warmed by her smile. He nodded to the server, who came with the bill. “And can you give us a dozen of those delicious biscuits?”
“Yes, milord,” the server said, disappearing into the kitchen.
He winked at Melanie. “I think the dowager countess will enjoy them.”
Melanie giggled, and Jonathan thought it was the prettiest sound he’d ever heard.
Chapter Five
The Next Day
Jonathan leaned back against the plush brown leather chair, sinking into its embrace as he enjoyed the gentle crackling of the fire in the expansive fireplace that dominated the wall across from him. The flickering flames cast a warming glow that filled the room with a cozy ambiance. He relished the soothing heat that enveloped him, perfectly balanced to feel comforted rather than scorched. With its rich, inviting atmosphere, this sanctuary was his favorite spot at White’s, especially during the chilly months when the world outside could be cold and uninviting.
“Would you like a refill on that brandy, milord?” a footman asked.
“Yes, I would. And if you see Lord Rochester, please direct him here.
“Will it only be the two of you, milord? If you like, I can position the chair to the right of you to give you a little more separation and privacy from the rest of the gathering,” the footman said.
“Yes. We would appreciate that,” Jonathan said.
The footman adjusted a second leather chair at an angle before quietly slipping out of the room.
Jonathan stared into the flames, reflecting on the events of yesterday. He and Melanie spent most of the day together, and he found himself wishing for more time with her. He’d always perceived her as his best friend’s little sister, who was always getting into mischief…until two days ago…
