Read La Bella Isabella for Free Online Page A

is possible to miss something important.”
    Well, she’d asked for that. And she couldn’t help but go warm at the images his statement brought to mind.
    She watched him throw his head back and laugh. “Ah, Amanda, I am going to enjoy the next few months; I can assure you. I am so glad you…are you?”
    Amanda had no idea what to make of that cryptic comment, so decided to say nothing. She watched as he turned the phaeton around to make their way back through the park. There was a watery sun trying to break through the clouds, making the snow sparkle and the ice on the pond gleam and shine.
    “So, what do you think about La Bella Isabella and her Dancing Girls?” he asked as he urged the horses on.
    She hoped he did not see her reaction. “Me? Why would I have any thoughts on them?” Would her answer be enough to satisfy him?
    “Ah, so you have heard of them “ He sounded satisfied.
    Amanda strove to keep only mild interest in her voice. “Oh, yes, my lord, we may be sheltered as young ladies of the Ton, but we do have ears. And gentlemen are not always discreet in our company.” Frequently not. But this was not spoken aloud. “And I, of course, am not just out, but have had several seasons.”
    “Indeed. Why so many and no attachments? You are not unattractive.”
    Even though she knew he was baiting her, Amanda rushed into heated speech. “Well, thank you, my lord, for those few condescending words. Could it not be that I have refused all offers made for me?”
    “Have you, indeed?” he queried with obvious interest. “Why?”
    Mm, how to answer without digging a bigger hole for myself? “My reasons are mine,” she said stiffly.
    “Mine also, Amanda, as you well know.”
    She tried her best to smile in a coy manner—no easy matter as coyness did not often feature in her repertoire. “I know no such thing, my lord, and if so, why inquire of things you say you know? Pah, I am in the dark here.” Would it work?
    He shook his head—it seemed—in reproach. “Now, now, Amanda, do not tell lies. You know as well as I how are our futures are intertwined. Why you refused all those marriage offers made to you. As well you did for to have accepted one would have created considerable problems.”
    “Really?” She strove for nonchalance. “As well as you say, I did not. So why, Harry, were you asking me my opinions of La Bella Isabella?” Oh, you fool. Why return to that equally explosive topic? Really, she must learn when to stay silent. She felt him look at her intently, and realized to her relief, they had left the park and were nearly at her parents’ home. Not much longer to hold out as, surely, he would not want to keep his horses standing.
    “Because, my dear, I’m sure you must have some opinion of her aims and ideas.”
    “Not a one. I’m sorry to disappoint you.”
    “I’m sure you’re not sorry at all.” he retorted as he stilled the horses. “However, I’m sure you’ll let me know the whys and wherefores one day.” He jumped down to assist her. “You may rest assured that I have no desire to keep my horses waiting, but I do so desire to see you tonight.” He tweaked the brim of her bonnet and grinned at her. “And do not sulk. It does not become you.” He kissed her hand lightly.
    “I never sulk, my lord.” She leaned toward him. “I get even. Thank you for such an interesting morning’s outing.” Not the best riposte, but the best she could think of as she turned and walked through the open door.
    Her mind was racing. What exactly was his game? What did he know, and what was he guessing?
     
     
    Chapter Seven
     

     
    It was midafternoon when Harry received a gilt-edged note on familiar peach vellum.
    “Tonight, at ten in the evening, a very special show by La Bella Isabella. Minute Theatre. Entrance, strictly limited, on production of this invitation. Evening dress requested.”
    He turned the invitation over and over in his hand. Just what was going on? Had La Bella