Judith McNaught Quote

In some ways it seemed wrong that he lived here now, in this solitary place. At least part of the time he ought to be walking into ballrooms and strolling into gardens in his superbly tailored black evening clothes, making feminine heartbeats triple. With a wan inner smile at her attempted impartiality, Elizabeth told herself men like Ian Thornton probably performed a great service to society-he gave them something to stare at and admire and even fear. Without men like him, ladies would have nothing to dream about. And much less to regret, she reminded herself.Ian had not so much as turned to glance her way, and so it was little wonder that she jumped in surprise when he said without looking at her, It’s a lovely evening, Elizabeth. If you can spare the time from your letter, would you like to go for a walk?Walk? she repeated, stunned by the discovery that he was evidently as aware of what she was doing as she had been aware of him, sitting at the table. It’s dark out, she said mindlessly, searching his impassive features as he arose and walked over to her chair. He stood there, towering over her, and there was nothing about the expression on his handsome face to indicate he had any real desire to go anywhere with her. She cast a hesitant glance at the vicar, who seconded Ian’s suggestion. A walk is just the thing, Duncan said, standing up. It aids the digestion, you know.Elizabeth capitulated, smiling at the gray-haired man. I’ll just get a wrap from upstairs. Shall I bring something for you, sir?Not for me, he said, wrinkling his nose. I don’t like tramping about at night. Belatedly realizing he was openly abdicating his duties as chaperon, Duncan added quickly, Besides, my eyesight is not as good as it once was. Then he spoiled that excuse by picking up the book he’d been reading earlier, and-without any apparent need for spectacles-he sat down in a chair and began reading by the light of the candles.