Читать книгу The Major and the Country Miss - Dorothy Elbury - Страница 2

‘Miss Venables!’ Maitland exclaimed, standing stock-still in the doorway. ‘I beg your pardon. I had no idea that there was anyone here.’

‘I fear that you have found me out, Mr Maitland,’ she said with a rueful smile. ‘I had a sudden urge to get away from all the hullabaloo for a few moments’ peace and quiet on my own.’

‘And here I am, depriving you of your well-earned rest!’ Maitland grimaced, turning to go.

‘No, please don’t go, sir!’ begged Georgianne, leaping to her feet. ‘There is more than enough room for the two of us here.’

‘Your hair appears to have come somewhat adrift, Miss Venables,’ he pointed out softly, lifting up his hand in an attempt to tuck one of the curling wisps back behind her ear.

Almost as if she had been stung, Georgianne started back in alarm. ‘Yes, I know,’ she acknowledged breathlessly. ‘I had intended to deal with it before going back to the house.’

‘Pity,’ he drawled, her sudden reticence not having escaped his attention. ‘It suits you much better that way.’