THE MAGIC TOUCH (Historical Romance) Read Online Free

him?”
    She watched Edna’s frown in the mirror. “There’s no secret as far as I know. He’s not a very popular figure. He’s too outspoken for a lot of the gentry, begging your pardon.”
    Hope dabbed some of her favourite rose scent on her arms and behind her ears. “I shall find out for myself,” she declared, noticing from her reflection that her eyes were sparkling with mischief. “I’ll tell you all about this evening, Edna, when I’m preparing for bed.”
    There was silence as Hope descended the stairs. She was late, she knew, and anticipated a mild reproof from her aunt. She circulated and made conversation with the guests. Then she felt her pulse racing and grabbed at a chair to steady herself. Turning round slowly, she observed a tall gentleman with curling black hair and, unlike most of the other guests, he appeared to make no pretence at enjoying himself or joining in. He merely stood, examining the paintings on the walls, seemingly deep in thought.
    Instinctively knowing who he was , Hope approached him. “Mr Beaumont, how do you do? I’m pleased to make your acquaintance.”
    “Are you? Not many people are.” The sound of his voice caused Hope’s pulse to quicken. It was deep and resonantly rich, almost musical. Also, she noted that he hadn’t flinched when she’d flouted decorum and addressed him first. She trusted her aunt hadn’t observed her approach to him. However, she recognised the abrupt manner in which he had answered her.
    Hope was only slightly disconcerted. Usually guests at least made an effort to be polite and affable at such occasions, but her parents had friends who were forthright and she had always managed to charm them in some way. She would not be put off. “You knew my uncle, I understand. I am Hope.”
    “I know. And I am Beaumont. Not Mr Beaumont.” With that, he nodded his head to her and walked to a table where he helped himself to a modest amount of whisky.
    Hope’s mind whirled. She’d been led to believe he was discourteous and brusque and he had certainly lived up to his reputation. Had she really thought he’d be any different with her? She shivered slightly. Not from cold, but anticipation of the evening ahead. How she wished she’d studied her aunt’s seating plan. Would she be seated next to Beaumont? When Stevenson announced that dinner was served, she was escorted to the table by James. Luck was on her side. Taking her place, she looked straight into the mesmeric eyes of the intriguing Beaumont. He stared at her, no smile or welcome on his face. Hope sighed to herself. His allure was increasing and she knew she should put a stop to it, but at that moment she was powerless. She didn’t want to put a stop to anything to do with Beaumont until she’d found out more about him and satisfied her curiosity.
    “I’m delighted to be here this evening, Lady Hope.” A voice at her side brought her out of her reverie. She turned to the clean-shaven young gentleman whose face was as sunny and open as Beaumont’s was clouded and closed. “I hope we can get to know each other. Your parents are on the continent, I understand.”
    James informed her he had already travelled a good deal which was possibly why they had never met before. He was keen to apprise Hope of various adventures which could be undertaken whilst abroad. Although she was initially eager to know what James had to say, Hope was aware of Beaumont’s eyes on her throughout the meal. He did not attempt to engage anyone nearby in conversation and no one appeared anxious or desirous to talk to him. Perhaps what her aunt had said was the whole truth about him: he was rude. But Hope refused to believe that.
    She grew fidgety as she listened to James Henderson conversing about shooting parties he’d been on. She found it difficult to stay attentive. His early promise of thought-provoking conversation hadn’t lasted long. Half-way through enjoying the turbot, Hope found her gaze wandering to the