Waiting for Mr. Darcy Read Online Free Page A

several clinics throughout the five boroughs. Most people, including Alicia, believed he was an international playboy and he did nothing to discourage it. He gave parties and always seemed to have a parade of women in and out of his place whenever he was in town, which annoyed Alicia to no end. So to say he delighted in pulling her chain was an understatement.
    Harrison walked back in the living room. “Here you go.” He handed her a glass.
    â€œThanks.” She took a sip.
    â€œSo what’s on the agenda for the Aristocrats tonight?”
    â€œI don’t think we’re going to have a meeting tonight since it’s just Gabby and me.”
    â€œYou can’t fill Lauren in later?”
    â€œNo. It’s one of the rules we set up for our little club. In order to have a proper meeting of the Austen Aristocrats all three of us have to be there.”
    â€œI guess that means you’re sort of the charmed ones of classic romantic literature.”
    â€œYes, it’s the power of three.” She chuckled.
    Even though it had been thirty-two years and a few divorces later, they still had meetings, although now they had the added choice of movie DVDs of their favorite author’s work.
    â€œAre you going to show the footage from your last trip to England for the next meeting?”
    â€œI was thinking about it. I had a lot of fun touring Austen’s stomping grounds.”
    He chuckled. “You mean The Virgin Suicides Tour.”
    â€œOh, that’s not nice. Jane Austen died of Addison’s disease.”
    â€œShe lived in the eighteenth century, same difference.”
    â€œYou might have a point.” She laughed.
    He looked at the clock. “I’ll go fire up the grill.”
    â€œThanks.” Hopefully this is only a pit stop for Nathaniel. The idea of that man being here for the entire summer is more than I want to think about.…
    * * *
    Dressed to kill, Lauren nursed a martini alone at her table. She checked herself in the reflection of the silver. Glad I decided to wear my hair down. It looks better with the dress. She ran her fingers through her dark, shoulder-length hair. Everywhere she looked there were happy couples and groups enjoying the modern yet romantic elegance of Ricardo’s. She stared at her cell phone. Why he hasn’t he called? Where is he?
    The waiter interrupted her thoughts. “May I get you something else?”
    â€œNo.” She picked up the menu. “I’m sure my husband will be along soon and then we’ll order together.”
    â€œVery good.” He walked away.
    Lauren continued to stare at the entrance, hoping to see Ken walk through the door.
    â€œPardon me?”
    She looked up to see a nicely attired gentleman standing next to her table. He was tall, broad-shouldered, with dark good looks. In fact, he was just the type of man she usually was attracted to, but she was in no mood to be hit on.
    â€œMay I buy you another drink?”
    â€œNo, thank you, I’m waiting for someone.”
    â€œOkay then. How about an appetizer while you wait?”
    Is this guy for real? “Listen, I’m waiting for my husband.”
    He smiled. “And I will extend the same offer to him. I’m Randy Rivera. This is my restaurant.”
    Lauren turned red. “Oh, I’m sorry. I thought you were…”
    â€œTrying to pick you up? Not at all, although you are a very attractive woman.”
    â€œThanks.” She paused. “Aren’t you the executive chef, too?”
    â€œGuilty. I’m usually behind the scenes, but the manager called in, so I’m front of the house tonight. Speaking of being a good host, may I ask your name?”
    â€œI’m Lauren Jones.”
    â€œIt’s very nice to meet you, Lauren Jones.” They shook hands. “So how about that drink?”
    â€œWhy not? I’ll have another pomegranate martini.”
    â€œYou got it.” He called