Page 61 of The Swan Syndicate
She returned to scanning the books, hoping to find something to buy. One of the books on the bottom shelf wasThe Odyssey. Who would have guessed this wayward village on the coast would have such an old classic? Spurred on by her find, she glanced at the last few books and grabbed the last one—Robinson Crusoe.
What a find. She could read them, Beckworth probably already had, and then take them home to AJ. True classics from this era would be an antique broker’s dream in her time, though she doubted AJ would think of selling them. They would be a perfect addition to the inn’s library.
“You have an interesting selection of books there.”
The familiar male voice sent a tingle through her. It couldn’t be.
She glanced up into the smiling face of MacDuff. How did he get here so fast if his ship was still mooring? They must have dropped a jolly boat beforehand.
She kept her facial expression fixed as her gaze took in his features. He was smiling and humor danced in his eyes. He was a handsome man and confident in his bearing.
“Do you read, sir?”
He held a hand to his chest. “You wound me. I thought you might remember me.” He didn’t look hurt as his smile widened. This man was an outrageous flirt. Evenly matched was her first thought.
She tilted her head then released a slow smile. “You ran into me in Baglan.”
He laughed. “I think it was the other way around.”
“I believe that depends on who’s telling the story.”
“So it does.” He took both books from her and gave them a quick scan. “You read?”
“Of course.” Not many women in this time period did, but Mary and Elizabeth did, as did Eleanor, so it wasn’t completely unheard of.
His brow lifted. “Very different books. Do you like adventure, Lady Swan?”
He remembered her name. They were off to a good start. “Who doesn’t love a grand adventure?”
He chuckled, and his smile warmed. “Not many women do.”
She shrugged and took the books back. “Perhaps, but I’m not any woman.”
“Clearly.”
She squared her shoulders. “You’re not following me, are you, Mister—” She let the rest of her statement trail off as if she couldn’t remember.
“MacDuff. Again, you wound me.”
“It must be all the men I meet at these ports. Business and all. I’m surprised you remember me for such a quick, accidental meeting.”
His smile never wavered. “A woman in a literal sea of men, you shine like the sun.”
She gave him one of her sultry laughs. “I think I saw a book of poetry you might be interested in.”
He threw his head back and laughed with her. “You are a charming woman.” He glanced around the store then at her. “It appears your guard is returning. Are you in port for long?”
“I’m afraid we leave in the morning.”
“Then you must allow me to treat you to dinner this evening. The inn has a wonderful way with fish.”
She glanced at Lando, who’d positioned himself several paces to her right, as she considered MacDuff’s invitation.
“Your man can tag along, but I prefer he sits a couple tables away.”
She gave it another few seconds, not wanting to appear too eager. Then she gave him a slow nod. “I think that would be acceptable. How could I pass up such an enticing meal?”
“Excellent. Which ship are you traveling on?”
