The Elusive Wife by Callie Hutton Read Free Book Online Page B

attention. She didn’t notice the Earl of Coventry enter the room with the Marquess of Stafford at his side until the footman announced their names.
    …
    The two notorious members of the ton called attention to themselves by merely entering a room. Both tall and handsome, with the predatory prowl of confident male animals, they made the hearts of debutantes speed up and their mamas to pull them closer. The marriage-minded mothers would love to snare either one of them as husband for her daughter, but knew enough to keep the innocents on a tight leash when the two men were present.
    Jason crossed his arms and leaned against the wall, taking in the assembly. “A few new faces tonight,” he said to Drake while his eyes continued to wander. Selena held an intimate conversation with Lord Wesley who hung on her every word. Maybe she’d already found the next occupant of her very active bed.
    “Not that it should matter to you, old man. You do remember you’re married?” Drake signaled a footman to bring him a glass of champagne.
    “Don’t start, Drake.” Jason’s eyes flashed. “I’ve told you the subject of my marriage is not up for discussion.”
    Drake snorted his opinion and downed the champagne in one gulp.
    “Who’s the lovely miss dancing with Ware?” Jason’s eyes narrowed as he pushed himself away from the wall.
    Baron Ware was not well liked by the ton , but tolerated due to his connection with the Prince Regent. Now the stout, red faced baron practically drooled down the bodice of a beautiful dark-haired woman in a lovely deep blue gown.
    “Don’t know. Never saw the chit before.” Drake frowned. “Another new debutante seeking a husband, no doubt.”
    Jason studied her for a while. Something about her looked vaguely familiar, but he doubted they had ever met. Porcelain white skin contrasted by a delightful blush on her cheeks drew his interest. Her curly black hair sat in a loose knot at the top of her head, a slim velvet ribbon circling it. Wispy curls dangled from her temples and neck. But the smile. Every time she looked at her partner and beamed, Jason felt his groin tighten. He would love to see that grin bestowed on him. And lips designed for kissing created the intriguing smile. Deep red, full, and pouty.
    When the dance came to an end Jason continued to study her as Baron Ware walked her back to Lady Lansdowne. He bowed over her hand and left. So the beauty was an acquaintance of Lady Lansdowne? Hmm. Time to renew his association with the fair Elizabeth.
    “Where are you going?” Drake asked, as Jason started across the ballroom, his attention riveted on Lady Lansdowne and her companion.
    “Nowhere in particular. Just going to circulate a bit. Isn’t it time for your dance with Miss Ingram?” he tossed over his shoulder.
    “Yes, as a matter of fact it is. Stay out of trouble, Jas.”
    Shrugging at Drake’s comment, Jason made his way through the crowd gathering for the next dance. He smiled when he noticed the beauty didn’t appear to have a partner for this dance.
    …
    Olivia’s eyes grew wide as she watched a tall, dark haired man move in their direction from across the room. “Is that him? Blast, with everyone moving about, I’m not sure.” She grabbed Elizabeth’s hand. “I think he’s headed in our direction.”
    “Yes. ’Tis Lord Coventry. Calm down, Olivia. Remember he’s in the wrong, not you.”
    Olivia was certain the entire ballroom could hear her heart pounding. She grasped her ice cold hands together, trying to stop the shaking.
    Good heavens, I’m going to swoon like some delicate debutante right here at his feet.
    “What should I say to him?” Olivia chewed her lip.
    “He’s approaching us, let him do the talking. Maybe you’ll get an apology.”
    “Lady Lansdowne, you’re looking lovely as ever.” Jason grasped Elizabeth’s hand and kissed it. “And who, pray tell, is your beautiful companion?” He turned and looked directly into Olivia’s