The Princess & the Pea by Victoria Alexander Read Free Book Online Page A

"merely unique. Rare. What's new is always somewhat uncomfortable. It's progress, Emily. I think it's splendid." She stared at a particularly attractive vehicle, crossed her arms over her chest and tilted her head thoughtfully. "I'd wager these are more advanced than his. Look at them."
    She walked along the line of automobiles, gesturing with a gloved hand. "They are obviously much more expensive than his as well. I doubt if Mr. Grayson has any money of his own at all. You know, Quentin's aunt is funding the development of their vehicle. And she's apparently never even met Mr. Grayson. She knows Quentin has a partner but isn't the least bit curious about him."
    She shook her head in a pitying manner. "Imagine, no curiosity."
    Emily cast her sister a wary glance. "How do you know all this?"
    Cece smiled. "Servants."
    Emily groaned. "You've been gossiping with servants?"
    "I don't consider it gossip." Cece said airily. "It wasn't merely idle chatter. My discussions were for the express purpose of soliciting information. Interviews, if you will."
    "Like Nellie Bly?"
    "Exactly." Cece smiled, as if pleased with her sibling for understanding.
    "Ladies, what an unexpected pleasure."
    The sisters turned at the interruption.
    "If it isn't the arrogant Englishman." Cece's gracious manner and extended hand belied her sharp words.
    "And the lovely, foolish American." Jared took her fingers in his and raised them to his lips in a charmingly romantic gesture. "I gather you suffered no ill effects from our last meeting?"
    "None whatsoever." Cece favored him with a smile and a twinkle in her eye. "Have you tried to seduce anyone else in your automobile?"
    Enuly sucked in her breath. Jared's eyes widened in obvious astonishment. How on earth could Cece be so ... so ... so brazen?
    "No." He pulled a watch from his waistcoat and flipped open the cover. "But the day is still young."
    His comment hung in the air. Emily's gaze shifted in abject disbelief from Jared to Cece and back. Did these two have no sense of propriety? Was this duel of words some outrageous flirtation, or did they mean each other actual bodily harm?
    Without warning, Cece's laughter snapped the tense moment. Jared joined her and the couple shook with mirth. Emily released a breath she hadn't realized she held.
    "So, all is forgiven?" Jared said.
    Cece flashed him a radiant smile. "It is indeed." She nodded toward her sister. "You remember Emily."
    Jared tipped his black silk hat. "Delighted to see you again, my dear." He returned his gaze to Cece. "What brings you to Paris?"
    "That's what I keep asking." Emily said under her breath. No one seemed to notice.
    "Paris is one of the great cities of the world. We're simply tourists. I believe I mentioned our intention to visit when we first met. And now with all this." Cece waved at the line of automobiles. "I scarcely think anyone with the opportunity to witness such an event would pass it up."
    "It is impressive." Jared surveyed the motorcars with a knowing eye. "I have noted a number of refinements Quentin and I should try to incorporate into our own design."
    "Really?" Cece said curiously. "What kind of refinements?"
    He studied her for a moment, as if assessing her sincerity. "I must say I find your interest surprising."
    "Why?" A challenge rang in her voice.
    "Well. I find most women ... that is to say, many women ..." An expression akin to that of a drowning man trying to reach the water's surface crossed his face. He drew a deep breath. "Women, in general, do not seem to be mechanically inclined."
    "Mr. Grayson ... Jared." Cece said coolly. "I am not like most women, many women or even women in general. I find automobiles fascinating. I firmly believe they are the wave of the future. The vehicle of the twentieth century. Now," she smiled sweeny, "we would love for you to show us some of the observations you've made here. Wouldn't we, Em?"
    "We'd love it," Emily said weakly.
    "Excellent," Jared grinned, as if he couldn't