Stephanie Laurens - On a Wild Night

They took up their positions as Martin lifted Amanda to the top step of the coach. Clutching the frame, she laughed and turned, brandishing her bouquet. She looked up, then flung it-

Straight at Luc.

He swore and went to step back, but the column was behind him. Reflexively, he caught the bouquet. Shot a scowl at Amanda and saw her grin delightedly.

Turning the bouquet in his hands, he presented it to Amelia with a bow. "Your sister's aim is atrocious. I believe this is for you."

"Thank you." Amelia took it, looking down to hide her grin, to suppress the wicked impulse to inform him he was wrong on both counts. Then she glanced at the coach, saw Amanda blow a kiss, then wave as Martin urged her in.

Amelia smiled, saluted her twin with the bouquet-knew she understood. Knew she approved.

Amanda was married, and her own decision was made. It was her turn to snare her mate,

Luc inwardly frowned as the carriage door shut and the coachman flicked his whip. Just before he'd disappeared into the coach, Martin had looked directly at him, then smiled-an expression Luc couldn't interpret.

Then he felt Amelia's hand on his arm, instantly suppressed his habitual reaction. "We'd better go in."

He nodded and turned to follow her, grateful when she removed her hand and led the way. She glanced over her shoulder and smiled lightly. The sort of smile he'd seen a million times before. He stepped into the house, and wondered why the hairs at his nape had lifted.