Heart of Crystal by Lauren D.M. Smith

Author:Lauren D.M. Smith
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2017-03-22T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Seventeen: Rumours

Azara almost floated along beside Jin, barely noticing the crush surrounding them as they headed towards the refreshment table near the theatre’s staircase. She was still caught up in the story of the play. An exiled prince setting out on a journey to regain his rightful place, gathering allies from all corners of the country as he fought against those who went against the principles of the country. She had thought the previous tale of love and violent revenge had been good, but this one had drawn her in more. As far as she was concerned, plays were the greatest form of story-telling and the best form of entertainment.

It wasn’t until Jin brought them to a stop near the line for drinks that she roused herself. She looked up, noting his smile. “I’ll get us some drinks if you’ll stay here?”

She nodded, agreeing with his plan to multiply their efforts in information gathering. She was close to several groups. To her left, two older couples were discussing a recent party, having several disparaging comments for the behaviour of the younger people there. Behind her, two men spoke of visiting the sea and discussing the merits of different resorts. And to her left, a group of young women were giggling.

“...has been no fun of late.” The words of the one in pink, along with her hushed tone drew Azara’s attention.

She stayed where she was, but shifted her weight and her body enough that she had a clear view of all three women. They appeared to be of an age with her. The men they were with could be seen a short distance away, laughing, but out of earshot.

The woman in the purple dress sighed. “I know. We see him so rarely these days. And he does have such blue eyes, the kind I wish I had.”

“Not to mention that hair of his. He may be getting older, but you wouldn’t know it to look at him. The fact he hasn’t remarried is practically criminal.” The woman in blue shook her head.

The pink one leaned in towards the others. “I saw him at Lady Mardel’s party last week. He said he’s been busy with his work.”

The woman in blue frowned. “He has been spending enough time at that estate of his to the north. I’ve heard he heads there at least once a week, and for multiple days. It is not even full summer yet either.”

“It has been warm, I suppose,” the purple woman said.

The pink one smiled with relish. “Oh, it’s nothing quite so innocent.”

“What is it?” the blue woman asked, eyes widening.

“I’ve heard he’s been frequenting the slave auctions far more than is ordinary. Word is that he has been buying many slaves. Some say he’s setting himself up a harem, like those from the distant east.”

The other two stared then tittered, hiding their faces behind their fans and gloved hands. “Does he think himself some kind of sultan?” The woman with the blue dress shook her head.

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