Princess Charming (Legendary Lovers 1)

Ash saw her glance around the table as if expecting an objection, but no one disputed her claim. Thus far, none of the current generation of Wildes had been struck by love, despite having ample advantages and multiple opportunities.

“And why haven’t we fallen in love?” Katharine asked rhetorically. “Because we have not met our true mates yet. The thing is, I think I have hit upon a way to solve our problem.”

“I wasn’t aware we had a problem,” Ash said.

“Certainly we do. Life is passing us by, Ash, and we are very likely missing our chance at happiness.”

“Go on,” he directed noncommittally.

“We have only to look to legendary lovers in history,” Katharine explained. “Literature is filled with classic, timeless tales of love that can lead us to find our own matches. In short, I am proposing that we attempt to follow in the footsteps of the world’s greatest lovers.”

The silence that greeted her suggestion was accompanied by blank stares and several pairs of raised eyebrows.

“I have researched very carefully,” Katharine went on doggedly, “and have spent countless hours quizzing Uncle Cornelius about various possibilities to fit our needs. His vast store of knowledge has proved invaluable.”

“What classic tales are you speaking of?” Skye asked.

Katharine answered readily. “Oh, you know—from Greek mythology, renowned authors such as Shakespeare, even fairy tales. In fact, based on my research, I believe I can identify several possible ideal matches for us right here and now.”

In response, the differing expressions from her family members ranged from amusement to scorn. Ash felt his own mouth curl in a wry smile. Leave it to Kate to still astonish them in unexpected ways.

“Of all the bird-witted notions,” Jack commented, “that takes the ultimate prize.”

Katharine fixed a scowl on her dubious adopted brother. “I knew I would have difficulty convincing you all of my theory, especially the first time—”

“I should say so,” he drawled.

She held up a hand. “Just pray hear me out.”

With an exaggerated sigh, Jack left his perch on the table and slid into an empty chair while crossing his arms over his broad chest. Quinn leaned back, observing her from under half-lowered eyelids, his skepticism obvious.

Only Skye seemed willing to encourage Katharine’s romantic flights of fancy. “I think your theory sounds very intriguing, Kate. I should like to hear more.”

“Thank you,” she said with a look of gratitude. “Now where was I?”

“You said you have identified possible matches for us.”

“Yes, based on legendary lovers.” Her gaze shifted to Ash. “I think your match is Maura Collyer.”

After an incredulous pause, he laughed outright at that. “I suppose you mean to tell me why you specifically chose her.”

Katharine nodded eagerly. “You are aware of Perrault’s tale of Cinderella? Well, Cinderella had a wicked stepmother and two stepsisters, just as Maura does. In truth, the moment Uncle Cornelius mentioned Perrault, I immediately thought of her. When we were at school together, I sometimes roasted Maura about her family situation. But I never thought it would prove the perfect sign of her compatibility with you.”

“I gather that you are acting as her fairy godmother?” Ash asked sardonically, a guess that was confirmed when Kate nodded again. “At least that explains why you requested your ball under false pretenses. That was your underhanded way of contriving an encounter between me and Miss Collyer.”

Kate had the grace to look a trifle guilty then. “Yes, but I knew better than to tell you of my plan beforehand, Ash. You would have scoffed and told me to go to the devil.”

“Which is exactly what I mean to do now. You can’t seriously expect me to play the role of prince to her Cinderella.”

“I only want you to keep an open mind.…”

When he didn’t immediately respond, Kate’s tone turned imploring. “Truly, Ash, she could be your perfect mate. You know Maura is nothing at all like the young misses who drive you to distraction with their witless chatter. She has brains and beauty and spirit, and she can ride like a centaur,” Kate added, singing her friend’s praises. “She is far ahead of her time, managing a breeding stable, and independent enough that she would never chase after you for your fortune and title.”

Nothing like other young ladies indeed, Ash thought, remembering Maura’s unconventional actions earlier tonight.

“Moreover, she is an orphan, like we are.”

“Is that supposed to arouse my sympathy?”