Chapter 31

To her surprise, Harry obeyed. He came around the end of the settee and sat in the corner, staring at her. One of his dark brows arched questioningly.

Reaching for the tray beside her, Poppy lifted a plate laden with sandwiches, tarts, and biscuits. "The kitchen sent up far too much for one person. Have the rest."

"I'm not—"

"Here," she insisted, pushing the plate into his hands.

Harry took a sandwich and began to consume it slowly. Taking her teacup from the tray, Poppy poured fresh tea and added a spoonful of sugar. She gave it to Harry.

"What are you reading?" he asked, glancing at the book in her lap.

"A novel by a naturalist author. As of yet, I can't find anything resembling a plot, but the descriptions of the countryside are quite lyrical." She paused, watching him drain the teacup. "Do you like novels?"

He shook his head. "I usually read for information, not entertainment."

"You disapprove of reading for pleasure?"