Passing Fancies — Elizabeth Mansfield

Couldn't Pippa ever do something sensible...like fall in love?

Love Revealed

"Blast you, woman," he muttered through clenched teeth, "won't you ever see?" Almost viciously, he pulled her to him again, causing her spectacles to fall from her nose, tightened his hold and kissed her.

Pippa could neither move nor breathe. she was aware only of feelings -- unexpected shivers and flushes, the pounding of her heart, the pulse that began to quiver at the base of her throat. Only after a long while did her brain begin to function. She gave a stifled cry and pushed with all her might away from him.

They stared at each other, breathless and appalled.