Queen of Hearts Read Free Page B

resulted from his wish to keep his brother from marrying in the near future. But regardless of the reason she was in a unique position to pay him back. By the time she was seated on the stool behind the reference desk she was seriously reconsidering her decision not to have dinner with Adam Halleck. There would be an undeniable pleasure in having been instrumental in keeping him away from Lucy Dalton until the marriage had taken place.
    Business was brisk all afternoon as Janna and a coworker, Sheila Randolph, dealt with the myriad questions which came across a college library reference desk. In addition to the normal routine of helping people utilize the vast amount of sophisticated reference tools, there was an added level of tension in the air as the last week of classes and exams began. Those poorly organized souls who had delayed writing papers all semester threw themselves on the mercy of the librarians, begging for help. And then there was always the classic reference desk question: Where is the restroom?
    "Whenever I get that one," Janna chuckled to Sheila after having directed another individual to the facilities, "I realize I'm talking to someone who hasn't bothered to use the library all year! The first thing a regular customer usually discovers is the location of the restroom!"
    Sheila laughed, her blue eyes reflecting her amusement. Short-cropped blond hair set off the delicate features of her face and petite figure. Like Janna, she was dressed in a skirt and blouse, but where Janna's clothes were tailored and decidedly business styled, Sheila wore a soft, lacy blouse and a brightly patterned skirt. Although opposites in looks, the two women got along well.
    "I know what you mean. Still, it's an easier question to answer than that one earlier about the name of the insect used in ancient Egypt as a talisman," Sheila noted.
    "Scarabaeus? True. Besides, it looks like Dr. Winthrop has handed out his usual assignment in Early American History. I've had five questions in a row on the reaction of Colonial merchants to the notion of a revolution."
    "Same question every semester. You'd think Winthrop would get tired of reading fifty papers a session on the same subject."
    "On the other hand, he's probably read so many by now that he doesn't even have to think while he grades!" Janna smiled.
    Sheila hopped down off her stool at the other end of the desk and walked over to check a weekly schedule hanging on the wall behind them. "I almost forgot to double-check the evening assignments for this week. I think I'm supposed to cover the desk Wednesday and Friday night. How about you?"
    "As far as I know I'm free this whole week. Miss Harley said that since I worked nights during the week before Spring break I wouldn't have to do it now."
    "Oh no!" Sheila groaned, running a polished nail down the schedule. It's Tuesday and Thursday this week! I could have sworn I asked for Wednesday and Friday!"
    "What's wrong with Tuesday and Thursday?" Janna inquired, glancing at her friend.
    "Tuesday I'm supposed to go to that chamber music concert with Steve!"
    "Well, if you really want to go I could cover for you. I'm sure it won't matter to Miss Harley," Janna offered helpfully.
    "That would be fantastic! If you'll work my shift tomorrow night I'll be glad to return the favor some afternoon this week!" Sheila smiled thankfully. "I've been looking forward to the concert for quite a while."
    "Fine with me. By the way, have you..."Janna broke off in midsentence as Nat Halleck hurried up to the desk looking distinctly worried.
    "You wanted to see me?" he asked warily.
    "Yes, as a matter of fact, I did," she began ruthlessly and then relented at the signs of dismay in Nat's expressive features. "Oh, stop worrying. I've decided to go out with your brother tonight, after all. Tell him I'll be ready at seven. But you're going to owe me for this, Nat Halleck!" she added in mock threatening tones.
    "Believe me, I'll repay you any way I can, but I