Page 25 of Kiss a Rake at Midnight

Thattruth put things in a different perspective.

Perhapsher ladyship carried out her husband’s directives because he forced her to.

IfFletcher offered her a way out, an escape from the monster she’d married out of her lust for a title, would LadyHuxley be willing to reveal what she knew?

Itwas worth considering.

“I’m to bed.” Darius rose and, after smothering a yawn, stretched his arms wide. “If you have no objection, Fletcher, I’d like to take Siobhan and the children to Gunter’s for ices tomorrow. It will help build the illusion that I am showing her London’s landmarks.”

Fletcher’sgut pitched at his brother’s proposal.

HadSiobhon captivated Darius already?

Nota surprise. She was bewitching.

“Not a bad suggestion.” Fletcher feigned indifference. “Except how do we explain the children’s presence?”

Dariusscratched his nose. “Could they not still be her brother and sister?”

Siobhan’sface brightened. “Kimber and Paddy would adore an outing, but they don’t know about my false surname. They might spill the beans.”

Fletcherfinished his whisky and then placed the tumbler on the side table. “I think I’d better tag along too and act as interference should anyone wish to engage in conversation. Unless you want to explain to Paddy and Kimber what our mission is?”

Siobhanshook her head with such vehemence that a curl tumbled loose and caressed her neck. “No. I still don’t want them involved. They are unused to subterfuge. Trust me when I tell you that they couldn’t keep the secret. Deception is not their strong suit. I could tell them we are using a different surname to protect us from whatever Da ran away from in Ireland, but that might raise more questions I don’t have answers for. Besides, I dislike being dishonest.”

Thatwas another thing Fletcher had learned about Siobhan. Despite months of pretending to be a boy, her integrity was paramount to her. When she had a choice, she would always choose honesty.

“Let me know at breakfast. I’m fair fagged and need to find my mattress. I planned on leaving at half three.” Darius strode to the door and with a little wave, let himself out.

Fletcherrisked angering her.

“I think you are underestimating your brother and sister, Siobhan.”

Shecocked her head. “Perchance. They are not little children anymore. Let me sleep on it, please. I shall give you an answer in the morning.”

Themantel clock chimed half eleven.

Fletcherstill needed to make a final walk through the club.

“Please excuse me. I’m quite tired myself.” She rose and shook out her gown. “I’m unused to late nights and wish to look in on my brother and sister before I retire. I feel like I’ve neglected them these past days.”

Shehad been rather overwhelmed with every kind of lesson and instruction Fletcher thought would make her ruse more believable.

“I’ll walk with you.” Fletcher ran a hand across his slightly rough chin. Not that he believed any danger lurked between his office and the sleeping chambers.

Still, it wouldn’t hurt.

Atleast, that was the excuse he used to accompany her.

Sheshot him a surprised glance. “As you wish.”

Theyascended the two flights of stairs in companionable silence. Outside the chamber assigned to the children, she half turned, her mouth tilted upward into a tired smile. “Good night.”

“Do you mind if I come in?” Fletcher grew more attached to Kimber and Paddy with each passing day. Their presence at De la Chance brought playfulness and a light-hearted atmosphere that he liked.

Siobhan’shesitation was so brief he might’ve imagined it.

Sheangled her head in affirmation before opening the door.