Page 90 of Evading the Lieutenant

“If it will give you something to do while I track down Hollinsby, then I approve.”

She scoffed and scrunched her nose. “As if I intend to let you do that alone. I can multitask brilliantly.”

Her indignation drew out my laughter. How I adored this woman. “Very well, write to your brother then. He deserves notice of our arrival, at least. Just make sure he understands our need for discretion.” I stood and gave her cheek another kiss. “I shall leave you to it.”

I glanced over my shoulder as I walked away, a grin tugging at my lips when Annette dipped her quill into the inkwell. My body slipped beyond the door before she shouted.

“Edward Paget! Did you replace my ink with currant juice?”

Laughter bubbled out of me, and although I increased my pace, the swish of Annette’s skirts followed me down the corridor. She grabbed my arm, yanking me to a stop, and I turned to face her. No animosity pinched her expression, only amusement.

“That was a wicked prank,” she said.

I leaned closer, touching my nose to hers. “You started it with that tart.”

“I did, and I’ll finish it with this.” She lifted on her toes, wrapping her arms about my neck and kissing me soundly. I returned it with equal fervor, holding her tight against me and savoring every touch. Every kiss. Every laugh.

All while plotting my next scheme to ensure this woman never ceased this type of retaliation.