Page 64 of The Wallflower Ruse

“Oh, do you keep track of the phases of the moon? I never bother when in town.”

“Er, yes, because—because it helps me to know when to turn to it for poetic inspiration.”

“How charming, but you needn’t come with me,” she said.

“Yes, I must,” he said, looking toward the entryway doors once again. “We’ll go out there later, I promise. It’s part of the plan.”

Aha. “What plan?”

“The plans for an enjoyable evening.” He swallowed convulsively. “There will be a bonfire, and hot beverages, and it will be delightful.”

“Fine, but I would enjoy it more if I could go onto the terrace now and later.”

“No, you may not go out on the terrace,” said a smooth, annoying voice right behind Lucinda’s ear.

She started and gave a tiny shriek. “Oh, it’s you,” she snapped. A flush rose from her bosom to her crown. “Must you sneak up on me like that?”

“My dear child,” Restive said languidly, “I need a word with you. You came to the masquerade unchaperoned, and since my aunt is ill, I am responsible for you.” He flicked her domino open. “Most improper.”

She flushed even more; how could she help it when he eyed her bosom? She snatched the domino closed. “It wasn’t my choice, but Lady Tollister’s, not that it’s any business of yours.”

“It is indeed my business,” Restive said. “Perhaps I should take you home before you get into real trouble.”

“And deprive yourself of the opportunity to swan about dressed as a famed libertine?”

“As a matter of fact, I’m Prince Rupert of the Rhine, and therefore quite respectable, as royalty goes.” He smirked, but his eyes told a different story. He really did want a word with her—good, because she needed to talk to him.

Mr. Pearce’s mouth flapped open and closed. “No, no, please don’t take her away, my lord,” he babbled. “I shan’t take her outdoors, and the domino will remain closed. She simply must meet my cousin. He is sure to arrive any minute, or it will—will be too late.”

Restive glowered. “Very well. Give me a moment alone with Miss Belair, and then you may have her again, with my goodwill.”

“If you’re planning to scold me, don’t waste your time,” Lucinda said loudly enough to be overheard. “I don’t give a fig for your opinion.”

“I’m well aware of that,” Restive said, but lowered his voice. “I suggest we set aside our differences for the moment.”

“I’m trying to work with you,” she hissed, putting her hands on her hips and glaring. “Being annoyed with you is part of my role.”

“Are you saying you’re not annoyed with me?” His voice conveyed his complete disbelief.

“I don’t know what I am with you,” she retorted, “and it doesn’t matter right now!”

“It will always matter,” he said softly, appropriating her hand and placing it firmly on his arm. “Shall we walk a little?”

For a long moment, she didn’t know what to think. Was he implying that he actually cared for her?

No, that was foolishness. Perhaps he cared a little because of her brother, but that was all.

She pulled herself together and tossed her head, hoping it looked genuine. She had never behaved so childishly in her life. “If we must.”

They began to circle the room. “Too late for what?” he asked.

“I don’t know, but it has something to do with his cousin the equerry. He keeps watching for him, and he’s more anxious by the minute.”

“And he doesn’t want you to go onto the terrace,” he said. “I have men outdoors, but so far it seems to be nothing but preparations for fireworks, a bonfire, and a table for refreshments.”

“Perhaps he’s obliged to stay close to me and also watch for his cousin,” she said. “I’ll continue to play my role with Mr. Pearce.” She glanced up at him. “In case you don’t know, I was brought here by force.”’

He nodded. “My man saw you taken. I shall try to keep my eye on you in case of danger, but in the meantime, stay away from Fortin. Whatever he does, don’t interfere.”