Page 42 of Kiss a Rake at Midnight

Painsluiced Siobhan’s heart as the unmitigated truth hit her.

Ascream of denial tried to throttle up her throat, but she swallowed it.

Fletcherhadn’t trusted her enough to tell her this part of his scheme.

Whatif this madcap plan had gone wrong?

Theymight’ve been shot at any moment.

Herhurt swiftly became scorching anger.

Itwas one thing to jeopardize his life and hers, but Paddy’s and Kimber’s?

Suchfury heated her blood that she fisted her hands to keep from slugging him.

Howdare he?

Fletcherdidn’t trust her as much as she did him, and that knowledge stung—no, it gutted her.

Itwas good that Siobhan hadn’t declared herself to Fletcher and had no idea how he felt about her. It didn’t matter now. She might love him, but the last few minutes made it abundantly clear love was insufficient. Love and trust were opposite sides of the same coin. A healthy, thriving relationship required both.

“I confess I grew a bit apprehensive for a spell, sir.” Chandler swiped his forearm across his moist forehead. “And don’t ever ask me to hit you again. I shall refuse. I nearly gave myself away more than once.”

Wasthe private conversation Chandler insisted on having with Fletcher all those days ago related to what had just occurred?

Howlong had Chandler and Fletcher been in cahoots?

“Siobhan, may I introduce my cousin, TorrianWestbrook?” Fletcher indicated the man holding LadyHuxley’s arm as the viscountess squirmed and swore. “He’s a private detective. Torrian, this is SiobhanKenney, the bravest woman I know.”

Bravebut not trustworthy.

“MissKenney.” Torrian dipped his strong chin. “I’ve had news of your parents.”

Siobhanfroze, afraid to hear more.

Fletcherdrew his eyebrows together. “Now isn’t the time, Torrian.”

“Normally, I’d agree with you, Cousin. ButI’ve learned they will be deported to Australia on a convict ship in three days. They were accused of stealing a toff’s purse and have been rotting in NewgatePrison all this time. Interestingly, their accuser is also Irish.”

“They would never have stolen anything.” Siobhan knew her father and stepmother. They were not thieves. “Da fled Ireland and wouldn’t tell me why. I bet this man who has falsely accused him is the reason.”

Andshe’d bet he was the same unwelcome brute who’d called at their house those times in Ireland. She darted glance toward the door. “I must go to them. Take them food. Clothing. Medicine.”

Fletchertouched her forearm. “Do not fret. I shall have essentials sent to them tonight, and Torrian and I shall visit the prison tomorrow.”

“I am coming with you.” Nothing could stop her.

“Of course. Your parents shall not be deported, Siobhan,” Fletcher assured her. “By this time next week, I promise you shall be reunited with them.”

“How can you be so sure?” His confidence was admirable, but was it misplaced?

“My father is a duke.” He exchanged a wry glance with his cousin. “A powerful duke. I’ve already written him and asked him to come to London. I would vow we’ll be able to expose the truth and that the blighter who accused your parents bribed someone to toss them into prison. Unfortunately, it happens frequently.”

Atleast they weren’t dead.

Siobhanwouldn’t tell Paddy and Kimber until Da and Maura gained their freedom.

Torrianturned toward the viscountess. “I’m sure the authorities are eager to interview you, LadyHuxley.”