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are ended.”
    Reaching into her reticule, Violet pulled out the bank draft she’d had prepared to be given as final payment once they reached London.
    The older woman looked uncertain. “I don’t know…You haven’t even spoken to your husband yet. And this man doesn’t seem to know who you are.”
    Violet forced a smile. “My husband has always been a very private person. But you may rest assured he will be delighted to see me.” Now that was a bald-faced lie.
    Mrs. Cummins reached out and tentatively took the bank draft Violet held out to her. “I could stay with you a few more days if you like.”
    â€œNo! I mean, that won’t be necessary. Caroline will be staying for the next several days until I am settled. Go and enjoy your family. That is the reason you traveled all the way to London, is it not?”
    Mrs. Cummins smiled. “Well, if you’re certain…”
    â€œI am quite certain. Thank you again for everything.”
    â€œYou have the address where I can be found, should you need me.”
    Violet patted her reticule. “The information is right in here.”
    â€œAll right, then. I believe I shall do as you suggest. I am eager to see my mother and the rest of my family.” With a wave and a final farewell, Mrs. Cummins trundled out of the foyer. A footman was sent to bring in their luggage, and a few minutes later a woman appeared who looked very much like Mrs. Cummins—gray hair, big bosom, rounded hips.
    â€œI’m Mrs. Digby, my lady. I’ll show you and your cousin upstairs to your rooms.”
    My lady? It appeared marriage to the brother of a dukegave her a title, as well. Goodness, she had no idea. “Thank you.”
    Their luggage was brought up to their rooms and as soon as Violet closed the door, a quick rap sounded and Caroline rushed in.
    â€œMy lady! I can hardly believe it. I thought Rule’s brother was the one with the title.”
    â€œHe is. I don’t know how it works. Rule never mentioned anything when he was in Boston.”
    â€œProbably because Americans don’t use titles.”
    â€œI suppose.”
    â€œI wonder where he is.”
    â€œI have no idea.” A faint smile touched her lips. “But he is certainly in for a surprise when he gets home.”
    Caroline grinned. “Oh, my, yes—he certainly is.”

Two
    R ule drained his brandy glass and set it on the table in front of him. He and Luke had made the social rounds, then ended the evening playing cards at White’s, his gentleman’s club. It was late and tomorrow he had work to do.
    Rule slid back his chair. “I’m afraid I am out, gentlemen.” He shoved his cards into the center of the table. “Looks as though I wound up even—which, with Luke playing, I consider a win.”
    Luke just laughed. “You’re headed home, then?”
    â€œI’m done in. I’ll see you at the end of the week.” The Marchioness of Wyhurst was holding a ball in honor of her daughter Sabrina’s birthday. Rumor was the marchioness was determined to find the girl a husband, but so far the elegant blonde had refused every suitor who had dared knock at her door.
    Rule blew out a breath, wishing he had sent his regrets, though he couldn’t quite say why. But Lady Sabrina had been a good friend to the Dewars, and it was, after all, the lady’s birthday.
    He released a sigh, still uncertain why it was thatstaying at home was beginning to hold such a strange appeal.
    Making his way to the door of the club, he called for his carriage and left the building. As he settled himself inside, he pulled the bow of his cravat, letting it drape around his neck, removed his collar and unbuttoned the top few buttons on his shirt. Leaning back against the squabs, he closed his eyes and drifted off for a bit.
    The next sound he heard was the latch snapping open and the door swinging