The Scarlet Spy Read Online Free PDF

neutral. “I would, of course, have to hear what you have in mind.”
    “A diplomatic reply.” There was no mistaking the twitch of Lynsley’s lips. “It’s a very a simple matter, really, especially for a gentleman of your standing in Town. You would do me a great favor if you would agree to introduce an Italian countess to Society. The lady is a wealthy young widow who knows no one here in London.”
    “And you wish to see her established among the
ton,”
said Osborne slowly. “Invited to all the evening entertainments, included in the rounds of morning calls.”
    “Precisely. My upcoming duties do not allow me the time to take on the obligation myself.”
    “It seems a simple request.”
Far too simple.
Given the aura of intrigue surrounding the marquess, Osborne suspected that Lynsley was leaving a great deal unsaid. But despite the swirl of questions suddenly spinning in his head, he merely asked, “Is she pretty?”
    “Very,” replied Lynsley.
    “That should make the task even easier. I will—”
    “Ah, Osborne, there you are.” Two gentlemen in regimentals waved for him to join them. “Come help settle this argument about who makes the better pistol—Manton or that upstart Purdey.”
    “Forgive me, but Captain Tolliver won’t take no for an answer,” said Osborne softly. “I had better go before they go off half cocked and ruin Lady Haverton’s evening.”
    “Perhaps you should consider taking up a position in the Foreign Service,” murmured the marquess. “In the meantime, think it over—”
    “No need.” He finished his drink and set the glass aside. “When would you like me to meet her?”
    “The day after tomorrow. I’ll come for you at White’s around two, if that is convenient.”
    “Perfectly.” A change in his daily routine might be just what he needed to shake off his odd mood.

Chapter Three
    “Shorten your stride, my dear.” Mrs. Merlin murmured a low reminder. “A lady never appears to be in a rush.”
    “Sorry.” Sofia swallowed a sigh as she took another turn around the Academy drawing room. “I shall try not to trip up again.”
    The headmistress smiled. “You are doing very well.”
    “Si, si, bella.”
Marco eyed her with obvious approval. “Lift your chin a touch higher, add a curl of condescension to your smile—yes, that’s it. Now you are the very picture of a regal
contessa.”
    “You are looking rather respectable yourself,” she shot back. The starched cravat was a perfect counterpoint to his olive complexion, and the tailored fit of the elegant evening coat accentuated his broad shoulders and slim waist. Even his hair had been trimmed, though it still fell nearly to his shoulders. She had to admit that the effect was impressive. “Indeed, I think you are an even better impostor than I am.”
    “What makes you think I am merely playing a role?” he asked, sweeping low in a courtly bow.
    Sofia’s laugh ended on a note of uncertainty. The school instructors included a former courtesan to King Carlos, a convicted cardsharp, a Negro pugilist, and an Indian yoga
guru.
It was not beyond the stretch of imagination that the Milanese swordsman could be …
    “Watch your step, Sofia,” cautioned Mrs. Merlin.
    Watch your step.
Those words would be her mantra for the coming months.
    “You must always appear cool, calm, and collected,” added the headmistress.
    Sofia nodded, though her insides were aflutter. Her traveling trunks were already in the entrance hall, packed with the costly silks and glittering jewels that would turn a nobody into a noble lady. Her fingers felt the plain gold locket under her lace fichu. Unlike in a fairy tale, there was no golden wand to help with the transformation.
    They would all have to hope that Mrs. Merlin’s magic was enough.
    “Excellent.” The headmistress removed her spectacles and pinched at the bridge of her nose. “I think we’ve finished with the lessons. Come have some tea before the coach