Anna’s customary, brisk knock, interrupted my reverie and I bade her entry. It had become my favorite morning ritual, discussing Michael and Juliet’s budding relationship and analyzing Augie’s business-like letters to Michael for any hints of his feelings toward Anna.
Instead of her usual grin, Anna’s expression was tight, worried.
“What is the matter?”
She hesitated, searching for the words; Anna never hesitated. Finally, she said, “Michael is gone.”
“Oh, that’s unfortunate. When will he return?”
“He won’t.”
My stomach dropped. “What do you mean?”
She bit her lip, wavering once again. “I’m given to understand that Lord Grayson spoke with Michael yesterday afternoon. And they decided it would be best if he returned to town.”
“Hugh and Michael spoke?”What have you done, Hugh?
“Yes.”
“And Michael suddenly decided to leave the country without a word or warning.”
“Yes.”
“And you’re certain he’s gone?”
“He left before first light on horseback. They’re packing his trunks to follow now.” That was certain then, no misunderstanding.
“Does Juliet know?”
Anna hesitated again. That meant yes and the reaction hadn’t been pretty. “I believe Lady Juliet ran into Stevens while he was supervising the packing.”
“Where is she?”
“She left shortly thereafter for a walk.”Oh, Jules.
“And she has not returned?”
“No.”
“Right.” I rushed past Anna, heedless to my state of dress or the surely scandalized servants I passed.
* * *
HUGH
I still had one of Mother’s megrims nearly a full day after my conversation with Michael. So many revelations in so short a time, it was enough to drive anyone to distraction. My brother, ever the gambler, bet his heart on Lady Juliet and lost.
I had not been hiding in my study because that would be cowardly. But I took no pains to rush to the breakfast table, to see the wreckage my brother left behind. Lady Juliet seemed a sensible young woman, surely she would see reason and—
The door flung open, banging against the wall with an impressive strike. In the doorway was Katherine, a flurry of curls and fabric. Still clad in her nightdress, with her hair unbound. I had never seen her that way outside of the bedroom. The sight would have been enticing if the fury raging in her eyes were not so apparent.
“Katherine? What the devil?”
She strode into the room, spine tall and proud, and steps purposeful, frustration barely contained. “What did you do?” Her words were low and quiet, a hiss.
“What do you mean what did I do? I haven’t done anything?” I’ve been in my study all morning, and this was how she greeted me?
“Michael, where is he?”
