“Thank you.”
“We are a family used to scandal and being the subject of gossip,” Carenza said. “I learned from my parents to rise above it—in public at least. You should hear my father’s private opinion of some of his friends’ behavior toward my mother. But he is always a gentleman when he comes to London.”
“I must admit my first instinct was to visit my solicitor, but wiser counsel than mine has advised me not to pursue that route,” Julian admitted. “I’m fairly certain Walcott is behind these rumors, but how he obtained the information about my activities I do not know.”
“It wouldn’t be hard to pay someone to follow you about,” Carenza said. “You are one of the most recognizable rakes in town.”
He noticed she was still holding on to his hand and that for once he didn’t mind.
“That’s true. I think after I leave you, a visit to Mr. Cox is in order. I need to make sure that he understands our prior arrangement.”
“Do you think he’s the source of the leaks?”
“It’s highly likely.”
“Or perhaps it’s his daughter, who is employed by Olivia. She might have been seen at the inn and offered bribes,” Carenza said slowly. “She might even have spoken to Olivia about the matter.”
“You don’t think Mrs. Sheraton is in on it?” Julian raised an eyebrow.
“She is enjoying the scandal far too much for my liking, and she is the one who brought the letters here this morning.” Carenza made a face. “It probably wasn’t the best of times to argue with her.”
“I don’t think she’d hurt you out of spite,” Julian said. “Do you?”
She met his gaze. “I honestly don’t know anymore. She’s been behaving rather oddly lately. Both Allegra and I have noticed it.”
Julian made a mental note to visit Mrs. Sheraton, but he wasn’t foolish enough to mention it to Carenza.
“I hate all this uncertainty,” Carenza said. “I feel as if my life has been paused, and I don’t like it.”
He could only agree. As a man who liked to be in control, the actions of others threatening his reputation and people he cared about was infuriating.
“Do you have any friends in common with Mr. Walcott?” Carenza asked.
“Hardly. Everyone was forced to pick sides after Percival took me to court.”
“He’s pleasant enough to Aragon, isn’t he?” Carenza visibly brightened. “Perhaps—”
Julian spoke over her. “I’m not sure my brother has the ability to dissemble.”
“I think you’d be surprised what he’d do for you.” Carenza was watching him closely. “Surely it wouldn’t hurt to ask?”
“I’ll consider it.” He brought her hand to his lips and kissed it. “I’m more invested in finding somewhere we can be alone.”
She blushed rather prettily. “I agree. I thought you were organizing a house party at your country estate?”
“I am.” He stood up and bowed to her. “I can assure you that your presence is a given.”
“I’m glad to hear it.” She paused. “I miss you.”
He pretended to groan. “Don’t make things … hard for me.”
Her gaze dropped to his breeches. “It’s difficult not to.”
“I’m leaving.” He gave her a serious stare. “I’ll collect Aragon on my way.”
Five minutes into their carriage journey, Aragon cleared his throat. “I’ve been thinking.”
Julian raised an encouraging eyebrow.
