“How do you know so much about grenadiers?” Felicity asked.
“I have always found weapons of war to be interesting and hand grenades were only introduced a decade ago,” Simone said.
Felicity furrowed her brow. “I think we should get rid of the grenade. We don’t want to accidentally blow a hole in the townhouse.”
Simone nodded. “I agree, although this one appears damaged. Do you see the small hole on the side?”
Felicity put her hand up. “I would prefer to remain where I am.”
“I think that is why it was discarded and forgotten,” Simone asserted. “I need to send word to Caleb. Can you ensure it is delivered at once?”
“I will deliver it personally.”
Walking over to the vanity desk, Simone pulled out a drawer and removed a piece of paper. She gently placed the grenade down onto the table next to her. Now that they had an idea of what Victor was planning, they had to stop him before he released the grenades on a room full of innocent people.
The time had come to end this game.
Caleb had just returned to his townhouse after ensuring Lady Hungerton was safe at Kendrick’s cottage. No one wouldbe able to find her there. But as a precaution, Kendrick had placed two agents to guard the place.
As he stepped inside, his butler approached with a tray in his hand. “An urgent message was delivered for you, sir.”
Caleb reached for the paper and unfolded it. He read the contents and crumpled the piece of paper in his hand. The letter had been from Simone, warning him of a pending attack at the ball this evening. An attack that would wreak havoc in England.
His mother stepped into the entry hall. “There you are,” she greeted. “Why is it that I haven’t seen you very much these past few days?”
“I have been busy, Mother,” he responded.
“Doing what, may I ask?”
Caleb didn’t have time for this, but he didn’t dare be rude to his mother. “I have been spending my time with Simone.” At least that much was true. The partial truth, but the truth none the less.
His mother nodded approvingly. “That is good. Did you have a chance to ask her what her favorite flower is?”
Drats. How had he forgotten to ask such a simple question? “I haven’t gotten around to asking that,” he admitted.
“Dare I ask what you two speak about?” his mother inquired.
Caleb worked hard to keep his face expressionless. His mother had no idea what kind of things he was involved in with Simone. “The weather, and whatnot,” he replied vaguely.
His mother looked displeased by his response. “Fine. Do not tell me, but we do need to plan this luncheon.”
“The luncheon can wait,” Caleb said. “There are a few things I need to tend to first that are far more important.”
“You and Simone are to be married in less than three weeks’ time. It sounds like it is far off, but it will be here before you know it.”
Caleb forced a smile to his lips. “As much as I enjoy this conversation, I need to go speak to Roswell at once.”
“Why didn’t you just say so?” his mother asked. “He is in the parlor with Anette and your father.”
“Roswell is here?” Caleb asked.
His mother gave him a concerned look. “Isn’t that what I just said?” she asked. “Are you even listening to me, dear?”
Caleb approached his mother and kissed her cheek. “We can start planning the luncheon tomorrow. I promise. I just have to get through tonight.”
“I shall hold you to that promise,” his mother responded.
“Now I must go speak to Roswell,” Caleb said before he started walking towards the parlor. Once he arrived, he saw Roswell, Anette and his father sitting around a table, playing a card game. “Roswell.”
