Page 72 of Unmasked

“The what?”

Penelope made an aggravated sound.

“When Rowan said you weren’t answering, and that Able was in a meeting, I went back to my room to call you. Some man was in there. My stuff was everywhere, as if he were looking for something. It was strange. Anyway, I threw a fit. I made so much noise, everyone hurried in to watch and listen. My breach of privacy and safety got me out of there, but it still doesn’t explain what he was doing. We’re going to review the feed when we get on the plane.

“I don’t like any of this. You’re okay, though?”

“I’m fine. Just tired from my theatrics.”

“At least you’re on your way home.”

A soft laugh sounded. “I know. I saw the opportunity and I took it. That doesn’t mean that he won’t try again. I fear now, he’ll be more determined than ever. Especially if he did put that hit on Theo. I hate that we can’t prove it.”

I nodded, even though she couldn’t see me. “I know. We’re going to have to be careful. Especially you. Now that you’re a Duchess⁠—”

She groaned. “Don’t remind me of my duties right now. I know, I know. I’ll have to be out in the public more. There’s lots to do. There’s going to be press, parties. I just… can’t right now. I’m sleepy, my stomach is starting to hurt, and the nausea is already kicking in. I want on this plane and to be home already.”

“How much longer before you get to the airport.”

“We’re pulling up now.”

“Great. I’m pulling up to The Order. Call me when you get on the plane.”

“I will. I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

I hung up as the SUV pulled into the parking garage. I got out, meeting Able as we entered The Order. I waited for him to start talking as we headed down the halls.

“Unavowed, your Intended⁠—”

My hand went up. “I just got off the phone with her. Penelope is okay. They’re on their way home now.”

He let out a breath of relief, nodding.

“Excellent news. We also readied the room for Theodore, per Lord Oxley’s orders. And I’ve had the kitchen prepare your breakfast for when you’re ready.”

“I appreciate it. I’ll be in my study if you need me.”

“And I’ll be outside in case you need me.”

I wasn’t going to tell Able I’d be fine. He was trying to make a good impression, and he was. He’d handled everything flawlessly. Turning, we split off from the main hall, going the few doors down. As I entered, Able kept outside. The television was still up, showing The Reeve, standing across, talking to Penelope as she sat down in her seat on the plane. The main door was still open, telling me they’d just gotten on. She had her purse in her lap, looking far too pale as she rubbed her hand down her face. I could tell by how much he kept shifting, something wasn’t right.

I brought up my phone, hitting her number and watching as she dug through her purse. Before she could get it out, Penelope shot to her feet, racing past The Reeve and disappearing in what I knew was my plane’s bathroom. My phone rang almost immediately.

“What the hell happened?”

The Reeve’s voice was slightly winded.

“I’m not sure, Sire. She started having stomach pains around the time we left the vehicle. She could barely walk by the time we got to the plane.

“What happened? What changed?”

“… Nothing. She was fine. Then her stomach started hurting.”

“That’s not good.”

Echoes of Penelope vomiting sounded.