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Verity considered the tonged curls spilling fro around her shoulders Demure yet sensual did indeed describe the odd combination

“And what offastened silk ribbons and flowers to the crook, Scarlett’s es of the mask

“Marta will be finished shortly, and Mr Trent will fasten the mask just before you arrive at Mrs Crandall’s” Scarlett stepped closer She placed a hand on Verity’s arm and said in a cautious tone, “No matter what occurs, you must not untie your mask The deossip”

Verity gulped as a flurry of nerves took hold

Oh, she was out of her depth

The thought of attending any function with Mr Trent was akin to diving into a cool sea in the height of su But would she flounder when the predators approached, when they circled ready to attack?

Sensing her disquiet, Scarlett said, “If you have reservations, it is not too late to change your ue like Mr Layton You’re welcome to take a late supper with us and await his return”

A sensible option

A lifeline extended to save her from this foolhardy plan

So why did every fibre of her being fight against the thought?

Her need to uncover the truth about the Brethren and the masked intruder stemmed from a desire for justice But was it more a means for an incapable, lonely woman to find a sense of purpose?

“Perhaps if I knehat to expect, it ht ease my anxiety”

Scarlett caught Verity’s gaze in the looking glass and sh her eyes flickered with a hint of panic “Expect soe in aestions”

Verity’s heart skipped a beat

“But rest assured,” Scarlett continued “My husband is confident that Mr Trent will bring the devil’s wrath down upon anyone who soway”