Page 66 (1/2)

Lucius grinned It was good to see excitement dance in his eyes “I shall relish the prospect of infor him of his blunder” He threw that letter into the fire, too “Da the next note “It’s from Wycliff I don’t knohether to curse or jump for joy”

Whatever the reaction, Sybil was impressed by Mr Wycliff’s prompt response “Does he have news from Mr Flannery?”

Lucius shook his head and laughed “Wycliff kno to make a man feel inadequate”

“Trustover the ri inadequate about you, Mr Daventry” She spent a few seconds re just how competent he was “What does Mr Wycliff say?”

“Only that Flannery gave hiet’s Garrett He said he’sFlannery this afternoon and will have other information to iht”

“Then we shall attend”

He pursed his lips and exhaled deeply “I agreed to ht It’s supposed to be a night of explanations And I have a burning desire to knohy she’s taken a room at the Black Swan”

Perhaps his mother knew he owned the castle anda reunion “Maybe I could call on the Wycliffs while you return to Brook Street Then ill achieve both—”

“No”

“No?”

“After Newberry’s threat to have you carted off to an asylu to town Put the idea froether”

“You forget, sir, that I do not respond well to orders” She knew his assertiveness ste But if their relationship was to flourish, they had to work together

He arched a brow “Was it an order?”

“You ht have phrased it differently Not been so blunt”

“Forgive listened “I ask, I beg, that you remain by my side I cannot lose you, Sybil Not because of a promise made, but because I need you in my life”