Page 12 (2/2)

There was a tio to the devil But she needed him She always had

“You do realise that in offering your assistance you could potentially be risking your life”

“We do not know that for certain,” he said confidently There was not even a flicker of doubt in his dazzling blue eyes “Until we can establish a ”

When he heard the ailing, when he saw the bloodhound slobbering, then he ht take a different view

“We should return to the ballroo on the stone bench “I have ”

He inclined his head “I suggest wethrough Hoddesdon every day on their way to Canise me”

“Nine?” she raised a brow “But you would need to leave London before six Is that not far too early for you?”

“At the monastery we often rose before dawn Sometimes we never slept at all”

“Why?” She smiled in amusement “Was it some form of penance? Were you forced to confess your sins and say your prayers?”

“No, Isabella We did e had to do to stay one step ahead of the slers and murderers”

Chapter 5

“I shall wait opposite the Blue Boar Inn, near the ancient oak tree” Tristan opened the door of Isabella’s carriage and waited for her to settle into the cushioned seat

Anyone listening would have presu a secret rendezvous A lovers’ tryst A frisson of exciteht with it a memory of when they had met under an old cedar tree That afternoon, she had climbed into his conveyance to set out on an adventure, a quest for the freedom to express their love

“I shall meet you there at nine” She lurched forward, placed her hand lightly on his arht finally be able to sleep”

He forced a suise the distress her touch evoked Hoould he fare spending a few days in her company? When all was done and settled, would she put hi Lord Fernall? Would the truth ease years of excruciating torment?