How to Climb a Lady's Tower by Bree Wolf

Author:Bree Wolf [Wolf, Bree]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bree Wolf

Chapter Twenty

A Window of Opportunity

Darkness had fallen over the world hours ago, and a harsh wind blew through the bare branches of the trees near Mr. Hawkins’ townhouse. The moon shone dimly overhead, only a thin sliver on a dark canvas. The sound of carriage wheels on cobblestone drifted over, and Zach shrank deeper into the shadows near the gate.

This past week, he’d spent many waking hours watching Miss Hawkins’ home, familiarizing himself with the comings and goings of the family as well as the servants. Markham, too, had lent a hand, pointing out a point of access near the servants’ entrance. It seemed the man had a knack for criminal activities, his sharp eyes spotting weaknesses that eluded others. Zach was grateful, and yet, he couldn’t help but wonder.

Only minutes ago, the family’s carriage had left under the cover of darkness, pulling out into the street and turning toward the Winthropes’ townhouse and the ball awaiting them there. Zach knew he ought to be present as well−and he would be. First, there was something he needed to take care of.

His gaze drifted to the darkened windows of Miss Hawkins’ chamber, now empty, awaiting her return later tonight. Zach could only hope that tonight she’d chosen a gown that would not have matched the startling green of his father’s ring as she had indicated a week ago. He prayed that his father’s ring lay safe and sound in Miss Hawkins’ jewelry box, preferably somewhere easy to spot. Perhaps on her vanity or a side table. If all went according to plan, Zach could be in and out in a matter of minutes with no one the wiser. Then he would hasten over to the Winthropes’ ball, seek out Miss Hawkins and try to determine how on earth she’d come into possession of his father’s ring.

First, he needed to retrieve it. This nightmare had to end.

Tonight.

Pulling his black mask into place, Zach prayed that this would be the last time he’d have to wear it. Then he proceeded onto Mr. Hawkins’ property, nearing the servants’ entrance on quiet feet, careful to remain hidden in the shadows of the large wall sitting on the property line. Occasionally, his gaze would drift upward to Miss Hawkins’ windows until he reached the tall elm tree standing like a silent sentinel in the dark of night. Its branches rose high into the sky, and Zach knew that from where he stood on the ground he’d never be able to reach them. Fortunately, he’d once more brought his trusted rope and grappling hook, which had already aided him in fleeing Ravengrove a few months back.

Eying the high branches, Zach chose a thick one close to the house. Then he stepped a bit back, careful to remain unseen, and gave the rope some slack, slowly beginning to swing the hook in a lazy circle. Breathing calmly, he watched and waited, feeling the movement of the rope, the weight of the hook…and then he let it fly.

With a soft thunk, it hooked onto the thick branch above.

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