A Secret Surrender by Burke Darcy

Author:Burke, Darcy
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 978-1-944576-86-8
Publisher: Darcy Burke Publishing
Published: 2020-08-06T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter 11

Selina’s mind swirled as she watched Rafe talk to the woman whose bracelet Beatrix had stolen. There was no question that was what had happened. Beatrix and Rachel approached her as Harry joined the conversation between Rafe and the couple.

The fireworks continued overhead as if the theft and ensuing drama hadn’t happened. Most people had transferred their attention to the sky.

“I’m glad I’m wearing nothing of value,” Rachel said.

Beatrix’s gaze met Selina’s and revealed nothing. It didn’t matter because Selina knew, and they’d discuss it later. This was a risk Beatrix never should have taken, not while she was in the presence of Harry’s sister—and when Harry himself was just a short distance away!

Selina kept her face impassive so as not to expose her inner frustration. Beatrix knew her well enough to probably realize Selina was furious. But there were more important things to address at present.

“I introduced our brother to Mr. Sheffield,” she said to Beatrix, who again was careful to guard her expression.

She simply nodded.

“Apparently, he owns these gardens,” Selina continued.

“Does he?” Rachel asked, glancing around. “You didn’t know?”

Selina shook her head. “We aren’t particularly close.”

“And why is that?” Rachel looked between Selina and Beatrix.

“We haven’t seen each other much since we were children. Beatrix and I were sent to a ladies’ seminary.” That was all Selina intended to say. Thankfully, Rachel’s husband arrived and distracted her.

Beatrix moved closer to Selina and murmured, “Sorry.”

Selina looked toward her in displeasure but said nothing. Harry and Rafe came toward them. Taking a deep breath, Selina prepared herself for what would come next. There was always a part to play. She glanced at Beatrix and silently communicated that it was time to focus.

“Good evening, Rafe,” Beatrix said. “Selina just told me you own these gardens. How extraordinary.”

“I purchased them only last year.”

“The renovations are excellent,” Harry noted.

“How is the lady whose bracelet was stolen?” Rachel asked.

“Much better, particularly since Mr. Bowles said he would ensure the area was thoroughly searched tomorrow, and if the bracelet isn’t found, he offered to replace the value.” Harry looked at Rafe with a contemplative expression that made Selina a bit unsettled. “I must tell you, Bowles, while noble, that’s a terrible idea. What if the woman is lying and there never was a bracelet?”

“What a cynical suggestion,” Rafe said, cocking his head to the side.

“It’s my line of work, I’m afraid.”

“That would be an awfully elaborate plan,” Rafe went on. “One that relies entirely on my offering to replace a nonexistent bracelet, which I have never done.”

“Is this the first theft to happen here?” Harry asked.

“To my knowledge,” Rafe replied. “Though I have to think it isn’t, despite the fact that I’ve gone to great lengths to ensure the gardens are very secure.”

Harry nodded. “The wall and the single entrance.”

“It seems to be working.”

“Until tonight.” Harry straightened his coat. “I would still recommend you not reimburse the woman. If that gets out, you will certainly be targeted as softhearted.”

“I somehow doubt that will become a problem,” Rafe said with the dazzling smile Selina remembered from their youth.

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