The Laird's Runaway Wife by Sarah Mallory

Author:Sarah Mallory
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2022-03-07T14:38:07+00:00

Chapter Nineteen

‘A most successful evening,’ declared the Comte, as he handed Madeleine into the carriage. ‘The charming Mr Smith has gone off with Lord Froome and we are free to enjoy ourselves!’ He called out his orders to the driver and climbed in beside her.

‘Must we attend another party, Papa? Can we not go back to Surrey Street?’

‘Not yet, ma fille. We go to Lady Thanet’s.’

She hunched a shoulder and said somewhat pettishly, ‘I do not even know the lady.’

‘Non, you were not with me when I dined with her, but she told me she would very much like to meet you. We were great friends once, when she was young. When we were both so much younger!’ He gave a gusty sigh. ‘Ah, La Belle Marie, as she was then. I believe we will be in good time—’

‘Oh, how much more of this?’ Madeleine broke in, her voice weary.

‘It will be but a few hours, ma fille, no more. I have given my word that we would look in at my lady’s rout tonight.’

‘Not that,’ she said impatiently. ‘This whole escapade. When do you return to France? I want the truth now, Papa, if you please.’

Perhaps it was her serious tone, or her obvious agitation, but for once he did not prevaricate.

‘The ship sails with the morning tide on Monday.’

So, Sir William did know what was going on.

You will be in my bed by Monday night.

His words echoed in her head, taunting her, and her hand came up, an involuntary gesture of alarm. The Comte caught it and gave it a little squeeze.

‘Tiens, you look so serious, Madeleine! I thought you enjoyed a little excitement.’

‘I have never liked your games, Papa.’

‘Then you will be pleased to know that this will be the last of them. I grow too old for intrigues. A few more days, then we will be in France and I shall deliver you to my Comtesse, who will cosset you like a daughter and keep you in luxury. You will like that, hein?’

Madeleine nodded and tried to smile, but it was an effort. The knowledge that Sir William knew of Papa’s plans only tightened the chains binding her to her fate.

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