Chapter 5
Perdita lingered in the hallway, watching the coaches pull up outside. Ladies in cloaks and men in greatcoats ascended the steps to the house. Her parents stood ready to greet their guests. Perdita stayed back, slightly distracted, wondering when Vaughn was going to come down. He had ordered a tray for breakfast early that morning, so she’d missed seeing him at the table. After last night, she felt oddly nervous and a bit excited.
Because he’s dangerous and the charade you’re playing is far too exhilarating. Her inner voice was happy to chastise her for her foolish behavior around Vaughn. But she hadn’t forgotten why she was doing this. To save Papa, as well as herself.
She twisted the ruby ring on her finger, even though it felt quite comfortable there. Vaughn had given it to
