“Come in.”
Holmes held open the door and the Earl took a deep breath before striding in.
Lady Parker rose and extended her hand to him.
“It is a pleasure to see you, my Lord. Although I must say you are not entirely unexpected.”
The Earl shook her hand and his heart leapt. Her eyes were so like Lilliana’s!
“I have come regarding Lilliana,” he began.
“Please, sit down and I will order some tea.”
“How is she?” he asked eagerly.
“She is well enough, I believe.”
“You do not sound certain – ”
Lady Parker sighed and looked down at her hands.
“My Lord, I have something to tell you.”
The Earl raised his hand and nodded.
“Lady Parker, I already know that Lilliana is betrothed to another. When she was not there at the quayside to meet me from the ship, I knew that something was awry – a
