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Turning her attention to Anna, Lady Trumbull softened her tone “Now my dear, when you think of it, a retreat to the quiet of the country for a month will be a welcome interlude for rest and relaxation after the eeks of the Season” The predatory smile did not bode well for the unpronounceable prince and his peace of ree?”

Anna was about to respond with a careful calculated list of reasons why the invitation ought to be rejected But the words “retreat,” “quiet,” and “country” suddenly stirred second thoughts

A remote Scottish castle A month of precious few distractions, save for the prince and his party of nobleh to deal with

Perhapshad always been a source of solace and satisfaction, providing an escape frogling with her story was a little frightening, especially with all the other uncertainties tugging at her emotions So the date had become a talisman of sorts If she could reach it, all of her usual well-ordered discipline and detachment would return…

“I think,” said Anna slowly, “that Lady Dunbar’s hunting party would etaway from London”

Caro stared at her in confusion

“Excellent, excellent! I knew you would adore the idea” Clapping her hands together, Lady Truo write to Miriaht away”

“Are you mad?” hissed Caro as soon as their mother had left the room

Anna smiled

“What about your deadline—” A look of dawning comprehension suddenly lit her sister’s face “Oh, brilliant!”

Peace and quiet A respite from the swarm of suitors in London

“Yes, I rather thought so myself”

Chapter Three

Ignoring the censorious stares fro an aria froant barouche and turned down the side street The ful celebration For theoff the long evenings spent drinking, ga activities Today, however, the gru protest from his weary bones took second fiddle to a more cheerful melody—the whisper of money

Even though the blade of bright sunshine that cut across his path did make him wince