Page 30 of Keeper of Secrets

Chloe’s gaze widened.She’d never imagined attempting such a task and her breath caught at the idea of confronting Ryker in such a manner.But then again, what good had being more agreeable done for her?

“How will we catch him?”

Caroline leaned forward.“We’ll simply observe.Though, if that does not work… If only we knew a widow that could set a trap…” And then she gave Chloe the most devilish smile.

Chloe’s mouth fell open.“I am both impressed and?—”

“Appalled?I know.But being married has made me steadfast in my commitment to not being a man’s victim.I’ll use my newfound strength to help my friend.Now… can we visit Mildred?I’ve missed her.”

“She’d love the company.Being idle is not her way and the forced bedrest is making her mad.”

Both ladies rose, Chloe leading the way out the door.

The two women began to discuss safer topics, but half of Chloe’s thoughts lingered on Ryker.She didn’t know him that well, but even she’d learned enough to know that when she called him out… he was going to be furious.

He was a man who usually got his way.

* * *

Two nights later,Ryker’s manservant knotted his cravat, preparing him for the ball.

He’d attended last night’s club meeting but he’d hardly paid attention and the ball held just about as much appeal.

But he continued to dress, knowing that if he wanted to be the Emperor’s successor, this was the path forward.

The idea had him frowning in the handheld mirror as he assessed the knot at his neck.Chloe’s had been better.

But every time he thought of Chloe, his gut churned.He didn’t wish to believe she was involved but was that his emotions overriding his judgment?

Dismissing the manservant, he grabbed his cufflinks and started for the door.He’d not seen Chloe since their carriage ride.She’d been taking meals with his aunt, or she’d remained sequestered in her room.

Despite his worries about her motives, he missed her.And he knew the cravat and cufflinks were an excuse, but he needed something just to see her.Somehow, looking into her eyes would help him find answers.

Reaching her room, he gave a quick knock before he opened the door, not waiting for an invitation.

But he stopped short the moment he entered, his heart stopping for a second before it began hammering against his ribs.

Not one but two maids lowered a deep sapphire silk gown over Chloe’s head.Just before the gown fell, draping over her luxurious curves, he caught sight of her bare shoulders and back above her corset cinched tightly around her tiny waist.

The dress settled about her, not buttoned but still managing to hug her bust and waist as their eyes connected in the mirror.

“Ryker,” Chloe gasped.“What are you doing in here?”

His jaw hardened, his teeth snapping together.“What are you doing in that dress?”

Color flushed her cheeks as one of the maids stepped behind her to begin closing the tiny row of pearl buttons at the back.“You’re dismissed,” he barked, sending both maids scurrying toward the door as he closed the distance between himself and Chloe.

“Ryker.”She didn’t sound fearful this time, just annoyed.“What will they think?”

“Everyone in this house knows we’ll wed.They won’t think anything.”

She spun toward him in a swirl of silk.“Even I know servants talk.If every one of them knows we’re getting married, how do you propose to keep our match a secret?”

How did he tell her that once she left London, their match would only be rumor and speculation.Gossip.Unless someone asked his aunt, and he’d send her with Chloe.

Or they asked the king.And he didn’t make it a habit to talk about anyone other than himself.

“That is my problem.”He stopped a mere foot from her, her large blue eyes locked with his.“Now turn around.”

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