Page 97 of The Duke's Mysterious Lover
“Stroken mentioned the authorities, and one of the others mentioned the musicale.”
A muscle ticked in Father’s jaw. “Musicale?”
She blinked, pretending surprise. “Oh, you didn’t know? I am sorry. Stroken is rather a tremendous fan of violin concertos, and has invited me to play for a gathering of his friends. I flatter myself that I inherited Mother’s talent, and I’m quite accomplished with the violin.” She gasped, as if suddenly struck with an idea. “I amcertainhe would issue you an invitation if you requested it! You could claim you’re attending to see me play!”
Her father’s eyes had narrowed, as if debating whether he wanted to say something cutting about admitting to being related to her.
But after a long moment he rocked back on his heels. “You overheard this one evening, did you? In Stroken’s private home?” His voice had dropped into the cunning range, his gaze speculative.
She knew what he was implying and raised her chin in proud defiance. “As I said, the Duke offered to sponsor me.”
“And that included staying in his home? Where do you sleep?”
The question was asked nonchalantly, as if he was being casually cruel. Kitknewthis yet couldn’t stop her flush. Still, perhaps that added verisimilitude to her response. “UncleGeorge tasked me with keeping an eye on his business dealings. I did what I needed to do to be close to the threat.”
It was the way Father’s lips curled cruelly that told Kit he’d understood what she’d been hinting.
He assumed she’d slept with Thorne to wile her way into the man’s house and gain his trust. Because that’s whathewould do.
“Just like your mother,” he finally said, raking his gaze over her body in a dismissive way. “Using your assets to get what you want in life.”
Kit’s surprise wasn’t feigned. “Do you think that’s what she does?”
His harsh bark of laughter surprised them both. “That’s what she did twenty-four years ago, damn her. Holding out until she got the best deal. And she’s been stubborn about it ever since.”
What was that supposed to mean?
“Father.” She stressed the word, hoping to remind him of her supposed loyalty. “I merely did what I thought you would do. Uncle George’s records were fascinating, and I’m not sure I was even able to follow your brilliant schemes.”
Slowly, he seemed to relax, as if her praise was working.
“If he hadn’t died so tragically, I have no doubt the pair of you would one day be running this country—from behind the scenes, naturally.”
Her father hummed, studying her speculatively. “That is where the real power is, my girl. Never forget it.”
“No, of course not.” Kit tried to appear eager to learn from him. “It seems almost anAmericanway of doing things; not to worry about ranks and titles, and go for the power.”
This time, his laughter seemed more natural, and when he chuckled, Kit’s brows rose in surprise at howfamiliarit sounded. When he laughed, he sounded likeher.
“That’s where I got the idea, Katherine.” His smile was morenatural now as he took her hand between both of his. “You’ll remember, I spent plenty of time in America some time ago.”
Her embarrassed flush wasn’t faked this time either. “Y-Yes, I imagine so.” He would’ve been in New York for his affair with Mother. “But I suppose the British way of doing things has its benefits as well.”
“Of course, of course.” He patted her hand. “Iaman Earl now, after all. Now, when you overheard Stroken talking about that evidence, did he saywhichauthorities?”
Kit frowned, pretending to think. “Actually, speaking of titles and such, I believe someone made mention of a representative of the Crown attending.” She gasped again, eyes going wide in faux surprise. “Do you thinkHer Majestymight attend the musicale to hear me play?”
Scoffing at her naiveté, her Father shook his head. “The Queen doesn’t bother with such things, Katherine…but it’s possible one of the princes could send a representative to acquire the evidence packet.”
“Ohdear.” She glanced around the room, trying to make the motion appear nonchalant, wondering where Thorne was. Wondering who else was watching them. She’d already caused quite the stir, and monopolizing one of the guests of honor was horrible manners. “What will you do?”
“Me?” This time his chuckle wasn’t entirely believable. “No, my girl,you.”
She swung a startled gaze his way, and his grin turned wolfish.
“If the Crown is sending a representative to pick up the evidence, then I will send my own representative to intercept the packet.”
“Me?” she whispered, the dread in her tone not at all false. If he didn’t come to the musicale, how would they trap him? “But…I’m not…”
