Page 113 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“Besides, I have a strong feeling that the building has been abandoned by the thugs who took Sanders.”

Stewart sighed. “I’d imagine that to be the case, as well.”

A comfortable silence descended over them until the hackney came to a stop in front of Hawthorne House.

“Is Lord Oliver the other agent you are bringing tomorrow?” Stewart asked curiously.

Corbyn smiled. “No, I plan to bring an agent out of retirement.”

Stewart’s eyes grew wide as the realization dawned on him. “Are you implying Lord Hawthorne used to be an agent?”

“I’m not implying anything.” Corbyn opened the door, stepped outside and extended a few coins to the driver.

Stewart came to stand next to him. “I can’t believe a blasted marquess was an agent.”

“He was one of the best,” Corbyn shared. “But if you tell anyone, they will be the last words you ever speak.”

Stewart put up his hand. “I believe I have proven I am trustworthy, so there’s no reason to threaten me.”

“I apologize,” Corbyn said, glancing over at him. “It’s just second nature by now.”

Stewart laughed. “Good night, Lord Evan.”

“Call me Corbyn.”

Stewart’s eyes flickered with surprise before he tipped his head. “Good night, Corbyn.”

After Stewart walked off, Corbyn walked over to the guard. “I am here to see Lord Hawthorne.”

The guard opened the gate and Corbyn approached Hawthorne House. After he was received by the butler, he stepped into the entry hall and waited for Pratt to announce him.

Jane stepped out from the drawing room, and her eyes lit up when she saw him. Or had he just imagined that?

“Lord Evan,” Jane greeted with a tip of her head. “What a pleasant surprise.”

“You are looking especially lovely today,” he said as he perused her white gown with its blue sash.

“Thank you.” Jane clasped her hands in front of her. “May I speak to you for a moment, my lord?”

“You may.”

“This matter is most private,” she said in a low voice. “Would you mind if we speak in the drawing room?”

“Of course not.”

Jane spun back around and stepped further into the drawing room. He followed behind her, careful to maintain proper distance between them.

As Jane turned to face him, he detected an adorable blush on her cheeks, and had the sudden urge to pull her into his arms and kiss her senseless. Thankfully, he was in control of his senses.

“Lord Evan,” Jane began. “I wanted to say…” Her voice trailed off.

He took a step closer to her. “Yes?” he encouraged.

Tilting her chin determinedly, she replied, “I am unsure if you are aware, but I hold you in high regard.”

Corbyn frowned at her words. “We shouldn’t discuss such matters.”

“No?” she asked as a line between her brow appeared. “Am I wrong to assume that you also hold me in some affection?”

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