Page 73 of Curse of the Wicked Scoundrel (The Shadows 3)

Eloise wished she knew what was happening with the lady and her husband so she could help.

And that’s when an idea struck her. She peeked her head out of the door. There was nobody by her room, but Sal and Garric were guarding the other lady.

Eloise stepped out and slowly padded toward the guards. “Do we have a new arrival in there?” she asked with a smile in her voice.

Garric watched her suspiciously, as always, while Sal shrugged good-naturedly. “This one is a lot noisier than you.”

Eloise chuckled. “Have you seen Verity today?”

“Yes, I think she was in the main hall.”

Eloise nodded gratefully. “Perfect,” she said and sauntered toward the main hall.

As Eloise turned the corner, she hurried down the stairs. She rushed into the main hall, calling for her friend.

“I am telling you, he told people at the table that he is getting married soon!” Chastity argued, sitting across from Verity.

“But—”

“Verity, Verity!” Eloise waved at her friend to receive her attention.

Verity turned with a frown. Eloise had never seen Verity frowning before. Her face was ashen, and she looked very upset. Eloise sat next to Verity and smiled slightly at Chastity.

“I am sorry to interrupt, but I need your help.”

Verity shook herself. “What do you need, deary?”

“There’s a woman, a guest, a new… somebody.” She shook her head, took a deep breath, and tried again. “There’s a new guest a few doors down from my room.”

Verity grimaced. “Yes, we saw her taken in.”

“And?” Eloise raised both brows, waiting for Verity’s reaction.

Verity just shrugged. “And what?”

“Who is she?”

“How would I know?”

“And you’re not interested at all?” Eloise threw up her hands. “Some woman is brought to your home and you do not question it.”

“It’s Master’s home. He brings whoever he wants here.”

Eloise raised her eyes heavenward. “She is very distressed. I want to know if I can help her.”

Verity finally turned fully toward Eloise. “But she is guarded.”

“Exactly,” Eloise confirmed with a nod.

“So you need help with distracting the guards?”

“You’re so clever, dear Verity.” Eloise cuddled her cheek, but Verity leaned out of her reach, annoyed.

“Who is guarding her?” Prudence asked.

Eloise smiled. She loved how the women didn’t question her motives or try to dissuade her. They just decided they wanted to help and that was that.

“Sal and Garric.”

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