Page 96 of If Not for the Duke

“Is Renwick here?” Worley glanced about. “There he is. By the refreshment table.”

Lena did her best to allow her gaze to casually take in the room, at last seeing Sterling. Her heartbeat sped. She wanted the chance to aid him and Bernie if she could. Thank goodness Norah and Vanbridge hadn’t arrived. Norah would know in a heartbeat what Lena intended and wouldn’t approve.

Time was of the essence.

Keeping her polite smile, she turned away from Sterling to face Worley. “Please tell Sterling what’s happening, but not until I have stepped onto the terrace.”

“No. That is a terrible plan.” The heated words caused Lena’s smile to falter. “Winslow could take you away before we arrive.”

“Smile, Worley,” Lena reminded him. “Remember? He could be watching.”

Temper showed through the viscount’s smile. “I’m not leaving you unattended with Winslow, Lena.”

“Fine.” Lena released a frustrated breath as she considered other options. “You proceed toward the terrace doors, so you’ll be nearby when I step out.”

“I have a better plan. I’ve been here numerous times and am familiar with the house. I’ll go out through another entrance and see if I can find Winslow to make certain he doesn’t escape.”

“Worley,” Lena began, fear for her friend threatening to take hold, making her realize that her plan held risk. “Promise you’ll take care.”

“I will if you will.” His smile softened. “Determine another way to alert Renwick. I’ll see the two of you outside.” With a dip of his head, he departed, meandering slowly through the crowd in the direction of the corridor that led to the card rooms.

Lena didn’t look at Sterling again, but instead, moved a few steps toward Lady Havenby, certain she could count on her assistance.

The lady finished speaking with a friend and glanced at Lena. “Are you enjoying yourself, my dear?”

“I am. But I wonder if I could ask an urgent favor.”

“Of course.” The lady’s eyes lit with interest.

Lena debated what to say. Sharing that she wanted to meet a man on the terrace, who was more than likely armed and dangerous, seemed unwise. Lady Havenby would never allow her to carry out her plan. Yet the lady adored being in the thick of any excitement. Lena and her sisters had witnessed that after having had more than their fair share of alarming escapades after coming to London.

A portion of the truth would have to do.

“Renwick, Worley, and I are hoping to catch Winslow, the man who threatened Lady Bernice,” she whispered.

Lady Havenby’s eyes went wide. “How do you intend to do that? Is he here?” She started to glance about, but Lena reached for her arm to stop her.

“He might be watching us at this very moment, so we must pretend all is well,” Lena warned as she smiled.

Lady Havenby quickly did the same. “What do you want me to do?” The thrilled look on the older woman’s face couldn’t be denied.

“Could you please make your way to Renwick and advise him that we need him on the terrace?”

“Surely, you’re not going out there.” Lady Havenby frowned, clearly displeased with the idea. “That could be dangerous.”

“Worley is doing so.” Lena hoped that would satisfy her. After all, it was true. Never mind that she hadn’t responded directly to her remark.

“Very well.” She nodded. “Shall I find Renwick now?”

“Yes. He’s near the refreshment table. Remember to proceed slowly and act as if nothing is amiss. We must assume Winslow is watching.”

“You may count on me.” With a lift of her chin, Lady Havenby started in Sterling’s direction, greeting a few acquaintances as she went.

Lena blew out a relieved breath. Now it was her turn to act. For once, her gift had proven to be of assistance right when she needed it. Perhaps Sterling could find it in his heart to care for her and accept her as she was if she helped catch Winslow.

She moved toward the terrace, forcing a smile as if she were excited at the thought of meeting Sterling and ignoring the knot of fear in the pit of her stomach.

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