Chapter 216

Tom Linley pressed his ear to the keyhole of Lord Rochester's study, heart pounding.

"Will you be her shadow, Jon?" Rochester's words were barely audible, but Linley heard them, as well as Mr. St. Laurent's agreement. He'd heard all he needed to. He dashed into the nearest chamber down the corridor before the trio of gentlemen left Rochester's study. They would soon be leaving for dinner.

"Mr. Linley?" Linley glanced around. Audrey sat in a chair by the fire, looking cozy as she read a book. They were in a small drawing room, a private one for members of the family only, but he'd thought it was empty when he'd scouted it earlier.

"My apologies, Miss Sheridan." He straightened himself and prepared to leave, as if nothing was amiss.