Chapter 30

In the far corner of the garden he walked around a hedge and into what he knew was a well-secluded niche, only to find it already occupied. Common sense told Julien he ought to turn back before he was seen, but he hesitated a moment too long.

“Lord Blackstone.”

“Dearborne.”

“Were you looking for me, sir?”

“No.” Julien was able to answer honestly, at least. “I was merely getting some air.”

“Oh.” Dearborne’s voice seemed to hold a note of disappointment.

Julien quickly dismissed that thought. “And you? I thought you would be content to spend the entire evening in the company of the Arthurian League.”

“No. I mean, yes, I’m enjoying meeting them, but still…I’m still not accustomed to the crowds—or crush, I suppose.”

“I didn’t mean to interrupt your solitude. I can leave if you—”

“No.” Dearborne took a quick step forward. “No, not at all.”