Chapter 9

She went to her writing desk and withdrew a sheet of cream-coloured paper. She’d write to Lady Smythe and see what the possibility was of the woman agreeing to her and Lydia accompanying the Smythe party to Paris. And once that was done, she’d approach Archibald for the money. It was always easier to ask for forgiveness than to ask permission.

She smiled primly and began writing her missive. She’d seen Kercadiou’s latest line, and wearing one of those lovely gowns, Lydia would be certain to attract the attention of at least one of Lady Smythe’s sons.

* * * *

Tommy whistled happily as he drove home from Whyte, the town closest to Almeria Hall. He and Roddy had found the house that was now theirs thirteen years before. It wasn’t huge, but it was large enough for them, and they’d lived there happily with their daughter since.