A Rogue to the Rescue (The Rogue Chronicles #4) - Lana Williams Page 0,35

say.”

“Consider your story carefully before Mr. Hurdy arrives. I don’t think he’ll be satisfied with your denials based on the proof and witnesses he’s collected. I suggest you find a different line of work and stop ruining women’s lives.”

Vessey said nothing as Daniel turned to leave. Daniel watched Beatrice’s expression closely as she continued to stare at the man. Much to Daniel’s surprise, she marched forward and said something to the clerk then waited a moment while he turned away and shuffled through some papers before reluctantly handing several to her. She spoke heatedly again then, with the papers in hand, led the way out the door with Sally directly behind her.

“What did he give you?” Daniel asked unable to contain his curiosity as he caught up with her.

“My references.”

“Excellent.” Her determination took him aback. “What else did you tell him?”

“That he should have to endure what the women do and that if it were left to me, that’s exactly what his fate would be.”

Daniel nodded in approval, admiring her daring. “That should make him think twice and fill him with fear.”

“It’s the least he deserves after all the fright he caused me.”

“Absolutely. Hurdy will pay him a visit. Hopefully, he’ll make arrests soon.”

As they returned to the waiting carriage, Daniel had the urge to embrace her and tell her how proud he was of her. How much he thought of her spirit. That she was making a difference for herself and others.

Instead, he settled for a smile and an approving nod. After all, he didn’t want her to get the wrong idea. He sighed, realizing he still wasn’t certain what that was.

“A DINNER PARTY?” BEATRICE stared at Caroline with unease the following afternoon. “Do you think that wise?”

Caroline frowned. “Why wouldn’t it be?”

“Because your friends will take one look at me and wonder how you suddenly came to have a distant cousin who unexpectedly arrived on your doorstep and is staying with you.”

“We don’t have to say you’re my cousin. We’ll tell them you’re the daughter of a family friend.”

Nerves danced in Beatrice’s stomach. No. Danced wasn’t the proper term. Lumbered was more apt. The idea of facing several members of the ton, even if they were Caroline’s friends, made her uncomfortable.

“They’ll ask questions about my parents.”

“And?” Caroline stared at her as if she’d lost her mind.

“What would I tell them?” Beatrice asked.

“The truth.” Caroline leaned forward to cover Beatrice’s hand with her own. “You have nothing to be ashamed of or worried about. I’m certain your mother and father were lovely people, just as you are, inside and out.”

“I don’t feel lovely in the least. Nor do I feel as if I belong at such a gathering.” Beatrice bit her lip, not wanting to sound ungrateful but unable to hide her trepidation. Did she dare tell Caroline what was in her heart? “In truth, I feel as if the fact that I’m ruined is painted on my face. That others will take one look at me and know.”

“Oh, Beatrice.” The sympathy in Caroline’s green eyes formed a lump in Beatrice’s throat. “You are not ruined in my eyes. You were the victim of a horrible scheme run by terrible people. I would like nothing more than to help you put that behind you and move forward.”

“Forgive me, but I have to wonder if that’s possible. I don’t want to live a lie.”

“I’m only suggesting that for now, no one needs to know. I would guess there are other days in your life that you wouldn’t bother to tell people about. Days when remarkable things happened, but they’re private moments you wouldn’t share.”

“Yes. Of course.”

“What if you treat the first few days when you arrived in London much the same? They’re not worth mentioning. I know they had an impact on you. But so did some of those other details you wouldn’t choose to reveal.”

Beatrice understood what Caroline was saying but wasn’t sure she could simply ignore what had occurred.

“I’m not suggesting for a moment that you should or could forget what happened,” Caroline continued as if sensing Beatrice’s hesitation. “All I am saying is that for now, you put it aside. We’ll return to it later and consider how to proceed then. Does that make sense?”

“It does. It just feels as if everyone will know I’m ruined with one glance.”

“Society’s rules are sometimes ridiculous. I know that firsthand. Your reputation is only ruined if others learn about what happened to you. Why not allow people the chance to