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Butwhy target Fletcher’s establishments?

Londonboasted dozens of other gaming and social clubs.

Thisattack seemed personal, but why?

CouldFletcher convince Samantha to confide in him before Huxley acted?

Andhow long could Siobhan maintain her fawning ruse before the viscount presumed to pressure her for more? She’d likely punch him in the nose or kick him in the rear for overstepping.

Fletcherwaved a pesky bee away, drawing Siobhan’s attention.

Shecurved her mouth upward before presenting her pert profile and watching the passing scenery once more.

He’dbeen unable to resurrect his ire toward her.

Infact, his desire to protect her and her brother and sister had become paramount, though until this situation with Huxley was behind him, he refused to consider why that was. Fletcher never should have convinced Siobhan to participate in the scheme to catch Huxley, but it was too late now, and there was no turning back.

ShouldHuxley become suspicious, he might well retreat and delay months to strike again.

Fletcherwas good and done with waiting and worrying, which was why he’d decided to go on the offensive. Tonight, he intended to pressure Samantha to see if he couldn’t break through her battlements. He had another trick up his sleeve too. One that was extremely risky, but if it played out as he intended…

He’dhave to wait and see if his instincts were spot on.

Itwas probably past time to apprise Father of the ongoings.

Fletcherdid not doubt that Huxley would attempt to use his position to escape consequences once caught. HavingFather on board and exerting his influence might become necessary—which meant writing a letter to Father explaining the situation and asking him to come to town because Fletcher could not leave London at present.

Toomuch was at stake.

Theurgency thrumming through him to have the matter done once and for all had much to do with the three people sitting opposite—one spirited Irish lass in particular.

Aconfirmed bachelor who enjoyed the company of many women without regret, he’d begun to consider a much different future—one he’d never envisioned but which grew in appeal with each passing day.

Afuture with Siobhan—even if she didn’t know it yet.