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“You will,” Lord Hawthorne assured her.
With a parting glance at Madalene, Harriet stepped out of the drawing room.
Madalene rose from the settee. “What did you wish to discuss with me?” she asked, finding herself increasingly curious.
In a few strides, Lord Hawthorne closed the distance between them and said in a low voice, “I need a favor.”
“From me?”
He nodded, his eyes intently watching her.
“What would you ask of me?” she inquired, clasping her hands in front of her.
“I need to abduct you,” he remarked simply.
“I beg your pardon?” Madalene went to take a step back, to create more distance between them, but the settee behind her prevented her retreat.
Lord Hawthorne appeared displeased by her reaction. “Perhaps I should start from the beginning,” he suggested.
“I think that would be best.”
“I have a credible lead on some missing girls, and there is a chance that Edith could be among them.”
“That is wonderful news!” she gushed.
He nodded slowly. “It is, but we are unable to retrieve the girls right away.”
Madalene tilted her head. “And why is that?”
“I’m not at liberty to say, but it is of utmost importance.” His words may have been curt, but she could tell that he was in earnest.
“I believe you,” she found herself admitting.
Lord Hawthorne stared at her with uncertainty in his eyes. “You believe me?” he asked. “Just like that?”
“I do.”
“You don’t require an additional explanation?”
Madalene shook her head. “Not unless you intend to divulge more.”
“I do not.”
“Then it would appear that my curiosity must be satisfied.”
Wiping a hand over his chin, Lord Hawthorne looked puzzled. “It would appear that I have underestimated you yet again.”
Madalene lifted her brow. “Now, will you kindly explain why you need to abduct me?”
“I would take you to a pub near the docks where the other missing girls are being held,” Lord Hawthorne shared. “You will be in no immediate danger. I will have two people ensuring that you remain safe.”
“Who are these people?”
“One is my brother, Oliver, and the other is none of your concern. With any luck, you won’t even see him.”
“I see.”
“After you are with the missing girls, the Bow Street Runners will raid the pub and set you free.”
