Now that danger wasn’t quite so imminent, Alec was very aware of how close they were, and how Lottie’s curves brushed his frame. He couldn’t stop himself from sneaking a glance down at her décolletage, which strained and swelled against the fabric of her dress with each rapid inhalation.

“It’s nothing. Don’t worry.”

Something flickered in her eyes. Then her concerned frown deepened to a glare as she pulled her hands out of his. “I don’t know why you were following me anyway. You seemed pleasantly occupied when I left,” she added under her breath.

Alec’s jaw tightened. Now was hardly the time to discuss his kiss with the madame. He turned around and moved toward the hallway. No one was about. He beckoned to Lottie and she grudgingly pushed away from the wall. “There is a boat waiting for us,” he explained in a low murmur.

“You expected we would have to sneak out like a pair of thieves?”

“I try to prepare for every possibility. Stay close to me.” Alec held out his hand. Lottie stared at it with a sour look. “Please,” he prompted. She let out a sigh and took it. Alec gripped her hand and gave her a reassuring squeeze. It was the best he could do for now. As they stepped lightly down the hallway, Alec listened for the slightest sound of footsteps. He was prepared to do whatever it took to keep her safe, but he loathed the idea of committing an act of violence in front of her.

It does not matter. Let her see you for the animal you are.

Lottie tugged his hand. “You’re hurting me,” she whispered.

Alec immediately gentled his grip and gave her an apologetic smile that she did not return. At the end of the hallway was a heavy door that opened onto the back. From there it would be a short walk to their meeting point. Alec tested the knob and cursed. Then he knelt down and pulled out his lock picks. It took only a few moments before the ancient mechanism released and the door slowly opened. Then he glanced back. Lottie was looking at him with something close to awe but quickly schooled her expression.

He smiled again as he stood. “I wouldn’t be much of a spy if I couldn’t pick a lock.”

“No,” she said dryly. “I suppose not.”

He held out his hand again, and she readily took it this time. They crept outside and Alec guided them along the palazzo’s back wall, taking care to stay in the shadows until they reached a little slope that gave way to a dock.