That, at least, was true. “All of which caused the prices to increase,” he said with a teasing laugh. Then he gave Lottie an oily smile. “Cousin, eh? I had no idea a rascal like this one came from such enchanting stock.”

Lottie dipped her head. “Yes. I’m afraid Alec is the black sheep of the family.” Then she leaned in toward him conspiratorially. “I’m sure I don’t need to tell you why.”

Signore Cardinelli was struck dumb, then he threw his head back and laughed. The knot between Alec’s shoulder blades untwisted ever so slightly and he laughed along with the man. She had adapted even better than expected. It was a bit unnerving.

“Alec, you must bring her this evening. I told your cousin I’m having a little dinner party later,” he explained to Lottie before flicking him a sharp glance. “And I’m afraid I won’t take no for an answer. Is this your first time in Venice, Miss Gresham?” he asked with impeccable politeness as he held out his arm.

Lottie’s smile was more genuine this time. “Yes. We were on our way to Saint Mark’s.” She tugged out of Alec’s grip and graciously accepted Signore Cardinelli’s arm.

“Oh, how convenient! I’ll walk with you. It’s on my way.” Alec muffled a snort at the obvious lie, but neither paid him any mind. “Now, tell me where you were before this…”

Signore Cardinelli’s voice faded into the street noise as they strolled in the direction of Saint Mark’s. Alec stood in place, watching the pair of them. After a few steps, Lottie turned back. “Aren’t you coming, cousin?” Her green eyes were bright with mischief, and likely more. Alec gave her a subtle frown but followed. No doubt Lottie thought she was punishing him by cozying up to the signore.

If she knew only the half of it.

As they made their way through the crowded streets, Alec kept a sharp eye and ear out, waiting to jump in and rescue Lottie from the signore’s prying questions, but there was no need. She easily deflected each one by asking plenty of her own, having quickly realized that Signore Cardinelli’s favorite subject was himself.

Lottie learned more about him in ten minutes than Alec had in ten months.

The base of his skull tingled. She liked this game. And was rather good at it.

But then, why wouldn’t she? Simply living with Sir Alfred provided them both with an intuition his colleagues would kill for. The man’s lessons had sunk deep into their blood, whether they were aware of it or not. Lottie was incredibly perceptive, highly intelligent, and perhaps in possession of more secrets than she let on…

It was all very hushed up, of course.

And I never tried to decipher the codes myself.