Dammit, but he made a compelling argument. Her only requirement was that no one could know. Her servants were completely trustworthy and would be discreet. There were only five of them anyway, and just three lived upstairs. The other two—a mother and daughter who cleaned—resided elsewhere and also worked for another household.

Wait, was she actually considering this? No. She would not. “Gregory, you need to let the past go. We had a lovely time together, but it’s over. I do hope we can be friends, for Ash’s sake if nothing else.” The thought of having to say goodbye to Ash forever was surprisingly horrible. She didn’t think she could do it. “What time should I bring Ash back to you tomorrow?”

Shadows flitted over his gaze, masking whatever he was feeling. “I can fetch him.” Gregory went to retrieve his belongings, setting his hat on his head before donning his greatcoat. Lastly, he drew on his gloves.

Regret knotted in Evie’s belly, but she wouldn’t change her mind.

“Don’t forget to take him outside so he can relieve himself,” Gregory said, his voice stilted. “He’ll let you know when, but it will be well before dawn. I’ll be here around noon to pick him up if that suits you.”

She would make sure to be elsewhere. “Perfectly. Thank you. Shall I show you out?”

“That won’t be necessary. I can find my way.” He smiled at the pup. “Good night, Ash. See you tomorrow.”

Ash trotted over to him and nuzzled his leg, as if he understood. Gregory stroked his head, then took his leave without another word.

Walking to the closed door, Ash sat down and let out a soft whimper. Oh dear, it seemed he did miss Gregory.

Evie went to scoop him up, carrying him back to a chair near the hearth and setting him on her lap. “I know, my dear boy. I miss him too.” At least she could tell the dog the truth, if not herself. And certainly not Gregory.

She missed him. She wanted him. She would eagerly rekindle their affair.

But she could not. He wanted her for more than that—she could see it in his eyes. It reminded her of the way Alfred looked at Heloise. The first time Evie had met him, when he was still Heloise’s protector, she’d seen how he felt. She’d told Heloise that this man was different, that he’d formed an emotional connection. Heloise had rolled her eyes in response, but Evie had been right. Three months later, he’d proposed marriage.

Evie was not Heloise, however. A proposal of marriage wouldn’t make her happy. This life—her job, her own home, independence—made her happy.

Gregory could bring her temporary joy, and he had. And now it was over.

Chapter 12