For now, she decided to share a fraction with Ada, at least. Allowing a small smile, Evie whispered, “I have been conducting an affair. It’s been diverting, but I don’t expect it will last much longer.”

Ada gasped, her eyes igniting with excitement. “I’m so happy for you! I’m sorry it’s ending, but if that’s what you want…”

“It is.” It was what Evie needed. “I still have no desire for anything permanent. Indeed, I wasn’t sure I was even ready for an affair. I’ve kept it simple and temporary.”

“Sounds perfect for you.” Ada gave her a hug, surprising Evie. “You’re such a wonderful friend, Evie.”

Evie hugged her back. “So are you.”

They parted, and Evie returned to her office. A small stack of correspondence sat on the corner of her desk. She picked up the letters and flipped through them, noting there was one from her sister and one from…Gregory?

Sitting down, she opened the one from Gregory.

Dearest Evie,

I know you are worried right now, and I don’t want to add to your concerns. I just want you to know that I’m here when you need me—and even when you don’t. I’m waiting and will continue to wait, for there is nothing and no one worth more to me than you.

Yours,

Gregory

P. S. Ash misses you, but like me, he is content to wait.

Joy bloomed through Evie. She needed to end the affair, but how could she when he wrote such thoughtful, charming words? And when he brought Ash into it?

They were being careful and would continue to do so. She’d told Ada she deserved the happiness she’d earned and won. Couldn’t Evie do the same?

It suddenly occurred to her that they didn’t have to meet at her house. They could meet here at the club. There were several bedchambers on this floor—more on the men’s side—and an easy, though hidden, access between the two sides. Evie couldn’t believe she hadn’t thought of it before. She’d ask him to come to the club tonight and tell him how to get to one of the chambers so they could meet.

A delicious thrill raced up her spine. Yes, she deserved this, and she was going to enjoy every moment while it lasted.

Gregory walked into Westminster the following Tuesday afternoon feeling confident and content. Hargrove had sent word that morning summoning him for a meeting this afternoon. He’d given no indication as to the outcome, but Gregory hoped it would be to tell him the appointment was confirmed.