None of that was her concern. She barely knew the man and would have little to no association with him going forward. He was her sister’s neighbor. And Heloise wasn’t even really her sister, not as far as the public knew. That was the one lie that ate at Evie the most. She loved Heloise more than anything and hated that she couldn’t shout to the world that Mrs. Alfred Creighton was her beloved sister. It meant hiding a part of herself, perhaps the truest part of herself. Because who was she really if not Heloise’s sister? If everything else faded away, they would always have each other. This deception could one day take a toll. But Evie chose not to dwell on that. Ever.

“Welcome to Witney Court,” the marquess said, his gaze traveling over Evie in a familiar, repulsive way that made her teeth grind together. Never mind that he should have addressed Alfred instead of turning his head toward her.

“Good afternoon,” Alfred said, magnanimously ignoring his host’s obnoxious behavior. Alfred was all that a noble and kind gentleman should be.

“Yes, welcome,” Lady Witney intoned. She also looked first to Evie, despite Heloise and Alfred standing before her. “I’m so pleased you could come, Mrs. Renshaw.”

“I’m delighted my wonderful hosts, Mr. and Mrs. Creighton, saw fit to include me.”

A brief flash of horror passed over Lady Witney’s face, giving Evie a swell of satisfaction. “But I sent an invitation directly to you.”

“If not for the Creightons having me at their home during the holidays, I would not be here to be invited, my lady, so I will appreciate them profusely.” Evie gave the marchioness a sickly sweet smile.

She realized Gregory, who stood on Lady Witney’s other side, had finished speaking to whoever had been before them. He stifled a smile, clearly hearing what Evie had said.

Finally, Lady Witney looked to Heloise and Alfred. “Why yes, of course, we must thank them. They are the loveliest of neighbors. I do hope we’ll get together in the new year.” She reached out and took Heloise’s hand, giving it a quick squeeze before releasing her. That, coupled with the appallingly fake smile the marchioness displayed, made it clear she was putting on a display for Evie. If she was nice to Evie’s friends, perhaps Evie would put in a good word for her at the Phoenix Club.

“I’m sure we will,” Heloise said vaguely, moving on to Gregory, who took her hand with a warm smile. It really was too bad he wasn’t the marquess.