Four days later, a footwoman opened the door to the Phoenix Club for Evie. As soon as she stepped inside, the familiar scent of pine, sandalwood, and citrus—a distinctive fragrance Lucien had commissioned in order to give the club a unique and identifiable smell—welcomed her. A month was too long to be away, and yet she couldn’t deny feeling refreshed and invigorated.

Though, she doubted that was due to being away. She owed it to Lord Gregory Blakemore and his divine attention.

“Good morning, Amanda,” Evie said with a smile.

The young woman had worked at the Phoenix Club over a year now and was exceptional at getting to know and remembering all the female members. On the ladies’ side of the club, they employed women as footmen, just as there were cleaning men on the men’s side.

“Welcome back, Mrs. Renshaw. I trust you had a nice holiday.”

“I did, thank you. And you?” She’d felt badly for not being here for their celebration the day after Christmas in particular, but Lucien had overseen the event and assured her all would be well. There was still the Epiphany party they would host next week, and Evie looked forward to that.

“We had a lovely time here at the club,” Amanda replied. “Lord Lucien takes such fine care of us.”

He did indeed. Everyone who worked here had needed a second chance, an opportunity to find a place to not only work but to belong—a home.

“I’m so glad to hear it,” Evie said before continuing into the club. She passed the ladies’ dining room and the library on her way to the staircase that took her up to her office on the first floor. Situated in the corner with a lovely view of the back garden, it was her home away from home, a place where she absolutely belonged. Also thanks to Lucien.

When he’d offered her this opportunity almost three years ago, she’d been more than surprised. She’d ended their contract—he’d been her last protector—and she’d been contemplating what to do next. He’d believed in her, and that had made all the difference.

She was halfway through her stack of correspondence, having just picked up a missive from another patroness, Lady Hargrove, when Lucien poked his head into her office. “Morning, Evie.”

It was remarkable to her that he never, ever slipped up and called her Belle. He wouldn’t now, not after this much time, but even in the beginning, he was perfect in his address.

She smiled at him. “Good morning, Lucien. Thank you for managing everything while I was away.”

“It was my pleasure. Ada was here twice, so that is why everything is perfectly orderly.”