Or, mayhap it was her affair with Gregory. She’d let down her guard with someone in a way she never really had before. For the first time, she wondered if she could truly reveal herself and all her secrets. The thought of doing so was terrifying.

Lucien held up his hand, palm out. “Evie, I solemnly swear I will not try to match you with anyone, least of all Lord Gregory.”

“Thank you.”

“But if you wanted to shag him, I’d encourage it wholeheartedly,” he said, eyes twinkling.

She put her hand on her hip. “Do I give you suggestions for whom you ought to take as a lover?”

“In fact, you did two years ago. When I didn’t take a new mistress after you, I distinctly recall you saying I needed to find a new one. If I remember correctly, you gave me several names.”

Evie pursed her lips. “Well, I haven’t done it since. And now you’ve had your fun—no more. My romantic life is none of your business.”

He put his hand to his chest. “You wound me, my dear. We are the best of friends. I only want your utmost happiness.”

She was perhaps overreacting slightly. Because he’d seen right through her attempts at hiding what had happened. And he was indeed her best friend. Along with Ada. “I care for Lord Gregory, but there is nothing between us. Anymore,” she added very quietly.

His eyes widened almost imperceptibly. “You have my complete support however you may need it. You are a kind friend to help him find an appointment.”

“He’s a good sort.” That seemed a wholly inadequate description of the man, but Evie wouldn’t expound on her sentiments. Nor would Lucien ask her to—she was certain they’d just come to a silent agreement. There would be no more discussion of her and Gregory.

“Shall we venture into the club? Ada is returning today, isn’t she?”

Allowing her shoulders to relax with relief, Evie went to the door. “Yes, they got to town yesterday. She sent me a note.”

“Splendid. I’m sure Max is terribly excited to attend the Lords when it opens in a few days.”

“Terribly.” Evie flashed a smile as Lucien opened the door for her. They went to the members’ den, which was on the same floor as Lucien’s office, and chatted with several members. Lucien ended up speaking with someone at length, and Evie made her way to the library, where their closer friends tended to congregate, particularly on Tuesdays.

Ada and Max were there, and Evie rushed to embrace her friend. Then she did the same to Max, who’d learned to accept the demonstrative affection of Ada’s friends, who were really more like her family since she didn’t really have one.

“How were your holidays in Oxfordshire?” Ada asked.

“Pleasant, but I missed London.”