Though Gregory had visited the Phoenix Club only a handful of times before leaving London the prior Season, he felt instantly at home as he climbed the stairs to the first floor. The pleasing scent of sandalwood and citrus and the comforting murmur of conversation enveloped him, provoking a smile.

“You look enchanted,” Lord Lucien noted at the top of the stairs, as if he waited there to greet those arriving.

“It’s your club,” Gregory said. “It’s hard not to be. Do you stand here as a sentry?”

Lord Lucien laughed. “Hardly. I was going downstairs, but now that you’re here, perhaps we might have a drink in the library so I can tell you about the meeting I’ve set for you.”

Gregory grinned. “Brilliant.” As he followed Lord Lucien into the library, he glanced about, hoping to catch sight of Evie. Unfortunately, he didn’t see her, nor was she in the library.

Situated at the front of the building and overlooking Ryder Street below, the room was warm and inviting. It was also far less busy than the larger members’ den, which occupied most of the space on this floor.

“Whiskey?” Lord Lucien asked. “We have Irish and Scottish. We also have gin, rum, and wine, if you prefer. And ale, lest I forget. The brewer would smack me.”

“Scottish whisky, please.” Gregory had had it only a few times and liked the flavor.

“Two Scottish whiskies, please,” Lord Lucien said to the footman standing at the liquor cabinet. He poured two glasses and handed them off.

Gregory accepted his with thanks, then turned with Lord Lucien to follow him to a corner where a pair of chairs were situated. When they were seated, Lord Lucien spoke.

“Given your interest in the law, I’ve secured a meeting for you with the Lord High Chancellor’s office.”

Gregory could hardly believe it. “Indeed? That is astonishing. Thank you.”

“It’s just a meeting, but I daresay with your family connections, an appointment will be forthcoming. You’ll be meeting with Lord Hargrove. Do you know him?”

“I don’t believe we’ve been introduced.”

“He may be here tonight, but I haven’t seen him yet. He’s a jovial fellow. You’ll like him. I’ll introduce you if he shows up.”

“I greatly appreciate that.” Gregory lifted his glass in a toast.

Lord Lucien did the same, and they both drank. “I’m curious why you veered from the church. When I mentioned your name to several people, they all believed you were headed for ordination.”

“That was the plan. Rather, it was my father’s plan.” Gregory grimaced. “It pains me to think I might be disappointing him, but I hope he’d be proud of me in the end.”

“Were you close?” Lord Lucien asked.