Alice’s enthusiasm made her smile, although Selena had no desire to read books about murder since she’d nearly witnessed one firsthand. Although she wasn’t presently involved in the social scene, she did occasionally get a visitor. It seemed there were no rumors going about regarding the Earl of Elverton’s attempt to poison his wife. Her visitors did mention his unfortunate turn in health and the dedication of the countess in caring for him. One lady had admitted to seeing her waltzing at the Elysium. Selena was happy for the countess, hoped the gents at the club spoiled her with their attention. “I suppose a tranquil outing isn’t uncalled for.”

Alice popped up out of her seat. “I’ll let the others know.”

While she dashed off to tell Connie and Flo, Selena went upstairs to retrieve her veiled bonnet. Yes, getting out of here would do her some good.

After pinning her hat in place, she picked up her reticule, surprised by the weight of it. Then she remembered the key to Aiden’s chambers was still in her possession. She was torn between giving it back to him and placing it in her jewelry box to be looked at occasionally, a reminder of a time in her life during which she’d been remarkably happy.

But it was not hers to keep. While she could package it up and have it sent to him, she decided she wanted to deliver it personally, along with a small gift. After lying to her sisters once more by telling them she’d suddenly come down with a megrim and sending them on their way without her, she headed out to the shops.

That evening after the girls were abed, she donned her blue gown and mask, finding comfort in the familiarity of it. A peace that had been elusive settled over her as the coach carried her to the Elysium Club. Her nerves had been frayed that first night, until she’d seen him, and then it had rather felt as though her heart had come home.

A silly thought, but then with him, she’d always felt truly revealed and understood—even when she’d held secrets from him. And when those had been uncovered, still he hadn’t turned her away. She wasn’t certain anyone had ever accepted her as he did, foibles and all.

When the carriage came to a stop in front of the club and the driver handed her down, she instructed him to wait where he was because she wouldn’t be but a minute.

Then she strolled into the foyer, striving not to remember how her heart would always give a small hitch of anticipation at the prospect of seeing him whenever she walked through the door. She stopped at the counter where normally she handed her wrap off to Angie. “Don’t send word to him that I’m here.”