If he had a hint of the part she’d played in the events of the evening before, her throat would be slit before she could voice a denial. A risk every agent takes, she reminded herself. To test herself, she lifted the small china pot on the table in front of her and poured coffee. Her hand was steady.

It was imperative that her mind stay sharp and focused on the assignment.

Every other thought in her mind was of Bennett.

“Lady Hannah.” Deboque walked into the salon then shut the double doors at his back. “How delightful to see you again.”

She added a careful dollop of cream. “The message I received this morning left little option.”

“Ah, I was brusque.” He crossed to her, taking her hand and brushing his lips over it. “My apologies. The events of last night caused me some distress.”

“And me.” She drew her hand away. Instinct told her annoyance was the wisest course. “I find myself wondering if I’ve chosen wisely.”

Deboque chose the seat beside hers, then taking his time, chose a cigarette from a crystal holder. He wore emeralds today. “Meaning?”

“Only months ago, I found myself in the position of having to clean up for another of your employees.” She sipped coffee. It was hot and Turkish. “Last night, another of them nearly ruined every carefully laid step I’ve taken toward the Bissets.”

“May I remind you, mademoiselle, you were advised to stay out of the way?”

“I’ll remind you, monsieur, that I haven’t reached my current position by not looking toward my own interests. If I hadn’t followed Bennett, you and I might even now be sitting in less agreeable quarters.”

Deboque blew out smoke. “Explain.”

“Bennett was a bit bored with the play and thought to wait in the American actress’s dressing room until the curtain. Because I was aware that there were plans of some sort in the works, I decided it best to keep close. When the lights went out, I had to decide whether to go back or keep Bennett within reach. If I’d gone back, monsieur, the prince might indeed be dead.”

“And for that you wish my gratitude?”

“He might be dead,” Hannah repeated, “and a member of your organization would even now be in custody. Shall I pour you some coffee?”

“Merci.” He waited patiently while she filled a second cup. At his nod, she added cream.