Dear Deceiver. Mary Nichols

knew that when he used her full name he was very cross indeed, and decided there was nothing for it but to obey. Arguing would only make him more obdurate. ‘Very well.’ She put a hand on Emma’s shoulder as she passed her on the way to the door. ‘Don’t let him bully you, Emma. You did nothing wrong.’ With that she left the room, closing the door with a sharp snap that was almost a bang.

      Emma turned from watching her go, to see a smile twitching at the corners of his lordship’s mouth. It was gone in an instant. ‘Do you think Lady Clarence was right?’ he asked her.

      ‘That Lucy was making a cake of herself, my lord? I am afraid I am not familiar with the term.’