Chapter 1

 

Anthony could not for the life of him work out what Claire was up to! But she was certainly acting suspiciously. He noted that she seemed to be trying to disguise her identity by wearing a hooded cloak, but this did not fool Anthony; he recognised Claire from her petite height and build and from the way she walked back to his estate slowly, but steadily, in the dying light of the evening.

'Miss Ailes isn't it a bit late in the day to be taking a stroll?'

'Oh my, my lord, I did not see you there, you scared me!' Claire spoke with alarm.

Anthony found himself bemused as he looked down at the startled expression on her small, oval face, and as she walked nearer to where he waited outside the grand building, he could see her big brown eyes shining with intensity.

'Sorry. It was not my intention to alarm you, I expected to be the only one out at this time, while I thought you had retired indoors with my sister for a game of cards.'

'I wanted to take a quick walk before it was too late, I needed a breath of fresh air, and your beautiful, well-kept grounds provided for the most perfect scenery.' She smiled up at him innocently as she took down her hood, allowing her long, thick, dark hair to spill out and frame her beautiful face perfectly.