Camden was at the sideboard, filling two plates with eggs, sweet rolls, and fruit. "Not today, my love. I'm off to see the Viscount Edgerton."
CAMDEN PULLED ON ARES'S reins. A groom was there to take care of his horse as he slid from the saddle. "I won't be long. Do not unsaddle him."
"Very good, Your Grace."
The butler opened the door of Charles's townhouse. "Good day, Your Grace. Lord Edgerton is in his study."
Camden inclined his head and strode toward the back of the house. He gave a light tap on the door before entering.
Charles sat at the large oak desk, papers strewn across the top. He looked up as Camden walked toward him. "How did you do it?"
"Do what?"
"Keep all the details straight in your mind."
Camden took a seat in the chair positioned in front of the desk. "Charles, you needn't keep everything in your mind at once. Find the relevant information for the ongoing missions and focus on that."
"I'm afraid I will never be the spymaster you were."
"Nonsense, I've taught you well, and it's time for you to take up the mantle."
Charles stood and walked to the side board. "Brandy?"
Camden nodded and accepted the glass. Charles slumped back in his chair. "Jeffries was not pleased with your decision."
"I know, but he'll come around. It was time for me to quit the Crown's service. I have other priorities that take precedence now."
Charles smiled. "How is your lovely lady? I've never seen such a brave young woman."
"She is well. Come visit us soon. I'd welcome the company, especially since I'm surrounded by a house full of females. Perhaps one more soon."
Charles laughed, the tension sliding from his face. "Your wife is increasing?"
"She is indeed. She thinks we're having a son, but I have to say I'd welcome a fearless little daughter."
"Then I will come soon, I promise," Charles said.
The two men sat in companionable silence for the next few moments.
"I still cannot believe that Lady Knightly didn't know that either man she killed was actually a spy. It was pure happenstance. Her clever ruse—'I know what you are'—tricked even Henry who was a seasoned spy," Charles said. "She was stabbing in the dark and just happened to kill two of our comrades in the process. I fear she would have been happy to kill as many lords as she could without a thought that they may not have even been a spy."
"I agree. It was such a waste," Camden said.
"Any more news of Knightly?"
Camden shook his head. "Knightly did not stay in London once his wife's execution was ordered. I don't think he'll ever remarry after that debacle."
Charles arched an eyebrow. "Who knows? He is still in need of an heir. The scandal was contained so there's a good chance he'll marry again although it may take some time."
"True," Camden said, standing and putting his brandy glass on the desk. "I'm glad to see you well again. Give my regards to Jeffries."
"Tell me, does it ever get easier to face him?"
That brought forth a chuckle from Camden. "No, it does not, but I have the utmost confidence that you'll be one of the best spymasters he's ever had."
Charles extended his hand. "High praise indeed."
Camden took his friend and fellow spy's hand and gave it a firm shake. "Take care of yourself, Charles."
"I will and shall we meet on the fencing court again soon?"
"Absolutely. I look forward to it."
Camden left the house and swung up into the saddle. He patted the stallion's neck. "Are you ready to go home, old boy?"
Ares snorted and pawed the ground.
Camden snapped the reins, and his stallion raced off toward home, a home filled with love and happiness. Something he'd never thought he would ever enjoy. He had left the spy business in capable hands and had no regrets in his choice. He had everything a man could wish for: a beautiful, headstrong wife who would give him the greatest gift of all—a son or daughter he could shower with love. Yes, he had everything a man could desire and more.
THE END
Dear Reader,
Thank you for reading about Hannah's story in Dare to Love a Spy. I hope you enjoyed the story and will consider leaving a review. Reviews are the best way for an author to know how a reader feels about the story and they are very much appreciated.
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Other Titles Available by Debra Elizabeth
AGE OF INNOCENCE
REGENCY ROMANCE SERIES
Love by Secrets, Book 1
Love by Deception, Book 2
Dare to Love a Spy, Book 3
Love by Chance
(Contemporary Romance Short Story)
Love on the Beach
(Contemporary Romance Novella)
Second Chance Christmas
(Contemporary Romance Short Story)
NEW ENGLAND ROMANCE SERIES
CONTEMPORARY ROMANCES
Summer of Love (Book 1)
Christmas Wedding Wishes (Book 2)
Waiting for Love (Book 3)
An Unexpected Love (Book 4)
A Fairytale Romance (Book 5)
Mistletoe Kisses (Book 6)
About the Author
DEBRA ELIZABETH IS THE romance pen name for fantasy author Debra L. Martin. She has been writing stories since her teens and decided to finally publish her romance stories under a pen name so as not to confuse her fantasy fans. She publishes epic and urban fantasy with her co-author and brother, David W. Small. A full list of all of her books can be found at her blog, Two Ends of the Pen.
Dare to Love a Spy (Book 3, Age of Innocence) Page 13
