Page 77 of Moonlight Encounter

Old Fred brought the hackney to a stop by the main square, and Gwen carefully disembarked, keeping the hood down and holding her skirts so she would not tumble. Old Fred had been told not to assist her, or do anythingout of the ordinary.

The men had argued at some length against involving her, but she had stood her ground and reasoned it out.

If there were ruffians about, searching for Trafford or his father’s ward, they would not think twice about a woman walking by.

It was the only way to safely approach Lady Hays’s townhouse without rousing suspicion, considering how close it was to Trafford’s family home.

There could be men watching, so it must be a woman.

It had been three days and still no word from Trafford.

Something had to be done.

Aidan had finally acquiesced when she had agreed that Old Fred would be the driver and remain within a few feet of her. The hackney driver had apparently been in the army, so her husband had provided him with twin pistols to hide within pockets of the massive overcoat he wore.

Gwen reached for the large covered basket on the passenger bench. She was pretending to make a delivery, and they hoped that no one would be aware Lady Hays and her husband had already left London. Nevertheless, the remaining servants on duty might receive a delivery in the owner’s absence.

Hoisting the basket up, she turned and headed toward the townhouse, making for the tradesman’s entrance.

She rang the bell and waited. It might take some time to attract the attention of the old couple who took care of the house when the household packed up and left for the country.

After a few minutes, Gwen rang the bell again, gnawing on her lip while she waited with bated breath.

Trafford could be right there, dozens of feet away. And he could know the identity of the man who had murdered the baron.

She wanted so much to help. To bring home good news. Any news.

Her new family was so worried, waiting for word of Little Julius.

But despite her eagerness to help, all Gwen could do was wait for someone to come to the door.