Page 124 of A Scandal for the Beastly Earl

"No arguments. We're partners. We face things together."

"This could be dangerous."

"Everything with us is dangerous."

"This is different. This is about Matilda, about the fire. Someone's been hiding something for two years."

"All the more reason for me to come."

"Arabella..."

"Lucien, I'm coming. Either with your agreement or following you secretly, but I'm coming."

He studied her determined expression and sighed. "You're impossible."

"You mentioned that earlier."

"It bears repeating."

"So I can come?"

"As if I could stop you."

"You could try."

"I'd fail."

"Probably."

"Definitely."

A knock interrupted them again. Cordelia peered around the door, looking concerned.

"Is everything all right? Morrison looked worried."

"We need to go to France," Arabella said.

"When?"

"Tomorrow, probably."

"I'll pack for you. And for myself."

"Cordelia, you don't have to."

"You're family. Family helps." She paused. "Should I pack for Thistle too?"

"Heavens no," Lucien said immediately.

"Actually..." Arabella began.

"No."

"But..."

"We are not taking the dog to France."

"He'd be upset if we left him."