It couldn’t be much past seven, she decided. It had been dark when she’d left for the lighthouse at half after five. But now the household was up and about, and she was eager to return in time for Courtney’s meeting with Mr. Oridge and for Elinore’s impending visit. The drive came into view, and Aurora halted, startled to see Slayde’s phaeton, ready to go, and her brother, who was in the process of climbing into the front seat and taking up the reins. “Slayde?” She called his name, taking the remaining distance between them at a dead run. Slayde’s head snapped about, and he scowled, looking as cantankerous as his guards did after one of her escapes. “What is it, Aurora?” “Where on earth are you going? Isn’t Mr. Oridge speaking with Courtney this morning?” “To Newton Abbot. And yes. Now, does that satisfactorily answer your questions?” She blinked, taking in the deep circles under his eyes. Clearly, he hadn’t slept a wink. “What’s the matter? Is something wrong?”
