Page 81 of A Rake's Redemption
Inis glanced up at him in surprise as Amelia left. She knew Amelia had jilted him, and she’d gotten the impression Alex did not care for the woman at all. He’d sounded so sincere just now, but then rakes were known for being notoriously glib. Perhaps he was playing a role this evening as well.
Caroline joined them as they made their way through the crowd, and Alex excused himself to get them some punch.
“I see you have met the Ice Queen,” she said.
“Aye. I could nae put it better myself.” Inis grinned. “I mean, yes, I was introduced to Her Grace. It was quite interesting.”
Caroline grinned back. “She was sizing you up, somewhat like the flagship before the rest of the fleet of gossips descend.”
“I got that impression.”
Caroline sobered. “Do not worry. Either Alex or I will be close by the entire evening.”
“I am nae fashing…that is, I am not worried,” Inis said. “I think I might enjoy playing a bit of cat and mouse myself.”
“Be careful, Inis. The ladies of thetonhave claws that rival any cat.”
“Aye, I am aware of it,” Inis said. She’d seen those claws often enough at home. “But ye have trained me well, nae?”
“I hope so.”
Just then, a small group of debutantes near them began squealing and fanning themselves rapidly when another joined them. The newcomer gestured dramatically and placed one hand over her heart.
“The brigand actually took the liberty of kissing me,” she said, her voice wispy as she placed the back of her other hand to her forehead. “I nearly swooned and certainly would have fallen had he not been holding me fast.”
The bevy of fans fluttered faster.
“The audacity.”
“Scandalous.”
“An outrage.”
“But it was the Midnight Marauder?” one asked.
“Oh, yes. I have no doubt,” the first one answered.
Their voices faded as they fluttered off like so many colorful butterflies toward the punch bowl. Inis gave Caroline a quizzical look. “The Midnight Marauder?”
“A highwayman who has become somewhat notorious,” Caroline said.
Inis frowned. “A highwayman? Doona they usually rob people of coin and jewels?”
“This one is unusual,” Caroline replied. “It seems his band stop only private coaches, and while the men are being divested of coin, the leader gives the ladies a choice of giving him their jewels or a kiss.”
“He does this after midnight?” Inis asked.
Caroline looked confused for a moment and then she shook her head. “No. He is called that because he dresses totally in black, including a mask that color.”
“How long has this been happening?”
Caroline shrugged. “At least a year, maybe longer.”
Inis raised a brow. “And he has nae been caught?”
“Not yet,” Caroline answered. “The problem is, no one knows when he will strike again. Things have been quiet this Season. I thought whoever it is had moved on.”
“Who moved on?” Alex said as he rejoined them and handed each a cup.
