The Runner's Enticement (Men of Circumstance Book 2) by Addie Jo Ryleigh

pleased with his presence. She still had no plan as to how she’d meet Mr. Rollins’ latest request with Nate blocking her every move. Ever since her last pilfering and the night of the party, he’d become increasingly diligent in his duty to apprehend the thief. To the point she hadn’t an opportunity to scout out an artifact valuable enough to appease Mr. Rollins, yet insignificant enough to keep from sending her father into an unhealthy fury if he noticed it missing.
    Not about to be fooled again, Nate had taken to guarding the parlor with increased patrols, in addition to stationing more men throughout the grounds. It seemed she couldn’t take a step without rousing someone’s attention—most often Nate himself. He’d become annoyingly underfoot.
    For some unfathomable reason, he appeared to have found merit in her father’s claim to her safety being at risk. Which was how she found herself cloistered in the library with Nate, when all she wanted was solitude to find a way out of her latest muddle. She’d already wasted two valuable days trying to navigate around the man. Her fortnight would be over before she knew it.
    “Are you sure you wouldn’t rather be spending your time doing something else?” she asked, hoping she’d applied enough sweetness to her words to conceal her frustration. “I’m sure sitting with me while I plan lessons is far beneath your skills.”
    He lowered the paper he’d been reading and she couldn’t contain her silent sigh at the sweet dimple accompanying his rakish grin. Did the man have to be so unbearably handsome? Especially when she fully intended to remain annoyed with him instead of softened by his charm. No matter how tempting it may be.
    “Back to trying to escape?”
    “Nothing of the sort. I’m merely feeling guilty you’ve been forced to assume the unnecessary job of keeping me safe from a non-existent threat. Unless my father thinks I’ll come to harm from a piece of paper.” She ignored the twinge of guilt at her lie. She needed to be rid of the man.
    He folded the paper and set it on a small occasional table. “I want to believe you, princess, but for some reason I’m reluctant.” The glint of humor in his eyes erased any reprimand from his comment. “Our short history has taught me a thing or two. Notably your tendency to flee from my side.”
    He had a valid point. And I’ve no response to offer . Extricating herself from his company was precisely what she desired.
    Carson, the butler, appeared at the door, saving her from having to conjure yet another bend on the truth.
    “Sorry to intrude, Lady Annabel. The Earl of Foxmoore is here to see Mr. Frederickson.”
    Anna stood, relieved at the interruption.
    “Please, show him in. I’m sure Mr. Frederickson will welcome the company.” She didn’t know what business the earl had with a Runner, but anyone who’d take Nate’s attention from her was welcomed.
    Nate came to his feet and greeted the tall, handsome man who entered shortly after Carson vacated the doorway.
    “Foxmoore, this is a surprise. What brings you this far from London?” Nate shook the earl’s hand.
    The men were clearly on friendly terms. Surprising, based on Nate’s aversion to anything connected to the ton . He might keep his judgment locked behind his duties, but she’d seen it break through his exterior. He’d made enough subtle comments for her to discern his noticeable dislike.
    “I’m here on business, actually. Lawson sent me.”
    “Lawson? What business would you have with Lawson?”
    “Before two days ago, none. I’ve been asked to assist with some matters regarding artifacts,” the earl answered with a quick look in her direction, aware Nate hadn’t introduced them. Intrigued by Nate’s baffled expression, she wasn’t about to interrupt to make herself known.
    “What do you know of artifacts?” Nate questioned.
    She told herself it was perfectly acceptable to enjoy Nate’s bemusement. Especially as