My Marionette Lover novel · Chapter 16 of 24

Chapter 16: Imogen Says Yes

The summons came on Thursday, in Imogen's handwriting, which meant Augusta had held the pen.

Come to the morning room at four. Bring your bar.

Arlen stayed at the Annex with Brad, who was teaching him to play chess badly.

I crossed the river bridge with my left wrist already aching.

The black knot tightened a little with every step I took toward the Hall.

The morning room was small and yellow, with a tea table and two armchairs by a window.

Augusta sat in the nearer chair.

Imogen stood behind her in a cream dress, with her hair brushed smooth and her right hand wrapped in a clean bandage.

Her face was perfect.

I had never seen anyone hide so much behind a smile.

"You came," Augusta said. "I felt you cross the bridge."

She held up two fingers, and the knot on my wrist gave a slow tug.

"Have you decided, Miss Pemberton?"

"Still thinking."

"Then we'll wait for you. Miss Slaidburn has already decided."

Imogen came around the chair.

"I'm going to marry him, Augusta," she said. "I'll sign whatever you put in front of me."

"On Friday you ran up to my cabinet with Mr. Amesbury."

"I know. I panicked." Imogen lowered her eyes. "I thought Arlen would fall. I'm to be his wife."

"And now?"

"Now I remember whose thread I hold. I'd like to be useful."

Augusta studied her for a long, quiet minute.

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