Epilogue #3

C larington stood in place at the entrance to the maze. Today was a happy day, and he didn't want anyone wandering into the maze and getting lost. Soon enough he'd ask a footman to take over the duty, but for now he enjoyed standing back and taking in the happy scene before him. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw his wife sweep into the middle of the open area and knew she'd be collecting children for their game of pall-mall.

His gaze met Lucy's, and a quiet moment of understanding passed between them. She was remembering that day as well. It was an unsettling thought that he'd allowed her to be lost and unhappy for far too many years, but she'd finally found her way out of the tangled maze of despair her life had been.

Holbrook joined her, and Clarington watched them together. Lucy's eyes were closed, and she rested against his chest. Holbrook held her as though she was the most precious object in the world.

He heard footsteps approach, but he didn't have to turn to see who it was.

The Earl of Brantford stopped and stood next to him. Together, they watched Lucy and Holbrook.

After a minute, Brantford spoke. "The outcome was satisfactory."

"Yes," Clarington said. "I knew she'd come through the scandal." He'd had some help with that, too, from Brantford. The man was no longer referred to as the Unaffected Earl, but he still commanded a surprising amount of power and influence.

"I regret that it took so long," Brantford said. "For all his vices, the man didn't sleep with that many married women."

Of course not. Lucy's first husband had always had an uncanny knack for self-preservation. But in the end, he'd finally bedded the wrong woman. And Brantford had whispered a few words in the right ears, guaranteeing that Mansfield be called out.

He turned to face the earl. "I am in your debt. If there's ever anything I can do for you, you need only ask."

Brantford's expression didn't change, but Clarington thought he detected a hint of warmth enter the man's eyes. "It is a pleasure seeing your sister happy. But since I have your attention… tell me what you know about the Legends."