The Daring Exploits of a Runaway Heiress by Victoria Alexander Page A

Merryweather’s angry gaze met his. “I need a moment to myself.” She nodded, raised her chin, and strode off in a magnificent manner. It was most impressive, especially given how very wrong she was.
    A moment later a small terrier bounded into the entry and skidded to a stop on the polished marble floors. His little head swiveled as if he were searching for something. Finally his gaze settled on Cam, eyeing him with suspicion.
    â€œParlor,” Miss West said firmly.
    The little beast looked at her, obviously deciding whether or not she was trustworthy, then obediently trotted after Miss Merryweather.
    Cam and Miss West handed their outer garments to the footman, then she steered him in the direction Miss Merryweather had taken. As soon as they were out of earshot of the servant, she leaned close and spoke in a low tone. “What are you doing here, Mr. Fairchild?”
    â€œWhy, I’m writing a story, of course. A series of stories, really. The Daring Exploits of a Runaway Heiress . It has quite a catchy ring to it, don’t you think?”
    She stared. “Are you insane?”
    â€œProbably.” He chuckled. “They say there is a fine line between insanity and brilliance.”
    â€œWhoever says that is an idiot.” Her jaw tightened. “You do realize the irreparable harm you could do by publicly exposing her in that scandal sheet of yours? Why, just the fact that she’s here unaccompanied is highly improper.”
    â€œI’m not a cad, Miss West. I have no desire to harm Miss Merryweather. I am fully aware of the damage that could be done to a woman’s reputation by a misplaced word. Precisely why my works will be fictitious. No more than a product of my imagination. I am simply observing Miss Merryweather for, oh, inspiration as it were. I assure you, no one will ever connect her with my work. So tell me, Miss West.” He leaned closer. “I know she’s up to something. What is it?”
    Miss West’s eyes narrowed. “Get out, Mr. Fairchild.”
    â€œOr what, Miss West?” He had her and he knew it. And in a moment she’d know it too. “Or you’ll tell her who I am? That I’m not a private investigator hired to watch over her?” That alone might form the basis for his first story.
    â€œExactly.” She fairly spit the word at him.
    â€œThat would be most distressing.” He shook his head in a mournful manner. “Because if you were to reveal my secret, I should be forced to reveal yours.”
    Her eyes narrowed.
    â€œWhile she might be annoyed by my little masquerade—one initiated entirely by her I might add—she scarcely knows me. It would be a moment of indignation, nothing more than that. Whereas you have obviously become quite close, Clara . If she knew you were the associate, indeed a partner of an investigator—”
    â€œYou’ve made your point, Mr. Fairchild.” Fury blazed in Miss West’s lovely eyes. “But I warn you right now, should these stories of yours cause her harm in any way, you shall have to answer to me.”
    He met her gaze directly and realized Clara West might well be a formidable enemy if crossed. “Miss Merryweather has nothing to fear from me, Miss West. I give you my word.”
    She studied him closely, then nodded. “Let us hope that is good enough.” She opened the parlor door and waved him in ahead of her, then closed the door behind them.
    Miss Merryweather stood staring out the window at the deepening dusk outside, the small dog in her arms, a thoughtful expression on her face. Miss West cleared her throat. “Lucy?”
    â€œI’ve come to a, well, a realization, Clara. As well as a decision.” She set the dog on the floor. He immediately sat down and stared up at her in an alert manner.
    â€œYes?” Caution sounded in Miss West’s voice.
    â€œIn spite of the fact that Jackson”—she glanced at