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us.’
    â€˜I can manage that,’ Roxanne replied confidently. ‘Besides, your grandfather may think me unsuitable and then I can simply go away and disappear.’
    â€˜Yes, exactly.’ Luke stopped walking and looked into her eyes. ‘Will you do me the honour of wearing my ring for a time, Miss Roxanne?’
    For a moment it felt as if he were truly proposing and her heart jerked, but then she saw the mischief in his eyes and smiled.
    â€˜Yes, I shall do as you ask, sir. Just until you decide that you are ready to abandon the masquerade.’
    â€˜Do not think of it as a masquerade. It is a gentleman’s agreement between friends—a small deception for the best of reasons, do you not agree?’
    â€˜I cannot disagree when you wish only to give an old man peace of mind—and to honour your commitments,’ Roxanne said. For a moment she wondered where Mrs Fox came into his plans, but dismissed her doubts. ‘You will be my employer and may dismiss me when it pleases you.’
    â€˜Please.’ Luke made a rueful face. ‘You must not think of me in that way or it will show. I am Luke—the man you intend to marry.’
    â€˜Yes, of course you are, dearest.’ Her manner was light and teasing, exactly right for a woman who had just become engaged to the man she loves. Roxanne placed her hand playfully on his arm. ‘Do not be anxious, Luke. I shall not forget my part and let you down. The earl will have nothing to complain of in my manner or deportment.’
    â€˜We must order you some more clothes and then we shall leave.’ Luke smiled, his eyes thoughtful. ‘I am certain Grandfather will like you, but you must look the part. Tomorrow I shall take you shopping. I intend to write to my grandfather and tell him that I shall be bringing a young lady to meet him in one week from now.’

Chapter Four
    â€˜Y our belongings are strapped to the back of the carriage. Is there anything more you require before we leave, Roxanne?’
    She thought of the two trunks packed with pretty gowns for all occasions, silk undergarments, stockings, shoes, slippers and gloves, besides several pretty bonnets. She had taken her pick of the wardrobe when acting in plays on their travels, but never had she seen so many beautiful clothes as Luke had so recklessly purchased for her. Too many by half and expensive, far more stylish than anything she’d ever worn before.
    â€˜You have been most generous and I have all I need, thank you.’
    â€˜Then we should go.’ Luke offered his arm and they strolled towards the carriage. ‘I intend to ride most of the way, Roxanne. We shall stop one night on the road—and your new maid will meet us at the inn, where we stopped before.’
    â€˜My maid?’
    â€˜Yes, of course. A respectable young lady cannot travel without a maid. I sent word ahead and I am sure a maid will have been provided by the time we arrive. Grandfather would be shocked if we visited without one.’
    â€˜What would he think if he should learn how we met?’
    â€˜It will not happen. I met you at the house of a friend and we liked each other very well. You have consented to an engagement, but we are waiting for your father’s permission to wed.’
    Roxanne stifled her feelings of unease. ‘I pray you will not invent too many lies, sir, for I may forget them.’
    â€˜We shall keep your story as simple as possible,’ he promised. ‘You must expect some questions, Roxanne. Grandfather is bound to wonder why I have given into his request so tamely.’
    â€˜You must endeavour to look as if you are in love, Luke,’ she said and gave him a smile of positive wickedness. ‘Liking will not serve or he will sense a mystery. If you have resisted his plea thus far, he must be convinced of your sincerity or you may do more harm than good.’
    â€˜You are very right,’ Luke agreed and looked