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think I can continue to stay here. If that man discovered where I was living, he might make trouble for you—and for Mrs Fox when she takes up residence.’
    â€˜Surely he would not?’ He arched his fine brows as if to dismiss her fears.
    â€˜You do not know what he is like. He is a violent, brutal man who never considers the wishes of others.’
    â€˜I believe you, but surely it is not necessary to hide from him?’
    â€˜If he found me, he would try to force me to go with him.’
    â€˜Then what would you like to do?’
    Roxanne looked at him hesitantly. ‘To be honest I do not know. Now that he has seen me here, London may not be the best place for me to find work.’
    â€˜Then let me take you to stay with my grandfather. We can announce our engagement—and you can help me do something kind. Had my grandfather not set his mind on this I should simply have ignored his demands. My lawyer tells me that he could in law withhold the income from my trust, though he is not the only trustee and my godmother might take my side. Yet because of his illness I would make his last months happy if I can. To engage in bitter arguments and legal battles could only shorten his life.’
    â€˜Are you sure he would accept me?’ Roxanne glanced down at herself. Inside she was trembling. The life he offered was a golden prize. Yet she was warytoo, conscious that she might be laying up trouble for herself. ‘I know the clothes you have given me have made me look the part—but are you sure he will not see through my disguise at once?’
    â€˜I do not think it. You are everything Grandfather asked me to provide in the woman that I intend to marry, Roxanne. Charming, good mannered and conscientious—what more could he want in a wife for me? Besides, if he does not approve that will end it. I shall bow to his judgement, take you to Bath and make sure you have all you need to live in comfort for the rest of your life.’
    Roxanne gazed at him in silence for a moment. Sofia’s voice was in her head, warning her to be careful. Was he merely trying to deceive her into an illicit entanglement? No, no, she believed he had a true concern for his grandfather.
    â€˜You are quite sure you wish to do this?’
    â€˜I have given the idea more thought since I left you with Mrs Mills. She has served my family all her life and her opinion of you has confirmed mine. You may have lived in the company of travelling players for a few years, but before that you were strictly reared. I had wondered if I should need to teach you how to behave in society, but you know instinctively. Do this for me, Roxanne. Please, help me to make Grandfather’s last days more content. Afterwards, you will be free to live your own life.’
    â€˜Supposing he lives much longer than you expect?’
    Luke gave her a thoughtful look. ‘You may have to marry me. I know it isn’t what you want—but it wouldbe temporary, and in time you could live your own life. We could have the marriage annulled and you would still be young enough to marry again.’
    It would be like an acting contract with a theatre manager. She would play a part for some months, perhaps longer, and then move on. Easy enough, perhaps, yet supposing her emotions became involved?
    â€˜An engagement is easily broken but…’ Roxanne hesitated, then, ‘Marriage is a last resort and only if it becomes impossible to prolong the engagement. It cannot be what you wish for?’
    â€˜I have no wish to marry, but it would be a business arrangement, nothing more. I enjoy my life the way it is—but for Grandfather’s sake I am prepared to play a game of make believe.’
    â€˜It is really just a part I must play, but on a smaller stage and in private rather than public,’ Roxanne said thoughtfully.
    â€˜Yes, mostly in private—though I dare say Grandfather will give an occasional dinner for