Chapter 34

Bertram and Augusta both had a multitude of condescending questions about America which Dearborne readily answered. As Julien listened, he was struck by how vastly different Dearborne’s life had been before coming to London and found himself enjoying the conversation.

Even more, he was enjoying the quick, cautious looks that Dearborne kept casting in his direction. Looks that were alternately questioning, shy, or hopeful. Out of long habit, Julien kept his expression neutral whenever he met Dearborne’s gaze. It seemed the safest way to deal with the myriad of unfamiliar emotions he had been experiencing since he’d first met Dearborne.

Perhaps he was doing too good a job of hiding his thoughts, because as the conversation wore on, Dearborne began to look chilled and became more subdued.