*Barkley*
Before my next visit to the cottage, I intend to have a door placed between my bedchamber and the one next to it. Meanwhile, I prowl my room, listening to the infernal ticking of the clock, marking away the time I have with Jayne.
Finally, at midnight, I open the door, step into the hallway, and freeze, as Leo is apparently concluding the same actions. We stare at each other for the span of a heartbeat before Leo finally nods and saunters into the bedchamber that has been given to my mother.
I know they are lovers, of course. They’ve been together for years now. I’m not naïve, believing my mother keeps Leo around simply for his talents with the paintbrush. Still, it is unsettling to have proof of their dalliance. It is time I find out what the man’s intentions are regarding my
