Cynthia climbed down unassisted. Raising her chin, she met Rem's gaze with a combination of cynicism and resignation.
"Remington, this is Cynthia. Cynthia, Lord Gresham."
"My lord." Without averting her eyes, Cynthia curtsied.
Recognition was i
nstantaneous, even before Rem heard the name, "Cynthia," he repeated, nodding politely.
"Yes, I was very fortunate to find Cynthia," Sammy continued, watching Rem's expression. "She was unhappy at her previous position. I hope she'll find this new one more to her liking."
"I see." Years of training served Rem in good stead. Not a flicker of surprise or censure registered on his face, in his voice. "Well then, shall we?" Once again he offered Sammy his arm.
Sammy sensed Rem's change in mood immediately, and her heart sank. Was he upset because she had hired a courtesan to be her maid, or because she wasn't more like one herself?
"Are you thirsty, imp?"
"Yes, I suppose."
Gently, he caressed her cheek. "Don't sound so forlorn. Vauxhall boasts an abundance of punch." He gestured toward the closest pavilion. "I'll be but a moment."
"He recognized me," Cynthia said, the instant she and Sammy were alone.
"Of course he did. Did you doubt it? Now, hurry."
"Hurry?"
"Yes. Wander off by yourself—quickly, before Remington returns. I want some time alone with him."
"Samantha—"
"Cynthia," Sammy's chin set stubbornly, "I know you have my best interests at heart. But it's my heart I must listen to, not yours. Please . . . go."
Still Cynthia hesitated. "If you need me, call out. I'll race back and—"
"I won't need you."
There was nothing more Cynthia could do but comply. "All right." With a resigned sigh, she turned and walked away.
"Where is your new maid?" Rem's deep baritone reached Sammy's ears a scant moment later. Handing Sammy a cup of punch, he scanned the area.
"I asked her to leave us alone."
His dimple flashed. "Did you? In those words?"
"Yes."
"And now that we're alone?"
"I'd like to go wherever it's most private."
"Samantha . .."
"I want to enjoy your company, Remington ... to talk."
He brought her fingers to his lips. "Whenever you and I are alone, talking is the farthest thing from my mind. I can't promise this time will be any different."
She smiled. "I'm glad."