The following afternoon, Della stood outside Lord Black's new home with a parcel tucked against her stomach, wondering whether they should have bought something else.
Beyond the gate, a paved path wound between flower beds toward the mansion. Somebody had polished the brass fittings on the front door until they shone.
Their gift suddenly felt rather light.
"We should've brought wine," she murmured.
"You said we shouldn't bring wine," Brena reminded her.
"I know what I said."
"You said he'd have better wine."
"I know!"
Tavi leaned around them to peer through the bars.
"Do you think he sleeps in the room with the balcony?"
Both women turned toward her.
"What? It's a lovely balcony."
"You haven't looked at the balcony once," Brena replied.
"I've been admiring the possibilities."
Before Della could ask what that meant, a maid came down the path and opened the gate.
"Miss Della? Miss Brena and Miss Tavi?"
The three adventurers straightened.
