I was alone in my parlor when I heard the front door open. I knew it was Armand because he is the only person that need not knock. He called out, "Gabrielle?" as he shut the door.
"In here my love," I called back. He came through the doorway a few moments later.
"I thought you would have reported back to me at the Tribunal this afternoon." He said sternly.
"I was invited to stay for dinner and I hoped that in doing that I would be able to secure more information once the father and son arrived."
"Ah yes, then I understand your absence. So what information were you able to secure, my dear?"
My mind was turning, 'Could I go through with my fabricated story?' I then thought of Suzanne and quickly realized that I must. "Not much. Their acquaintances in English society are few and no one of particular importance or high standing. The Comtesse seemed quite resolute on staying in her homeland of France and that she will not leave under any circumstances."
He was now pacing the floor, "And what of the former Comte?"
"He feels the same as his wife. They will remain in France and hope that their faith in God will let them persevere."
"That is all?" There was a very questionable tone in his voice.
"Yes, that is all Armand."
He stopped pacing, came right up to me, and looked me in the eyes. He must have been satisfied with what he saw there because a grin spread over his face and he wrapped his arms around me, put his lips to mine, and then swept me up in his arms and up the stairs to my waiting bed.
