I'd always heard time heals all wounds and the truth is that it does, but there's always a scar that remains. As the weeks passed into a month, I stopped craving the feel of Jacob's body against mine and the intrusive thoughts while I was helping Henry and Evie became less pronounced. I even stopped looking up hoping it was him every time the door opened.

Still, there were moments when he was all I could think about. The touch of his fingers, so light and tender, caressing my face or running through my hair, filled my dreams some nights. A small flash of green and I could see his eyes looking into mine like I was all they could see. Even his scent lingering on the sofa reminded me of when it blocked out everything else.

The scars from ending what we had lingered, but scars don't hurt after a while and I knew it time they wouldn't hurt for me. Without seeing him, I knew I'd be all right. It was just going to take time and time, after all, was something I seemed to have a lot of.

There was another factor that helped me deal with losing Jacob: Maxwell Roth. The man was true to his word and seemed to always be there when I needed him; letting me talk about my troubles and making me laugh when I felt like crying. Though I hadn't known him long, I considered him a true friend like Evie, but one I could confide in when it came to the troubles I had with Jacob.

"My darling," he said one afternoon when we met again in front of Saint Martin's, the place we'd first met and where we'd shared several afternoons since. "Jacob was right. A lady such as yourself is so much more deserving of a gentleman of the highest regard. I do respect him, but you can hardly expect him to appreciate a treasure such as yourself."

"He's a good man," I weakly protested.

He took my hand in his, a habit I'd come to accept. "But you, my darling Gwen, deserve a great man."

"Like you?"

He laughed. "My word, no. I'm no better than that rapscallion. But I assure you I would enjoy your company so much more. We'd share evenings at the theatre and dancing."

"Jacob wasn't one for dancing." Remembering our first dance only made me blush. "And I don't think he'd ever go to the theatre."

"You deserve such paltry things, my dear." He smiled down at me as he got up to leave. "I had hoped you'd consider joining me for dinner tonight."

I shook my head. "Thank you, Maxwell, but I'd be awful company."

"Even your foulest disposition is a ray of sunshine." He kissed my hand. "And, dare I say, I'd take no greater pleasure than sharing the evening with a lady I consider a dear friend."

I looked into his eyes. There was no hidden agenda or malice that I could see. In fact, his expression seemed to only hold a deep concern and affection for me, which touched me deeply.

I smiled. "On second thought, I'd love to have dinner with you tonight."

He shook his head. "I couldn't impose myself on you, darling. If you're unsure…"

Such a gentleman, I thought. "No. It's fine. I really would love to."

"Splendid." He clapped eagerly. "I'll send Lewis to Waterloo Station for you at seven. I must leave you now, my dear, but I look forward to this evening. Should you need anything before then –"

I chuckled as I got up as well. "I'll send word. I know. Thank you again, Maxwell."

He bowed gracefully. "It's always my pleasure, Gwen. I must be off now, though I wish you'd allow me to escort you home."

I shook my head. "Thank you again, but I'll be fine."

"Until then, my darling."

As I watched him leave, I honestly looked forward to an evening with my new friend. I went back to the train in high spirits, anticipating my first evening out in some time. I bathed and dressed in the emerald green dress I'd worn when we'd freed Ned Wynert from the police. Even though its neckline felt a little revealing, I dismissed the thought quickly. Didn't I deserve to enjoy myself and be a little wicked when Jacob was doing God knows what on his own.

Pushing him out of my mind, I finished dressing and went to the car most of the Rooks congregated. Rupert, my dear young friend, smiled when he saw me enter and offered me his seat.

"Ya looking lovely tonight, Miss Gwen," he said with a smile that warmed my heart to the core.

"Seems a might overdressed for staying in," Dan, one of Jacob's closest enforcers, commented.

"Actually, I've been invited to dinner tonight," I explained, smiling at Martha when she completed our group. "And I was hoping y'all would be willing to do me a favor."

"If it means dressing like a dandy, I'm not interested," Dan grumbled.

I laughed. "Nothing like that. I promise. I have a carriage meeting me at Waterloo Station at seven. I was hoping y'all would follow me. Just to be careful."

"Ya thinking there may be trouble, Miss Gwen?" Rupert asked.

"No, but I'd rather be safe than sorry. If anything happens, I'll have my dagger but I'd like to have some backup just in case." I reached into the small pouch discreetly made into the V-shaped waist of my dress and placed a small pouch of coins on the table. "I'll make it worth your troubles."

"No need for that, Miss Gwen." Martha handed the bag back to me. "We'll be there if you need us."

Nodding my thanks, I went back to Evie's car and left her a note in case she returned early from her Shroud hunt. With all my affairs in order, I got off the train at Waterloo and met Lewis, Maxwell's quiet manservant, waiting for me with another single white rose.

"A gift from Mr. Roth," he said as he handed it to me. "And his apologies for not being able to personally welcome you to his home. Business at the theatre has caused him to be detained."

"That's all right." I paused before he could help me into the carriage, glancing back to see Rupert, Martha, and Dan had also gotten off and were only slightly behind us. Giving them a chance to make their way to the waiting carriage with two other Rooks, I asked, "If Maxwell needs to cancel our dinner, I completely understand."

"No, Miss King. He was quite sure he wouldn't be held up long." He extended his hand. "Now, if you please."

Once in the carriage and practically crawling through the London streets, I leaned out the window to take in the cool evening air and make sure the others were close at hand. Once satisfied, I admired how part of London was closing up while other parts seemed to just be coming to life.

"The city is so beautiful in the evening," I called up to Lewis. "Do you think we could stop for some flowers? I'd love to bring Maxwell a gift."

"I'm afraid Mr. Roth was quite clear in his instructions," he replied, never looking down at me. "You're to be taken directly to his home."

"I'm sure he won't mind just a brief stop." Spotting a flower cart, I called up again. "Stop here, Lewis."

He did as he was asked with a slight grumble before letting me out. I hurried over to the vendor and picked out a lovely bouquet. Before I could hand over my coins, Lewis was already paying for them.

"Well, I can't say they're a gift from me now, can I?" I teased as I plucked out a purple flower and tucked it into his lapel. "Thank you, Lewis."

The usually gruff looking Lewis managed a tiny smile. "Of course, Miss King."

"You have a very handsome smile, Lewis." I patted his shoulder as he helped me back into the carriage. "It suits you."

He blushed a little before returning to his seat and getting us underway again. It wasn't long before we were at a modest house just inside Westminster. Before being escorted inside, I glanced once more to make sure my Rooks had stayed with us. I smiled as Rupert gave a tiny wave as Martha and Dan entered a pub. Knowing they were close gave me some comfort as Lewis opened the door and ushered me into the parlor to wait for Maxwell.

"Will there be anything else you require, Miss King?" Lewis asked stonily.

"Yes." I fished out a crown from my pouch and placed it in his hand before closing his fingers around it. "For your generosity and company. Thank you, Lewis."

He looked down at the coin then back up at me before gracing me with another of his tiny smiles. "Enjoy the evening, Miss."

Only minutes after he departed, Maxwell thundered into the house. He threw open the parlor door and rushed over to me, winded but smiling.

"My dearest," he gushed, catching my free hand and kissing it. "I apologize for the delay. A new show is opening soon."

I smiled, enchanted by his concern for my feelings. "It's fine, Maxwell. I haven't been waiting long."

"Any wait is too long, but you are a jewel for being so patient. Come. I'm starving for your company."

Taking my hand, he led me to the dining room, which was spread for a feast. There were roast goose, cranberry jelly and pickled quail eggs alongside plum pudding and mince pies. There was even spiced potatoes and French finger cakes that looked futuristic even to me.

"Is this for just us?" I asked as he offered me a seat next to the head of the table, shocked by the lavish meal.

"But of course, my darling. I wanted to ensure you had everything your heart could desire." He looked concerned as he settled in as well. "Is there something missing?"

"You're spoiling me, Maxwell," I lightheartedly scolded. "There's no way we can eat all this."

Pouring us each a glass of sweet-smelling wine, he beamed. "I savor seeing the joy in your eyes. It fills me with more joy than any food could."

I lowered my eyes, embarrassed by his constant compliments and concerned he may have misinterpreted my intentions. "Maxwell, I adore you and love spending time with you, but –"

"But your heart still belongs to another." He nodded thoughtfully. "You needn't worry about sparing my feelings, Gwen. I crave your company, not your love. Your friendship means more to me than any silly notions of romance."

"Thank you, Maxwell. That means the world to me."

He dismissed my concerns with a wave. "Enough of this. Tell me about the hours we've been apart."

I laughed as he stood and began filling my plate. "There's nothing to tell. My days are usually filled with a lot of researching and helping Evie."

"Ah, the other Frye." He nodded, finishing up and quickly serving himself. "I hear she's as spirited as her brother."

I nodded. "She is, but much less reckless. If Jacob's the brawn, Evie's the brains. She sharp as a tack and twice as dangerous."

"And what of her companion? Mr. Green is it?"

"He's all right." My gut told me I needed to change the subject. As much as I liked Maxwell, I didn't feel comfortable discussing the assassins with him. "But you haven't told me anything about you, really. I want to know how the Great Maxwell Roth came into this world."

He laughed. "I'd think the usual way, but I'm sure I wouldn't be nearly as interesting as the rose of the Americas."

"So, tell me and let me decide." I took a sip of my wine and a coy smile. "I think that's a story worth hearing more."

We talked into the early morning hours. He first regaled me with stories of his life in the theatre and how he'd gone from being a traveling actor to owning the largest theatre in London. In return, I explained how my parents had passed away when I was young and that I'd gone to live with my uncle's family. I even shared how it was my best friend and cousin, Helena, who'd brought me to England the first time. While I steered clear of my time traveling and support of the Creed, I willingly admitted it was Jacob that made me come back to England.

"Do you have any regrets not returning home?" He asked.

I shook my head. "London's become my home now. Even though Jacob and I aren't together, I feel like this is where I'm meant to be. I'm with the people I love and trust. I can't ask for any more than that."

"You're so lucky to have such friendships, my darling." He placed his glass of wine down and reached for my hand. "If I were honest, I'd admit that there's no one here to share my life with. I'd love nothing more than to have a constant companion who found the same joy in life as I do and to share my secrets with. Someone who accepted all of me for who I truly am."

"Companionship is overrated sometimes," I commented, thinking about Jacob. "You can get hurt when you let someone too close."

"Ah, but there's a pleasure even in the pain it causes. It gives us purpose and focus."

"Or makes us blind."

"I wish I could heal the pain in your heart, my darling Gwen." He gave my hand a gentle squeeze. "I'd love nothing more than to see that passion I know lives within you come alive again. I'll do whatever it takes to reignite that fire."
"You're the kindest person I've ever met, Maxwell."

He smiled. "Come, my darling. It's nearly dawn and your friends must be worried. I'll see you home."

Again, I refused. "It's all right. I'll have Lewis take me to the station."

"As you wish, my dear." He helped me out of my seat and walked me out to the waiting carriage. "Will you be my guest tonight at the Alhambra? I think you'd enjoy the new performance."

I agreed without a second thought. "I'd love to. Thank you so much for such a wonderful evening. I enjoyed it."

"It's my pleasure." He took my hand and placed a lingering kiss on the wrist. "Until tonight, then."

I was still grinning when I got back to the train. The night spent with Maxwell had been a dream I couldn't wait to repeat. I was giddy with excitement about going to the theatre, but it was quickly doused when I entered my car and found Jacob lounging on the sofa.

"Welcome home, darling," he said condescendingly.

"What do you want?" I replied, matching his tone with one of my own.

He stalked toward me, but I stood firm even when he reached out and tucked a curl behind my ear. "You always look ravishing in green."

I folded my arms across my chest. "If that's all you came to tell me, then you can leave."

He chuckled as he leaned closer and inhaled, the scent of whiskey wafting to me as he did. "I came to see you earlier, but you were gone. Where have you been?"

"Out."

"I see." He stepped closer, causing me to step back. "May I ask with whom?"

I glared at him, but my heart was pounding. Having him standing there in front of me, I was forced to admit that I'd missed him. What ate at me even more was that even clearly emboldened by drinks, I still wanted to reach out and hold him close. I wanted him to come for me.

I won't be a booty call, I said to myself as I shoved him back. "Who I'm with is not your business anymore, Jacob. Now, please leave so I can get some sleep."

His eyes flickered with what looked like pain before turning stony again. "I didn't come here to fight with you."

"Then why did you come?"

"Is there someone else?"

I shook my head, surprised by his question. "What? No."

"Then who were you with tonight?"

I dropped my head, feeling defeated, and let out an exhausted groan. "Does it really matter?"

"Yes."

"Why?"

"Because I still need you, Gwen."

"Then give up all the craziness. Stop running away every time you're scared and trying to prove you're a badass. Be the man I know you are."

He forced me into the wall suddenly. Bracing his forearms on either side of my head, he leaned into me. His breath was hot on my skin as he growled, "Help me change. Save me from myself."

"I can't. I tried. You have to want it yourself."

"I want you."

"It's not enough." I could feel the smoldering heat burning away my resolve to keep my distance. I stared into those desperate eyes, a mirror of what I was feeling, and made one last plea. "Go."

"Is that what you really want?" His mouth grazed mine. "For me to leave?"

"Yes," I wanted to say, but I found myself craning for another touch. "Please. I can't."

I don't know if I was telling him I couldn't be with him or that I needed more of him. Regardless, his mouth seized mine, burning me as he forced my lips apart with his tongue. In response, I moaned into him. He quickly pressed himself fully so I could feel his entire body against me. Once I was trapped, he reached into my hair and plucked out the pins holding it in place. With the skill of a master, he freed it and let it cascade down my shoulders.

"I hate your hair like this." He gently tugged it, forcing my head back to expose my throat and leaving me feeling like prey. "It should be wild and untamed. Like you, darling."

"Please, Jacob," I begged again, tearing open the dingy white shirt to reveal his broad chest.

He slid one hand down my stomach and, grabbing the bottom of my bodice, ripped away the skirt. His fingers disappeared between my thighs, awakening the part of me only he could. With the other, he stroked and squeezed my breast through the bodice. He growled as he raked his teeth down my neck, claiming what was rightfully his.

My mind was blank as I finally demanded, "Make love to me, Jacob. Now."

It was all the encouragement he needed. He freed me then himself from what remained on our clothing and impaled me there against the wall. I wrapped my arms around his neck as he pushed into the depths of me, almost lifting me completely off the floor. With each thrust, I clawed at his back and yanked his hair. As the waves began to rise inside, I bit into his shoulder to muffle the sound of me screaming his name. Reaching the brink, I dug my teeth deeper, tasting the copper blood in my mouth.

Still, he drove into me; his body unwilling to find release. As the second surge exploded in me, I threw my head back and screamed his name. In response, he filled me with a single bone-shattering thrust that left him trembling.

"Come back to me, Gwen," he whispered as he kissed my neck and jaw. "No man will love you as I do."

Even though I could still taste him, still wanted to be taken by him, I hated him at that moment. "It's not about another man. It's about respect and honesty. Don't let moments like this be the only time you let your guard down. I want all of you. Can you do that?"

He looked into my eyes and I knew the answer. "I'm sorry."

I turned away to keep him from seeing the tears welling up in my eyes. "Then there's nothing left. You've made your decision and I've made mine. We'll just have to live with them."

As he pushed away from me, the chill that filled the void caused me to shudder. I didn't look up again until I heard the door slam. With that, I gathered my ruined clothing and readied for bed.

Tomorrow will be better, I told myself. It has to be.