***
From the shadows, Lawrence watched the party disband and all return to their cabins. All except Miss Stanhope. She lingered for a few minutes, floating like a phantom sent to trouble seamen on their journey across the seas. After Henry returned and conversed with her, she remained still until a shadow flitted over the light from the helm where she cowered and quickly withdrew, then hurried below deck.
Almost skipping, she walked toward her cabin with a gladness that set his teeth on edge.
Glad she was now, after getting what she wanted from Brand, wasn't she? The confirmation of her continued employment.
Lawrence's jaw tightened. Whatever she had done, whatever soft words or feigned humility she had employed to receive Brand's favour, to secure Stephen's protection, and the younger boys' innocent company, he would see it undone.
