Viktor looked at the older man’s nightshirt, robe, and nightcap. His lips quirked into a smile. “The hour is late, and the household sleeps. How is it that you are still awake?â€
“I knew you would be knocking on the door sooner or later.†Pickles looked down his long nose at him. “You have passed the previous six nights with Her Ladyship.â€
“You are observant, my good man.â€
“No, Your Highness, I am the one who locks the door at night.†Pickles reached into his robe’s pocket and produced a key. He passed it to the prince, saying, “After tonight, let yourself into the
house.â€
Viktor grinned at the majordomo and lifted the key out of his hand. “Your trust honors me.â€
“You are unlikely to abscond with the silver,†Pickles drawled.
— Patricia Grasso
abscondkeynight