The morning was a grim reminder of the reality that was waiting for them back in London. He was back to being the government spy and she was again the Duke's daughter who he married for connections. It was the sad reality made lighter by the sound of Claire's voice.

Nick groaned and tried to pull her back against him, but Claire managed to twist out of his weak attempt. He wasn't sure what time he had fallen asleep and how long was he out. His eyes still hurt and the bed was not uncomfortable, but when he opened his eyes, the sight that greeted him banished the sleepiness. Instead, a slow smile crept on his face.

[I]"Nicholas, we should be going. Your father will be worried sick, and you need to see the doctor as soon as possible. The ferry will be running this early in the morning, won’t it?"[/i]

His hand travelled to the small of her back, marveling at the perfection of her complexion, making a mental note to find a way to thank Mr. Bennett for talking him into marrying this woman. He kept his lips sealed for a long moment, just staring at her face and smiling like an idiot, while his hand caressed her back. And when finally he found his voice he said, "I cannot help you with your hair, dear wife."

**********

It was already mid-morning, after a warm bath and breakfast, when the two of them checked out of the inn. Nick paid a boy to hire a carriage for them and in no time they were back at the port. The tickets he bought the other day was replaced with new ones and they were finally welcomed aboard. 

"Mr. Rochford," called a familiar voice. Nicholas turned in time to see the professor approaching them. He tipped his hat in a manner of greeting.

"Professor," he said. "Urgent business in London? It must be, for you to travel this early."

"Good morning to you, Nicholas. And Mrs. Rochford, I'd say you look more beautiful under bright lighting," he told Claire, but then turned to Nick again. "I thought you two were going back to London last night."

"We were. Only that the ferry service had shut down early. We managed to secure a room nearby."

The professor shook his head. "You should have gone to my place. You know where i live, yes?" Nick nodded and Professor White continued, "I have a spare bedroom at home. Anyway, where did you stay that you looked a bit sick this morning?"

"Do I?" He turned to Claire as if to ask how he looked. "I've been... ah, sick. The accommodations last night has nothing to do with how I look today, I assure you. How long will you be in London?" He asked, hoping to direct his curiosity elsewhere. "My wife and I are hosting a masquerade ball this coming weekend. We will be honored if you would consent to attend, right Claire?"