"Mr. Barton, Miss Annabelle's not home," the young maid said, twiddling her thumbs and trying her best to act innocent. "Aunty Lily told her not to leave without your permission, but she said she can't put her personal work on hold for anything—or anyone—and just walked off."

She paused for effect, batting her lashes like she hadn't just snitched with full intent. "Honestly, sir... she's kind of... disrespectful. Not just to Aunty Lily, but to you as well."

The girl's sugary tone couldn't ...