And If You Wrong Us

Part 5: Secrets

He was ready to give up the hunt and head back to the orphanage when he saw Sarah take a turn into an alley that led into the outskirts of town; the dingy, impoverished part. Curiosity piqued, he decided to keep following.

What could someone like her want with this part of town? Isn't she worried someone will steal her expensive clothes? That choker necklace she wears is sure to get unwanted attention.

He had to stick to the shadows as he followed her down the narrow alleyway, as there was nowhere to hide, padding cautiously, pausing frequently. He lost sight of her for a panicked moment when she slipped down another corridor, then almost got himself spotted when he reached the street; Sarah had stopped just a short way down. He flattened himself against the wall of a brick building. He had seen someone with her. He listened hard.

"...nicer place?" a male voice said.

"...unnecessary...the money?" Sarah's voice was strong and sultry.

Mr. Raven could only hear snippets of their conversation. He poked his head around the corner.

"Pay you now?" the man asked. "Before?"

Sarah nodded. "I do not take the risk of my clients getting what they want and then leaving me without what is owed."

"But I am to take a risk of paying without getting what I paid for?"

"That is entirely up to you. But I ask that you decide quickly. I have others waiting."

The man sighed irritably, then pulled money out of his pocket and handed it to Sarah. She slipped it into the bosom of her dress.

"Right this way," she said, pointing to the building beside them. Before she ducked into the building after the mysterious man, she glanced around again. Mr. Raven pinned himself against the wall. He waited a few tingling moments, then heard a door swing shut. He breathed out slowly.

What the hell is she doing out here, and with strange men? Money in exchange for services...male clients...

He shook his head, feeling dizzy.

No, it can't be that...she wouldn't...would she? It has to be something else...anything else.

With sudden resolve, Mr. Raven straightened his shoulders. He would confront her as soon as she returned to the orphanage.

"Miss Pemberly."

Sarah nearly jumped in the air at the sound of her name. She let the double doors slide closed behind her.

Mr. Raven frowned at her from his seat on the stairs.

She placed a hand on her chest. "Mr. Raven, you scared me half to death! How long have you been sitting there?"

"I'll be asking the questions tonight." He rose and approached her. "You've been gone for several hours, Miss Pemberly. Where were you today?"

"I was in town, Mr. Raven."

"And what were you doing while in town?"

She sighed. "I went to the baker to have a pastry. I stopped at the seamstress to mend a tear in my sleeve. I visited the bookstore to see if they had any new books in stock. I spoke to some people along the way. No one in particular," she added quickly as Mr. Raven opened his mouth to speak.

"You're leaving out something very crucial." He saw her eyes dart back to the door. "I saw you in that alley, Miss Pemberly. There is nothing to be gained from lying."