A Rogue No More - Lana Williams Page 0,69
club last evening, two men insisted on making it clear that I heed their advice.”
“My goodness. Are you certain you’re all right?”
“Yes,” he said with a scowl. “My head caught the worst of it from a brick wall, though my ribs are complaining as well.”
“That’s terrible. Who were they?”
He started to shake his head only to grimace. “I don’t know. But they were sent by the East India Company.”
“I can hardly believe this.” Her thoughts spun at how much worse the outcome might’ve been. What if he’d been seriously injured? The idea made her entire being ache. “What exactly did they say?”
“Only to let matters be.” He offered a grim smile. “I believe that means we must be getting close enough to the truth that we’re making someone nervous.”
“Do you think this means Sir Alexander is involved?”
“At the very least, I’d guess that he knows what’s happening. Whether he was behind the warning remains to be seen, but it seems likely as I was accosted not far from White’s and soon after he left.”
She released a long breath. “All because my father and the Earl of Arlingwood don’t wish to sell. I hate to think people are dying because of who owns a business.”
“People have been killed for less.”
“I suppose that’s true. Love, financial gain, and rage are often the most common motives.”
His lips twisted in a wry smile. “I find it fascinating that you know such information.”
“My mother lives in fear that I’ll say such a thing at the wrong time. She discourages me from speaking about any of it, no matter how fascinating the research.” Annabelle couldn’t help but smooth the lapel of his suit coat. Warmth spread through her at the knowledge that he not only understood her but appreciated her unique knowledge, though it didn’t dispel her worry. “You’re certain you’re all right?”
“Nothing that won’t soon heal. But I appreciate your concern.” He covered her hand that rested on his chest with his own and the tightness inside her eased a little more.
“I’ve been wracking my mind, trying to think of something else we can do to find the murderer and bring this to an end.”
“As have I. I’m meeting with Aberland this afternoon. He’s going to your father’s dock this morning to speak with the manager and see if he’s overlooked any clues that would provide evidence involving East India.”
A knock on the door interrupted further conversation. Thomas released her and stepped back. “Enter.”
Mr. Bing opened the door. “A message arrived for you, sir.” He handed it to Thomas, his gaze lingering again on Thomas’s bruise.
“Thank you.” Thomas quickly read the contents as Bing closed the door. “Pickford, the man who attacked you and your father, has agreed to talk to me. Perhaps he has something to share that will prove helpful.”
“That’s interesting. When do we see him?”
“We do not. I don’t want you anywhere near the man. You’ll have to satisfy yourself with my report.”
Though not surprised, Annabelle had to protest. “Not only would I benefit from the research of such a meeting, I might also be able to offer additional insight into whatever the man says.”
“No.”
“But—”
Thomas held up a hand. “There’s no point in you offering any arguments. Nothing you say will sway me.” He drew close to press a finger against her parted lips. “Annabelle, I refuse to risk any harm befalling you.”
His whispered words along with his gentle touch shot through her, lessening her frustration and leaving her heart full. Yet she couldn’t help but wonder if he’d said that out of true feelings for her or merely a gentlemanly sense of honor. She dearly wanted to know.
“Very well. But I shall expect a full report with each and every detail as soon as possible.”
“I will commit them to memory.” His gaze dropped to her lips and her stomach dropped as well. All the way to her knees.
He leaned forward to press his mouth to hers, and her heart felt even fuller. Her feelings for this man were quickly growing, spreading to every corner of her world. She had no idea what to do about it or about the fact that she liked it.
~*~
Thomas walked along the pavement toward the prison, grateful for Aberland’s presence at his side. “I don’t believe I’m equipped for a life of intrigue,” Thomas muttered. His head hurt with each step he took.
He’d told the earl what had happened the previous evening, despite the wave of embarrassment that came over him. He was certain he should’ve