The Glittering Court (The Glittering Court #1) - Richelle Mead Page 0,138
of course.”
“How was your journey?” I asked politely.
“Rough.” Warren’s face fell. “The storm blew up while we were crossing the bay last night. We . . . lost a few people.” He studied me a few moments before going on. “I would’ve stayed in Cape Triumph had I known the risks, but here we are. Elias tells me you two have some exciting news.”
Like a conjured demon, Elias slinked into the room. Cedric held out the gold nugget. “I found it after only a little digging.”
Elias took the nugget but held it at arm’s length, like it might be toxic. “Bigger than that last bit you came flashing around. And it seems authentic.”
“Of course it is,” said Warren, snatching it away. Enthusiasm filled his features. “And this could make both our fortunes. Have you told anyone?”
I hesitated. “No . . . but we were hoping to hire some men today now that this is confirmed. Of course, with the storm—”
“I understand the need for control of the situation,” said Cedric. “But I also need to get moving on this.”
“Don’t speak to Mister Doyle that way,” snapped Elias.
Warren gave him a withering look. “He’s right. We do need to move—but I’m not delaying because of any need for control. I’m delaying for your own safety.”
“How so?” I asked.
“As much as I want to believe Hadisen is a wonderful, righteous place . . .” Warren shook his head. “Well, the lure of gold is irresistible to some—it makes them do terrible things. There are still raiders and bandits who’ll swoop in on prosperous claims to scavenge what they can—and aren’t afraid to hurt those who own them. Aside from having the proper workers and equipment, I’d like to make sure you have proper security before this project begins.”
It was a hard argument to counter. We’d all heard stories of claim-raiding brigands, but I’d never expected we’d run into them. I’d never expected our claim would have the potential to be so rich.
“That’s very kind of you,” Cedric said at last.
Warren gave him a wry smile. “And don’t worry—I will make sure this is done expediently. Don’t worry about your timeline.”
I hoped he was as sincere as he seemed. “Thank you.”
Warren promised he’d have news for us soon. A servant came forward to show us out, but I lingered a moment with Warren, unable to hold back my curiosity.
“How is your search for a bride coming?” I asked softly. “I expected you to be married by now.”
“I expected it too,” he said with a chuckle. “I’m considering a few possibilities, but . . . well, you’re a tough act to follow.”
I found it odd he’d be considering any possibilities, seeing as how certain things had seemed with Tamsin when I left. “I’m sorry,” I said, needing to say something.
“No need to be. It’s over and done.” He regarded me speculatively. “Have you heard any news from Cape Triumph? From the other girls in your cohort?”
“I had a letter from Tamsin that she sent a while ago. Nothing from Mira yet.”
“Mira . . .” I’d seen him have several conversations with her, but the confusion on his face seemed legitimate.
“My Sirminican friend,” I prompted.
“Ah, yes. Her. Of course. The one interested in books.”
Now I was lost. “Books?”
“Whenever we hosted events at my parents’ home, she was always asking about books. Mother isn’t as . . .” He paused to give me an apologetic look. “She isn’t as open-minded as we are, so she was more than happy to let your friend stay in the library as long as she liked.”
“Of course she was,” I said. Typical Viola, hiding away “unsavory” elements from her party.
Cedric and I returned to White Rock’s central district with mixed feelings. “More delays before we can get married. More sleepless nights,” I teased.
“Well, I think the sleepless nights will actually come after we’re married, but yes . . . it’s frustrating.” We came to a stop, and he stared off at the busy White Rock residents and their rebuilding. “And he’s not wrong about bandits. Sully was telling me about some. It happens.”
“I really need to meet this Sully.”
Cedric smiled fondly. “He’s a character, that’s for—”
“Mister Thorn?”
We both turned around at the unfamiliar voice. But when I got a good look at the speaker, I realized he wasn’t so unfamiliar after all. I immediately froze up, but Cedric recovered quickly.
“Mister Garrett,” said Cedric, extending his hand in greeting. “A pleasure to see you. I