shooed away a wisp of smoke that stung his eyes.
“Perhaps Merker was the closest friend Sweet had,” Rumsfield pointed out. “The arrangement was unusual, but the will appeared to be in order and the child properly looked after.”
“So that’s it, then? He will continue to control her and her inheritance until she comes of age.”
“There may be grounds to question the validity of the will. Seems convenient the man had access to all of his employer’s documents, property deeds, bank accounts, etc., and plenty of opportunity to practice his signature.”
“You believe the will may have been forged.”
“Wouldn’t doubt it, but probably can’t prove it. The fellow apparently increased her holdings and met Miss Sweet’s needs—education and so on. Won’t be easy to knock down a fellow like that in court.”
“Even if he is attempting to force his ward into marrying him? Her protest against the arrangement should be enough to earn the interest of the law.”
“Law isn’t much interested in what a girl says,” Rumsfield replied bluntly. “If she’s found, she’ll be returned to Merker’s custody and he’ll likely browbeat her into doing his will. Best thing would be for Miss Sweet to disappear until she’s reached majority then claim what’s hers.”
“Meanwhile, he’ll find a way to divert her money so she can’t get at it. She’ll be left with nothing,” Will mused. “Why wouldn’t the man have done that sooner if all he wanted was wealth?”
Rumsfield tamped out his cigar, which had filled the room with a smoky haze. “My guess, he wants to claim her as well. I’ve dealt with this sort in my line of work. They like the control and sense of power over a person. He wants the game to go on. If he gets his hands on her, he’ll keep them around her throat for the rest of her life or as long as he’s able.”
“Then he must be stopped at all costs!” Will bolted up, too outraged to remain seated. “With these details, I shall have Jennings draft a lawsuit on her behalf as soon as possible.”
Rumsfield nodded curtly. “Anything else I can help you with?”
“No. Thank you for your swift work, sir. Hardy was correct in his assessment of your skill.”
The grizzled detective accepted the compliment as his due, sending William on his way with a simple “Good day” before returning his attention to other work.
Will left the office with Miss Sweet’s situation uppermost in his mind, and only a portion still dwelling on Rose. He couldn’t help but think of her since it was directly to her place of business that he went.
As he entered the busy shop, Rose was serving one customer, while her assistant wrapped a funeral arrangement at the register. Will grabbed a pot of African violets and headed toward her.
Miss Sweet’s eyes widened at the sight of him. “Mr. Carmody!”
When her customer had walked away, he lowered his voice to speak. “Miss Sweet, I have news to share. Perhaps we might speak privately?”
“I hate to leave Miss Gardener with so many customers.”
Will glanced around. “There are too many eyes that might observe. It may be unsafe for you here.”
Rose joined them and immediately his body began to hum. That would not do, particularly if she noted his reaction. Will schooled his expression to politeness and nothing more. “I spoke with Rumsfield, who feels Merker may have forged the will, and that Miss Sweet is in a dangerous position. He suggests she go into hiding while Jennings presses a suit against the villain.”
Miss Sweet frowned. “I’ve already decided I cannot remain here on Miss Gardener’s good graces if I am of no use to her.”
“Never mind that,” Rose said. “It is more important you remain safe. We have been far too cavalier placing you in the public eye.”
“Might I suggest my house? It is large, with several unused guest rooms. Miss Sweet would be safe there. My staff would remain discreet, I promise. I will have a room prepared for tonight.”
“I scarcely know what to—” Miss Sweet fell silent as a customer bearing a pot of golden mums approached.
“This topic is better discussed in private. Shall I wait in back?” Will murmured.
Rose shook her head. “Miss Sweet and I will talk over the matter and telephone you. Meanwhile, go forward as you have planned.”
Will nodded. He met Rose’s gaze at last and the wall of reserve he had constructed began to crumble. How could he see her without his heart falling into pieces? Remaining friends would be a