Evander nodded. “It came through today. Though not without conditions attached.”
Viggo sensed a dark meaning behind his words.
“How about we have a nightcap and you tell me about your day?”
He pulled Evander to his feet and led him to the damask sofa in front of the fireplace before pouring them both a brandy from the drinks cabinet. It had become their habit as of late, sharing a drink and chatting before retiring to Evander’s bedchamber. It was an intimate moment carved out of their busy day that both men now craved.
Evander accepted the glass gratefully and leaned his head against Viggo’s shoulder when he sank down beside him.
He told Viggo about the Parliamentary committee hearing.
Viggo frowned as he listened. “You think Beckett has it in for you?”
“Probably,” Evander murmured. “Even more so after my behaviour today.”
“You couldn’t help it,” Viggo said stiffly. “Why, I would probably have punched the man had I been in the room.”
Evander laughed.
“What? You don’t believe me?” Viggo said, annoyed.
“Oh, I do,” Evander chuckled. “In fact, the only thing that got me through that insufferable meeting was imagining you doing exactly that.”
Viggo relaxed a little. “What else?”
“We leave in three days.”
Surprise jolted Viggo at this news. “That’s quick.”
Evander made a face. “Apparently, the Ministry wants this done yesterday. I have Winterbourne’s approval to bring you and Ginny along. Shaw and Rufus will also be part of our team.” Faint lines wrinkled his brow. “I need to choose one more person.”
“Solomon.”
Evander raised his head and studied Viggo inquisitively.
“He wants to go to Europe,” Viggo said steadily. “Been insisting on it for a while.”
Evander’s expression grew thoughtful. “Because of Ginny.”
It was a statement rather than a question.
Viggo arched an eyebrow. “You knew?”
“I have eyes, Viggo,” Evander said drily. “The way they look at each other is rather obvious to anyone paying attention.”
Viggo decided not to tell the mage Solomon had almost pulled out of the mission.
“There will be a seventh member of our team.” Evander’s expression tightened. “The Ministry is sending an observer. That was the condition set for approving our mission. His name is Hector Fairbridge. His official role is to make sure we operate within international law and follow protocol.”
Viggo lowered his brows, not liking the sound of that one bit.
“And unofficially?”
“He’ll be watching my every move and reporting to the Ministry.” A sliver of dread underscored Evander’s words. “They’re looking for a reason to kick me out of the Met, Viggo.”
Viggo went cold. “What?!”
Evander blew out a heavy sigh and ran a hand through his hair. “I’ve been a thorn in their side for a long time. This is the perfect opportunity to get rid of me.”
