Damn sexy, I tell you.
Count Parrott’s beady dark eyes kept darting around the room as if searching for a bolt-hole and failing. He crumpled the papers, cradling them to his chest, either desperate to not let me see the contents or because he didn’t know what else to do. Man wasn’t known for his sterling wits.
“I’m sure you understand why I visited,” Prince James said smoothly.
Count Parrott visibly jumped, swallowing convulsively. “I, uh…”
Prince James gave him a smile that wouldn’t be out of place on a soul collector’s face. “You said you’ve had many talks with Prince Victor regarding the many issues he’s supposed to be handling, so I assume you’re up-to-date?”
Count Parrott clasped and unclasped his fingers, sweat visible on his temples and upper lip. The papers shuffled about, and he hastily gathered them back up in a loud rustle. “I, uh, yes, of course. But about this, ah, note you just gave me, that had the, um, all of the, er—”
Prince James raised his brows slightly. “Oh, that? Don’t worry, my good man. I gave you a copy so you’d knowothersknow about your…habits.”
Count Parrott turned three shades paler. And greener. Like he was nauseous to the point of throwing up.
“C-copy,” he repeated faintly. “How…how many copies?”
“Oh, I can’t possibly know that.” Prince James flicked his fingers as if this was of no importance whatsoever.
I had stationed myself right next to the door—a usual spot for me—and watched the scene play out while biting my lower lip. I knew for a fact what those copies were because I’d helped Prince James assemble it all. Count Parrott had taken multiple bribes, embezzled funds from the two charities he ran,andsired two bastard children his wife knew nothing about.
He’d been very, very naughty.
Prince James eyed his prey over the rim of his teacup. “What Icantell you is this isn’t common knowledge. In fact, I quite chanced into it.”
I snorted quietly. Suuure, chance. Uh-huh.
“Your wife certainly doesn’t know, which must be a relief, I’m sure. I understand there was quite the, ah, agreement in place upon your marriage.”
In fact, Count Parrott had married up substantially. He’d lose it all if those two bastard children came to light. Especially as he had yet to father a child with his legal wife.
Count Parrott somehow managed to pale even further at the reminder. He tried to pick up his teacup, but it shook so badly in his hand, he set it hastily back down.
“Now, now, don’t be so nervous. I have no intention of telling all and sundry, you know.” Prince James masked evil delight behind a genial smile. “And that’s not what I came to discuss, anyway. I’m far more interested in the various projects Prince Victor’s supposed to be managing, like getting those seawalls rebuilt. So set your mind at ease.”
We all heard the threat loud and clear. This man was so incredibly evil. I was proud to work for him.
“What…” Count Parrott whispered, looking as if he might faint away at any second. “What do you want?”
“Your support. Just that.” Prince James’s head canted to the side. “I want to put forth many changes, and assume the responsibilities Prince Victor has let languish. I’m sure you can see how those many tasks need completing, and will help me with them. This is to your benefit as well, you know. Your shipping business will be directly impacted if those walls fail. And they’re very close to failing. I have no doubt you will support my motion when it goes up for vote in the meeting tomorrow.”
“Yes, I—” He swallowed hard and looked pitifully hopeful. “I absolutely will.”
“Good! I knew I could count on you. I have other agendas to put forth, and I look forward to your support with them, as well. Well, I wish I could linger, but I do have other things on my schedule today.” Prince James set down his teacup before rising.
Count Parrott hastily scrambled to his feet as well, nearly overturning the teacup balancing precariously on the table in the process.
“Y-Your Highness?”
Half turning, Prince James gave him a politely disinterested smile. “Yes?”
“What about the crown prince?”
“Oh, Victor? You needn’t worry about him. Helena and I have taken over the project. All of his projects, really.”
Count Parrott nodded, numb. “I see.”
“I’d burn those papers,” Prince James advised kindly. “Before the wife sees them.”
