"'Twas a common moniker used in the stews to describe a one-eyed man." At her puzzled look, Nicholas explained, "In a deck of cards, the Jack of Spades has a side profile, so only one of his eyes is seen."
"So it's possible this man would want to burn down the flash house?"
Nick gave a terse nod. "Especially with Grimes' body in it. You see, Grimes was the one who'd cut out Spades' eye. In a street brawl... I witnessed it." Swallowing, he added, "Grimes always vowed to get the other one, too."
Percy couldn't suppress a shudder.
"None of this is fit for your ears," Nicholas said suddenly, "nor will the past change the present situation. Heed me on this, Percy: Gavin Hunt is a dangerous man. You must stay away from him."
"Gavin wouldn't hurt me," she protested.
"He meant to ruin you and to destroy Paul. Simply to get to me."
"He wanted to marry me. And he protected Paul from falling deeper into debt. He can be tender and kind and... Iknowhe isn't a bad man," Percy pleaded. "If we can sort out together what really happened the night of the fire, perhaps he can let go—"
"Hunt has built his life on rage and a need for revenge. I can understand why; I also know that such a man will not change. The rookery and the hulks have made him who he is," Nicholas said flatly.
"But look at you! You've changed. You've risen above your origins."
"I got out earlier than Hunt did. And I had a helping hand from your father." Nicholas took her by the shoulders. "Percy, I owe my life to your family, and I will not stand by and watch you get hurt because of my past. Promise me you'll steer clear of Hunt."
Percy shook free. "First Mama, now you. Why won't anyone treat me like a grown woman capable of making her own decisions? I don't want to lie to you, Nicholas—I... I have feelings for Gavin. Real ones. And I will not give up on him so easily."
"Then you leave me no choice. Until I've settled this business with Hunt, you will be under the watch of Mr. Kent and his men. You will go nowhere without them."
"You might as well toss me in Newgate and throw away the key!"
"Trust me, I considered a similar option," Nicholas said. "Helena dissuaded me."
"From what?" With a hand shading her eyes from the sun, Helena ambled toward them, an inquisitive smile upon her face. "Apologies for interrupting, but Lisbett's rolls are ready, and you know how she likes to serve them hot."
Percy ran toward her. "You must take my side," she pleaded. "Tell Nicholas I am not to be treated like a prisoner."
"Oh." Helena cleared her throat. "This is about Mr. Kent's protection, I take?"
Percy gave a vigorous nod.
"The thing is, dear, the state of affairs is precarious, and Harteford simply wishes for your well-being," the marchioness said. "Besides, having Mr. Kent and his men for company is surely better than being locked up on our country estate."
"You wereseriousabout that?" Percy turned disbelieving eyes upon Nicholas.
"It is my responsibility to keep you safe," he said, his jaw taut.
"Helena," Percy begged, "say something."
"I already did. That is why you're not being banished to Hertfordshire. I know you will hate hearing this, but Percy," Helena said apologetically, "'tis for your own good."
The Hartefords stood side by side: Nicholas large and unyielding, Helena petite and concerned. And Percy knew any further argument would prove futile. When it came to unraveling the secrets of Gavin's past, she would have no further help from this corner; she would have to venture forth on her own.
"Nick, if I agree to this, will you promise me one thing?" she asked.
"What is it?"
"Please don't hurt Gavin," she said.
"If Mr. Hunt attacks, my husband has no choice but to defend himself," Helena said, an edge to her tone. "Surely you don't want to see Harteford hurt."
"Of course not." Percy bit her lip. "But I don't want to seeanyonehurt."
