“What of the plan to kidnap the king? What have you heard about that?” Nathan said before Zach could speak again.
“Ombrage has everything ready. Explosives, men, but has not given a location. My guess is a week from today, at the Gala held at Buckingham Palace.”
“Yes, that would make sense. We are to attend also,” Gabe said.
“We can put every man at our disposal there to guard the palace, but as we don’t know who he has on his side, we cannot be sure our king will be safe. The only way that can be assured is to catch Ombrage. With him gone, the threat will cease, as he is the leader.”
“Then that is our job.” Nathan’s face was grim. “My brother and the king will be safe with Ombrage captured or dead.”
“I’ll take my leave. Good health, and good luck; our king is counting on you,” Geraint said. “Beritas scutumtibi erit.” He bowed and left the room.
“And blithely unaware of his impending peril,” Nathan muttered.
“He is our king,” Gabe censured his brother.
Nathan did not reply.
“I don’t suppose there is any chance I’m having a nightmare?” Zach asked.
Gabe looked to the clock on the wall. Hogan had been gone for forty minutes. Surely they would hear something soon.
“Let’s go,” Gabe said. “I can no longer sit here waiting. We will ride to Abby’s, and then to the Duchess of Yardly’s.”
They were soon mounted and heading through the London streets at speed.
“Is that our footman?” Nathan pointed a finger.
“Yes.” Gabe urged his mount toward the horse coming their way.
“All is well with Lady Abigail and Mr. Dillinger, my Lord,” Hogan sounded breathless. “They will be at your house shortly.”
Relief surged through him. Ombrage had not got to any of the people he loved.
Dimity.
“Tell my sister we shall return soon. For now we must go to the Duchess of Yardly’s.”
“You are thinking he is aware how you feel about her?” Nathan said from beside him as they galloped through London.
“What?”
“You love Dimity Brown, Gabe. Stop being a fool and admit it.”
Could he admit it?
“For the love of God, brother, just admit it,” Michael demanded.
“I do,” he managed to get out.
“Excellent,” Nathan said. “We’ll deal with what to do about that once we know she’s safe.”
“Of course she’s safe,” Gabe said. “There is no reason for her not to be.” His chest felt tight with the prospect of Dimity anywhere near danger.
“Gabe, we, your brothers, know you love her. And there are at least two among us who are not considered observant.”
“I hope I’m not one of those two,” Zach added.
Gabe’s answer was to urge his horse faster.
