He’d mulled over and over what he and his brothers had discussed, all the events that were linked to her or her father, and come to the conclusion that the Carlow family was in danger and needed help. He was determined to give it.
“I have no idea what you mean.”
“Miss Carlow!”
They turned to see Mr. Valentine running, still in his shirtsleeves.
“Where is my jacket?” He stopped before them.
Nathan knew she wasn’t aware of her actions, but the step Beth took closer to him was telling.
“The pigs ran off with it before I could stop them, Mr. Valentine.”
“You foolish girl! Do you know what you’ve done? My book was in that jacket!”
“I did not remove your jacket and know of no book,” Beth said, now pressed to Nathan’s side.
“That book is of national importance! Many secrets are held within those pages. Names that, if in the wrong hands, would be catastrophic for those involved!” Valentine was pale and shaking as he advanced on Beth.
“What do you mean by catastrophic, Valentine?” Nathan demanded. “What was written in your book?”
“The king’s business. Things no one but he and I are privy too!”
Nathan wasn’t sure why he suddenly went cold, but he did. Could the names of the Deville brothers be in that book?
“If it does indeed hold the king’s business, one would think you would take more care of it,” he gritted out. “And not bring it to a bloody fair!”
“I never let it leave my sight,” Valentine said, looking pale yet indignant.
“Which is clearly working well for you,” Nathan snapped.
“Go and find it at once, you silly girl!” Valentine stepped closer to Beth, deliberately intimidating her.
“Back away,” Nathan growled. “Now.” His tone had the man stopping.
“You dare to speak to me, the king’s confidant, in such a manner?”
Pompous prat, Nathan thought settling his hand on Beth’s back to reassure her he was near. Valentine had done something to her; he just wasn’t sure what, yet.
“I dare to speak to a man who would take advantage of an innocent young woman.”
Guilt flushed the man’s cheeks, confirming his words. Nathan’s blood boiled.
“Sh-She lies. I didn’t touch her. She threw herself at me!”
Nathan stepped forward, grabbing the man’s collar. With his face just inches from Valentine’s, he said, “She didn’t say a word, but you’ve revealed your guilt.”
“Don’t hurt him, Nathan.” Beth’s hand on his arm had him looking down at her. “Please, let him go. I know what you are capable of.”
Valentine paled. He also knew exactly what Nathan could do, it seemed, confirming that their names were in that book.
He shook Valentine hard. “I don’t care who you are or what you do, but if you ever make unwanted advances toward Miss Carlow or any woman again, I will make you pay. Do you understand?” He shook the man again.
“Y-You can’t threaten me! I know about you!”
“I don’t care,” Nathan said slowly. “Touch her, and I will kill you. Now go and collect the king’s guards and all your friends and find that book, and when you do, can I suggest you take better care of it!”
Valentine gabbled something indecipherable and fled.
