“This is a notation of clients that wanted George Nicholson to procure books for him. Brownly was definitely one. But under his name are dates and books George got for him that were paid for, and there is no mention of theBlackstead Bestiary.The amounts are staggering.” Ellen spoke first.
“Do you think Brownly was lying or not?” Ramsey said. “And why?”
“So you overheard the entire conversation, even though I told you to stay in this room?” Gray said.
“Of course. I sat on the bottom step and took in every word, which just quietly I was very excited to overhear as I’ve never heard you in an official capacity. You are quite impressive when you are calling someone a liar and they don’t realize it.”
“Of course I live to serve you.”
Ellen battled the flush of heat that wanted to fill her cheeks. Had he heard when Gray said one kiss would never be enough with her?
“I have excellent hearing,” Ramsey said, further increasing her discomfort.
“There is an entry here two weeks ago. A sizeable sum of money,” Ellen said quickly to change the subject. She held up the book for Gray to see. “It just says Olivia beside it. Olivia is George Nicholson’s sister,” she added for Ramsey’s benefit.
“If she’s his sister, surely he can give her money?” Ramsey said. “Although Gray is terribly tightfisted, I’d doubt he’d give me money if I asked.”
“Because you have more than me,” Gray drawled.
She enjoyed watching them together. Liked that Gray had a friend, his cousin, and they were reunited once more.
“How long has it been since you saw each other?” Ellen asked Ramsey.
“Years, and too many to count. But I am now back and just in time. Gray has no social life and refuses to reenter society, so something must be done.”
“I will not be reentering society.”
Ellen shuddered at the thought.
“I’m sorry for what happened to you and your family, Miss Nightingale.” Ramsey’s voice became serious as he looked at her.
“Ellen,” she said. “And thank you, but I will not be reentering society either, so your cousin has my support in that.”
“There are other places you can socialize, it does not have to be in society,” Ramsey protested.
“Getting back to the ledgers,” Gray said. “Clearly George was methodical, but it doesn’t say why he gave her such a large sum of money, further to that is why did she not ask her parents? I believe they have a great deal more than George did.”
“Because the money was for something she didn’t want her parents to know about,” Ellen said, looking at him.
“Exactly.” Gray smiled at her. “So what was it? Was it the reason they were arguing?”
“When did you see them arguing, and who are they? You need to fill me in on the entirety of the case if I am to assist you,” Ramsey said.
“Absolutely not,” Gray said.
“Hello?”
“You were last to open that door,” Ellen said when Gray shot her a look. “Up here, Alex.”
The thud of feet had her brother arriving in the small room seconds later.
“Leo sent me so he did not yell at either of you.”
“Too kind,” Gray said. “Your sister is safe. This is my cousin Ramsey Hellion.”
“Good Lord, what a wonderful name,” Alex said.
“I’ve always liked it,” Ramsey added.
