“He’s worked very hard to hone his skills,” Ada said. “Thankfully, he enjoys it, and the pay is better than most other places available to him.”
“So he says.” Brody drummed his fingers on the armrest. He wanted to know more about the young man but feared additional questions might be suspicious. Clearing his throat, he decided to change the subject. “I’ve brought some exciting news.”
Anthony stilled. “Really?”
Brody grinned. “I managed to get Mr. Hudson to read our book, and he loves it. Sent me here himself for the purpose of making an offer.”
Ada clapped her hands together while Anthony slapped his thigh. “Brilliant, Brody. Well done.”
“I’ve brought the agreement with me. Mr. Hudson asked that I get it signed right away, so the only question now is whose signature we’ll use.” When Anthony and Ada exchanged a look, Brody said, “I’m of the opinion that Ada should be the face of the author, as initially agreed, while Anthony, Callum, and I remain anonymous.”
“What say you, Ada?” Anthony asked.
“It’s fine with me as long as the three of you agree to do all additional writing. But what about Callum? Shouldn’t we get his opinion on this?”
“I’m certain he will agree,” Brody said, to which Anthony nodded. “And if he doesn’t, we’ll cite a two-to-one vote.”
He reached inside his jacket pocket and retrieved the agreement Mr. Hudson had prepared. Using his finger, he broke the seal and unfolded the papers. Elation poured through him when he saw the offer. He could scarcely credit it, but the sum clearly meant Mr. Hudson was very determined. He did not want the author to take the book elsewhere.
“What is it?” Anthony asked, his voice low.
Brody glanced at his friend, then at Ada, before returning his gaze to the paper he held between his hands. “We’ll receive an initial advance of eight hundred pounds, to be gradually paid off with the sale of each book. After that, we’ll collect thirty percent of each copy sold.”
“Astonishing,” Ada murmured.
“The initial print run will consist of five thousand copies and will be marketed as a grand romance for anyone fond of Jane Austen.”
“How utterly marvelous,” Anthony said. “Eight hundred pounds split between us will certainly help us back on our feet.”
“Especially since it’s payable upon completion of this contract,” said Brody. He handed the agreement to Anthony so he could review it as well.
“It looks acceptable to me.” He gave it to Ada.
“Shall I sign it then?”
“Please do,” Anthony told her as soon as Brody gave a nod of approval.
She crossed to the small escritoire that stood against one wall and took a seat behind it.
“There’s something else I probably ought to mention,” Brody told Anthony. “It’s personal in nature and involves my brother. Turns out he was seen kissing Ramsgate’s daughter in public the night before last. Ramsgate stopped by out of courtesy to let me know he’s challenged Finn to a duel. It’s set to take place tomorrow morning.”
“Of all the…” Anthony trailed off and eventually huffed a breath. “I’m sorry, Brody. Is there anything I can do?”
“I don’t think so, unless you can come up with some way for him to avoid the altercation altogether.”
“The only way to do that would be for him to marry the chit or if you can somehow convince the marquess to renege.”
“I already tried that but he’s determined to go through with it and marriage is off the table. Ramsgate doesn’t consider Finn worthy.”
“In that case, I see no other way out. If Finn himself chooses to walk away, he’ll be considered dishonorable, which may not be a fate worse than death to him, but it will have a negative impact on his reputation. Forever.”
“I know. I was hoping you’d have an inspired idea.”
“Sorry,” Anthony muttered.
His wife returned with the signed document, and Brody gave it a quick once over before slipping it into his jacket pocket. He stood and prepared to take his leave.
“You’re welcome to stay for luncheon if you like,” Anthony told him.
