Though not in the way Adrian thought.
“Now that a new Season is underway, you’ve a chance at making a match deserving of your title.”
Damn their life-long friendship. Edward was tempted to strangle Adrian for suggesting Miss Roberts lacked the qualities required to make him a suitable wife.
He took another sip of coffee to mask the clenching of his jaw and prayed the cup would not explode between his hands.
“I hope you’re not suggesting I tie myself to Wrengate’s sister.” That would really be taking matters too far.
“Of course not. I’d not wish a family connection with that man on my worst enemy.”
“Well, he is a duke,” Edward reminded him.
“He’s a prick.”
The pure venom with which Adrian said this suggested there was more to be discovered regarding his past experiences with the man. “Did something happen between you?”
Adrian’s lips parted, only to close once more. He shook his head. “It’s nothing. I just don’t like him.”
They both had their secrets then, for if there was one thing Edward knew in that moment, it was that his friend was lying. About what, exactly, he’d no idea. The murderous look in his eyes was cause for concern however. Wrengate had clearly crossed him somehow. As a duke, however, the man was almost untouchable. If Adrian harmed him in any way, the consequences would be severe. It was most likely this that grated.
A knock at the door brought Elks into the room. “A missive just arrived for you, sir.”
The butler approached the desk and offered a silver salver to Adrian, who collected the letter that sat upon it. Elks departed and Adrian turned the letter over between his fingers, allowing Edward to catch a glimpse of the crimson wax seal.
Adrian stilled. A pensive look settled upon his face. He glanced at Edward. “There’s no indication of who this is from.”
Before Edward could comment, Adrian tore the seal and unfolded the paper. His sharp eyes scanned the writing so quickly it soon became clear that the message was brief. A breath escaped him, and when his attention turned toward Edward once more, his face was a tight mask of fury.
“Terms,” Adrian muttered, his voice feral. “From Finn O’Leary.”
24
Adrian’s vision darkened. Blood pounded in his ears. The Irish bastard had him cornered. It had been checkmate between them the moment O’Leary had taken Samantha. The woman for whom he would lay down his life.
His heart, his love, and his greatest weakness.
A growl tore from his throat. It was followed by the sound of porcelain smashing against the floor as he swept his desk clean with one stroke of his arm. Edward leapt from his chair, alarm widening his eyes. His mouth moved but whatever he said was lost to Adrian’s rage.
There was nothing left to be done. Only one thing would save her.
His heart punched his ribs with added force. “I have to go.”
He was almost at the door when he felt the resistance. Edward was once again trying to stop him. The bloody fool meant well but this was a matter that did not concern him.
Adrian rounded. “What?”
“Where are you going?”
“To fetch my wife.”
“You’re still in your cups.”
“I’m fine.” Certainly well enough to do what had to be done.
“What’s the plan?”
Impatient, Adrian tried to shake Edward off, only for Edward to shove him sideways, away from the door and into the wall. “Unhand me.”
