“The West End, I suspect. There was a production ofFra Diavolothe other night, with what I’ve heard is an interesting cast,” he replied without hesitation. He pursed his lips for a moment. “If he did and was waylaid as discussed, well, I’ll ask you to keep this discreet. After I’m wed, which will occur shortly, I’d like to see my brother settled as well. And Solomon is very interested in marrying a good woman from the Jewish community—he’s sentimental like that, and I can’t help indulging him. As you are probably aware, many people in that world are a touch provincial about certain things…”
He trailed off as her chest tightened once more.
What did it matter to her if Solomon Weiss had spent several days in the arms of a woman far prettier and wittier and more amusing than she could ever hope to be? What that did to his future prospects was no skin off her nose. Being paid to find him was really his best and only use in her life.
And after this was done, her life could go back to the way it was before. No more distractions.
“I will find your brother. Don’t worry, Mr. Weiss,” she promised, rising from her seat.
“Thank you. I only want him to be home safe and protected. Not foolishly costing him the good, respectable life he deserves.” He ran his hand over a small gilded box next to him on the desk. “You have a sister, do you not?” he asked.
“I do,” she said, hand tightening into a fist.
“So you understand not wanting anything to happen to her.” He smiled, but there was no warmth there, and it was impossible to miss the distinct note of warning in his tone.
“I most certainly do,” she told him before taking a deep, painful, breath. “And I want nothing more than a good life for Tamar.”
“Well, if you complete this task properly, such things can be arranged. Having friends in certain places is quite useful. They can put a thumb on the scale, so to speak.” He rose up, as if to dismiss her, before adding, “In either direction.”
“I understand,” she repeated, opening the door to let herself out because what more was there to say?
“I hope you do. And Miss Moses?”
She turned back to him. “Yes?”
“Be careful,” he said. “I have it on good authority that your name is on many people’s lips these days. Not particularly advantageous for someone like you.”
And with those words, he shut the door behind her, leaving her alone with Martin, who had apparently been waiting in the hall. He gestured for her to follow, and she did, shivering, so she could escape back into the night.
Where she belonged.
