Page 38 of Redemption of a Marquess

A knock sounded on the door and Baldwin entered. “Forgive the interruption, sir, but you have a visitor. Baron Rosemund.”

“Show him in,” Valan said. Baldwin started to turn, and Valan said, “Baldwin, I must thank you for the game table.”

The steward shook his head. “I did not procure the table for you, sir. I believe that was Miss Matheson’s doing.”

“Indeed?” Valan replied. “Wonders never cease.”

Baldwin left, and a moment later reappeared with Brendan. Baldwin bowed and closed the door as he left.

“I believe Baldwin grows more dour by the year,” the baron said. “How long have you employed him?”

“Fifteen years,” Valan said.

“Perhaps that explains his somber mood.”

Valan gave him a dry look, then headed for the sideboard. “Have you come here simply to abuse me?”

Brendan laughed. “Forgive me. But you must admit that I am right.”

Valan poured two glasses of sherry. “I must admit nothing of the sort. The party is tonight, my dear. You’re very early and not dressed for the evening. Don’t tell me you’re here to say you cannot attend. I have plans for you tonight.”

He crossed to his desk, handed Brendan one of the glasses, then motioned to the chairs that faced the low-burning fire in the hearth.

“The knowledge you have plans for me is enough to have me come down with a fever and cry off,” the baron said as he settled into one of the chairs. “What are these plans?”

“What would be the fun if I told you?” Valan replied.

“None for you, I imagine. I’m here to ask if you heard that Latham left Edinburgh.”

Valan sipped his sherry. “I believe I did hear that bit of gossip.”

“I fear it is more than gossip, Valan. He is nowhere to be found.”

“One need only know where to look,” Valan said.

Brandan’s eyes narrowed. “You know where he is.”

“I not only know where he is, I sent him there.”

Brendan released a breath. “Then we need not worry on account of our investment.”

“You need not,” Valan said. “Though Latham will no longer be handling our business.”

“What? But you said— What have you done?” Brendan asked.

“It is best you not ask,” Valan answered. “Just rest easy that our investments are now in the hands of someone who won’t try to steal them.”

Shock registered on Brendan’s face. “Embezzlement?”

“Attempted embezzlement,” Valan said.

“Who’s in charge now?” the baron asked.

Valan took another sip of sherry and smiled.

“Never say you are handling the shipments?” Brendan said. “Good God.”

“Should I take offense?” Valan asked.