Page 81 of The Viscount of Shadows

“Danaher has Bryan. I received a note demanding payment for a luxury tax. Tell me all you know about it, and I may just let you live,” Oliver seethed.

“I do not know any Danaher, nor do I know what you are talking about.”

This interrogation will take far too long.

Claudia strode toward Shinwell as she lifted the hem of her gown to grab her knife from its holder. With a swift motion, she had the blade against the trembling viscount’s throat. “Tell us everything.”

“Tensbridge, call off your rabid doxy!” Shinwell cried.

Deftly, Claudia nicked his throat, and a trickle of blood stained his cravat.

“You had better tell us what you know and watch your mouth. Another insult toward any of us, and Claudia will slice and dice you for certain,” Oliver barked.

“We were nabbed near Bangor Street, sacks placed over our heads. We were taken before some man in a hooded cloak, and he said we owed a tax. He asked me about a copper named Simpson, then said I could leave because he knew my father and would collect from him. He kept Bryan there. I cannot tell you where this shack is because I was escorted out with the sack on my head. The hooded man asked about the earl—your father. I told him about you.”

Rett snorted. “What a coward you are.”

“Now release me. I know nothing more,” Shinwell demanded, though his voice shook.

Claudia looked to Oliver, who nodded. She released the viscount. “You should not repeat this conversation, or I will find you. Go home to your criminal father!” Claudia yelled after him.

After fumbling with the key and door, Shinwell ran to the carriage and departed.

“Danaher does not know about you being The Sentinel,” Rett offered. “But why ask about Mitchell?”

“That is concerning. We had better find Mitchell this very moment,” Oliver said. As Rett exited the room, Oliver gently grabbed Claudia’s arm, spun her about, and kissed her soundly. “Have I told you how magnificent you are?”

“May I never tire of hearing it.”

As Oliver took her hand, they sprinted toward the waiting carriage. Claudia never felt so alive.

And she was so blasted happy.