Page 34 of A Rogue to Forget

“A word,” his father said as the men they’d met with walked out. “Sit down.”

Henry waited, prepared to defend his decisions both about the business transaction and the marriage situation. The fact his parents were in an arranged marriage meant they did not understand his need to make the decision based on more than social compatibility.

“Did the detective find out anything?”

“Yes, I believe the man, Jules Brown, owns gambling dens and is financially secure. He lives on the outskirts of town near one of the dens. Interesting that he wishes to find the box when it is evident he does not need the money.”

“Greed perhaps.” His father templed his fingers, his gaze traveling about the room while considering the information. “We should pay this Mister Brown a visit.”

Henry sat straighter. “What would we possibly say to the man? It could be dangerous to try to warn him off.”

The familiar gleam of curiosity shined in his father’s eyes. “We could go under the pretense of a business dealing and get a sense of what the man is about. I have considered purchasing a building to be used as a clinic for young mothers.”

“Young mothers?”

“Never mind that. What do you think? Let us get the carriage and go.”

“What did you think about the percentage I negotiated?” Henry asked, since his father did not broach the subject.

“Yes, well, unfortunately I was unable to review things as your mother had me out so late at the dinner party last night. It is refreshing that I can rely on you now. I am impressed, son. Thoroughly impressed.”

*

Although he oftenrode with his father to different locations to conduct business or attend social functions, Henry could not help but sense the unsaid topic between them as the carriage rambled over the uneven cobblestone street. From what he gathered, the ride would not be a long one, just enough time to speak about what had occurred before he’d left the family home that morning.

“Father, Lady Stewart was at the house. Both she and mother insist that I am responsible for what occurred in the garden between Una Stewart and myself.”

Lord Campbell nodded. “As you are well aware, son, we have a close relationship with the Stewarts. Your mother was most put out that you have not taken initiative in this. What exactly happened?”

Once again, he repeated the situation in the garden, emphasizing that he’d not only not initiated the kiss, but had not participated by any way in the embrace. His father’s chuckle was annoying, but Henry let it pass. “I refuse to marry this woman. She is manipulative. I am not attracted to her in the least.”

“You know it matters little what actually happened compared to what is perceived. As you should already be aware, son, it is always best to avoid any situation that could bring these kinds of repercussions.”

His father’s words did not help in the least.

Hopefully another scandal would occur that would take the attention away from anyone who considered this to be high on the list of the gossipmongers.

The carriage slowed and his father’s lips curved. “This will be quite interesting.”

“Ensure to not draw unnecessary attention. The man cannot suspect that we are here for anything other than the issue of purchasing the building,” Henry said.

“I am a sleuth,” his father replied. “Subterfuge is my specialty.”

Henry coughed to cover laughter. “Yes, of course.”

His father was neither of those things. If anything, Henry was prepared for the worst.

As he’d expected a menacing sort at the door, Henry was surprised when a woman dressed in a serviceable navy gown greeted them and invited them to a sitting area. The small salon was decorated in a style that one would not expect in that part of town.

There were several paintings on the walls, thick draperies, and ornate tables. The chairs were upholstered in what he recognized to be expensive fabrics.

“Mister Lewiston H. Campbell here to speak to Mister Brown,” his father said in way of greeting. He motioned to Henry. “My son, Henry Campbell.”

“I will see if Mister Brown is available,” she replied in a prim tone and quickly walked away.

“I expected thugs,” his father said, looking to where the woman disappeared past a doorway.

“Shh.” Henry gave him a sharp look, which his father ignored.