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Sebastian deflated. He put a hand on his forehead. “What else do you need? You already gained a horse from Grey. Some new wallpaper for your estate, perhaps?”
This time the marquess laughed outright. “Rest assured my mother takes care of all the garish furnishings when she isn’t taking the waters in Bath. If it wasn’t for all the chinoiserie gracing nearly every room I enter, I should prefer it there to the bustle of London.” He sighed heavily. “Alas, between Portia’s come out and the duties that require my attention in my current business ventures, I am seldom able to enjoy life in the country anymore.”
“Is that what caused such a dark look to take over your face?” Seb queried.
“No.” The answer was flat.
As Osgood took another slow drink of his brandy, Sebastian suddenly had an idea. “Have you ever been to the coast?”
He was met with a frown. “I daresay I haven’t been in some time. But I did enjoy it.”
Sebastian leaned forward. “Don’t you have interests in the Stockton & Darlington railway in Newcastle? Perhaps it’s time to take a break from society now that your niece is betrothed and inspect your holdings. And since Grey isn’t around to ensure things are still running smoothly, perhaps you should investigate matters yourself to ensure your funds are being properly spent.”
The marquess’ frown deepened. “Perhaps.” Even though he didn’t look convinced, Seb was confident he was seriously considering the prospect.
“While I do appreciate the suggestion,” Osgood murmured, “that doesn’t answer my earlier question. How does my assistance actually benefit me?”
Sebastian was getting frustrated, although he tried not to let it show. “Isn’t it enough that you’ll be helping out a friend?”
Both russet brows rose. “Is that what you would do should the tables be reversed?”
Sebastian’s gaze was fervent. “When it comes to winning Lady Calliope, yes.”
The marquess studied him for a time, and then he lifted the glass of brandy to his lips and downed the rest. He set it aside and got to his feet. “Where do we begin?”
Sebastian breathed a silent prayer and stood, clapping the other man on the back. “You’re a Godsend, Osgood.”
His tolerant gaze slid to him. “Let’s see if you still say that when this quest has reached its conclusion.”
