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“Well, I should think so,” Paisley replied. “Eh, Haxton? We’d be in a fat lot of trouble without your money, too.”
Mr. Haxton, the head of the accounting committee, blinked several times, as if startled. He had a retiring demeanor that seemed at odds with his position as one of the most powerful bankers in the city.
“Oh, ah . . . I say,” he stammered. “More than happy to make my contribution, you know.”
“Of course you are, my good man,” said Baines in a jolly voice. “Now, perhaps we could get back to the business at hand.”
“Dr. Kendrick?” John prompted. “Care to elaborate on your work experience?”
Again following John’s suggestion, Braden took his time, outlining in detail both his teaching and surgical experience. Most of the men around the table seemed at least reluctantly impressed. He finished up by emphasizing his work at the free clinic, which would be of the most relevant experience for them.
“Outstanding,” Baines enthused. “Aside from Blackmore, I can’t imagine anyone more suited to the work we do here at the Penwith Foundation.”
The man’s enthusiasm seemed a bit over the top. Perhaps he was trying to forestall more objections from the old guard.
“Do quite a lot of work at the clinic of yours, eh?” said Paisley. “I suppose you see all sorts of Old Town riffraff, including the usual collection of street urchins.”
Braden was ready for this, too. “I have indeed encountered all sorts at my clinic, and I generally find them to be good people. As for the rougher sorts, I’m well able to handle them.”
Lord Robertson, who’d dozed off during Braden’s recital, jerked awake and re-entered the conversation.
“Can’t say as I like all this clinic business. Or Kendricks.” He scowled at Braden. “Are you as wild as the rest of your kin, like those blasted twins?”
While Braden loved his brothers, sometimes he wondered if he would ever live them down. “I am the boring Kendrick, my lord. Dr. Blackmore will be happy to confirm that.”
“Yes, Dr. Kendrick isquiteboring,” said John with a barely repressed smirk.
Lady Samantha smiled at Lord Robertson. “Dr. Kendrick has also informed me that his brother, the Earl of Arnprior, is eager to make a substantial contribution to the foundation.”
That haddefinitelynot been part of their discussions.
“Verysubstantial,” John swiftly added.
“That is indeed splendid,” said Baines. “Quite a coup to get the support of the Kendrick family. Well done, Lady Samantha.”
She gave the barrister a sweet smile. “Thank you, my dear sir.”
When Baines flashed her a quick wink, Braden had the impulse to drag the man across the table and give him a sturdy belt to the jaw.
Don’t be a moron.
If there was something between Baines and Lady Samantha, it was certainly no business of his.
“Then if there is no further discussion, I propose we install Dr. Kendrick,” John said. “Especially in light of the very generous support we will be receiving from the Kendrick family.”
Not surprisingly, most of the board members voiced their approval. Sir Gregory glared but held his peace, and Lord Robertson once again dozed off.
Without further ado, Braden found himself officially dragooned into the sort of job he most disliked.
When he felt a small hand on his arm, he glanced over to meet Lady Samantha’s mischievous gaze. He was beginning to realize that the lass hid her light under a bushel, restraining a personality that was both naturally charming and determined.
“Congratulations, Dr. Kendrick, and thank you.” Her expression suddenly turned serious. “Truly.”
“You are most welcome, my lady.”
To his surprise, he meant it.
“Are we done, then?” asked Paisley, half-rising from his chair.
