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The complimentary words had James’ chest puffing slightly before the man frowned.
“What you just said…”
“Ah yes, that. It’s true. They were with me. I had some affairs to take care of on the outside of Broom’s Isle, and they lent me their services. Ruby was my first choice, but I have been hearing about Maddox’s splendid reputation here and wanted to test it out. They passed with flying colors.”
“They did?” James echoed, flabbergasted. “What was the task?”
“I’m afraid that’s a private matter, but rest assured that it’s the same as all the other affairs that I deal with and need assistance with. You know how I was still active while away. And you know how much my family and I have contributed to this island and how we will support it no matter what…”
The reminder was subtle, but it was there: that despite Brian’s long time away, his family still had a powerful standing here that couldn’t be ignored.
“Yes, of course. And we are grateful for that.”
“I’m grateful for them, too. Ruby proved to be a valuable asset, and Maddox was a pleasant surprise. He was very resourceful and helped make my transactions easier. I bet it had a lot to do with you guiding him.”
That changed James’ mood, who brightened and cleared his throat. “Yes, of course. I’m doing my best.”
“And that’s all that we can do, honestly.” Brian smiled. “So, are we done here?”
Five minutes later, the three filed out of the office building in silence, not daring to speak yet in case James cast any spells nearby. They continued walking until they reached a vast, empty field, where Pearl stood waiting and waved enthusiastically. Ruby waved back, running to greet the other woman.
“You sure have a way with words—and wrapping people around your fingers,” Maddox muttered once the two were alone.
“Only those who don’t know me well,” was Brian’s prompt reply, unoffended. “Would you have preferred it if I had thrown you into the flames?”
“Hell, no. That was…impressive. Thank you.”
Brian raised his brow, then smiled. This one felt more genuine than the one given to James. “You are welcome. I should be the one thanking you back there for yelling at all of us to get our butts moving.”
“Only because those butts would be ripped shreds if you didn’t move fast enough.” A pause. “Maddox Hendricks. My name, that is. We haven’t exactly been properly introduced.”
“I know. Brian Gold.”
The name rang a bell. Maddox’s eyes widened when it clicked that a Gold was seated at the council, elusive but popular.
“Holy shit. Your father’s a big deal here.”
“My uncle. Sometimes I use his name to pull some strings, but otherwise, he and I might as well not be related. He is unhappy that I still supported Silver after the scandal and took a sabbatical, but he has my back regardless.”
“And you?”
“I didn’t change my mind. And I would rather forge my name independently.”
“Hence the off-island business affairs?”
“That’s a start. Save money, make a name for myself…build a family.”
The warlock’s eyes strayed toward Ruby at the last words. The familiar ache returned to Maddox’s chest, but he ignored it.
“Good for you.”
“Anyway, don’t worry about James too much. He is all right.”
“Hmm.”
“It’s time to forget about that incident and unwind. Would you care to join me?”
“I would much rather get out of these damp clothes, but thank you for the invite.”
