Scandalous Deception (Russian Connection 1)

That much was obvious, even from what little they had overheard. Unfortunately, Edmond knew Viktor Kazakov well enough to realize that he would prefer death to confessing the truth. He was a true zealot in his determination to reform Russia. Something that Alexander Pavlovich had once promised, only to return to the heavy hand of his ancestors when he became disillusioned and weary of battling his countrymen’s fear of progress.

“Yes, but we still do not know who his contact in Russia is. The Commander must be a man of importance if he is a guest at the Winter Palace,” he pointed out. “We cannot reveal that we are aware of the threat until we know who is involved. Otherwise, the traitors will simply melt into the shadows u

ntil they feel it is safe to try with a new plot.”

Boris shook his head in disgust. “Bastards.”

“My feelings exactly.” Nearing the stables, Edmond placed a hand on his companion’s arm as he came to a sudden halt. “I want Viktor Kazakov watched day and night. Hire as many men as you need—he is not to visit the outhouse without you keeping me informed. Is that understood?”

“Of course.”

“And send one of the guards after the stranger. He should be able to catch up with him on the Dover Road. Tell him to befriend the man, if at all possible, on the ferry to France. It might be that the traitor will reveal some sort of useful information.”

Boris nodded, his eyes narrowed. “What will you be doing?”

Edmond grimaced. His loyalty toward Alexander Pavlovich demanded that he remain in London and monitor Viktor. The man had to be in contact with his Russian cohorts by some means, and no one was better at discovering those means than Edmond.

But for once, Edmond had a more pressing concern than the welfare of his Czar. Viktor had already proven he was willing to murder the powerful Duke of Huntley to further his goals. Who was to say he would not consider Brianna a suitable sacrifice as well?

Besides, there was always Thomas Wade lurking in the shadows. If Edmond were concentrating upon Viktor, he would be unable to protect Brianna from the desperate animal.

“I must return to Surrey for a short time,” he said, his words clipped.

Boris lifted his brows before an annoying smile curved his lips. “You intend to take the woman to your brother.”

Edmond did not bother to confirm the man’s astute supposition.

“Do not fail me.”

“Have I ever?”

“Never.”

Turning away, Edmond was halted as Boris called out softly.

“Edmond.”

He glanced over his shoulder, managing to hide his impatience.

“Yes?”

“Take Janet with you as well. If there is danger, then she is certain to do something foolish to try and protect Miss Quinn.”

Edmond gave a bark of laughter. “As if I could pry her away from her mistress.” He paused, his expression somber. “Be careful, Boris. Kazakov plays the part of an arrogant buffoon, but he is a dangerous opponent who would not hesitate to kill you if he realized you are tracking him.”

Boris dipped his head in agreement. “You take care as well. The traitors are keeping an eye on Meadowland. You must be on guard.”

“Always.”

ALONE IN HER CHAMBERS, Brianna futilely commanded herself to go to sleep, tossing and turning for over an hour before she at last conceded defeat. Rising from the bed, she pulled on a thin robe and gave into the overwhelming urge to pace the floor.

It was just because she was still angry at the knowledge that Edmond had visited a common tart, she told herself. That was the reason her stomach felt tied in knots and her mouth dry. It had nothing to do with the fact that Edmond had charged off into the night after some dangerous maniac.

Of course, the reasonable excuse did nothing to explain why her pacing took her continually to the window to peer toward the dark mews, or why her ears were strained for the sound of Edmond’s footsteps in the corridor.

Or why, when she at last heard them, she had to clutch at the mantle as her knees went weak with relief. She leaned her forehead against the cool marble. What the devil was the matter with her?

The door to her chambers was quietly pushed open and then closed. Spinning on her heel, Brianna regarded Edmond in disbelief.