A Rogue to Cherish (Rogues of the Lowlands Book 3) by Hildie McQueen

Author:Hildie McQueen [McQueen, Hildie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: Fiction, romance, Historical
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc.
Published: 2023-12-28T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Twelve

“I suppose it is my turn now to come up with my funds,” Lord Miles Johnstone said in a bored tone. “The timing could not be worse.”

Evan, Henry, and Grant gave the peer time to continue, each with a whiskey in hand as they relaxed in the comfort of Evan’s parlor. Grant’s sister and brother-in-law had just returned from their holiday, and the group had immediately convened to discuss the rapidly upcoming deadline for the sponsorship.

“In two weeks, I must meet with Captain MacFarland and pay for the sponsorship,” Evan stated. “I do request at least two of you come with me. I do not like the idea of carrying so much money to the shipyards.”

Henry stretched and crossed his legs at the ankle. “You should send word and meet elsewhere. It is too risky. Each day we hear of different crimes committed at the shipyards. Men dressed like us are certain to attract attention.”

“Very true,” Grant added. “Perhaps his home would be better.”

“I will send a message a day or two prior to the deadline. In the meantime, bring the capital here. I will place it into the safe.”

They turned to Miles, who’d yet to utter a word. Instead, he swirled the amber liquid in his glass and watched it until it settled. “The woman I planned to seduce has found a lover and seems quite enamored. I must find another.”

In spite of his words, no one was concerned about Miles, who had more than doubled his fortune since taking the helm over the family’s accounts. The man was a genius when it came to finances. It was only because he enjoyed making wagers that he even cared to come up with a sum to obtain. All the men knew that it was a pittance for him and easily available even without needing a woman to seduce.

“I am sure it will be too easy a task for you, whether you have a week or a day,” Grant said, studying his friend. “You seem glum. Or should I say, glummer than usual. Is something amiss?”

Miles’ gaze lifted slowly to his. “Duties that must be performed on a regular basis. Attending this social gathering, a dance, or even the dreadful picnics by the loch, is tiring. I wish for nothing more than to go away to the country and not see people for an entire season.”

If his family had such an estate, Grant would be a hermit, rarely leaving the country for the busyness of city life.

“What stops you?” Henry asked, leaning forward in his chair. “From leaving for a bit?”

“My sister’s debut,” Miles stated with a frown. “I can’t very well allow her outing into society to be without someone to look out for her best interests.” He held out his glass for a refill and Grant poured more whiskey into it. Then he continued, “Father would settle her with the first man who has a title and with no regard for the man’s financial status. Meanwhile, Mother yearns for a sop who will fall at Penelope’s feet and profess his love.

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