Fates Entwined by Caethes Faron

Author:Caethes Faron
Language: eng
Format: mobi
Tags: Vampires, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Fantasy, Historical, Romantic
Publisher: Branwen Press
Published: 2014-07-08T05:00:00+00:00

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Chapter 18

“How is business, my friend?” James waved Lawrence into a chair next to him in his study.

“I have no complaints, Your Majesty.” Lawrence watched as James leafed through some pamphlets.

“Good. I’ve noticed Jocelyn spending time with the Earl of Dover.”

“Yes, he’s hired her a couple of times. Would you like me to put a stop to it now that he’s betrothed?”

James looked up. “Oh, of course not. I won’t fault him for succumbing to her charms, especially when I have.”

“Really? I didn’t think you took much interest in her charms, Sire.”

“Well, not those she usually uses on her clients. However, she amuses George, and I like that she makes him happy. As for myself, I enjoy her company and conversation. Anything beyond that is only when George asks me to join them for his enjoyment.”

“I always wondered why you tolerated her and Buckingham.” James’s relationship with George was hardly a secret.

“It’s not becoming for a king to harbor petty jealousies. Part of her appeal is that she knows her place, and I know she knows mine. There’s never been any confusion among the three of us.”

“Glad to hear it, Sire.”

“Though, I must say, I was a little surprised that she turned down George’s offer.” James raised his eyebrows, as if expecting an explanation.

“I assure you, Sire, it wasn’t due to any fault in the offer or in the man who made it.” The last thing Lawrence needed was a problem to emerge from Jocelyn’s refusal.

“I didn’t think so. It’s just odd. The aim of most women in her profession is to secure a place as mistress to a highly ranked man. Unless she’s holding out for me, I’d say her aims are quite different.”

Lawrence shrugged. “She is a peculiar one. Has been since the day she came knocking on my door, Sire.”

“Yes, that’s what keeps us all interested, isn’t it? Heavens know I don't have much use for most of her sex.” James smiled.

“I’m glad she pleases you, Sire.”

“Yes, well, I find her useful as well as entertaining. I’d like any information she might glean about the Earl of Dover that seems pertinent. He’s marrying into my family, and I don’t know much about him. I want to make sure I’m getting an adequate return on my investment.”

“Of course, Sire. All I have gathered from Jocelyn is that the earl feels somewhat out of his depth here at court and that he is anxious to please Your Majesty. The wedding will do much to set him on the right path. He’ll feel most indebted to Your Majesty, and already it is showing. I believe your investment will prove fruitful. His ships and influence will be yours.”

“Excellent.” James nodded. “Be sure to keep me apprised of any new developments. Also, I’d prefer it if you’d steer him toward Jocelyn, should he come to you looking for another girl. I trust her to get me any information I need.”

“She is always at your service, Sire, as am I.”

“Good.” James looked to a page.

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