Heart Secret by Robin D. Owens

Author:Robin D. Owens [Owens, Robin D.]
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
ISBN: 9781101610671
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Published: 2012-01-01T08:00:00+00:00

Twenty-one

Warning buzzed in the back of Garrett’s mind as he stared at his friend GreatLord Laev T’Hawthorn. “I can’t be bought by the FirstFamilies.” Garrett’s mouth flattened, then he smiled and crossed his arms. “Especially now I have enough gilt that I never need to work again.”

Another tap of Laev’s fingertips and upraised brows. “Very good. I’m sure you will have to meet with a contingent of us”—he meant the younger generation of lords and ladies on the FirstFamilies Council—“and define your concerns and boundaries, but we know you to be a man of honor.”

That statement flicked Garrett straight on the raw. He hadn’t acted with honor toward Artemisia. He kept his face impassive but saw a considering weight in Laev’s eyes. But whatever Laev thought, he was Garrett’s friend.

“I’m glad the FirstFamilies Council approves of me.” Garrett’s turn to use a dry tone.

“We want you to make finding this murderer your first priority. Captain Winterberry will be in charge of the guards as they do their standard investigation, but he will report to you. We expect you to ensure that Winterberry’s feelings do not cloud his judgement on this. We would prefer not to officially remove him. He is a good man and handled the original case, so has vital information.” Laev’s expression soured. “And several of the FirstFamilies believe the fligger Eryngo got what he deserved.”

“Murder is not necessarily a good answer. Should have let the councils take care of the man,” Garrett said.

“You sound more like Captain of the Guards Winterberry than I’d anticipated,” Laev said.

Garrett recalled the greatest Nobles also had a habit of duels and feuding to settle problems. Well, he didn’t care about that and sure wouldn’t interfere.

“I’ll take this case, since I’m already involved, but don’t think I’ll be the FirstFamilies’ pet.”

Laev’s face went bland. “Of course not. Later.” He ended the scry.

Garrett rubbed at his face. Had he insulted his best friend? Maybe. But since he meant what he’d said, he couldn’t really take it back. His stomach rumbled again.

There was a quick pop and Gray Tabby was there, staring up at Garrett and licking tiny shreds of furrabeast from his paw.

“Yes?” Garrett asked.

Gray Tabby looked away. Garrett . . . Gray Tabby whispered.

Yes?

As if reluctant to go on, the cat flexed his claws once or twice. Finally he said, The hunter was happy and proud. I do not like people who are happy and proud and kill for fun and not for food.

“I hear you,” he replied. “What—”

But Gray Tabby teleported away to someplace safe.

I am WAITING, Rusby yelled down their bond.

And I’m coming now.

Good, I am hungry!

Garrett’s gut emitted another sound. I am, too.

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