Page 34 of Reforming the Rakish Marquess

Once they were both seated, the man spoke again. “I didn’t have you introduce yourself.”

“Ah, yes. I’m Marquess Sandon,” Jude said. “I am very much in need of your assistance, Mr. Stone.”

“Good to meet you, my lord,” the runner returned, offering Jude a polite nod. “Tell me as much as you can about the situation and what it is that you are seeking. You can be assured that nothing you discuss with me will be shared unless you give me leave to do so.”

Jude explained to him about the blackmail. He didn’t give the man specifics on what the viscount was blackmailing Juliana over, and he was appreciative that the man didn’t ask.

“And you wish me to find out what I can about him?” Stone asked.

“I need something that will ensure he won’t continue to threaten Lady Gordon. I can only assume there may be nefarious reasons he seeks her funds.” There had to be something the man could learn that would rid them of the viscount, and with haste.

The runner nodded in agreement. “That is typically the case, my lord.”

“I can pay, of course,” Jude said. “Handsomely.”

“Of course, my lord.” The man rose from his chair. “I shall get started right away, since time is of the essence.”

Jude rose to his feet and shook the man’s hand. “Thank you. You can call on me at my home at any hour. I will ensure my staff knows my whereabouts in the event I am out when you call. Lady Gordon will also need to be involved in the conversation.” He would do as he promised and ensure she was brought in when they had something to learn.

The man nodded and walked Jude back to the front of the building. Jude climbed into his carriage and exhaled as he sat back in his seat. There was nothing more he could do but wait or ponder what had occurred that morning with Juliana. He was loath to do either.

When he reached his home, he stepped down from his carriage and the hairs on the back of his neck prickled beneath his cravat. He glanced behind him and the carriage from before was still there. The older woman’s face appeared again in the window, meeting his gaze.

Jude started towards the carriage to ask what she was about, but she must have signaled her driver, because before he could reach it, the carriage was in motion. Something about the whole thing made him uneasy. Could it be related to Viscount Gordon? It had to be. What else could it be? His thoughts immediately went to Juliana and affirmed his need to ensure she was protected. He would never let anything happen to her.

After what occurred, Jude was too restless to enter his home. He gave his driver instructions and boarded his carriage again. A short while later, Jude was shown to Matt’s study at his townhouse. He took a gamble that Matt would be home, and it appeared that luck was on his side. Matt’s butler escorted him into the room and closed the door behind him.

“Good to see you, friend. What brings you by?” Matt asked, standing from behind his desk. He patted Jude on the back and motioned for him to take a seat.

“What can you tell me about the new Viscount Gordon?” Jude asked. It might be worthwhile to do some of his own investigation if it could aid Mr. Stone.

Sitting back behind his desk, Matt grabbed his decanter of brandy and poured them each a drink. He handed Jude a glass and leaned back in his chair.

“Why on earth are you looking into the viscount?” Matt asked.

“Can I trust that what is shared here won’t leave this room?” Jude asked, narrowing his eyes at his friend.

Matt leaned forward, his expression turning serious. “Of course.”

“I can’t share the details,” Jude started, “as they have been entrusted to me in confidence, but the man is attempting to cause problems for Juliana.”

“Has he done anything untoward to her?” Matt asked, obvious anger overtaking his tone, which was a stark contrast to the man’s usual jovial nature.

“No, nothing of the sort. But I must find out everything I can about him, and no one must know.”

Matt rubbed his chin. “I don’t know him, but I heard he frequented some of Minto’s gambling events.”

“That can’t be good,” Jude said, massaging his temples.

Minto was an earl who attempted to abduct Marina, who was also the wife of his closest friend, Evan. Jude and Matt were among the gentlemen who helped Evan chase the carriage down to rescue her from the horrid man. Minto was a blackguard of the worst kind and had faced the appropriate punishment for his crimes.

“No. It most certainly can’t,” Matt agreed. He drained the contents of his glass.

“Do you know anything else about him?” Jude asked. “I don’t think I’ve ever met him. At least not that I recall.”

Matt shook his head. “That is all I know. I don’t believe he bothers to circulate at the usual events. He probably spends his time in gaming hells and brothels.”

Jude lost himself in thought, recalling the woman in the carriage outside of his home.