Page 72 of Pervade London
“He told me the wrong name.”
“Ah.”
“What’s his real name?”
“He always loved secrets.”
“Did you know he’s a chess master?”
“My son showed extraordinary talent for many things at a young age.”
“Like what?”
“He had an uncanny ability to read people. Something tells me you’re very special.”
“I miss him,” I said, pressing a hand to my heart.
“Whatever he has done it is to protect you.”
“You know about them, don’t you?” I stepped forward. “He might have gotten caught up with some sinister people. It’s not my intention to upset you. I don’t know who else to turn to.”
“I’m sure it will all work out.”
“Do you know James Ballad?”
Her lips twitched, revealing that she did. “True power is hidden.”
“I’ve seen a little of his influence.”
“You’ve seen nothing.” She drew in a sharp breath. “And anything you have seen you would be wise to forget.”
“He’s really that powerful?”
“My husband was a diplomat, working in some of the most dangerous places on earth. He’d say his happiness, his safety, his contentment was not important. What he did was for a greater purpose.”
“You know what your son does, don’t you?”
“That’s why I’m telling you to use the gate.”
I refused to give up trying to find Xander. “Thank you for your time, Mrs. Rothschild.”
“Do you have somewhere to stay?”
“Yes.”
“And money?”
“I’m fine.”
She hesitated, and gave me a look of sympathy. “It’s probably best you don’t return to Great Missenden.”
I heard what she said, but I didn’t look back.
I made my way along the side wall and out the front gate, feeling crushed that I’d not been able to persuade Mrs. Rothschild to help me.
Walking along the sundrenched pavement back the way I’d come, my hand ran along the leaves of a hedge as a sob shuddered through me. I’d hit the ultimate dead-end. Her words haunted each step I took with their scathing clarity—Xander wanted nothing more to do with me and I would never know why.
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the blur of an SUV as it pulled up next to me.
