Page 37 of The Moonstone Pirate
Draco knew that once he discovered the name of the Irishman’s vessel, something easily done upon review of the harbor master’s records, it would take little effort to plot out a pattern of visits, assuming the ship had sailed into the harbor more than the one time.
Yes, it would be most helpful to establish a pattern that he could then link up to others who visited Moonstone Landing whenever that ship sailed in. The harbor master would give him access to all his logbooks. Draco would ask the Kestrel Inn’s owner for permission to do the same with his guest registers.
Imogen was still studying the drawing she had made of the Irishman’s ship and thinking about her answer to his question. “I cannot recall the name of the ship. I should have marked it clearly in my sketches, but for some reason I did not. I’m so sorry, Draco. I feel as though I have let you down.”
He took her hand and gave it a light squeeze. “You have been of immense help to me. I cannot tell you exactly how just yet. You’ll have to take me at my word.”
“All right. But can you tell me anything? Are those men connected to Lord Driscoll’s murder?”
“I don’t know yet. All I can say is that it adds a more sinister dimension to the crime. I know I said I would share information with you, but this changes everything.”
“What do you mean?”
“I need to handle the investigation without your interference from here on out. If these men are involved in any way in Driscoll’s death, then you need to keep away from me while I accomplish what I must do.”
The color drained from her face. “Is it that dangerous?”
He nodded. “Yes. Extremely. You cannot be involved at all.”
“What am I to do if I find out something else?”
He raked a hand through his hair. “That’s just it, Imogen. I want you to stop looking. No more helping me out. Forget thisinvestigation is taking place and go about your daily routine. However, you must never go anywhere on your own, and never speak of Driscoll’s murder to anyone. If you are asked, just say the men are handling matters and have not told you anything. Be very careful. Do not wander anywhere on your own, not even in the village.”
She frowned at him. “That’s twice in the same breath you’ve warned me not to go about on my own. You needn’t tell me again. I have learned my lesson. You’ve already shown me how easily someone can pick me up and carry me off in the night.”
“Good—remember that it took mere seconds for me to abduct you.” And mere seconds to kiss her breathless…or perhaps she had lefthimbreathless. “I will call on you if I need more help.”
He rose and took the sketchbook as well as a few wizard sketches, including the one of Healey and his ring that interested him most.
She rose along with him, her lips pursed in disappointment.
Well, he would rather have her disappointed than injured. The thought that Imogen might be harmed made his stomach churn. He would turn into a vengeful beast if that were to happen.
No one touches my butterfly.
He considered what he would say to those who were helping him in this investigation. He needed to warn them without giving away too much. Yet he could not leave them completely in the dark. Burness would have to be told something, not only because he was the local magistrate, but because he needed to watch Imogen closely. She was like a daughter to this man. He adored his niece and would do everything in his power to protect her.
Viscount Brennan would also have to be advised because he was the Fort Arundel commander. The fort was perfectlysituated to afford an elevated view of the town and its harbor. The viscount could set a watch on the harbor and notify Draco of any suspicious ships that sailed in or out, especially the Irishman’s vessel. The viscount also had several regiments under his command that could be called upon to assist him in rounding up rebels if the need arose.
He made no decision about how much to tell Constable Angel, although he expected the man would have to be brought in too.
As for the Duke of Malvern and the Duke of Claymore, he would hold off telling them anything for now. When the time came, these two dukes could be called upon to watch over the ladies and make certain Imogen did not enlist them in her nosing around.
For a sweet thing, she had a surprisingly stubborn streak. It would take everyone’s efforts to keep her from meddling and getting into serious trouble.
“Would you care to join us for a picnic on the beach before you go?” she asked, breaking into his thoughts. She still had a lovely pout that revealed she had not gotten over the disappointment of being thrown off the investigation. “You’ll have to eat sometime, so why not take a moment here and now?”
He shook his head. “I’m headed back to Moonstone Landing.”
“Oh, I thought you were on your way to Woodley Lodge.”
“Change of plans.”
“I see.” She tried to keep up with him as he strode through the parlor on his way out.
He did not stop walking until they marched out the front door. Melrose had summoned a groom to bring his mount from the stable. He hoped the lad would not take too long, because he could see Imogen had more questions for him, and he didnot want to reveal too much to her. “Yes, it’s back to Moonstone Landing for me.”
“You’re going to follow up about that ship, aren’t you?”
