Page 52 of The Baron's Reluctant Bride
"A noble sentiment," Jameson observed, "if somewhat belated."
"Jameson," Gemma interjected, her tone warning. "William came here tonight to warn us."
"Did he?" Jameson's gaze never left William's face. "Or did he come seeking refuge from the consequences of his actions?"
William flinched as though struck. "I deserve that," he admitted. "But I swear to you, I never meant for things to go this far. And I certainly never intended to harm you or Gemma."
"Intentions matter little against results," Jameson replied coolly. "Thorne has used the information you provided to systematically undercut Hawthorne Trading Company's ventures. Ships diverted, cargoes seized, investors frightened off. The damage is... substantial."
Gemma watched as her brother seemed to crumple before her eyes, his shoulders slumping with the weight of this revelation.
“I was quite unaware,” he whispered again. "You must believe me."
Something in his broken tone must have reached Jameson, for his expression softened fractionally. "I do believe you, as it happens. Thorne is a master manipulator, and you would hardly be his first victim."
Hope flared in William's eyes. "Then you'll help me?"
"That depends," Jameson said, "on what precisely you need help with."
William glanced nervously at the door. "He's here tonight. Watching. He expects me to slip away to the card room within the hour and lose spectacularly to Lord Bentley—who is, I suspect, in Thorne's pocket."
"Thus increasing your debt and consequently his hold over you," Jameson concluded. "Clever."
"What's more," William continued, "he said if I failed to comply, he would ensure that a certain document made its way to Lady Viola Montford by morning."
"What document?" Gemma demanded.
William's gaze dropped. "I... may have signed certain papers when I was not entirely myself. Promissory notes, agreementsto share information. Things that would ruin me socially and financially if made public."
"And what of his threat regarding our matrimony?" Gemma pressed.
William shook his head helplessly. "He was vague, but confident. Said he had evidence that would 'cast new light on the hasty union.' I don't know more than that."
Jameson's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. "I see."
"What shall we do?" Gemma asked, looking between the two men.
To her surprise, a small smile curved Jameson's lips. "Why, we shall give Mr. Thorne exactly what he expects."
"I am afraid I am at a loss," William said, echoing Gemma's confusion.
"You will go to the card room precisely as planned," Jameson explained. "You will play against Lord Bentley and lose spectacularly. And then, when the evening concludes, you will accompany us home rather than meeting with Thorne."
"But that's exactly what he wants," William protested. "Except for the last part, which will only enrage him further."
"Precisely," Jameson agreed. "While simultaneously buying us time to address the more pressing matter of these documents he holds over you."
"And how do you propose to do that?" Gemma asked skeptically.
Jameson's smile widened, though it did not reach his eyes. "I believe that's a discussion best held in more private surroundings. For now, we must return to the ballroom before our absence sparks fresh speculation."
William nodded, though he still appeared uncertain. "What should I say if Thorne approaches me?"
"Be anxious, evasive—precisely as he would expect," Jameson advised. "Let him believe his plan is unfolding as intended."
"That should require little acting," William muttered.
"Indeed," Jameson agreed. "Now, shall we?"
