Page 46 of Reforming the Rakish Marquess

Matt said. “So the viscount is still causing problems for Juliana?”

“He is. Hopefully, the runner will find something useful, and I can rid her of the pest once and for all.”

“What reason could he possibly have to cause trouble for her?” Matt asked, fixing his gaze on Jude.

Jude took a sip of his drink, buying time to contemplate his answer to that question.

“The late viscount settled a lot of funds on her, and the man isn’t pleased.”

A pang of guilt hit Jude, knowing he wasn’t being truthful with his friend about the entire situation. He reminded himself that he promised Juliana not to share details, and even though he knew Matt could be trusted, he wouldn’t break her confidence. Jude had already hurt and confused her enough, and the least he could do was honor her wishes regarding such a delicate matter.

“It’s not as if he can do anything about it if all was done legally,” Matt said.

“I want to ensure that he will leave her alone.” There wasn’t much more that Jude could say on the matter or risk sharing more information with Matt than he should.

“Similar to the business with Lord Knight?” Matt asked, a knowing edge to his tone.

“I don’t understand your meaning,” Jude said.

Matt laughed. “I am speaking of how you scared the man off after dancing with Juliana, and I don’t believe he has been seen in town since.”

Jude waved him off. “The man’s hands wandered lower than they should have.” He poured them each another drink before continuing. “Someone has to look out for her. Her mother and father don’t stay in town all season and she has no husband or brother.”

“The notorious rake turned gallant hero,” Matt said. He raised his glass before taking a healthy sip.

“I’d do so for any of the ladies. If you recall, I saved Graham and Diana from their situation, and we all saved Marina from the hands of Minto. I’ve always been gallant,” Jude returned, also raising his glass and draining the contents.

Narrowing his eyes, Matt assessed him. “I think there is a bit more to it this time.”

“Aren’t you due for a visit to the country to see Graham? Surely he misses you and your keen sense of wisdom.”

Matt laughed so hard his shoulders shook. “Now I know there is more to it.” He finished the rest of his brandy. “Whatever the reason, I am happy to help ensure Juliana’s well-being if my assistance should be required.”

A creeping sense of doubt and suspicion settled over Jude. Surely Matt wasn’t done with his needling. He tilted his head to the side, brow furrowed, waiting for Matt to say more.

“No need to look at me like that, friend,” Matt said. “I shall leave you be. For now. You know where to find me if you need me.”

Both gentlemen rose, and Matt patted Jude on the back.

“Good luck, friend,” Matt said.

Before Jude could say anything in return, Matt strode out of the room, and he could tell from the shake of his shoulders that the man was still laughing. What was he about?

At least with Matt gone, Jude could pour himself another drink with no one to judge him for doing so. He did just that and downed it. Setting the glass down on his desk, he started towards his chamber. Perhaps the few drinks would help him find sleep easier after such a mentally taxing day.

A quarter hour later, he was undressed and settling into his bed. He fought to push all thoughts of Juliana out of his mind, willing exhaustion to set in and pull him into a deep sleep.

*

“You are nothing but a waste of space on this earth,” a hateful voice bellowed.

A heavy fist made contact with Jude’s abdomen.

“You don’t deserve to live, and yet I’m stuck with you,” the voice continued.

A slap to Jude’s face followed the punch.

“Father, please stop.”