Page 15 of A Rogue to Reform

That night, Evan entered the Walker’s hotel lobby on Buchanan Street and walked to where men usually gathered. It was not as prestigious as being a member of a gentlemen’s club, but those who did not wish to be members of a club or, like him, could not afford the dues, often relaxed at the Walker hotel, or other such places.

He found a seat at the long, pristine bar and ordered a whiskey. In a matter of minutes, Miles would appear, as it was their custom to meet there to discuss goings-on.

The lord entered, attracting the attention of everyone in the room. It was not just his exotic looks, but something about his friend commanded attention from both men and women.

Miles stood next to him. “Let us sit over there.” He motioned to a lone table in the far corner of the room.

Once settled, his friend grimaced and stretched out his left leg, his right bent at the knee.

“What happened to your leg?” Evan asked.

“I fell,” Miles said, his face stoic.

“Ha!” Evan exclaimed. “Were you climbing out of a window, perhaps?”

Miles fought to keep a straight face, therefore confirming what Evan had said. “She was well worth the risk.”

Just then, a server appeared and placed two glasses on the table. “Anything else, my lord?” Miles shook his head.

“I have to ask,” Evan started, “can you afford to sponsor the ship alone? If so, why are you not? You can be richer for it.”

Miles shrugged. “I do not know the exact amount that is required. However, I prefer to enter into this sponsorship as a group and not front the entire amount. That way, we all win or lose equally.”

Of course, if they used his money and lost it all, they would be hard-pressed to repay Miles. It was a smart strategy on his part.

“I understand. I would hope to be as intelligent as you once I recover some of my fortune.”

Just then a familiar figure crossed the room toward them. Both he and Miles stood when Robert Macleod, Evan’s father, neared. “Evan.” His sharp gaze met his before moving to Miles. “My lord.”

Despite having known Miles since youth, his father insisted on using titles.

“Would you like to join us?” Evan asked, genuinely glad to see his father. “How are you, Father?”

His father shook his head. “I was just leaving. There is much to do to prepare for your mother’s birthday, do not forget. It is tonight.” He hesitated and looked to Miles. “You are welcome as well, my lord.”

“Of course I will be there,” Evan said. “I look forward to spending time with the family.”

There was a flicker of surprise in his father’s face, and he nodded. “Very well then. Five o’clock sharp.”

As he walked away, Evan let out a breath. “He will forever be disappointed in me.”

Miles studied him for a short moment. “I think he only sees his son. How are the plans for your quest going?”

“Some progress. I must proceed with utter care if I do not wish for her to suspect anything,” Evan said. “And you, what do you plan to do? Remember, you agreed to be part of this.”

After a leisurely drink, Miles’s lips curved. “Louisa Kent.”

“What?” Evan let out a long soft whistle. “That will definitely be a challenge. She is not one to be toyed with.” A rare beauty, after being widowed and left penniless, Louisa Kent had turned the town inside out by becoming a courtesan and often was seen with some of the most distinguished men in Scotland. It was rumored that despite receiving numerous marriage proposals, she never accepted, preferring her independence.

Now, very wealthy, thanks to her benefactors, she had no reason to do more than enjoy her life.

“I like a challenge,” Miles said, meeting his gaze. “If I am able to gather the amount necessary for my portion of the sponsorship from her, it will be…”

“A miracle?” Evan interjected. “An impossibility. No, perhaps a crazy delusion on your part.”

A chuckle displayed Miles’s deep dimples. “Ah, so you have little faith in my prowess. I will prove you wrong.”

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