He’d frightened the owner of the lodging when he came calling at such a late hour, but fortunately, a few coins had quieted the man who had acceded in fetching Reeves for him. “You are bleeding, sir.” The blond spoke softly. His hands trembled slightly around the cup of tea brought to them. “It is of no consequence.” Reeves dropped his gaze to his drink. “Graham … I may call you, Graham, yes?” “Yes, of course. I thought we had established that the other day.” William smiled. Try as he must, he seemed unable to distrust the merchant. There was something about his manner, or perhaps his eyes, that called to him to protect the other man. “Yes, I had forgotten. I am a bit shaken up. I apologize.” William downed the liquor he’d paid extra for. “Yes, I have noticed.” Graham’s blue eyes twinkled. “I suppose however, that by an early call you did not mean this. What has transpired? Is Ms. Bunsbury all right?” William’s heart jolted at the sound of Emily’s name.
