How ridiculous. She was doing exactly what she was supposed to be, and doing it well, too. Ross was quickly becoming enslaved.

So why am I so angry? Robert could think of only one reason: he was beginning to have feelings for Moira. Damn it. That will not do.

Buffon’s knock sounded on the door as Moira and Ross mounted their steeds and trotted out of the courtyard. Robert turned from the window and called for the valet to enter.

Buffon carried a breakfast tray, a small note tucked on one corner. “You have dressed! If you’d told me you wished to do so, I would have come immediately and—”

“I didn’t want anyone to know I’m awake.”

“Ah. More intrigue, eh?” Buffon set down the tray and picked up the small note. “From madame.”

Robert opened the note.

Robert,

This morning went as planned. I told Ross you never rise before noon, and he took great delight in disparaging “lazy city ways.” He has quite a distaste for Edinburgh and especially London. Inside is a sketch of the castle from last night’s tour.

My maid let slip that Sir Lachlan is very fond of his study and spends much of his time there. It may be a good place to begin, if you can find a way to get around the footmen. There must be a hundred of them throughout the castle. On our tour, we were never out of sight of at least two.

Now we’re off on a ride. I expect we’ll return at noon or later, if I can arrange it. Best of luck in your hunt.

Moira

Robert glanced at the map, noting the location of the study, and then slipped it into his pocket. “Buffon, have you found out anything of use yet?”

“Oui, monsieur. I discovered that Ross brags of his collections to all of his visitors, and often brings out special items to win praise. He is a bit of a braggart.”

That could be useful. “Good. What else have you discovered?”

“Not much more, although I have made inroads in cultivating various personages below stairs, including”—Buffon made a face—“Ross’s valet. He might know something, which is why I make the sacrifice.”

Buffon picked up the wrinkled blue robe from the end of the bed and, holding it between thumb and forefinger, carried it to the wardrobe and dropped it inside.

“Thank you, Buffon. Now I need to find my way to Ross’s study, but there is a problem. I don’t wish the footmen to know I’m wandering about. Do you think you could create a diversion, to draw them from the hallway?”

“It would have to be a big diversion, but oui, I could do it. I think for this, I will need fire.”

Robert raised his brows.

“Nothing less would draw them all. I will use just a small flame, but much smoke.” Buffon picked up a napkin from the tray and dipped a corner of it into the washbasin. “Shall I begin my diversion now?”