“No,” Malcolm said firmly. “She’s a strong-willed lass, is Kat. She’ll have nothing to do with a man who doesn’t appreciate her for what she’s worth. And most men wouldn’t prize her Independence. Most men would stupidly want a woman who was more like Fiona…or that sister of hers, Murien Spalding.”

“I don’t believe I’ve met Miss Spalding.”

“Count your blessings,” Malcolm said darkly. He glanced at the open door, then leaned closer to say in an undertone, “She’s a bloody witch, make no doubt. Oh, she looks well enough. Like Fiona, she exudes helpless fluttery womanliness. But unlike Fiona, Murien’s heart is made of marble, her soul so chilled, the devil fears to take her to join him lest she freeze the flames of hell.”

Devon chuckled. “Bloody hell, she can’t be as bad as all that.”

“Wait and see. Her grandest wish is to marry and marry well.” Malcolm eyed him for a moment. “You might be safe, for you’ve no title. But then there is that blasted St. John fortune…”

“That sounds dire indeed.”

“Aye.” Malcolm shook his head. “I wouldn’t be surprised if Fiona invites her to come. Best you avoid her like the plague, that’s my advice.”

And good advice it seemed. The thought of the talisman ring still resting in the candle dish on his night table made Devon shift uneasily.

“Meanwhile,” Malcolm continued as if unaware he’d just caused Devon concern, “you might be able to help me with a small problem I have myself.”

“Oh?”

“Yes. ’Tis about Kat, too. And since you seem to know her—”

“Barely.”

“Enough,” Malcolm continued, undeterred. “I thought you might have some insight to the problem.”

“Which is?”

“It’s become clear to me that Kat will never marry. Or so she says.”

Good for Kat, Devon thought, silently toasting her with his brandy.

“But I can’t help but think I should bring her to the notice of some potential suitors, just to be certain she’s not rushing into a life of being a stained glass master and nothing else.”

“Is she happy?”

“Doing her stained glass? Lord, yes. Do you want to see some of her work?”

Devon nodded before he could catch himself. He couldn’t help but wonder what sort of work Kat did as it might give him another connection to her.

Malcolm brightened and jumped up. “She’s magical, she is. Just look.” He set his glass on a small table, then went to the farthest window and pulled back the drapery. There at the top was a round window, hidden by the uppermost foot of curtain.

Devon rose and went to stand beside Malcolm. It was exquisite. Even with his lack of knowledge, he knew it was quality work.