“Perish the thought.” He grinned. “It’s just that I could never understand why you weren’t impressed whenever you saw the portrait. You were an artist yourself and you must have been able to appreciate the workmanship. But you appeared to ignore it. And then I thought that perhaps it was because Fiona looked so much like you, and you were struggling not to acknowledge it out of loyalty to Eve and Joe. It could be either one, but maybe you’ll be able to tell me after you get another look at her today.”

“Or maybe I merely got sick and tired of both you and Caleb being so intrigued by her, when you had an entire gallery of fantastic paintings that were probably just as remarkable.”

“Not to either of us. As you know, I had my own reason, and Caleb saw only you when he looked at that portrait of Fiona. You should have been flattered in either case.” He waved his hand. “Go on. I have a few calls to make so I’ll finish my tea and let you have a little time to yourself with Fiona. I’ll join you shortly.”

She stopped at the door to look back at him. “Calls? Caleb?”

“Among others. Any objection? He’ll want to know if I was able to arrange for additional guards for the Run. It’s not as if we’re talking about you behind your back. You’ve made it clear that you don’t want that happening.”

“I don’t really mind the two of you talking about me. It doesn’t matter. In the end, it will be my decision. Caleb realizes that I won’t tolerate any interference unless I approve. Just as long as you promise to let me know what else is happening, and if there’s any danger to Caleb. Can I trust you? Will you do that?”

“Of course I’ll do that.”

“Good.” The library door was closing behind her. “Then by all means, make your calls.”

*  *  *

“Have you arranged for the additional guards?” was the first question Caleb asked when MacDuff reached him. “You’ll have six or seven MI6 specialists showing up on your doorstep later today. Check their IDs and show them around the property. They should be efficient enough even for you, MacDuff.”

“I prefer my own men. I arranged to bring in some of my old buddies from the Royal Marines,” MacDuff said testily.

“Of course you did,” Caleb murmured. “Because they regard you with fawning worship and admiration. Everyone knows about the chestful of medals you earned in combat. It’s not only in Scotland that you’re a damn folk hero.”