She realized that he meant it. “And how are you going to correct it? Become a rodeo rider?”

“Maybe.” He smiled. “That might be amusing if I can stand the bumps and bruises. I’ll have to think about it. I’ll let you know when I’m ready to erase that moment of weakness from your memory.”

“I can hardly wait,” she said sincerely before she kicked her horse into a trot. “We’ve got to get moving or Fergus and the marines will be catching up with us. Jocko is my horse’s name and he’s a little more spirited than Maisie. Would you mind if I have a short run and leave you and Maisie to get to know each other?”

“By all means.” He waved her away. “That appears to be the name of the game. Hopefully we’ll catch up with you by the time you reach Jamie MacDuff’s place.”

But Jane had to wait over fifteen minutes until Rodland ambled up to the front entrance on Maisie.

“I was wondering if she threw you.” Jane nodded at the Range Rover parked in the trees a short distance away. “Even Fergus and his men got here before you did.” She glanced at Maisie. “But you seem to be doing okay together.”

“We’re getting there. It will just take a while for us to understand each other.” He was looking at the stately mansion a short distance away. “Almost impressive. Evidently Jamie had more funds than I thought.”

“Not enough for him. But I read where he opened his home twice a month for gambling soirees and invited all the neighbors to come.” She got off her horse. “And he was amazingly fortunate at the tables. Not surprising since he was raised as a reiver and didn’t have a sterling reputation.” She frowned. “I don’t know where to start.”

“Start by keeping Maisie company for a short time while I go check out the interior.” He dismounted. “As I promised MacDuff I’d do.” He started down the path toward the ornate front door. “And considering how smart we think Fiona might be, if I were you I wouldn’t look where you’d think she’d hide something.”

“Amazing insight.” Jane watched him disappear into the house. But in spite of her sarcasm, she was feeling a touch of excitement as she looked at the house. Such a formal residence for a girl who ran wild in the hills, who won races, and defied her father when he’d tried to sell her. She must have hated living here.

And Fiona would have studied the situation as she had the racecourses where she’d triumphed and found a way to hide her intentions for defeating Jamie. Would proof still be there?