“No, no, dear,” Marcos patted her arm. “He speaks the truth. I intend to enjoy myself immensely while I’m here. I agree, entertainment and enjoyment are very important.” His gaze swept the room and lit on Teresa, who was carrying an empty serving tray back toward the kitchen. “Just a small amount of business and then we’ll have fun with friends, right, Elijah?”

“Of course, Marcos.”

Alberto frowned. “Forgive an old man, Elijah, but I knew your uncle. I heard he died in an accident in Borneo. Accept my condolences.”

Elijah inclined his head. “I had no idea you two knew each other.”

“Briefly. Only briefly. You and your sister were very young when I met him. Where is your sister? I had heard that she disappeared as well. Such a tragedy, your family.”

“Rachel is alive and well. There was bad business.” Elijah shrugged casually. His eyes were flat and cold. “An enemy stupid enough to try to use the threat of my sister against us.”

“She is alive then? Good. Good. A beautiful girl. I hadn’t heard what had become of her. I should have known you would take care of any problems.”

Elijah sent him a cold smile. “I always take care of my own. And my enemies.”

“May I borrow your beautiful cousin while you talk business? Just for a little while. We can walk in the gardens. My man will be with us to watch over her. And perhaps one of your men can accompany us as well, if you prefer.”

Imelda scowled. “That’s just silly, Grandfather. Philip has security everywhere. What could possibly happen to either of you?”

Elijah thought it over. The garden was fully visible from Jeremiah’s position. There shouldn’t be any problem. He brought Isabeau’s hand to his chest. “I think that would be nice for you, Isabeau, much better than listening to boring business.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her head. “I’ll send Felipe with you.”

“That’s not necessary,” Isabeau said. “I’d much rather he look after you.”

Alberto gestured to his guard. “This is Harry. He’s been with me for ten years.” He emphasized the pronoun, making a point.

Imelda sighed and rolled her eyes. “Oh, for heaven’s sake. Let’s go. Philip, take us to your secure room. Grandfather and your little cousin can do whatever.” Her eyes had already gone to the shadows, looking for Marcos’s bodyguard.

Conner moved the moment Marcos did, falling smoothly in behind him. He didn’t look at them, but his gaze moved restlessly through the room, taking in everyone. He gave the appearance of being able to describe in detail every single person—and Isabeau was certain he probably could.