Adrian watched her until she disappeared behind the high wall. He turned and found his manservant standing in the doorway to his room.
The older gentleman pursed his lips. "Do you think it was so wise to allow her to leave?"
"Would you I rather eat her?" Adrian retorted as he swept past him and into his chambers.
The manservant turned his body to follow his master. "But she is a threat to you."
Adrian stepped up to the fireplace and lay his arm across the warm mantel. He gazed into the fire and a sly grin slid onto his lips. "I find this game rather exciting, don't you?"
His servant frowned. "Not in the least, sir."
Adrian chuckled and turned to him. He tossed the manservant his coat. "Where has all your courage gone, Albert?"
"The world is a dangerous place, particularly for a man with secrets," Albert reminded him. "It may attract equally dangerous men."
Adrian strode over to the dresser and attired himself in a pair of pants before he turned to face his old companion. "Then maybe it's about time I went out into the world and saw what I can do with this secret of mine. It's already fetched me a very beautiful young woman with my even leaving the house."
"And the enemies it made for you before you came to live here, and those within your own company?" Albert pointed out.
Adrian plucked a piece of paper from the floor and read the contents. He flashed his manservant a toothy grin as he handed the note to Albert. "I think it's high-time I took a bite out of the competition, and my enemies. Have these gentlemen see me tomorrow."
Albert took the note and read the names. His eyes flickered up to Adrian. "Together, sir?"
Adrian shook his head. "No, apart, and have the junior employee come just before nightfall. I don't want him to interfere with my mate's return."
Albert arched an eyebrow. "You're sure she'll return?"
The young man strode over to the French doors and looked at the night sky. His eyes flashed a brilliant yellow. "Quite sure. In fact, I've guaranteed it."