The library door opened with a quiet swish across the carpet. Dont write me off just yet, Chad.
A wizened old man with a shock of snow-white hair and clear blue eyes entered the room. The gnarled fingers of his left hand clutched an unlit cigar and rested on the arm of a plump man with slick, thinning hair. Though the men were similar in age, there was an unexpected frailty about the white-haired man.
Despite the added lines and yellowish pallor, Tori recognized Jericho Meade even before Chad rose from his seat to acknowledge him.
Uncle.
Mr. Meade. Tori stood and extended her hand. Victoria Westin. Its a pleasure to meet you.
Releasing his grip on the sturdy anchor of his aide, he moved forward to shake hands politely. So, youre Franks granddaughter. I havent seen that old coot in years. A single, sliding glance sent Chad scrambling from behind the desk. Arent you late for your game with Lana? Its not wise to keep your fiancée waiting. Jerichos smile turned back to include Tori. Especially to flirt with another beautiful woman.
Ah, so schmaltz ran in the family. Tori forced herself to smile at the indirect compliment. Thank you.
Reluctant to be dismissed, Chad paused beside the portly man shed identified as Paul Meredith. Just one thing before I go. Im curious, Victoria. The university recommended you as an experienced consultant with whom theyve worked several times. Ive attended several university and museum fund-raisers. How come weve never met before?
The dare in his eyes and voice made her wonder whether he was trying to score smart points with his uncle or show her up as a fraud because shed rebuffed his advances. Shed dealt with power-hungry men like Chad all her life, and had learned to walk a fine line between asserting herself and placating their egos. Im dedicated to my work. That wasnt a lie, but she wasnt about to elaborate on her real profession. My mothers the fund-raiser in the family. My talents lie more behind the scenes. With graduate school, research and travel, Ive really had little time for socializing.
There. You see, Chad? Jericho held on to the desk and guided himself to his chair. She doesnt waste her familys money or her time partying
I work damn hard. If youre insinuating
I believe your uncle dismissed you. Paul Meredith turned and blocked Chads path back to the desk. Lana will be upset if your tennis match gets rained out because you kept her waiting.
Chad cocked his head and glared at the bigger man. You think hes going to leave any of this to you, you old buzzard?
Chad. Frail though he might be in appearance, there was no mistaking the authority in Jerichos voice. Or the warning. Because I loved my brother dearly, Ive raised you like a son. But my patience is wearing thin. His tone said the discussion was over. I expect to see you and Lana both at dinner. Enjoy your game.
Tori snuck a peek over the top of her glasses. A stiff, tawny lock of hair had actually fallen out of place across Chads forehead. He smoothed it and his temper back into place as he faced his uncle.
I dont presume to take Daniels place in your heart, Uncle. But hes gone. I could run this business if youd give me a chance.
Jerichos eyes glazed over at the mention of Daniel. He did nothing to acknowledge that Chad had even spoken. Finally, accepting his uncles dismissal, Chad dipped his chin in a curt nod to her.
Victoria. Until dinner.
Tori and Paul watched him leave. She made a mental note to steer clear of family politics unless she could find a way to take advantage of it. She could ill afford to side with the wrong person too early in the game. The whole idea of undercover work was not to draw too much attention to herself. And she didnt want to alienate anyone in the household who might have the answers she needed.
Jer? Paul Merediths gentle prodding brought Jericho back from whatever distant place hed drifted off to.
The patriarch blinked, then grinned. Take off your glasses.
Excuse me? Tori turned to see the old man watching her intently from across the desk. Though curious at how quickly the confrontation with Chad had been forgotten, she complied, pulling off her reading glasses and folding them in her lap. She boldly returned his scrutiny, and he smiled.
Yes, I see the resemblance in the eyes. Sometimes its easier to remember what happened years ago than what happened yesterday. Jerichos voice wavered with a hint of his age and illness now. But I know those eyes. That deep, true green must be a strong Westin family trait. Though I must say they look prettier on you than they ever did on Frank.
I see some men are never too old to flirt. She smiled on cue as hed meant for her to, though it had been a long time since shed considered having more in common with her grandfather than a name. And she wasnt interested in exploring any family history. It was enough to know the two men had once done business with each other. Her smile never wavered. You know what would really impress me?
What?
Show me some of your etchings? The line might be trite, but it had the intended effect.
The old man laughed. You flatter me, girl.
Whatever was happening to his deteriorating mind and body wasnt affecting him now. He leaned on the desk and pushed himself to his feet. Paul Meredith was right there to support him, but Jericho waved him aside. If youd let an old man hold on to you, dear, Id love to show you some of my favorite pieces.
Toris pulse thrummed in anticipation as she tossed her bag over her shoulder and stood. Lax security. The distraction of a power struggle within the family. Approval from the boss.
The Divine Horseman was as good as hers.