“You’re no fool, Cat; just trusting. You thought he’d be a decent guy, when he’s nothing more than an arse.” Anger bubbled up inside him, that James could make her second-guess herself, and that he’d treat her so poorly. It made him want to protect her from such as ass, from being hurt. “You said he’s not capable of violence, and yet he’s obviously capable of deception and going through your computer files.”
“I know. I just can’t think of him as violent.”
“Well, I can. He obviously cares for nothing but what will benefit him and him alone. And how did he get access to your office? I can’t imagine you’d leave yer door unlocked.”
“What does it matter?”
Annoyance crept into his voice. “It matters because I need to know exactly how far he’ll go. If he stole your keys and had copies made, then that’s a wee bit different to finding your door open—though not by much. If he went to those lengths for a bloody research paper, then just think what he’d do to get his hands on a priceless piece like the Hope.”
“You’re right.” She closed her eyes, her brow furrowed with worry. “And the worst part is, if it was him snooping around, then he probably saw all the paintings we’ve pulled out and will know we’re up to something.”
“Then our only option is to find the necklace before James has a chance to act.”
Chapter Seven
Cat ignored her nerves as Iain introduced her to his brother, Malcolm. “It’s a pleasure.”
There were definite similarities in the men’s looks. Both were tall and good-looking, with dark wavy hair, and those intelligent blue eyes. Yet Malcolm seemed to have a completely different air about him, as if he didn’t have a care in the world when in the presence of anyone female.
“The pleasure’s mine.” He shook her hand with a curious smile and a glint in his eyes, his touch lingering a second longer than one would expect. “Iain’s girlfriend? I hadn’t realized.”
Even though Malcolm lived in Edinburgh, they’d decided it’d be best to keep up the charade of being in a relationship, in case Malcolm spoke with anyone from town. Even if James figured out they weren’t truly a couple, it’d still be best to keep up appearances, so others wouldn’t start to suspect her true motivation for being in town.
“It’s been a bit of a long-distance thing.” Iain wrapped an arm around her shoulder, his eyes lingering on hers to reinforce their lie. “We’ll not stay long, but I appreciate you taking Da on such short notice.”
Malcolm gave his father a smile and put a hand on the old man’s shoulder. “Anytime. The two of us will find plenty to keep us entertained and busy. Won’t get into too much trouble, will we, Da?”
Iain’s smile turned stiff, though it was only for a second. “Can I speak to ye a moment?”
Without waiting for an answer Iain walked into another room, waited for Malcolm to join him, and then shut the door.
“Dinnae fash yourself, girl.” Callum patted her arm, before taking a seat. “They’ve ne’er quite seen eye to eye, and Iain, being the oldest, has always taken it upon himself to care for everything and everyone.”
She’d noticed. Cat still thought Iain was being a bit paranoid about James, especially going to the extent of having his father stay with his brother. Still, better safe than sorry. He was right about people going to extreme measures when there was fame and fortune to gain.
“Well, I hope I’ll get to see you again before I leave Dunmuir. I’ve yet to hear any of your stories.”
“Och well, Iain probably knows them better than I do at this point.” He laughed, his blue eyes kind and keen. “And don’t let his gruff exterior get to you—he’s a lamb underneath it all. But I think you already knew that. He’s used to getting his way, so don’t go letting him push you around. Put him in his place if you see fit.”
Before she could say anything, the door opened and the brothers joined them. The air in the room suddenly felt charged with tension. Iain turned to his father. “Like we discussed. And if you need anything at all, you have my number.”
“Aye, son. Take care.”
“Will do, Da.” Iain then turned a harsh gaze on his brother. “I’ll be in touch.”
They headed out the door and down the stairs, his walk brisk and his stride long.
She picked up her pace to keep up with him. “I don’t suppose you want to tell me what that was about?”
“Ye supposed right.” Again, his lilt kicked up with his anger. “This isn’t a real relationship, Cat.”