Page 85 of The Infernal Battalion

“I understand. Just try.” Raesinia grinned. “You’re obviously not getting anywhere with Goodman, so you might as well do something productive.”

“Even if she can make some money,” Eric said, “where does that get us?”

“I’m not certain yet,” Raesinia said. “But the markets are Goodman’s game board, and it can’t hurt to have a few more pieces.” She looked back at Cora. “Is there a way to make sure what you’re doing can’t be traced back to us?”

“I can set up a trading company,” Cora said. “It won’t be bulletproof, but at least it won’t be obvious. We’ll need the structure if we’re taking on debt anyway.”

“Good. Get started building it, and I’ll figure out what we’re going to do with it when you’ve finished.”

“Got it.” Cora already looked energized. She snatched a last sandwich and beckoned to Eric. “Come on. I’m going to need you for some of the paperwork.”

*

When another invitation to dinner with the second prince arrived, Raesinia wasn’t sure whether she ought to accept. What decided her, in the end, was the thought of the food—​a second chance at Prince Matthew’s chef was too good to pass up. And now that I know what the game is, maybe I can get a better handle on what he thinks of it.

The prince opened the door to his suite himself, stepping out the way and bowing low as she came in. His suit was dark blue this time, subdued enough that it emphasized the startling light blue of his eyes. For her part, Raesinia had dressed carefully to avoid anything that could be considered flirtatious; the last thing she wanted was to give the impression that she was falling for the second prince’s charms. Her dress was high-​necked and sober, with a minimum of jewelry.

“Your Highness,” Matthew said. “Thank you for coming.”

“Prince Matthew.” Raesinia tried a tentative smile. “Given the quality of the food, I’m afraid I couldn’t resist.”

“Arnat is a wonder, isn’t he?”

The prince shut the door and gestured her toward the hearth, where there were two of the heavy claw-​footed chairs that infested the Keep. The big table was set for two, Raesinia saw, but there were no servants in evidence, or even any Life Guards. The suite felt deserted. Her eyes narrowed. He wouldn’t think of trying anything, would he? Even a prince can’t be that stupid.

A table between the two chairs held a bottle of wine and a pair of glasses. Prince Matthew poured while Raesinia sat, welcoming the warmth of the crackling fire. She took the wineglass when he offered and sipped politely. Matthew took a long drink and sank into his chair.

“Is something wrong?” Raesinia said.

“No, not really. I just wanted a chance to talk in private before we eat.” He looked over his shoulder at the silent dining room. “Your Highness, I owe you an apology.”

“For what?”

“For the way I treated you last time.”

“You were—”

“I was deliberately rude, dull, and boorish.” He sighed. “You didn’t deserve any of it, and I want you to know that I’m sorry.”

“Well.” Raesinia looked down into her glass for a moment, thinking hard. “Apology accepted, provided you tell me why.”

“I was... irritated at my father’s scheming, and I took it out on you.” He ran one hand through his hair. “I should have understood that you didn’t ask for this, either.”

“You know about the offer he made me, then.”

He nodded. “From what I heard, you had no idea what he intended.”

“You thought I did?”

“I’ve known of Father’s intentions for some time,” Matthew said. “When I heard you were coming to the Keep, I thought it had all been arranged in advance.”

“I assure you I had no thoughts along those lines,” Raesinia said, a little stiffly. “My goal is to secure your father’s help against Janus.”

“I know.” He sighed again. “I suspect I’ve made rather a mess of things.”

“I take it,” Raesinia said, “that you’re not enthusiastic about this marriage plan.”

Matthew shook his head. “No offense intended, Your Highness. But I had hoped to marry someone I’ve known for more than a few hours.”