Business

Maverick and Gordon walked side by side through the dimly lit hallway of the Duke of Blackwood's grand mansion in Nottingham. The heavy, ornate walls seemed to absorb their footsteps, leaving an air of hushed tension between them.

"How did you manage to arrange for Cavendish to meet me?" Maverick asked, breaking the silence. His voice was low, almost casual, but his sharp gaze flicked toward Gordon.

Gordon kept his eyes fixed straight ahead, his expression unreadable. "I didn't," he replied curtly. "It was Cavendish who requested you. He likely noticed you in the street the other day."

Maverick's steps faltered for the briefest moment, his expression unreadable. The words Russell had spoken the day before during their meeting echoed in his mind. He exhaled quietly, regaining his composure.

Gordon stopped abruptly and turned to face him. His tone dropped to a near whisper.