Read Online The Daring Exploits of a Runaway Heiress by Victoria Alexander - Free Book Online Page A

matter was that they made an excellent team. And Phineas knew it.
    Now it appeared she had been setting to rights more than his receipts and records but this room and possibly the rest of his life as well. Interesting, as Phineas did not like change, and one did have to wonder why he was permitting it. In spite of his complaints about Miss West, if he didn’t want her around, she wouldn’t be. His old friend might well be smitten with the lovely blonde but, as Cam had never seen Phineas smitten with any woman, it was hard to tell. He would wager Phineas had no idea either.
    â€œOn a case, is she?”
    â€œNot exactly.” Phineas heaved a resigned sigh. “I was recently contacted by a client I have worked for in the past who wanted to hire me to keep a watch on an unmarried American heiress on her own here in London. Surveillance is one thing, but this was something else altogether. I am not a nursemaid nor do I have any intention of becoming one. However, the lady who approached me has been an excellent client in the past and has recommended my services on more than one occasion.”
    Cam grinned. “So you didn’t want to offend her by refusing this commission.”
    â€œAnd, as I am not an idiot, I didn’t.” Phineas smiled a slow, smug smile. “Nor did I accept it.”
    Cam raised a brow.
    â€œMy client had no interest in actually knowing the day-today activities of the American, she merely wanted to make certain the woman was kept from harm. I told her I would make a few inquiries to see if I could find someone willing to take the assignment.”
    â€œAnd?”
    â€œAnd it might have slipped my mind because, as it happened, she was also charged with arranging for a companion. I told Miss West about it and . . .”
    â€œAnd you’ve turned Miss West into a lady’s companion?” Cam stared.
    â€œTemporarily. The American is only expected to be in England for a few months. There is no one I know, and certainly no female, in whose hands she would be safer than Miss West’s. She is a woman who can take care of herself.” Phineas shuddered.
    â€œOh?” There was obviously much Cam didn’t know about his old friend and his new partner.
    Phineas ignored him. “It was Miss West’s idea actually, and I did think it was brilliant.”
    â€œBecause it removes her from your life?”
    â€œOnly briefly, but yes.” Phineas drew a deep breath. “Do you smell that?”
    â€œThere was a vague hint of garlic in the hallway when I arrived, which I assumed was coming from another flat.” Cam sniffed. “But no, I don’t smell anything out of the ordinary.”
    â€œThat, my friend, is the smell of freedom.” Phineas smirked. “Freedom from female interference.”
    Cam retook his seat. “If you find her that unpleasant, I daresay you could sever your association, tell her her services are no longer needed.”
    â€œI didn’t say she was unpleasant. Indeed, there are moments when she’s quite palatable. She is impressively efficient and she does have an excellent mind, you know.”
    â€œYes, you’ve mentioned that.”
    â€œShe has proven to be most beneficial. She has put all my records to rights, posted invoices to clients I had forgotten to bill, and she’s been a surprisingly great help in every case I’ve had since she invaded my life. No.” Phineas shook his head. “She is an asset I would be foolish to discard. However . . .” He smiled in satisfaction. “She began her employment with the American yesterday and I feel as if I am on holiday.”
    Cam chuckled. “For now.”
    â€œOne doesn’t need to be on holiday permanently. I would think that would be dreadfully dull after a time.”
    â€œYes, I suppose.”
    â€œBut for the moment, I shall revel in my newfound freedom and—” He straightened in his chair and