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Leon nodded.“Privately and with a more academic approach.When he met Whitley at an international symposium three years ago, they discovered their shared interest.”

The waiter arrived with their first course—a delicate arrangement of smoked salmon and capers for Evander, escargot for Leon.Neither man seemed particularly interested in the food before them.

“If someone learned of their research and believed it could be put into practice—” Evander began.

“They would need both professors’ expertise,” Leon finished, his expression grave.“Which means they may still be alive.”

“And Thornfield?”

“Perhaps he stumbled upon something he shouldn’t have,” Leon proposed.

Evander absorbed this information in silence, his mind racing.If dark mages had discovered a way to transfer magical abilities, it would explain their recent boldness.

“Leon,” he said at last, “why didn’t you share this information earlier?At Scotland Yard or at the Institute?”

A flicker of discomfort crossed the Frenchman’s handsome features.“The walls have ears, mon cher.And this information is sensitive.To the point where I technically shouldn’t be sharing it with you.”

Evander stiffened and narrowed his eyes.“Please tell me you did not just disclose a state secret to me?”

Leon’s thin smile almost had him groaning.

“There are those in our Ministry who would prefer Chevalier’s past remain buried,” the Frenchman said evasively.

“And yet you’re telling me about it anyway.”

Leon’s gaze softened.“Because I trust you, Evander.I always have.”He reached across the table, his fingers brushing against Evander’s knuckles.“Despite everything that happened between us, that never changed.”

Evander withdrew his hand.“That was a long time ago, Leon.”

“Was it?”Leon’s voice was gentle.“Six years is nothing in the span of a lifetime.And now fate has brought us together again.”He smiled, a hint of his old mischief returning.“You must admit, we still work well together.The way we handled those shadow creatures was rather impressive, was it not?”

Before Evander could formulate a response that would discourage Leon’s evident desire to rekindle what they had once shared, he caught sight of a familiar broad-shouldered figure being escorted through the dining room by the maître d’hôtel past the screen protecting the alcove.His eyes widened, his pulse skipping a beat as he stared at the man crossing the restaurant.

Leon followed his gaze.

Viggo struck a magnificent sight in formal evening attire as he strode across the restaurant.His dark suit emphasised his powerful build, his crisp white shirt showcased the wide expanse of his chest, and his silk cravat highlighted his tanned skin.Evander recognised the outfit as one he’d chosen himself from Blackthorne & Sons.

Despite the elegant clothing, there was something untamed about the Brute.A raw, elemental power that seemed at odds with the refined setting.It drew the rapt stares of fellow diners and made Evander’s breath catch.

Viggo’s dark eyes scanned the room and settled on him with an intensity that was almost physical.Evander noted the tension in his lover’s jaw and immediately knew something was wrong.

“Who is that man?”Leon asked curiously.

Evander swallowed.“That’s Viggo Stonewall.”

“Ah.”Leon’s expression cooled perceptibly.“The infamous Ironfist Brute.”

Viggo reached their table.He waited until the maître d’hôtel excused himself before addressing Evander.

“Your Grace.”His deep voice betrayed little emotion.His gaze shifted to Leon, assessing the Frenchman with a single sweep of his dark eyes.

Evander rose from his seat, his heart racing a little at this unexpected meeting.“How did you know we were here?I sent a message?—”

“Hargrove told me where to find you,” Viggo explained, his tone clipped.“We need to talk.It’s urgent.”He glanced dismissively at Leon.

The Frenchman stood and extended his hand with a polite smile that didn’t quite reach his eyes.“Comte Leon Beaulieu.Special Arcane Investigator for the Paris authorities.A pleasure to meet you, Monsieur Stonewall.I’ve heard so much about you.”

Viggo regarded the offered hand for a moment before taking it.Evander could see the barely restrained strength in his lover’s grip.