Page 6 of If the Shoe Fits (Rainbow Tales #2)

“Sire, we don't keep records of servants,” Helpin said. “The manor you described is owned by Lady Patricia Vesmalden, widow of the late Duke Vesmalden. She has two sons from a previous marriage—Hubben and Elmer Vesmalden.”

“They took their stepfather's name?” Leo frowned at his primary manservant.

“That's not unheard of, Sire. The old Duke was said to be very kind.”

“So he adopted them?”

“Well, I assume so.” Helpin flipped through the papers he held. “Oh. Perhaps not. I see no records of adoption. They took the name out of respect.”

“For their stepfather?”

“For his title, I imagine.” Helpin grimaced. “Their father had none. Legally, their surname is Kluss.”

“Kluss?”

“Yes, Your Highness.”

“What else? I want to know about Xander.”

“As I said, Sire. We don't keep records of servants. They are employees, not nobility.”

“If you don't have a record of him, go down to that estate and investigate, Helpin.” Leo pointed toward the parlor door. “I want to know why he's treated so badly.”

“He's a servant, Your Highness. They aren't all treated as well as you treat us.”

“A servant can leave if they get abused. Xander is hale. Powerful. He could leave and be hired anywhere. He doesn't have to stay. So why does he?”

“I don't know, Prince Leovar. I'm sorry.”

“Helpin, I know you don't know. My command is that you find out !”

“But I don't have a reason to interrogate a duchess about her servants, Sire. I need a reason.”

“Your reason is your prince commands it.”

“Even a prince cannot treat a lady of the nobility thusly without cause.”

“Fine,” Leo growled. “Then don't go to her directly. Be subtle. Send someone to spy on the household and learn everything they can about the big blond man named Xander.” He paused, then added, “Or Asher. His name could be either. Tell them to find out everything they can and then report back. Can you do that?”

“A spy?” Helpin grinned. “Why, of course, Your Highness. You know I can be discreet. I know just the man to send.”

Leo sighed. “Thank you, Helpin. This is very important to me.”

Helpin's smile softened. “I see that, Your Highness. Don't worry. If there's anything of interest to find, my spy will find it.”