Love and Other Crimes

One More Letter

"So... How's marriage going? Just asking! There's no need for an answer!"

Henry smiled to Maxwell. He knew Maxwell was happy for him. After all those years he stood by his side, Maxwell was equal to family in his eyes.

He had told him he needed to speak to him. "In private." This worried Henry. He feared it had to do with his wife. And his siblings.

"It seems like Edith and Edward have changed their attitude towards Brigitte lately..."

"Yes... I can't say I'm convinced though."

"Smart you. You shouldn't."

"I feel you know something, Maxwell!"

Maxwell sighed. He had seen a lot throughout his tenure. After all those years, Henry would swear nothing could agitate Maxwell. But he was definitely agitated at this very moment.

"First of all, let me start with what you're already suspecting. The little ones are just afraid you will distance yourself from them after finding out about that meeting. But they won't give up, Henry! I'm afraid they're up to something!"

"I must find spouses for them! I can't think of any other solution!"

"Except for them... Have you heard from Sigmund lately?"

"No... Why?"

"Remember when I asked you to let me have the command of some people watching any strange correspondence in and out of the city? The..."

"Counter-spying policy! Of course! You know you needn't do that! I have faith in you!"

Maxwell breathed deeply. He never hesitated to say anything to Henry. This time however was different. Something was tormenting him.

"Speaking of faith... You should be more reluctant on that."

"And why is that?"

"We both know Edward and Edith are prejudiced against Brigitte. But... We are aware of a letter that secretly reached the city. We didn't succeed in getting the letter. But we're sure it existed. And it was coming from Redland. From the palace."

"Wait... What?"

"And I'm asking myself... Who's having a secret correspondence with the palace of Redland?"

For a while, just as long as a flash of lightning lasts, Henry thought someone slapped him with an iron hand. His chest ached as if punched.

"Maxwell, I thought..."

"I know! I've told you I believe she's a nice person. But a fact is a fact, Henry! I can't undo it or keep it secret from you! You know I would never do that!"

"Okay. Tell them to keep digging."

Henry went on with his daily duties. But his brain wouldn't cooperate. He wasn't capable of thinking anything. Maxwell's voice kept reverberating inside his head. He pretended to be busy for as long as possible and kept avoiding anyone.