A Mortal Bane(69)

He followed her, speechless for a moment—he had forgotten how beautiful she was. Then he said, “Since we are to work together to solve this murder, why do you not call me Bell, to which I am more accustomed.”

She glanced back over her shoulder with an enchanting smile. “Very well. I like it.”

“Even though you do not like to answer the ring? Have you ever thought of pulling the bell cord within so that the bell cannot be rung?”

She laughed. “Many times, I assure you, but I am running a business, not playing games when I choose. I cannot afford to turn away custom or to annoy clients who wish to be entertained at times other than their set appointments. The bishop favors my tenancy, but only while I pay my rent.”

When they were in the house, she gestured him toward the empty stools near the fire as she took her own place. Bell was aware of the weight of his purse against his thigh and he felt uncomfortable remembering how, after he promised himself he would not, he had gone to his chamber to get more money from his chest. He glanced at her, but she was looking intently at the strip of ribbon she was embroidering. He had the money. He could have her if he wanted her.

“You said you had news?” he asked hurriedly.

“Yes.” She looked up, seemed to make a decision and put aside the embroidery, clasping her hands in her lap. “Did you see the man who came in while you were in the stable?”

“Yes. I hope I was not supposed to look away. In fact, I know him.”

[page]“I thought you might because Master Andrew Buchuinte was justiciar of London until last year. More significant to our purpose, he was a friend of Messer Baldassare. He said they came from the same city in Italy and that it was to his house that Messer Baldassare went from his ship.”

“Baldassare only arrived on Wednesday, then?”

Magdalene nodded and repeated what Buchuinte had told her about Baldassare’s arriving late and having an appointment that very night. Bell listened quietly, stopping her only when she mentioned Baldassare’s traveling companion.

“Beaumeis. Yes, You mentioned him before. He is the one who sent Baldassare here, is he not?”

“As a joke. I am sure Baldassare did not come to visit a whorehouse. Beaumeis told him this was the Bishop of Winchester’s inn. I was very angry. It was as if Beaumeis wished to besmirch Winchester’s reputation. But I believe Baldassare came here because his meeting was set in the church. He did not say so, but he asked if there was a short way from this house to the church, and when I said there was, then he asked to stay the night.”

“Even if he had a meeting there, he would not be likely to tell a whore.”

Bell was sorry as soon as the words were out. He was angry at himself because his desire for Magdalene would not be stilled, but that was no reason to insult her when she had not invited insult. However, Magdalene did not flinch. Her brows drew together very slightly, but then she smiled.

“You might be surprised what men tell whores, especially those they trust—but you are right insofar as Messer Baldassare had no reason to trust me. And, if you remember, he did not even tell Buchuinte, a longtime friend, whom he was to meet or what he was carrying. No, he did tell Buchuinte he was going to the king.”

Bell nodded. “The pope must have sent a letter stating his decision about whether Stephen was rightfully king.”

“That was what Somer said.”

“Somer?”

“Somer de Loo. He is a captain under William of Ypres. He came unexpectedly, which was a piece of luck because Master Buchuinte was too upset after hearing of Baldassare’s death to wish to go to Ella. And you know Ella.” Magdalene grimaced and Bell could not help laughing.