Chapter Twenty
AMSTERDAM, 1622
Clara knocked on Nico’s door, seeing the flicker of light showing beneath. On his murmur to enter, she stepped inside, closing it behind her. The fire was ablaze and candles were plentiful, illuminating the walnut linen chests and cabinets and his bed hung with dark green velvet.
He was writing at his desk and turned to her unsmiling, his eyes dark pools reflecting candle flames. ‘How is she?’
‘Sleeping. Meg’s with her. How can this have happened to her, Nico?’ She moved to him, placing her hands upon his shoulders. ‘Now, I’m worried for you. We know Talis has been Fabritius’s creature in the past. Is he implicated in this? Might he come after you?’
He sighed. ‘Isn’t that’s a little fanciful, Pet? I’m sure Talis is perfectly capable of such a vile act wi
