Just then a younger man stepped into view. He was tall but his resemblance to Eugene made Val think he might be his son.
“Mr. LeVeq. Your cigars are ready.”
“Thank you, Quentin. This is Miss Lacy. She’d like to speak with Dina.”
“Of course. Just a moment.”
Eugene glared but Quentin stepped back through the curtain. Dina was with him when he returned.
Her dark eyes widened. “Miss Lacy? How are you?”
“I’m well.”
She eyed Drake for a long moment then said to Val, “Quent said you wanted to speak to me?”
Val noted the softness in Quentin’s gaze as he watched Dina, and the displeasure on the face of Eugene. Having no idea what it meant, she set it aside and told Dina about the school.
“Oh no. I’ve been looking forward to learning to read better.”
“I know and I’m sorry, but it’s out of my hands.”
Her disappointment was plain.
Quentin said, “I’ll help you.”
Eugene snapped, “You don’t have time.”
“I’ll find the time,” he replied, eyes still on Dina. “It’s important that she learn to read.”
His soft voice matched his expression.
Dina gave him a smile. “That’s very kind of you, Quent, but I don’t want your father upset with you. He believes a woman like me is only good for sweeping floors, and has no business trying to better herself.”
Eugene turned beet red.
Dina turned to Val. “Miss Lacy, thanks for coming by. Please let me know if you start another class.” She added pointedly, “I have floors to sweep.” She disappeared into the back.
Quentin glared at his father before telling Drake, “I’ll get your cigars.”
Drake nodded.
Quentin followed Dina.
Val, simmering over Dina’s take on the situation, said as calmly as she could, “Mr. Bascom, please forgive me for asking what may sound rude, but do you really believe Dina shouldn’t learn to read?”
His face hardened. “That’s none of your concern.”
The response made her want to throw up her hands. She turned to Drake, who said, “I’m sure that isn’t what Eugene believes, Valinda, because if he did, the House of LeVeq and its many associates would have to take their business elsewhere.”
Bascom’s once-angry eyes widened with alarm.
Drake continued, “He’ll allow Quentin to assist Dina until she finds another classroom, won’t you, Bascom?”
Eugene Bascom nodded so forcefully, Val swore his hairline receded another inch.
Eyes still pinned to the now-quaking shop owner, Drake gave him a cold smile. “Good. I’ll check on Miss Watson’s progress the next time I visit. How’s that sound, Eugene?”
“That’s fine. Very fine.”