"That's nae proof," objected a short, balding man, grinning mischievously. "He didna offer her any coin. No woman would take on someone like Rupert without a substantial payment—in advance," he added, causing his companions to erupt in laughter. Dougal silenced the raucousness with an abrupt gesture, then nodded toward the door. The balding man, still chuckling, obediently disappeared into the darkness.