“Oh my god,” Lucien said as he sat back in his chair.
You need to go somewhere far, far away from here.
Alex was the only one who had seen him that night. The only one who had known just how wretched and broken he had felt.
“It was her. All this time.”
His father finally looked at him and gave a solemn nod. “I thought Miss Alexandra must have told you. That it was what brought you together.”
“No. She never said a thing.”
“I don’t think she intended to deceive you,” his father offered.
But Lucien just laughed. “Certainly not.”
He was willing to bet Alex had forgotten all about her generous act. And even if she hadn’t, she wouldn’t have told him, if only to keep him from feeling indebted to her.
“I’m sorry,” his father said. “I should have told you, but you know how she can be.”
Despite everything, Lucien’s lip curved at the thought of a younger Alex haranguing his father into submission.
“I’m sure she was rather terrifying,” he replied. “And yes, you should have told me.”
His father gave a sheepish nod. “Do you at least feel better now?”
Lucien laughed again at the hopeful look in his father’s eyes. “Perhaps a little,” he allowed.
About you, anyway.
“Then I should tell you that there is another reason why you shouldn’t worry so much about me.”
“Oh?” Lucien said drolly as he poured out another cup of tea. “And what is that?”
His father was suddenly unable to keep from smiling. “Mrs. Holloway and I are to be married.”
Lucien froze holding the teacup.Married.
“Are you upset?” his father asked, suddenly anxious.
Lucien considered the question and shook his head. “No. I’m not.”
“Good,” his father said, visibly relieved. “And you know, I will always love your mother.”
Lucien smiled. “Yes, Father. I know,” he answered honestly.
“Mrs. Holloway inherited a little cottage in Kent from an aunt. And we will live there once we both retire.”
“I’m glad.”
His father then cast him a look. “There is also a bedroom for you…”
“In case I remain a poor bachelor,” Lucien finished, attempting to make a joke that didn’t quite land.
“I only meant that there will always be a place in my home for you. No matter what. You are still very young, Lucien,” his father continued. “And you are smart and hard-working. You will achieve much in your life. I am sure of it.”
“Thank you, Father. I appreciate that.”
Now, if only he had that much faith in himself.
