“As are you.”
“I am nothing like you.”
His father chuckled. “You and I are more alike than you realize,” he said. “I was the second son as well. I lived my life the way I wanted to, but it all changed when my older brother died. I was forced to grow up, just as you will.”
“I am doing just fine as I am.”
“I used to say that, but the relentless work of running various estates takes a toll on you,” his father said. “Fortunately, I had Abigail as a companion, and she helped me. I am afraid that I am lost without her.”
“You aren’t lost. You are just grieving.”
His father’s back grew rigid. “Do not tell me what I am doing,” he shouted. “You have no idea what I have given up for you.”
Greydon put his hand up. “Forgive me, Father, but I did not mean to sound insensitive.”
“You should be more grateful for what you have been given,” his father said. “With Phineas’ death, you are a wealthy man now.”
“I would rather have my brother here.”
“Why, so you could ignore him?” his father asked. “Do not think for one second that I wasn’t aware that your relationship with Phineas was strained.”
“We were still brothers.”
His father took a sip of his drink. “Yet you are trying to let his murderer go free,” his father said. “Sir David told me that you are investigating the case.”
“I am.”
“Why would you do something so foolish?” his father demanded.
Greydon rose from his chair. “I am not entirely convinced that Lady Eugenie murdered Phineas.”
“Are you mad?” his father asked.
“No, I am quite sane.”
His father harrumphed. “You are determined to bring ruination down upon this family. We will be made a laughingstock if anyone discovers you worked as a Bow Street Runner.”
“No one will find out.”
“You are naïve and foolish,” his father declared. “Why can you not just behave within the bounds of propriety?”
“Where is the fun in that?” Greydon smirked.
His father waved his hand in front of him. “Leave me,” he ordered. “I have had just about enough of you.”
Greydon performed an exaggerated bow. “As you wish, Father.”
His father pursed his lips together. “There will be a day of reckoning for you and I hope I am there to see it.”
“I shall see you for supper.” Greydon turned on his heel and exited the study. He knew no good would come in continuing his conversation with his father.
ChapterThirteen
Greydon had just started to descend the stairs when a knock came at the main door. The butler crossed the entry hall and opened the door wide, revealing Helena and her husband, the Earl of Darlington.
Helena stepped inside and smiled up at him. “Good evening, Brother,” she greeted.
Greydon approached his sister and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “Sister.” He turned his attention towards his brother-in-law. “Darlington.”
