“I had an issue arise with Simone and I was hoping for Mr. Morrish’s expertise on the matter,” Caleb said, rising. “If you will excuse me, I will return shortly.”
Caleb left the dining room, making his way towards the study located at the rear of the townhouse. Upon entering, he saw Mr. Morrish was standing near the hearth. The solicitor was tall, thin, and had a head full of white hair. His sharp eyes held a keen intelligence as they focused on Caleb’s entrance.
“Mr. Morrish,” Caleb greeted. “Thank you for coming so quickly.”
“Your note said that it was urgent,” Mr. Morrish said, adjusting the rounded spectacles on his nose.
Caleb walked over to the desk and retrieved Simone’s file. “I need your advice on something,” he said. “My fiancée, Miss Simone Delacourt, has found herself in an unusual spot.”
“I hadn’t realized you were engaged, sir,” Mr. Morrish stated. “Congratulations are in order.”
“It is a recent development.” Caleb retrieved the will and extended it towards Mr. Morrish. “Miss Delacourt came across this will and needs help to ensure her grandmother’s wishes are honored.”
Mr. Morrish studied the will for a long moment. “Everything appears to be in order. What is the problem?”
“Her father did not tell her about her inheritance and tried to claim it for himself,” Caleb said.
“Is your fiancée of age?”
Caleb nodded. “She is, and I do believe her father’s intentions were dishonorable,” he replied.
Mr. Morrish’s eyes held understanding. “With your permission, I will take this will to probate court and we will get this figured out,” he said. “I see no reason why the judge won’t decide in Miss Delacourt’s favor.”
“That is what we are hoping for,” Caleb responded.
The solicitor pulled out his pocket watch. “I will go to court at once, but I should warn you that it could take a few weeks until the judge hears the case.”
“That is not unexpected,” Caleb said. “I would ask that you use discretion in this matter, considering Miss Delacourt stands to inherit a large estate.”
Mr. Morrish bowed. “Yes, sir. I would have it no other way.”
“Thank you,” Caleb said.
After the solicitor walked out of the study, it was only a moment later before Anette stepped into the room.
“Have you recovered?” she asked.
“From what?”
Anette grinned. “Mother’s inquisition,” she said.
Caleb returned his sister’s smile. “I do not think Mother can help herself,” he said. “I just hope she will let Simone have a say.”
Anette approached the desk and sat down. “I am happy for you, Brother. Simone is a good choice and will make a fine addition to this family.”
“You are just saying that because you think she is a spy.”
“Isn’t she?”
Caleb shook his head. “I won’t ever say,” he said.
Anette tilted her head, scrutinizing him for a prolonged moment. “I thought you were against marriage,” she remarked. “Which makes all of this so much more confusing.”
“Am I not allowed to change my mind?”
“You are,” Anette replied. “Once we are both wed, I fear that Mother won’t have a purpose anymore.”
“But she will. It will be her grandchildren.”
