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Gerard’s face pinched. “You and Ihaveknown each other our whole lives. Yet you trust her over me?”
“I never said that. It does not have to be one or the other.”
“A simple infatuation has won you over, Thomas.”
“It’s not merely infatuation.” The words were out of Thomas’ mouth before he could stop them.
Gerard’s eyebrows shot up. “So, it’s love, then?”
Thomas nearly choked on his response. His first instinct was to deny it. He was fond of Lady Evelina, certainly, and their connection was undeniable. But love? Did he even believe such a thing was possible, after so few meetings?
But to deny his growing feelings outright—
Thomas couldn’t do it.
“I’m not certain,” Thomas said, as honestly as he could. “Yet the more time Lady Evelina and I spend together, the more I suspect that is the case.”
Gerard sat back. He looked deep in thought, and more than a little frustrated. Thomas fought the urge to fiddle his thumbs together, anxious over his brother’s reaction. Surely, Gerard would find it in his heart to support Thomas in this matter? Not only was the mystery of their father’s death hanging in the balance, but Thomas’ potential future.
“Very well,” said Gerard at last. “This afternoon I shall gather up all of the records from our dealings with the Duke of Alderleaf in the days leading up to Father’s death. We shall go over them together,” his eyes grew sharp, “on one condition.”
“What is that?”
“You must stay away from Lady Evelina until you and I have the opportunity to fully dissect these records. It is not that I distrust you, Thomas; I merely hope that you shall trust me in my insistence that it is wise to exercise patience in this matter.”
Thomas wanted to protest, but this was a condition he could agree to. It was only for a short amount of time, after all. “And then we shall go together to speak to the Duke of Alderleaf, and get this resolved?”
“Istill believe the Duke of Alderleaf was behind Father’s death.”
“Then if the records give us cause to believe it was a misunderstanding, as Lady Evelina believes. We shall go then?”
Gerard sighed and got to his feet. He offered Thomas a hand up as well. “Depending on what we find in the records, we shall either speak with the Duke of Alderleaf in person, or seek out the assistance of the Constable. Either way, like you, I mean to have this matter resolved.”
