Page 40 of Legacy of Succession

“Stop it,” I command and take his hand to stop him from tapping on the chair. He taps on my fingers instead. “This is stressing you. I made a promise to you and Mum. I'll always be there to help you and protect you from our father.”

“You were five years old. I don’t even remember the promise. I was three.”

“But I still made it,” I interrupt.

“What if you don’t succeed?”

“Then, I’ll die for the cause. I won’t allow another woman to go through this. Any children I may be lucky enough to have will choose their wives the conventional way. They'll go on dates and have their hearts’ broken.”

“Not heartbreak. Isn’t that what women have and demand ice cream for all the time?”

“It is, but I’d never say that to them.”

“Maybe I should ask Victoria if she want’s ice cream while she’s reading the diary?”

“William?” Because of his autism, my brother isn’t always aware of the social norms. “That’s not a good idea. You should probably stay away from her for a while. I’m not sure how she’ll react to the diary."

“Joke, brother. I miss you smiling at me. I know that she needs time alone. I don’t always understand everything, and I think that gazing at the stars is a lot easier than interacting with society. But, somehow, I have this built-in instinct when it comes to understanding women.”

“You need to share that with me, then.”

“You’re doing well. The diary was the right decision.”

There’s a knock on my door. William freezes.

“Who is it?”

“Mr. Hane, My Lord.”

My butler, thank god. “Come in.”

He enters and bows to us.

“Hello, Lord William.”

“Reggie.” My brother gets to his feet and, without an understanding of personal space, embraces my butler with warm affection.

“William put the man down.” I also get to my feet and pull my brother off.

“Sorry to disturb you. I’ve just had word from His Grace. He's to return home within the hour. He’s sent the call out to the society members. No more waiting. You’re all to be in the banqueting room for his return. The next trials will be happening then and there.”

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