Page 52 of A Father's Insistence

“Arthur Hamilton, former Viscount. I, Victoria Cavendish, Duchess of Oakfield and founding member of the new society of Oakfield find you guilty of offenses against our charter including the rape and murder of Elsie Bennett.” Victoria points her weapon at our father.

“Arthur Hamilton, former Viscount. I, Tamara Cavendish, Countess of Lullington and founding member of the new society of Oakfield pass sentence of death upon you for offenses against our charter.” Tamara follows suit.

Finally, Joanna steps up and points her weapon at my father.

“Arthur Hamilton, former Viscount. I, Joanna Hamilton, Countess of Linton and founding member of the new society of Oakfield strip you of your name and power by acting as your executioner.”

Three guns fire and hit their target. My father slumps down to the ground—dead. Each woman places the gun down on the floor and walks over to their respective partner. Joanna nestles into my chest.

“Can we go home, now?”

I bring my lips to hers.

“Yes.”

As we all leave the room, I turn around and take a final look at the man who I worshipped for most of my life. It’ll take a long while to absorb everything that has happened over the last few weeks, but with my loving wife at my side, I know that what she said about us growing gray and old together won’t just be a dream. It’ll be a reality, and a new Oakfield will emerge with me, Joanna, Nicholas, Victoria, William, and Tamara at the helm. A place of sanctuary, not violence. The past is dead. Long live the future.

---