Page 5 of Death and Desire

Templeton’s brow furrowed. “Your brother is probably still abed at this hour. When I was his age—”

He ceased speaking at the sound of boisterous conversation filtering in from the hallway.

Violet hid a smirk behind her teacup just as her brother, Isaac, and his best friend, David, entered the room. A year younger than her, at twenty-four, Isaac’s devil-may-care attitude often ruffled their father’s feathers, and David, who had been his stalwart companion since the age of five, held little sway in her father’s good graces. They received animated lectures about proper behavior at least once a week, and yet, the two ruffians were as thick as thieves and did as they pleased without question or repercussion.

That alone irritated her, but her father’s requirement for both of them to accompany Violet on this trip, acting as her escort and chaperone...well, that certainly left her rankled. However, if she wished to enjoy this adventure, she requiredbothof them to be amenable to her plan.

Violet sat back, remaining silent, watching her father’s irritation shift to resignation.

“How lovely for you to join us.” Templeton picked up his coffee cup and sipped the rich brew.

“Good morning, Father.” Isaac beamed and poured himself some tea.

“Sir,” David said with a respectful nod before sitting beside Isaac.

“This is a business trip, Violet.” Her father leaned close, ensuring everyone could hear him clearly. “I cannot indulge your every whim.”

“I never asked you to do so, Father.”

“Isaac and David will accompany you wherever you wish to go.” He gave both men a pointed stare. “If they fail in their duties, I will hire someone trustworthy to accompany you.”

“I don’t think that’s necessary. I’m—”

“Violet. You are my only daughter. If I cannot accompany you, I will ensure you are in safe hands.” His eyes sparkled as he drew her hand and pressed a kiss to the back of it. He smoothed a thumb over the jeweled bracelet, his gaze lost in memories. “Your mother would have loved this. Seeing your excitement about this trip.”

Sadness coiled around her heart, then softened into longing. “I wish she could have been here for this.” Violet glanced at her brother. “At least then I wouldn’t needthemto follow me like two guard dogs.”

“Cairo is beautiful and exotic. It’s popular among travelers, especially Europeans and Americans. There will be familiar comforts, but remember, my dear, you are a womananda foreigner in those lands. It is my duty to ensure you are properly protected.”

“I could encounter street thieves in Paris or London.” She squeezed his hand. “Danger is not exclusive to faraway lands.”

“While that may be true, I must ensure you’re safe regardless. If you wished to go to Paris or London, I would also require you to have a companion.”

“I’m a modern woman of twenty-five.” Violet nudged him gently. “I’m perfectly capable of traveling unaccompanied.”

“Will you not indulge me?” His expression shifted from humor to concern. “I would be unable to live with the guilt should something happen to you.”

“Nothing will happen to me.” She leaned against him. “I promise.”

“You will remain with Isaac and David and promise not to venture out on your own?” His soulful look made her heart twist.

“I promise.” She ignored a pang of guilt nagging at her conscience.

“Excellent.” He brightened with a wide smile. “Oh...I’ve had a call this morning from my business associate in Cairo.”

“Good news, I hope?”

“For you, certainly.” He winked. “My associate has a daughter around your age, and she’s agreed to join you.”

“How lovely.” Hope blossomed in Violet’s chest. At least she wouldn’t be subjected to Isaac and David’s company alone. “I look forward to making her acquaintance.”

“Remember your promise to behave.”

“I will, Papa.” She kissed his cheek again. “You needn’t worry about me.”

Beyond the door, the grandfather clock chimed the hour.

“I’m a parent, it’s my job to worry.” Templeton smiled, finished his coffee, and stood. “As for you two”—he pointed at David and Isaac—“I expect youbothto be on your best behavior during this trip. Do not make me regret this decision, or it will be the last indulgence either of you receive.”

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