Page 75 of An Irish Kiss
“Illness, death in the family, misadventure.It could have resulted from all manner of things.”
“I still can’t believe it.”
“Well, in my time of researching estate law I have come across a number of interesting things in history.Not all those who were granted land were appreciative.Some viewed it as a bit of a slap in the face, considering they felt it was stolen from them in the first place.I recall one instance where the MacCarthys, who were owners of a castle, sent a messenger with a cradle to their wardens, the O’Connells, as a sign they should foster a MacCarthy child.The O’Connell’s response was to send back the cradle with the head of the messenger inside.”
Aidan’s jaw dropped.“That’s awful.”
“That’s an extreme example of how some did not consider the patronage of others to be a boon.”
He remembered Rory saying something similar once.How she didn’t like the feeling of being patronised or looked down upon.He could understand afresh how obligation could rankle.He felt the same with his firm.Initially, he’d been grateful to have been given the opportunity to find employment, before soon realising that it was a golden noose of obligation around his neck.Perhaps that was how Thomas Quinn had felt too.
“Is there any way we could find out why Thomas didn’t go?Would there be diaries or letters?”
Siobhan sighed.“I would not want to give you false hope.We’re talking centuries ago, and it would be extremely unlikely, I’m afraid.”
“So you think it’s best to give up, once and for all.”
She eyed him.“I could tell you that I could keep searching, but I don’t think it would be ethical, as in my opinion, you will not be able to find out what was wrong.”
Huh.An ethical law firm.Fancy that.His lips curved.
“I’m glad you seem to be taking this news well.”
“Oh, it’s not that.I just appreciate you being upfront with me about the likelihood of success.Or not.”
“We are not in the business of bleeding our clients when it is apparent they cannot win.”
“If only all law firms were the same.”
Siobhan arched a brow.“I know you have legal expertise.Has this not been your experience?”
“Treating others as I would hope to be treated has always been my personal goal, and one I endeavour to exhibit professionally.But unfortunately it’s not always been my experience with those I have worked with.”
She half-smiled.“That was part of the reason my partners and I began this practice.We’re driven by honesty and integrity, and wanting to make a real difference in the world.”
He nodded, sharing a little about his own work with sufferers of domestic violence.
“That’s exactly the kind of work we wish to support.It’s a scourge in society, all across the world.”She gave him her card.“If ever you find yourself back in Ireland and in need of a job, you should call me.We’d be more than happy to help you do the things one needs to transfer qualifications so you can practice here.”
“Really?”
“Haven’t I just made it clear that we don’t mislead or lie to our clients?”She smiled.
“I don’t know what to say.Except thank you.”
She nodded.“We’re always on the lookout for those who align with our values.Please keep in touch, in case there’s a job opening here.”
“I’ll certainly do that.”
He exited, then went and sat in a café, toying with Siobhan’s business card as he sipped his coffee.Siobhan had just provided an option he’d barely dared contemplate.Could he one day move here?Be closer to Rory and her family?He didn’t want to think about it too much, as it would inevitably have meant the loss of the woman who had been a mother figure to him nearly all his life.But it did fuel hope that perhaps one day he might find a way forward.If he and Rory were still together, that was.
His thoughts dipped.He knew that she’d be excited.She’d sent a message asking for him to call, and she probably even right now was wanting to call him, but hesitating.And to be honest, he probably needed a few more minutes to not let his disappointment show.
Lord, if this is the end of the line for Gran’s quest, then that’s okay.But please help me have grace so it’s not the end of the line with Rory, too.
He finished his coffee and exited outside, to a seat in a park where he could see Ross Castle rising in the distance.
Castles.History.People.Life.It seemed so strange that some castles stood the test of time while others faded into obscurity.Those with money, those with connections always seemed to topple the little guy.He’d seen it countless times before in his work, and now here, on the other side of the world, he’d seen it happen again.
