Page 89 of The Theory of Earls (The Beautiful Barringtons 1)

Tony rubbed at the sharp sting over his heart as he glared back at his brother. “You don’t understand.”

Leo slammed his fist on the table. “I understand your hatred of the duke. He’s a selfish prick. A terrible human being. He’s done questionable things.”

Much like I have.

“You are punishingMaggie, not him.Sheis paying the price for your arrogance.”

Just as my mother did.

Tony took a deep, painful breath at the realization, seeing far too many comparisons between himself and his father. Or at least the arrogant man the Duke of Averell had been.

“That you would be soselfishas to suggest such a despicable thing simply because your scheme against the duke might be infringed upon? Especially given you rut after her like a dog in heat?” Leo sneered at Tony in contempt. “You are becoming the very thing you hate.”

Tony gripped his fork, resisting the urge to stab his brother with it. He didn’t care to have Leo come to the same conclusion as Tony had a moment ago. “Enough, Leo,” he snarled. “I take your point. I was angry and lost my temper. I didn’t mean it. Idon’tmean it.”

Leo calmed somewhat. “Maggie willnotcome home to you and I don’t blame her. She is angry and hurt. If you decide to fetch her—”

“I have every intention of doing so.”

“You should wait a week or two and then beg her forgiveness. She’s very upset and doesn’t want to see you at present. I hope you won’t be foolish, Tony. I’ve no desire to see you become one of those jaded rakes who skirts around the edges of ballrooms ogling the young ladies before returning home to their empty houses.” His brother stood and placed his napkin on the table. “I’m sure you can imagine where she is.”

Tony sat back as Leo left the breakfast room, slamming the door behind him. He knew exactly where Maggie had gone, damn her. The one place he’d avoided for years. The last time he’d visited Tony had vowed never to return.

Cherry Hill.

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