Page 83 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“May I ask what you two were discussing?”

“Why do you ask?”

“Because you failed to notice me approaching,” Baldwin pointed out, “which is surprising, since I don’t think anyone has ever snuck up on you before.”

“If you must know, we were discussing my family,” Corbyn revealed, “but more specifically, my father.”

Some of the anger dissipated from Baldwin’s expression at his words. “How is your father?”

“I’m afraid that he is growing weaker every single day in body, but his mind is still sharp.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Because on my last visit, he spent his time lecturing me on how I should help Simon run the duchy.”

“I see,” Baldwin said as he dropped his arms to his sides.

Corbyn walked over to the drink cart and picked up the decanter. “He is worried that Simon won’t do a proper job running the duchy on his own.”

“What did you say?”

“I told him that I was happy working at the Home Office.”

Baldwin eyed him curiously. “Have you considered telling your father the truth about what you do?”

Corbyn removed the stopper, then said, “You want me to inform my father that I run an agency that doesn’t truly exist under the Alien Office.”

“Yes, and that you are responsible for all the agents of the Crown.”

“I won’t do that.”

“Why not?” Baldwin asked. “It might bring him some solace before he passes on.”

“I don’t think it would make a difference.”

“No?” Baldwin asked. “Your duty lies with King and country.”

Corbyn poured brandy into two glasses. “My father only seems to care about himself and his legacy.”

Baldwin walked over to the drink cart and picked up one of the glasses. “I think you might have underestimated your father.”

“Or you have overestimated him,” Corbyn countered.

“Despite that, you don’t have any intention of quitting, do you?”

Corbyn shook his head. “I will continue to run this agency until I am relieved of my duty,” he said. “Which could be sooner rather than later.”

“Why do you say that?”

“Lord Daniel came to speak to me.”

“He did?”

Corbyn took a sip of his drink. “He was furious that our building was compromised, and he wanted to know if we had any leads.”

“Do you?”

“That is a ticklish question,” Corbyn remarked, walking over to the settee, “but I do believe we have a suspect.”

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