Page 63 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“Bah,” Simon said. “You will never accomplish anything working as a lowly employee.”

“I disagree.”

Simon was about to object when his mother interjected, “Boys, please. I would prefer if you didn’t fight right now.”

“As you wish,” Simon muttered, returning his attention back to the newspaper.

Silence descended over them as Corbyn ate. As he wiped the sides of his mouth with a napkin, his mother asked, “Are you ready to go speak to your father?”

“I suppose I am.”

His mother rose, and he promptly followed suit. “I am so glad you came,” she said, “and I have no doubt that your father will be happy to see you.”

“Frankly, I doubt it, Mother,” he replied. “We have been at odds with each other for quite some time now.”

“But you must forgive each other before it is too late,” she pressed.

Simon huffed. “I don’t see Father forgiving Evan anytime soon for what he has done.”

His mother shot Simon a frustrated look. “It’s different now that your father recognizes he doesn’t have much time left.”

“Is it?” Simon questioned. “If anything, Father has become more set in his ways.”

Corbyn tugged down on his grey jacket. “Regardless, I have come to speak to him.”

“Which I am most grateful for,” his mother declared. “I’ll walk with you to his bedchamber.”

He offered his arm to his mother and led her from the parlor. As they stepped into the hall, his mother lowered her voice. “I wouldn’t give Simon’s words any heed.”

“Why is that?”

“He is under tremendous pressure right now managing the duchy,” she shared.

“I can imagine.”

“All the more reason for you to return home and help him with all his properties and investments.”

“I’m sorry, but that isn’t likely to happen.”

Her voice grew soft, resigned. “I’m afraid I don’t understand your reasons, but I must come to accept them.”

“Thank you, Mother.” They started walking up the stairs. “May I ask where Catherine is?”

“She takes a tray in her room every morning.” His mother glanced over her shoulder. “Sadly, Catherine and Simon hardly spend any time together.”

“Is that so?” Corbyn asked.

“Catherine feels immense guilt for not being able to give Simon an heir, and Simon has started spending more time with his mistress across Town.”

Corbyn frowned. “Have you spoken to Simon about his disreputable behavior?”

“I’ve tried, but he doesn’t see his actions as disreputable.”

“How could he not?”

She pressed her lips together. “I daresay your father has had his share of mistresses over the years.”

“That doesn’t make it right, Mother.”

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