Page 65 of A Dangerous Lord (Regency Spies & Secrets 3)

“That may be true, but Simon is not very clever. He has made some poor decisions these past few months,” his father revealed. “You have a keen intellect and always excelled in your studies. Your brother needs your help.”

“I will be happy to help him in any way that I can, but I will not quit my post at the Home Office.”

“And why is that?”

“I am happy there.”

His father ran a hand over his white hair. “I made some inquiries, and Lord Daniel Bradley informed me that you only hold a lowly position there.”

“That may be true, but—”

His father continued as if he hadn’t spoken. “Your monthly allowance is more than what you make in a whole year at the Home Office.”

“I don’t work at the Home Office for the money,” Corbyn said. “I am working there to keep England safe.”

“Yet you left the army?”

“I did.”

“Most men of your station make a career out of it, but you couldn’t be bothered to do so,” his father said. “Instead, you embarrassed this family by going to work at the Home Office, like some type of commoner.”

“I assure you that it is not a stain on our family’s legacy.”

“I disagree.”

Corbyn leaned back in his chair. “I did not come here to fight with you, Father.”

“No?” his father asked. “What did you think was going to happen?”

“Frankly, I hoped we could have a civil conversation.”

His father pursed his lips together. “I just don’t understand why you won’t do your duty to this family.”

Corbyn rose. “It might be best if I depart now.”

“Don’t go yet,” his father said hoarsely.

Corbyn slowly returned to his chair. “And why is that?”

“This may very well be the last time we speak to each other.”

“I hope not.”

“As do I, but I do want you to promise that you will look after your mother when I am gone.”

Corbyn nodded. “That is something I can promise, Father.”

“I am pleased to hear it, because marrying your mother was the only thing I did right in my life.”

“Is that so?”

“I have made some stupid choices over the years, but your mother has always remained by my side,” his father said. “Which is what I want for you.”

Corbyn frowned at the direction this conversation was heading. “I have no designs for matrimony at this time.”

“You need to change that.”

“I have yet to meet someone who has piqued my interest,” Corbyn lied. He held a fondness for Lady Jane, but he couldn’t very well admit that to his father.

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