Page 25 of Devoted to the Duke (The St. Clairs 1)

“I’ve ordered the pine coffin. Stephen is laid out in the dining room for those who wish to come and pay their respects before we leave for Eversleigh. Simmons prepared him. I’ve ordered lilies, of course.”

He knew both the fresh-cut pine and the flowers would cover the smell of the body’s deterioration.

“When should we leave for Eversleigh?” he asked.

“The day after tomorrow. That will give anyone in town who wishes a chance to view him to do so either today or tomorrow.”

“We’ll need to meet with his solicitor when we return to town,” he noted. “I’ve hired Matthew Proctor as my secretary to help me wade through everything.”

Cor nodded. “A wise choice.” She took his hand, sadness blanketing her. “We must talk, even before you see the St. Clair solicitor or speak to any of the estate managers.”

“What is it, Cor?” When she didn’t speak, he prodded her. “Go ahead. As the new Duke of Everton, I need to be prepared. I’ve long thought Father hid something from me. I need to know what he concealed if I’m to be effective and begin to make the necessary changes to restore our family’s name.”

She nodded. “You’re right. There’s no way to gloss over this.”

She paused, and he sensed her reluctance to reveal what she knew. He braced himself for whatever she would say.

“Your father’s gambling has almost bankrupted the St. Clairs, Jeremy. You have next to nothing to inherit, I’m afraid.”

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