Page 12

“Marcus, that is simply not going to happen,” Hector insisted, refusing to fall prey to his trickery.

“You haven’t even heard who the third person is,” Marcus countered.

“I don’t need to,” he said flatly.

“It’s Edwin,” Marcus said. “You like the Earl of Somerton, don’t you?”

Hector shook his head. “As a friend, yes, but not as a business partner.”

“There is no convincing you, is there?” Marcus asked, throwing himself back in his chair in exasperation.

Hector’s expression softened slightly, but he remained firm. “You know how I feel about involving others in my affairs, Marcus.”

“I understand, but Somerton is dependable. He is someone we can trust, and this venture has the potential to significantly benefit us all.”

Hector remained silent while he contemplated the opportunity. He trusted Marcus and knew he wouldn’t propose something frivolous, but his instinct to maintain control over his business dealings was stronger.

“I will think about it,” he conceded.

Marcus nodded, understanding this was the best answer he could currently hope for. “But we both know you won’t. You are as stubborn as they come.”

Just then, a knock on the door interrupted their conversation. Hector’s butler entered, bowing slightly. “Your Grace, Mr. Herbert is here to see you.”

Hector straightened up, his mood darkening slightly. “Send him in.”

Marcus raised an eyebrow. “Issues with the estates again?”

He nodded. “Likely. The Dabneys are more trouble than they are worth.” Hector braced himself for the inevitable onslaught of unwelcome news.

Mr. Herbert entered, looking as grim as ever. He bowed respectfully.

“Your Grace,” Mr. Herbert began, “I have some new information regarding the estates.”

“Let’s hear it,” Hector said with a wary frown.

Mr. Herbert cleared his throat. “There have been further complications with the tenants. The Dabneys have vacated, but new issues have arisen. Several tenants are behind on their rent.”

Hector frowned. “Send them all out and replace them with sensible humans.”

Mr. Herbert hesitated, glancing at Marcus before continuing, “Rumors regarding your marriage to Lady Juliet seem to be a contributing factor that might affect the admission of new tenants, Your Grace.”

Hector’s jaw tightened. He had hoped to keep the details of his marriage private, but it appeared that was going to be impossible. “I have no time for pettiness, Herbert. Do what is necessary.”

“Of course, Your Grace,” Mr. Herbert replied. “I will look into it immediately.”

As Herbert left, Marcus leaned back in his chair with a concerned look.

“I am sure that you know your marriage to a damsel who has been locked away for years in a convent is bound to raise eyebrows, given your reputation of a rake.”

Hector ran a hand through his hair. “Not you, too, Marcus.”

“I know,” Marcus said quietly, leaving his seat. “I’ll tell you about our initial deal after the wedding.”

Hector nodded, but his mind was already racing with plans to address the mounting issues. He couldn’t afford to let his emotions cloud his judgment. Lydia’s request had set his course in motion, and he was determined to see it through.

“As long as we are doing it ourselves. I’ll have my attorney look into it.”

“Thank you, my friend. We shall meet again soon,” Marcus chuckled as he strode out of the study.