Promise Me by Julian Dee

Author:Julian, Dee [Julian, Dee]
Language: eng
Format: epub, azw3
Published: 2012-02-19T08:00:00+00:00

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Lord Greyson’s reaction didn’t come close to what Nicolas had anticipated. He expected shock. Anger. Even astonishment and outrage. Not calm or thoughtful. And certainly not agreeable.

The earl’s attention shifted away from the window in his study. “You intend to give in to this woman’s demands?”

“I’ve little choice in the matter, my lord.”

“Does your grandmother know?”

“No, and I see no reason to upset her.”

Greyson nodded. “What did your solicitor advise?”

“Harcourt thinks I should sign over the entire shipping business to someone trustworthy. By the time Miss Santiago realizes I do not own the company and that my signature is invalid, it will be too late.”

“You’ve accepted his counsel?”

“It’s a risk I’m unwilling to take at the moment. Besides, there’s your daughter to consider.”

“Leah might be a bit impulsive at times, but she would never snatch a child from his mother.”

“I agree but if I do not hand over half my business, I’ve no doubt abduction charges will be brought against her.”

“Good heavens, Chase. What a mess.”

“My lord, you’ve my word that I’ll do whatever necessary to protect her.”

“By pretending a betrothal?”

Nicolas fell silent.

“I admit there’s a great deal of influence attached to your family name. Always has been.” Greyson downed his brandy before setting the glass aside. “Still I’ve no wish to see Leah suffer more than she has. I don’t have to tell you how difficult this past year has been for her. It’s enough to break a father’s heart.”

“Adrian caused your daughter a great deal of pain, my lord, but I’m convinced he loved her.”

“Apparently not enough.” The earl sighed. “Forgive me, Chase. That was a tasteless remark and uncalled for.” He paced about the study. “For a woman to use her child as a bargaining tool for blackmail is unthinkable, yet I’m certain it occurs more often than any of us care to admit.” His lordship halted. “Have you spoken to Leah?”

“No. I wanted your approval first.”

“As a father, I strongly object to what you’re proposing, but that does not mean I do not understand it. And knowing my daughter as well as I do…well, the decision is hers.”

“I understand.”

“I’ll send a servant to fetch Leah.”

“Thank you, my lord.”

After Greyson departed, Nicolas paced about the study. Sweat trickled down the back of his neck. His chest felt tight, and his stomach churned.

Why was he so nervous? He had made amends with Miss Sheridan. Did she not adore Edwin? Surely there was no valid reason for her to be uncooperative.

Was there?

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