A Simple Favor by Lana Williams

Author:Lana Williams [Lana Williams]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Lana Williams
Published: 2023-09-09T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eleven

Philip didn’t bother to hide his surprise at the breakfast table the next morning when Markus strode in. The fact that his cousin was up this early was unusual but that he looked the worse for wear was not.

“Don’t say it.” Markus held up a finger as he glanced at Philip.

“What? Good morning?” Philip couldn’t resist.

“Yes. And no, it isn’t.” Markus pulled out a chair as he gestured for the butler to pour him coffee.

“Is there a reason you’re up and about when it’s so clearly putting you in a foul mood?”

Markus had always been prickly, but in the last few months he’d acted especially so. It seemed doubtful that the reason was grief. He hadn’t gotten on with Philip’s brother and father that well.

“I wanted to speak with you.” Markus reached for the cup and took a careful sip followed by another, suggesting he needed it to revive himself.

“We live in the same house at the moment. I hardly think waking early is necessary.” Nor was it welcome. Philip preferred to have the quiet of the morning to himself before beginning the day.

“Yes, but you’ll be off doing one thing or another or holed up in the study with the steward or something. You’re always busy these days.”

If he didn’t know better, Philip would’ve said a hint of envy colored Markus’s tone. That couldn’t be the case when his cousin went out of his way to avoid carrying out any task asked of him. Which meant that he was criticizing Philip, something in which he took great pleasure.

“There is much to do.” He couldn’t help but defend himself. As if he didn’t feel out of his element already, his cousin was always the first to point out any potential fault or error.

Philip had made numerous missteps since inheriting. Granted, they were small thus far, but Markus managed to discover each and every one.

“I’m sure.” Markus’s doubt was clear based on his expression. Apparently, he thought Philip should be better able to deal with his duties.

Philip bit back a sharp retort, reminding himself that his cousin’s opinion didn’t matter. It was best to pick his battles with Markus, and this one wasn’t worthy of his attention.

Markus acted more agreeably when Uncle Herbert was present. If only his uncle was an early riser as well.

Philip ignored his unwelcome breakfast partner and focused on eating quickly. The meal was already ruined so the sooner he was finished and could begin his day, the better. He refused to ask what Markus wanted to talk to him about, but he’d be willing to wager what it was regarding.

Markus set down his cup and cleared his throat. “I am in need of funds.”

Philip would’ve won. “Why?” He knew his uncle provided a generous allowance for Markus in addition to the income he received from a small holding. It should’ve been more than enough for him to comfortably live on.

“Does it matter?” When Philip lifted a brow, Markus scowled. “A gaming debt.”

“No.” Philip had given him money three months ago for the same reason and told him he wouldn’t do so again.

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