then returned to his windows. I glanced warily at the drink. It was a little early to be imbedding, but who was I to complain? I had a feeling I would need it.
Two older children dashed by the windows, chasing each other through the snow. Their high-pitched squeals of laughter pierced the glass and brought a smile to Whitfield’s face. I didn’t remember ever experiencing such gaiety as a child. All children should be so innocent, so happy.
Last night the maid had let it slip that most of the family shared this estate since Ginny had moved in. They’d wanted to be here to support her. It was obvious they cared about each other. Ginny and Izzy deserved a loving family. Could I give that to her as well? Could I make her happy? I took a deep drink. I’d die trying.
“Then, a couple of years ago, your father had an accident. And like father like son, you were blamed. Although in my opinion, it’s utter nonsense.”
“Thank you,” I muttered dryly.
“Although your uncle left you quite a bit of money, your father managed to spend that as well, leaving you quite destitute. And so, your parents have been pushing you to make a match with a woman who has a large dowry.”
For the love of God, how did he know that? My jaw clenched as my irritation flared. He hadn’t lied…he had been busy researching.
When I didn’t respond, he quirked a brow. “Your brother likes to talk when he’s drunk.”
Shite.
“I don’t want Ginny because I think she has money,” I snapped. “Truthfully, I had planned to marry her a year ago, when she was a seamstress. Then she disappeared.”
His gaze was direct as he searched my face for the truth. The clock on the mantel ticked the seconds by. Finally, he spoke. “I believe you’re a decent person, Chambers. And after the way you worried about Evie last night, I believe you actually care for her.”
I didn’t answer. I still didn’t trust him. I felt like this conversation was a trap of some sort. Or maybe that was my childhood coming into play. I’d always had to be wary, never able to relax my guard. My father had made sure of that.
He leaned against his desk, crossing his legs at the ankle, the relaxed lord. “What if I told you that we have no money?”
I frowned.
“What if I admitted to you that I’d made quite a few bad investments, and we are rather destitute, although my wife isn’t aware. I don’t want to upset her, so please, keep it between us.”
I shifted, uneasy. “I’m not sure what this has to do with me.”
“Don’t you?” He took a drink. “My point is that Ginny needs to marry wealthy. And you are not wealthy.”
I bristled. Was he serious?
“You can leave, Chambers. The roads are actually passable.” He turned his back to me. “Find a wealthy heiress. It would be best for you and for Evie.” He settled in the chair behind his desk. “Enjoy your future wife’s money, and the privilege it will bring. You’re off the hook, so to speak.”
Dismissing me, he opened a ledger and began to jot down numbers. Stunned, I merely stood there. That was it? It was over and done? He was going to sell Ginny to a rich man, whether she wished it or not. He was going to allow another man to take care of my daughter? My hands fisted. How dare he. He’d lost Ginny years ago, ruined her life, and now he was going to force her into marriage?
He glanced up. “You’re still here?”
“Curb your spending, you greedy arse.”
He leaned back in his chair. “Pardon me?”
“Sell off your unentitled property. Hire an investor.” I slammed my glass upon his desk, the drink spilling over. “But you can’t force her to marry some wealthy nob who doesn’t love her!”
“Can’t I?” He shrugged. “Once she understands the dire state of the family finances, she will agree. I’m sure of it. For the good of the family, and all. You understand, of course.”
“No, you bloody bastard,” I hissed. “I don’t care if you approve of me or not, but you can’t force her to marry just for money. Ginny deserves a man who will allow her to be free, who will appreciate her quick wit, her intelligence. Who will treat her as an equal. I will do everything in my power to see that happens, and to stop you from forcing her to marry someone she