Chapter Twenty-Six
Nicholas ran lightly up the steps to his front door, the marriage license in his pocket and a whistle on his lips.
“These were delivered while you were out, sir,” his butler told him, presenting two letters. “By hand.”
Nicholas took them. He recognized the handwriting on one of them: Gerald.
He opened Gerald’s letter as he headed for his study, tearing the paper slightly, unfolding it one-handed as he reached for the brandy decanter.
He poured himself a glass and read the note, grunting when he reached the end. The living at Halvergate was his to dispose of if he wished. An apology, Gerald? If so, it was perfectly timed.
Nicholas put Gerald’s letter aside and opened the second one, taking slightly more care, managing not to rip it. He raised the brandy glass to his
