Ernest gritted his teeth. “A young girl meddling in our affairs and even exposing the Crawford family.”
“Another young girl,” Mr. Crawford sneered, his voice filled with hostility. Leaning on his cane, his gaze turned dark. “I don’t care what method you use, you must ensure that someone is still issuing birth certificates. And those doctors—we need them. They’re the ones in the hospitals, and they know the channels better than anyone.”
“They’ve been urging us for fresh goods more frequently.” Mr. Crawford glanced at him. “You need to hurry up. Your older brother is coming back soon. Don’t end up with nothing accomplished.”
Ernest lowered his head respectfully and then asked, “Yes, Father. What about Barret?”
“What do you think?” Mr. Crawford’s expression grew even more vicious. “I’ve a
