*Lucian*
I know I should have protested more. I should have insisted Evangeline stayed behind, but what is done is done. I can’t deny that I take some pride… undeservedly, of course… in showing her various rooms as I escort her to the kitchen. The Claybourne legacy is grand.
Nor can I deny the pleasure it brings me to prepare her an omelet or how much I enjoy having her watch me from her place at the large table where servants usually enjoy a quick meal or a bit of gossip. I plan to confront Riverdale alone. I just have to convince Evangeline to leave. But I am in no hurry to do so.
“When do you think Riverdale will arrive?” she asks.
I hear the worry in her voice. I don’t think she is frightened. Apprehensive, perhaps. I pour a glass of red wine and hand it to her. “Drink that. It wil
