Charnley arrived on David’s doorstep appallingly early in the morning. David hadn’t really slept but had dozed off in the early hours. When he awoke, he was more relieved than he could ever say to find Jeremy sleeping peacefully, apparently fever free. David swallowed as he held his hand to Jeremy’s brow. His breathing was steady, even. He leaned over and dropped a kiss on his forehead, squeezing his eyes tightly shut as he did so. It was hard to breathe for a few moments.
When Jo came to the room to tell him he had a visitor, he left the bed reluctantly and pulled on a robe before bracing himself to meet with his half-brother.
“Good morning,” Charnley said, looking trim and fresh.
“Morning.” David yawned behind his hand and smiled at Mrs. Crawford who disappeared to make some tea. “Do
