Jane stepped forward, her voice calm and reasonable. "But Uncle Matthew, don't you think it's fair to give Luke a chance to prove himself? If he truly is as bad as you say, surely it will become apparent during his stay."
My father's eyes darted between Jane and me, his expression conflicted. Finally, he sank back into his chair with a heavy sigh.
"Fine," he said, his voice tight with resignation. "Luke can stay. But only for a week. And if I see any behavior that confirms my suspicions, he leaves immediately. Is that understood?"
I nodded eagerly, relief flooding through me. "Yes, Father. Thank you. You won't regret this, I promise."
As Jane and I left the study, I could hear my mother murmuring softly to my father. I hoped she would be able to calm him down further before Luke's arri
