Marriage with a Proper Stranger. Karyn Gerrard

Julian had had enough and sent Aidan away to school at age ten, two years before Riordan joined him. Perhaps that is when the resentment took root between father and son. The more their father reprimanded Aidan, the worse he acted. No amount of admonishment from the earl or the kindly Mrs. Barnes had any effect.

      There was a serious clash coming, Riordan could sense it: irreparable harm causing a permanent rupture between Aidan and the rest of the family. Harsh words would be spoken, never to be taken back, Aidan sinking to even lower depths, losing himself in debauchery. If only there was a way he could broker peace between his father and brother. If only…

      “Thinking of Aidan?” Garrett asked.

      “How can you tell?”

      Garrett pointed his fork in Riordan’s direction. “You always get a particular worried look, like your eyebrows are knotted. Leave Aidan to his devices. He will tire of them soon enough.” Riordan wasn’t as sure. “I’ll come with you to Carrbury. That way I can assist you with the furniture and shortly thereafter return home. I believe I will use Juno for the trip; he’s strong enough to pull a wagon full of furniture. Besides, I want to see your setup. Are you enjoying teaching?”

      Riordan reached for a fresh piece of bread and buttered it generously. “More than I ever imagined. To be able to mold and shape young minds, open them to worlds they never knew existed. To see the awe on their faces as they learn something new or accomplish a goal. To know you are making a difference in their lives, expanding their imaginations, to show them life holds many and all possibilities.”

      “A noble calling,” Garrett murmured. “You make me feel guilty for not doing more regarding the family’s varied causes.”

      “Nonsense. You do plenty for the tenants and surrounding farms. Did you not assist Mr. Jacobi in repairing his roof last month, not only with your labor, but by buying many of the supplies needed as well?”

      “Bah. The man had a hard year, it was the least I could do. I’m hiring a few men to help repair Sir Walter Keenan’s fences. I attended the funeral on behalf of the family, and met the niece who is to take possession of the place. The property is in worse condition than I originally thought. Alberta Eaton, the benefactor of the will, is a widow living with a young man I first thought to be her son, but is in fact her brother-in-law.” Garrett tapped his temple. “The lad is simple, and I assume not able to oversee any renovations.”

      Riordan gave Garrett a teasing wink. “A widow, you say?”

      Garrett scoffed. “Though attractive enough, she is too old for me. Around Julian’s age, I would guess. Besides, you’re well aware I have no interest in romantic entanglements, especially with a neighbor. Blasted awkward.” Garrett shoved another forkful of pork and vegetables in his mouth.

      Speaking of entanglements. Riordan was tempted to inform Garrett about what had happened since he’d arrived at Carrbury, but caution stilled his tongue. First, he must meet with William and ascertain the lay of the land before deciding what to do about Lady Sabrina.