Chapter 5

“Yes, yes, we’re fine. How are you?”

“No longer married, it appears.”

“We’re aware.”

“How is it you’re aware, Father?”

“That isn’t important.”

“Isn’t it?” I wanted to throw something. He was treating me like a child. “I have no doubt you and Mr Kendall got together on this, and I won’t forgive either of you.”

“Don’t be childish, James.”

“Hardly childish, sir, since between the two of you, you’ve succeeded in breaking your offspring’s hearts.”

He cleared his throat. “I will reinstate your allowance, so you no longer need that…that job.”

Of course. It would never do for Pennington’s heir to appear to be on the dole. I wanted to throw his offer back in his face.

“And since your courses have started, you may keep your flat if you choose. I’ll see your allowance covers it.”

“It’s a bedsitter,” I corrected. “You’re too kind, sir.”

“Splendid, splendid.” Did he truly not notice how droll my tone was? “Your mother and I expect to see you—”