Page 85 of Shining Knight
“He is with his lordship now,” the old butler replied.
Graham gave a nod and went up the stairs. Perhaps his father would be awake.
The door was open and Graham stepped inside. Graham waited for the doctor to leave so he could speak with him in private.
“Mr. Tinsley. How do you do?”
“I am well, thank you, but how is my father today?”
“His lordship has had a good day, from what his man has told me. He was asking after you when I first arrived.”
“Thank you,” Graham said, holding out his hand to shake the doctor’s.
Graham walked over to the bed and sat down beside it. He took his father’s hand in his, wishing he were still whole. Graham was not ready to lose him, nor take on the burden of the viscountcy.
“There you are, son,” his father’s voice said quietly.
“You are awake,” Graham said. “I did not mean to disturb you.”
“I do nothing but lie in a bed all day. I am happy for the company. Have your mother and Caroline arrived?” His father’s voice betrayed his anticipation.
“Not yet. I expect them at any moment.”
His father gave a disappointed nod. “Have you any news for me? I feel very out of touch with your life in London.”
Graham smiled. “That is what I wished to speak with you about. I have become betrothed to Lady Eugenia.”
“The youngest Knight girl?”
“The only Knight girl.” He chuckled. “But she is no longer so young.”
“I have not seen her in an age,” his father remarked.
“She is quite beautiful and lively. You would enjoy her.”
“Perhaps she will come to dinner when your mother and sister arrive.”
“I am sure she would like that.”
His father’s expression turned sad. “I am happy to know you are thinking of becoming settled at last. It was my hope to see your children one day. I do not know if that will happen.”
“Father…” Graham began, having a hard time speaking over the tightness in his throat.
“I have good days and bad, but I cannot conjecture how much longer I can go on like this. I am happy to know I will see Caroline again. I must confess I am tempted to return south with them. The warmth is most appealing now. I feel as though I can never be warm enough.”
“Does the doctor say what is wrong? I did not ask.”
“He believes it is something with my heart. It beats very strangely—irregularly he says. He is giving me foxglove, of all things, for it.”
“Is that not poison?” Graham asked.
“Indeed it is, but at very small doses seems to settle the heartbeat. I must confess, I do feel better.”
“Then I am glad for it, so long as you are careful with your dosing.”
“Martins takes it very seriously. He will not let anyone else near the vial.” He chuckled. “I would like to be strong enough to greet your mother when she arrives.”
“I will help you however I can. Have you had dinner?”
