Simply Carnal by Kate Pearce Page A

corresponding with Emily, and even though she is younger than I am, she reminded me that our father was not always the villain I had painted him.”
    “And so you came back.”
    “I did. Only to find that my father seems disinclined to talk to me about anything apart from my new responsibilities and how perfect my half siblings are.”
    Christian stared at Richard and debated how far he wished to involve himself in family politics. He’d always tried to keep away from the emotions, preferring to stir things up and cause problems rather than solve them, but for some reason he was feeling a strange urge to defend his father.
    “If I may be so bold, Philip has missed you immensely. I think if you stay in London, he will begin to trust you again.”
    “I’m not so sure about that.” Richard glanced away from Christian. “I fear I have left it too late.”
    “Oh, no. Remember that Lisette and I have an immense capacity to disrupt Philip’s peace of mind. One of us will undoubtedly do something to incur his wrath soon, and you will be back in favor.”
    Richard smiled. “I do intend to stay. I’ve grown weary of wandering.”
    “Then remain in London, visit your inheritance with Philip, and learn the things you will need to know to become an accomplished peer of the realm.” Christian raised his glass to his half brother. “I wish you all the luck in the world.”
    “You don’t wish it was you?”
    Christian felt as if he had been avoiding that particular question his whole life, but Richard of all people had a right to know the truth. “You’ll probably not believe me, but I think you have to be born into such a duty.” He shuddered. “The thought of all those obligations horrifies me.”
    Richard looked unconvinced, but Christian knew that was exactly why Richard was the right man for the job and he was not. He signaled to the waiter to bring them another brandy.
    “You might care to consider making this your club, unless you wish Philip to sponsor you into his?”
    Richard shuddered. “That will have to happen eventually, but I’d prefer to put it off for a while. Do you have any influence with the principals of this place?”
    “As it happens, I do.” Christian had already noticed another gentleman hovering at his elbow. “Good morning, Lord Ralston.”
    “Ah, good morning, Mr. Delornay.” Lord Ralston’s interested gaze slid toward Richard, who looked resigned.
    Christian made the introductions. “May I present you to Mr. Richard Ross, my lord? He is my half brother and heir to all my father’s titles and wealth.”
    “Oh, I ... I say,” Lord Ralston stuttered. “A pleasure, what?”
    “Actually, Ralston, I would ask a favor of you,” Christian continued. “My half brother would like to be considered for membership of this club. As one of the founding members, would you be willing to propose him for admittance if I second the motion?”
    “Absolutely happy to oblige you, Mr. Delornay.” Ralston nodded at them both. “Shall we go and see to the paperwork?”
    Christian rose from his seat. “Stay and finish your brandy, Richard, while Lord Ralston and I work out the finer details. I’ll be back in a moment.”
    “Don’t worry, I’ll stay put,” Richard replied, his amused gaze on Christian. “I’ll keep myself busy counting my titles and wealth.”
    Christian fought a smile as he followed Ralston to the rear of the house where the offices were situated. Despite his misgivings, it appeared as if Richard might be a worthy addition to the Delornay-Ross menagerie. He certainly had a sense of humor, and that was a necessity.
    It took but a few moments to alert the club secretary to Lord Ralston’s request and to fill out the nomination form that would be put before the committee on the last day of the month.
    As they left the secretary’s office, Ralston swung around and blocked Christian’s path.
    “There is something I wish to ask you.”
    “What is it, my lord?”
    Christian