Chapter 87

He stood up when David entered. “Whatever is the matter?” he said.

“He’s gone.”

“Who?”

“Jeremy. He’s gone.”

David strode to the picture that hung on the wall behind the desk and removed it to reveal his safe. He quickly dealt with the lock and pulled out a bag of coin.

“I’m bringing him back.”

“About time.”

“What?”

“About time. You should never have let it get to this point. What if he refuses you? There is only so much rejection a man can take.”

“Rejection…You talk to me of rejection?” David was incredulous. “You don’t think I’ve had a belly full of rejection?” His voice was rising along with his temper. “You don’t think I’ve put up with rejection my entire life?”

“Is that why you are afraid of Naylor? That he might reject you?”

David opened his mouth and then closed it.

“Well, you’ve managed to push him away rather than allow him to reject you. Does it hurt any less?”