Chapter 43

“Nick,” Matthias quickly moved from around the desk. “Nick, do not make yourself uneasy. I give you my word that Caver will not bring any trouble to you.”

Nick sighed. He didn’t doubt Matthias’ sincerity, but—“You can’t promise something like that. If someone like the Marquess of Caver wishes to—” Before he could finish, Matthias grasped his upper arms and pulled him to his feet.

“I give you my word, Nicholas,” he said firmly. Something in his voice compelled Nick to meet his eyes, which were flintier than ever. “If it becomes necessary, I will inform Caver that any shadow cast on your name will force me to bring my name—and the Caver name into it as well. There is nothing my half-brother dreads so much as scandal.”

The thought that Matthias would do such a thing for him warmed Nick and allowed him to relax. “Thank you.”