The dinner ended not with a toast, but with a dismissal.
Grandfather Sinclair dabbed his mouth with a linen napkin, dropped it onto his pristine plate, and stood up. The movement was a signal. Chairs scraped back all around the table as the extended family rose in unison, like well-trained soldiers.
"The ladies will retire to the Blue Drawing Room," Grandfather announced, his gaze sliding dismissively over Aria. "Catherine, please ensure everyone is comfortable. Diana, try not to drink the cellar dry."
He turned to the men.
"Gentlemen. The Library. We have business to discuss regarding the Tower Lease."
Lucas stood up immediately, buttoning his suit jacket and adjusting his cuffs, trying to look like a serious stakeholder.
"Sit down, boy," Grandfather Sinclair snapped without looking at him.
Lucas froze. "Grandfather?"
