Chapter 34: Breakfast with the Brogans

The next morning came much sooner than desired. No light streamed onto the bed, the closed hangings kept it at bay. Isaac and Lavinia were awoken instead by a heavy banging on the door. Lavinia sat up, drawing the covers to her shoulders. Disgruntled, Isaac swung his legs out of bed. He pulled his dressing gown tight around himself and stood. Opening the door, he came face to face with Marco.

"You got here so soon," he said. "I didn't even have time to send out an invitation."

Isaac matched Marco's energy, keeping his words light. "I simply could not miss my little sister's wedding."

"Of course. This a family affair. Will your mother be joining us? It's so rare to see you without her."

Isaac's expression cracked into an unwilling smile. He forced a laugh. "Yes, we are rather close. But unfortunately, she will not. She has work to attend to at the manor."

"What a pity," Marco said, making no effort to disguise his mocking tone. You and your..." he glanced at Lavinia