Chapter 203

Tarquin was in a foul mood, and as his right hand man, Lowell saw right through it. Driving down the highway, he tried to lighten the atmosphere.

“Tarquin, if something’s eating at you, why don’t you just hash it out with Ms. Thorne? No point in bottling it up. You keep this up, and it’s clear Ms. Thorne’s feeling it too.”

Tarquin’s reply was icy. “And what’s her discomfort to you?”

Lowell’s smile was strained. “Nothing, but it’s obvious she’s getting under your skin, and it’s tough watching you like this.”

“And you’ve seen this how? What, are you psychic now?”

Lowell barely managed a chuckle. “Come on, even an idiot could see it! Ms. Thorne’s been a godsend to Elijah, and besides, she’s a lady. Even if she’s at fault, we could afford to be a bit more gracious and give her some slack.”

“Nola’s been good to Elijah too. Am I supposed to bend over backwards for her as well?”

“That’s different. Nola Slater and Ms. Thorne aren’t in the same league. Nola’s efforts are, well, laughable, but Ms. Thorne’s a stand–up woman.”

“If she’s so great, from now on, you can stick with her and leave me be!”

Lowell sighed. Every time Tarquin had a spat with Elysia, he’d turn into an unreasonable kid.

“Tarquin…”

“Zip it!”

The funeral was a spectacle.

The Bradfords were abuzz with whispers at the sight of Tarquin.

“Why’s he here?”

“No idea. Didn’t hear about him being invited. Maybe Gideon requested his presence?”

“Hardly. He wouldn’t be that senile. Inviting him’s like asking for trouble.”

Tarquin hadn’t been invited; he came unasked.

His arrival sent a chill through the Bradfords, who watched him, uneasy and silent.

Allegra, weeping in front of the chapel, saw Tarquin and screamed, “Why are you here? Who let you in? Get out! Lionel wouldn’t want you here, get out!”

Tarquin ignored her. He wasn’t there to mourn Lionel.

Gideon, seated prominently among the guests, caught Tarquin’s approach.

Tarquin, hands in pockets, walked over, ignoring the murmurs of the crowd.

But no one dared say a word, only Allegra’s hysterical cries filled the air.

Lowell moved to the chapel, lighting a candle for Lionel on Tarquin’s behalf.

Gideon frowned at Tarquin. “Why did you come?”

“I’m here for you,” Tarquin replied, lighting a cigarette and taking a seat.

“You could’ve just called. You know Allegra’s got a bone to pick with you! Lionel just died, and here you are, adding to her grief. She’s still your aunt, your dad’s sister.”

Tarquin scoffed. “Her son’s death isn’t on me.”

Gideon was puzzled. “It sounds like you’re suggesting Lionel’s death was my doing.”

This piqued everyone’s interest, no one wanting to miss out on the drama.

Tarquin didn’t hesitate to give them something to talk about. He summoned Lionel’s father Larry, the folks from Verity’s side of the family, and even the elders to join in.

Gideon, clueless about Tarquin’s intent and visibly annoyed, pressed, “What are you trying to do?”

“Some things don’t add up. Thought I’d get some clarity from you here, Grandpa.”

“Why air this in front of everyone? Couldn’t you have said it over the phone?”

09:47