Chapter 52

Leander wondered what Julien expected of him when he made such jests. No matter how he responded to them, Julien seemed amused. It did make him worry that all he was for Julien was an amusement. He tried to respond in kind. “I can’t imagine Powell running anywhere. He’s far too dignified.”

Julien chuckled. “That is a requirement of the job. Would you have hired a butler who wasn’tdignified-looking?”

“I don’t know. I haven’t had to hire anyone yet.”

“You kept all the staff you inherited?”

“More or less. The house was fully staffed when I arrived, and I’ve had no reason to replace anyone. Maybe I’ll have to hire staff at my estate,” he said, the idea just occurring to him. “I suppose I’ll find out when I visit.”

“Are you planning to visit soon?”

“I should, shouldn’t I?” Leander asked, wondering what Julien’s opinion on the matter was. “It’s my duty, really. My cousin certainly thinks I should.”

“Your cousin?” Julien said flatly. “Morleigh Mayfield.”