“They’ve managed to keep putting off the matter since, well, the Magna Carta. I don’t see why they’d find any sense of urgency around the issue now.” Vic turned to encompass Sophia within the summary, though she would’ve rather changed the subject. “With more austerity measures on the horizon and cuts to the NHS, half the country thinks people like me should be guillotined, and the other half is so conservative they’re infinitely more likely to see queer women as an impediment to our former glory than the saviour of it.”

Emma shook her head. “You know, it’s no knock on your father, but a lot of people might see you as a hopeful middle ground toward a more modern future.”

“By ‘a lot of people,’ are you talking about yourself and the rest of Friday Club?”

“No. Archie is always impressed with your ideas and insights. Mind you, he won’t tell us what they are, for confidentiality reasons, but I’m fairly certain he’d follow you into any sort of corporate or legal battle you chose.”

“Archie is Brogan’s older brother,” Vic explained to Sophia. “He works with me in the land office, and he’s a good sort. Anyone would be lucky to have him on their team.”

“Oh, blimey,” Brogan said, joining them again. “Please don’t ever say that in front of him. He’s insufferable enough as it is.”

“I’ll do my best to navigate the McKay family politics with tact and discretion.” Vic laughed, happy for the diversion and the extra company. Brogan could always be counted on to keep the conversation on an amiable track. “Speaking of which, can you add Charlie’s next few drinks to my tab?”

Brogan groaned. “You two weren’t betting on the cricket again, were you?”

“Not at all,” Vic said. “Young Charles is in much deeper than that, I’m afraid. He sneaked my Land Rover out of the main entrance tonight and left it round back of the gardens so we could make our escape undetected.”

“Then maybe I should open up a tab for him as well,” Sophia cut in.

“I’ve no doubt he took his reward in the form of a little joy ride before leaving the Rover for you,” Brogan said. “Did you check to make sure he hadn’t drained it of petrol?”

“Now that you mention it—”

“Who is this guy?” Sophia asked. “I feel like we’d be great friends.”

“Charlie is Brogan’s younger brother. He works at the castle and the gardens. He’s also my go-to for inside jobs because he works quickly and accepts payment in ale instead of cash.”