Until his arrival in England, Gabriel had been unaware he had a half-brother born three years after his own birth. Tragically, or perhaps prophetically, the marquess’s second wife had also died in childbirth. Gabriel felt pity for the woman. By all accounts, the second marchioness was a very sweet, young lady when she wed the much older Lord Rosenthorne. It was hardly a love match, and it appeared the marriage was one of convenience only. But the lady did bear the marquess a son. It was naturally assumed Heath was the heir until the secret emerged regarding Gabriel’s legitimacy.

Gabriel had not yet formed a bond with Heath, but he appreciated the similarities in their lives. Both grew up without their mothers. And both learned their father’s secrets only upon his death.

Upon arrival at Rosenthorne Park, Gabriel immediately met with the estate’s steward. Mister Kinsey was reportedly one of the more trustworthy servants his father employed. While Gabriel had no intention of making changes when it came to the staff, he would be watching matters very closely.

“You’ll find things in order, Your Lordship,” Mister Kinsey said as they sat together in the study. The ledger books sat in a pile between them. “Your father’s estates turned a handsome profit last year and are on pace to do the same this one as well. Of course, there were unfortunate incidents regarding some employees who were not the best fit here at the estate, but in general, matters have run very smoothly, indeed.”

Gabriel regarded the thin, elderly man who so earnestly addressed him. His instincts told him the steward was being truthful. There was no deception in his tone or mannerisms. “You’ve dismissed some of the staff?”

“Thirty-six, milord, which also includes some stable workers. I’ve already begun the hiring of new individuals to take their places. I’ve also instructed the steward at Rosenthorne Hall in Mayfair to see the staff is adequate for your lordship.”

Gabriel nodded. “I would like to stay apprised of the progress on that front.”

Mister Kinsey bobbed his head. “Of course. If I may be so bold as to inquire if My Lordship and the Marchioness will be residing here? Or one of the other estates?”

Gabriel had thought long and hard about this particular subject. Truly, he had no desire to walk the same halls on a daily basis. Did not want to sleep in the same, overly large bed that had belonged to his father. But as the new lord and master of all his father had owned, Gabriel knew it was necessary if he was to establish himself. He could not hide away at one of the lesser estates. No, he must stake his claim. Here. Boldly. Quickly. No hesitation.

He was the new Marquess of Rosenthorne. There must be no doubt in the minds and opinions of others.

“We shall make our home here. There will be a complete overhaul of the manor, beginning immediately with the master bedchamber, followed by this study. The rest I shall leave up to the discretion of my future wife. When we return, I expect the bedchambers completed and a team waiting and ready to do the marchioness’s bidding.”