But the mention of his brother’s interference was the final humiliation for Daniel as a man. That his own sons were willing to use Peter as a bargaining chip was not only an outrageous act, but also a seriously treacherous and humiliating one. It showed him just how far apart they had been driven. That they had already discussed him with his brother was demeaning, was wrong, all fucking wrong. The fact that Peter had not even bothered to talk to him personally was the final insult. But even feeling as he did about the whole situation, Daniel saw that he had no choice any more, he had to toe the line. The days of him demanding his sons’ obedience were long gone.

He looked once more at his sons, saw their handsome faces, knew he should be proud of them, knew that most men in their world would be patting themselves on the back, thrilled at having produced four fine sons who were savvy, respected and, best of all, loyal to their own flesh and blood. But, instead, Daniel felt betrayed.

Chapter Forty-Six

Peter Bailey was happy. He was in one of his own pubs, relaxing with his wife, kids and grandson. He had bought this pub a few months earlier. It was in the heart of Essex, and the countryside surrounding it was stunning. It was a real family place, and he loved that he could go there with his nearest and dearest, have a nice meal, a few drinks and, more to the point, conduct certain parts of his businesses in peace and tranquillity. The beer garden was packed, and he was pleased to see the children playing in the small playground he had recently had installed. It was a perfect Sunday afternoon – the weather was good, the gardens looked well tended, and the punters were nice people with smart cars and money to spend.

Ria had been the one to suggest getting a decent chef in, and she had been right – it was more than paying off. Word had spread about the quality of the grub and they were now getting so many bookings they were considering extending the premises.

As he sipped his beer, he sighed contentedly. Delroy grinned at him, and he shrugged nonchalantly. ‘What? What’s so funny?’

‘You, sitting there like a day tripper, all relaxed and full of bonhomie.’

Peter laughed himself then. ‘I suppose that’s just what I am really – today anyway. I’m just out with my family, having a few beers, and enjoying the good weather. What more could I want.’

Delroy nodded in agreement. ‘Good fucking investment this – people have money to spend, and somewhere like this is perfect. Look at them. Smiling, contented and, above all, willing to weigh out for a meal as well as their drinks. Whoever coined the term “family pub” should be knighted.’