Duncan didn’t say anything else. He stomped to the door and flung it open, and Clay listened to the other man’s steps as he retreated out of the club. That had been a thoroughly satisfying encounter. He had certainly enjoyed it, at least.

Even better, this wouldn’t be the last time he faced down Duncan Greene. Clay could hardly wait.

Let the games begin.

Chapter Eighteen

Florence paced the length of her grandmother’s petit salon. Her skirts rustled, the silk whispering over the expensive Eastern carpets. This room was one of Granny’s favorites. Done in shades of blue and white, the decor was classic French with modern art on the walls. They often took tea in here when just family called.

Learning about the development plans had been hard on Granny, clearly. Easter dinner had carried on without her, though it had been a subdued affair. No one had felt much like chatting after Daddy’s news. Her grandmother had already canceled this week’s euchre game.

Florence had been worried, so when Granny requested a visit this morning, Florence had hurried over. Now that she was here, anxiety twisted in her chest and the wait seemed like hours. What would Granny do if Daddy couldn’t fix this? Would she stay or sell the house after all?

The idea of a sale nauseated Florence. This house represented freedom, choices and opportunities that would be denied her without it. If it was torn down, her future would be altered in ways she couldn’t begin to predict.

The sound of her grandmother’s charm bracelets alerted Florence to the older woman’s approach. She turned toward the door to find Granny sailing over the threshold. “Hello, Granny.”

“Florence, there you are. You are a sight for poor, tired eyes.” Granny enveloped her in a fierce hug. “I apologize for running off before Easter dinner.”

“I understand.” They separated and she followed her grandmother to the sofa. “How are you feeling?”

Granny set a stack of papers on the low tea table. “Sad. However, nothing lasts forever. We were one of the first families on this block, and everything has changed so much since those days. It’s the march of time, I’m afraid.”

“Does that mean you are going to sell?”

Granny sighed as she poured tea for them both. “I don’t like the idea of it. You should have this house after I’m gone. It should stay in the family, not become rubble dumped into the harbor. However, I cannot see any alternative.”

God, that was depressing. She tried to remain positive. “Daddy may find a way to prevent the project from moving forward. He knows everyone in the city.”

“Yes, but even some things are out of your father’s control. Though he would never admit it.”

“True. He hates when I don’t obey him. He says he’s stopped trying to understand me.”