“Agreed.” I was disappointed in both of them.
William sighed. “Now, tomorrow is a big day, with many family members and friends in attendance. You boys may not work together anymore, but you are still family. And, I dare say, that is more important.”
Adam’s and Grayson’s mouths gaped as they turned to their father. “Are you drunk?” they asked in unison.
William chortled. “I’ve had a few, but it’s about time I start making some changes around here.” He rested his cutlery on his plate. “After my brother passed away, I tried to be everything for my parents. I thought my success would fill the void in our lives, but it was merely a distraction. I got so consumed I lost sight of the important things, and you boys suffered the consequences of that.”
Caroline laid her hand on William’s as he continued.
“It’s taken me too long to realize my mistakes, but as my father said, ‘It’s never too late to make amends.’ I know I’ve been hard on you, and it will take some repairing, but I want you to know that I support both of you and your choices…but I won’t support you arguing the night before your grandfather’s funeral.”
Adam and Grayson grew quiet as they stared at their meals, clearly pondering their father’s unbelievable words.
“Sorry, Dad,” Grayson mumbled like a naughty schoolboy.
Adam cleared his throat. “Yeah, sorry.”
“Now, let’s enjoy this meal,” William said with a melancholy smile. “Just as Dad intended.”
“Will you all be joining us for a nightcap in the drawing room?” Caroline asked after we finished dessert.
“We’ll come down once Harry’s asleep,” Josie said while Grayson nodded.
Adam turned my way, waiting for my answer.
“Thank you, Caroline, but I think I’ll turn in early tonight.”
Her eyes softened a fraction. “Of course. You must be exhausted. You’ve worked tirelessly all week.” Her eyes flickered to Adam before frowning.
With a tight smile, I rose from the table. “I’ll see you all in the morning.” I thanked Max for the lovely meal and made my way out of the dining room and up the stairs.
“Wait,” Adam called out once I reached the second floor.
I kept walking.
“Cassidy, wait.”
“I’m tired, Adam.” My shoulders sank as I turned around. “It’s been a hard week.”
“You don’t think it’s been hard for me?”
“I didn’t say that.”
“You’re thinking it.” He pursed his lips. “Just like everyone downstairs.”
“You have no idea what I’m thinking.”
He folded his arms. “Then tell me.”
“Your family needed you this week,” I hissed, releasing some of my pent-up fury.
Adam scoffed. “No, they didn’t.”
“Grayson especially.”
“He has Josie. Dad has Mom.”
I poked his chest. “And you had me.”