The words struck like stones.
Edward closed the distance between them in two strides.
“You will not speak of him that way in this house.”
William flinched only slightly, then recovered, lifting his chin. “I do not accuse. I report.”
He turned again to Charlotte, lowering his voice. “I promise you, I will uncover proof. I will clear my own name—and his. I will honor what remains of our families.”
He reached for her hand.
Edward saw red.
Before William’s fingers could brush her skin, Edward seized his arm and shoved him back.
The movement was swift and unmistakable.
William staggered half a step, shock breaking through his composure.
“Do not touch her,” Edward said, each word edged.
William stared at him—then laughed softly.
“What are you protecting her from?” he asked. “From truth? Or from the possibility that your own family stands at the center of this?”
Edward stepped forward again, and this time there was no mistaking the threat in his posture.
“You will leave,” he said. “Now.”
William’s eyes sharpened.
“You are closer to the truth than you think,” he said quietly. “Be careful what you uncover, cousin.”
Edward held his gaze without blinking. “If you return without invitation, you will not be received so civilly.”
William studied him a moment longer, then inclined his head with infuriating calm.
“As you wish.”
He turned to Charlotte one last time. “I meant what I said.”
She did not answer.
When the door closed behind him, the silence that followed felt heavier than before.
Charlotte remained standing, trembling slightly.
Edward forced himself to breathe.
When he turned toward her, she was staring at him—not frightened, not grateful.
Demanding.
“What do you know?” she asked.
Her voice was steady now. Too steady.
He hesitated. That was all it took.
