Gabriel frowned. “I thought I made my feelings quite clear on the matter.”
“Yes, but this new cure isn’t painful and doesn’t involve taking any dangerous substances. Dr. Abernathy says he’s seen quite a bit of success with it.” She paused. “And Freddy says he’d like to try it.”
The crease deepened between his brows. “You’ve spoken to Freddy about it?”
“He’s going to be my son too.” Something in his voice made her lift her chin. “And I think he should have a say in his own future.”
“He is a child. He doesn’t know what he wants.” A muscle jumped in Gabriel’s jaw. “I specifically told you that Sylvia tried everything and decided that his hopes were not to be futilely raised.”
Anger swelled with dizzying speed. Trying to hold onto her equanimity, Thea said, “I disagree. Freddy needs hope. He deserves it.”
“Sylvia said that disappointment could worsen his spells,” he stated flatly.
“Maybe Sylvia didn’t know everything,” she shot back.
“I beg your pardon?”
His icy tone incensed her beyond rationality. Leaping to her feet, she said, “You heard me. Maybe your marchioness wasn’t as perfect as you make her out to be. Maybe she didn’t know every blessed thing under the sun.”
He rose slowly, his eyes flinty hard. “I find both your manner and your words distasteful. This is the last time I’ll say it: my marriage is not up for discussion.”
“Why? Because you’re afraid the truth will knock your sainted wife off her pedestal?”
Oh my goodness, where did that come from?The moment Thea said the words, she wished she could take them back. Mortified, she saw Gabriel’s expression grow colder than she’d ever seen it.
“That,” he said evenly, “is unworthy of you.”
Shame stole her voice. Her face blotched with heat.
“I take full responsibility for the problems in my marriage. Sylvia was not to blame for my proclivities. She was a good wife and a good mother,” he said.
“I know.” With helpless embarrassment, Thea mumbled, “I didn’t mean to imply…”
“She is off limits for discussion. Do I make myself clear?”
She bit down on her bottom lip to prevent it from trembling. Gave a nod.
“Good.” He straightened his waistcoat. “Now as for this treatment—I might consider it. But I will be the one who decides, not you. What steps are involved?”
Her lashes fanned as resentment joined the confusing fray of her emotions. Frustration clouded her mind, tied her tongue in knots. Somehow, she got the words out.
“The protocol requires a period of fasting followed by a strict dietary regimen. Apparently, this method was first described by Hippocrates and has recently been rediscovered. Dr. Abernathy says it has met with excellent success,” she said flatly.
“Other than fasting, there’s no pain? No medicines or other concoctions involved?”
“No.”
“As you’ve already brought the subject up with Freddy, we will give it a try. This one time.” Gabriel’s eyes were distant and cool. “In the future, I expect that you will discuss any ideas you have regarding his health with me first.”
“Yes, my lord.” Her jaw tight, she said, “Is there anything else?”
“There is not.”
“Please excuse me, then. I have errands to attend to.”
She left and managed to reach her chamber before she gave into tears.
Chapter Thirty-Two
