Hawksley stepped closer. He carefully maintained eye contact, making sure he looked entirely honest and concerned. He pushed the terrifying image of Delaney Kingsley out of his mind completely.
Hawksley replied, "I went to Hamilton House, exactly as you commanded, my lord. I surveyed the situation."
"And?" Farrington pressed, taking another slow puff of his cigar. "Is the Duke playing games? Is he simply hiding in his bed to avoid signing the final marriage papers?"
Hawksley shook his head firmly. He needed Farrington to understand that the delay was genuine and not a tactical move.
"No, my lord," Hawksley replied. "The Duke is actually injured. I saw the family's physician arrive in a great hurry. He rushed up the stairs with his medical bag. The servants were running with hot water and clean bandages."
Farrington frowned deeply. The news displeased him.
"How badly is he hurt?" Farrington demanded.
