Chapter 19
My dear Jasper,
Your continued presence in Brighton has not gone unnoticed. Given your original purpose in visiting—that is, to assess properties along the coast for potential estate expansion—I had expected a detailed report before now.
“I understand, through no formal channel, that your current position at Seacliff Retreat has become... more complicated than anticipated.
As such, I write to request clarification—both of your findings regarding the estate itself and of your intentions in remaining where, it seems, public interest has turned from curiosity to concern.
The Retreat now finds itself at the centre of considerable attention, and while I am not one to indulge idle gossip, you are well aware that our family name does not endure public speculation lightly.
If you have taken up interests beyond what you were sent to examine, I trust you will apprise me directly. I remind you that discretion and clarity remain paramount to any man of our name.
I await your reply.
Your brother,
Vexwood”