“I’m aware of his reputation.” Graham’s voice was grim. “But I have little choice in the matter. He’s made it clear that if I don’t pay, Diana and her family will suffer for it.”
“That bastard threatened Diana?” Matt was on his feet now, pacing. “Graham, there has to be something we can do. I could—”
“No.” Graham’s voice was firm. “I won’t drag you into this mess. Ijust… I needed someone to know the truth. Someone who could vouch for my character if things go badly.”
Matt stopped pacing and fixed him with a stare. “You think I’d abandon you in this?”
“I think you’re a good friend, but this isn’t your burden to bear.”
“Like hell it isn’t.” Matt sat back down, leaning forward intensely. “You’re about to marry into one of my closest friend’s families. Diana is like a sister to me. If you think I’m going to stand by and watch Rothwell destroy both of you—”
“Matt, I don’t intend to let it come to that. I will find a proper way out of this and then it will be done.”
Matt pushed his glass to Graham, indicating he wanted another pour. “You’re a good man, Graham. A better man than most would be in your situation. And Diana… she’s going to need to know the truth.”
“I know.” Graham ran his hand through his hair. “But not yet. Just let me solve this so she needn’t worry. I don’t want to put that on her.”
Matt nodded slowly. “Fair enough. But promise me this—if you need help, if there’s anything I can do, you’ll ask.”
“I promise.”
Graham filled each of their glasses again and they downed them in silence.
But even as the brandy burned in his chest, Graham knew one truth he could not escape—if he failed, it would not be only his ruin, but Diana’s too.