Not long after they reached the bottom of the grand staircase, the sound of carriage wheels crunching on the gravel of the courtyard reached their ears. Ryan glanced towards the large windows overlooking the entrance. "That should be Byron," he murmured.
True enough, a moment later, a well-maintained carriage bearing a familiar crest pulled to a stop. A footman hurried to open the door, and Lord Byron, Ryan's younger brother, stepped out. He was dressed smartly for travel, but his eyes immediately scanned the entrance, finding Ryan and Suzy waiting just inside the open doors.
Relief and worry warred on Byron's face. "Brother!!!" he exclaimed, his voice carrying across the courtyard, full of genuine concern. He strode quickly towards the entrance stairs, his arms already opening wide for an embrace.
Ryan gave Suzy's hand, which was still resting on his arm, a gentle, reassuring tap. She understood immediately and released her hold, stepping back slightly.
