"Then you understand the seriousness of the matter perfectly."
Eleanor watched her husband's face. His voice was controlled, but the muscle beside his jaw moved once.
Grant stepped closer. "The development depends upon that road. My investors expect access to the highway."
"Then you should have obtained the owner's consent before accepting their money," Eleanor said.
Grant turned to her. "Madam, surely a reasonable arrangement can be reached."
"I considered your proposal in March. Heavy wagons would threaten this building." She indicated the carpenter's report still resting on the table. "I will not agree to damage a functioning business in order to improve the convenience of yours."
"There could be compensation."
Eleanor's expression did not change. "A collapsed wall would be a poor comfort to twelve unemployed families."
Julian almost smiled at the sharpness of her reply. Instead, he stepped forward. "Mr. Grant, no conveyance has been executed. My wife's consent has not been given, and the proposed sale will not proceed on the terms discussed."
Grant's face reddened. "I shall expect the deposit returned."
"You will receive a written account of the payment and the arrangements concerning its return once I have examined the correspondence and terms."
"That will not satisfy my investors."
"Then I suggest you inform them accurately."
For several seconds, Grant said nothing. Finally, he replaced his hat. "I trust you appreciate the expense your family's assurances have caused me, Your Grace."
Julian inclined his head. "I intend to establish precisely what was promised, and by whom."
Grant left without offering his hand. The sound of his carriage wheels faded along the street. Eleanor remained beside the table, staring at the doorway. Thomas quietly guided the apprentices back to their work, and the familiar rhythm of the press gradually returned.
Julian waited until they were alone near the rear window. "You handled him remarkably well."
Eleanor gave a faint, exhausted laugh. "I have been handling him for months. You have simply been introduced."
Julian accepted the correction. Rainwater slipped down the glass between them and the courtyard.
"I owe you an apology," he said. "Not merely for the sale."
Eleanor looked down at the linen around her finger. "Go on."
He drew a slow breath. "I called you a burden because you would not do what I wanted. I offered you money to leave because I thought I could settle an unhappy marriage as easily as a business dispute. I was cruel, Eleanor."