(Author's POV)
Jasper seemed to sense it. He looked up from the board, and for a moment the two of them held each other's gaze across the courtyard.
Phineas let the corner of his mouth lift. It wasn't a warm expression.
William noticed his younger son and made a sound of mild displeasure. "When are you going to bring your wife home for a proper introduction? You've been married long enough."
"Anytime works for me," Phineas said pleasantly. "I just want to make sure you have your heart medication on hand. In case the news comes as too much of a pleasant shock."
William's expression darkened. "Stop being flippant."
Phineas ignored this. He turned to Jasper, his tone easy and unhurried.
"You've been coming around quite a lot lately. I always assumed your talents were fairly limited, bu
