“Your father is on the patio,” Beatrice said.

“He wants to talk.”

Outside, Arthur stood beside the stone railing, adjusting his cuff.

His first question concerned the settlement.

He had learned through his own inquiries that negotiations were progressing.

David’s office had not disclosed confidential figures to him without authority.

Arthur’s desire to be involved did not create permission for that disclosure.

“Are they making a serious offer?”