Before…
"Amelia, I am so glad that you can make it," Horace Hawthorne said, his smile welcoming and his eyes wide.
He was slightly breathless, and Amelia guessed he must have rushed over the moment she called him. He politely embraced Amelia like a father would a daughter, and the paternal love that shone through in his eyes was unmistakable.
"I am so sorry you received such an awful welcome." His gaze was stern. "Rest assured that this will never happen again."
His gaze fell on Ronan, who stood just slightly behind Amelia after she stepped forward to greet Horace, and the old man nodded once to the young man.
"Young Master Sullivan," Horace greeted, amusement dancing in his voice. "It is wonderful to see you as well. Is your brother in attendance today?"