The Duke was losing patience as well, he already told him multiple times to stop asking, but this child didn't listen, "I do not know where your mother is. Who knows? Maybe she ran off with another man after taking the money. Through me, you can live a good life, don't forget that. Now, get out."
Everett got his answer... It was clear: his father didn't care if his mother was dead or alive. The Duke was cruel and unreliable, and Everett realized he'd rather risk everything than be bound by loyalty to such a man.
He recalled Adeline's offer... Time to make a choice.
Seeing his son leave, the Duke banged his fist against the table. He took a quick breath to calm down. He would never let Everett find out the truth.
He couldn't afford for the pawn he'd carefully positioned to question him, let alone turn against him.