"No!" said Pierre, holding Auguste tighter.
You're a brave boy, but I'm afraid it's you that would be killed, my son.
Blood pounded in Pierre's head. He wanted to take Auguste's knife—the knife he'd given Auguste long ago—and drive it into Raoul's chest.
If I were like Raoul, I would do just that. Or try to.
"Raoul, for this I will never forgive you."
"Forgive me?" Raoul shouted. "Can I forgive you for bringing this savage here to cheat me?"
Nicole took Auguste from Pierre's arms. She pressed a white napkin to his bleeding face and took him to a chair to sit down. As he sat, Auguste turned to shoot Raoul a look of pure hate.
"Cheat you? What are you talking about?"
"Just remember, when you die—and I hope God makes it soon—I will have this estate."
Pierre felt Raoul's words as if that blade had plunged into his heart. That his own brother should wish him dead ...