Chapter Fifty-Four

“What? What do you think I should know?” Steven asked, as Marie looked at him with solemnity in her eyes.

“I…I think Alden is telling the truth. The circumstances under which he showed up at the Cottage seemed, well, suspect.”

“Marie… I don't…”

“Let me finish, Steven, please. I know this is a tough pill to swallow but I don't think your dad was in such danger. I think maybe he couldn't bear asking you for the money for his new business directly. Maybe there's some truth to what he said, but I doubt Alden made it up.”

“Marie, you don't know my father. He’s a serial entrepreneur who has launched several successful businesses,”

“Yes, City Boy. We hear you. But are any of them up and running today that you know of?”

“Well, no.”

“There you go, City Boy. Even you gotta see the truth at some point. Maybe it's for the best if you take Alden’s advice this time.”

“That's hardly fair, James. You’ve never even liked my father.”

“Woah, back up, City Boy. You and I know the only reason I haven't be