Grayson stepped onto the cobblestone courtyard of the main Ashford Manor, his dark coat sweeping behind him like a storm cloud.
Before he could even reach the grand double doors, Carson swung the heavy oak door open, leaning casually against the frame with a wide, mischievous grin.
"Well, well. Look who finally decided to leave his peaceful little cave," Carson greeted smoothly, tossing a red apple into the air and catching it with one hand. "Welcome back to the main house, Brother Number Three. Did your human wife give you a pass to come out and play today?"
Grayson stopped at the bottom of the stone steps, giving his youngest brother a glare cold enough to freeze water.
"Watch your tongue, Carson," Grayson rasped flatly. "I am currently separated from my wife, which means my patience is entirely nonexistent. Move before I make you sweep the courtyard with a toothbrush."
