The Inheritance Games, #4
The Brothers Hawthorne
by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Contents
CHAPTER 33: JAMESON
Overview
Jameson loses at whist to Branford, but the defeat is overshadowed by the dramatic appearance of the true Proprietor, who descends into the room with Avery on his arm. The entire club shows deference to him, revealing the depth of his power within Devil’s Mercy.
Jameson refuses to follow the room’s submissive ritual. By standing, approaching, and winking at the Proprietor, he openly challenges the club’s hierarchy and signals that he intends to play the larger game on his own terms.
Summary
Jameson plays whist against Branford, who is forceful, efficient, and silent. Although Jameson learns the game quickly, he cannot learn fast enough to win, and Branford’s play defeats Jameson’s team.
Branford tells Jameson he should not be at Devil’s Mercy and dismissively calls him “Boy.” Zella, Jameson’s partner, does not seem upset by the loss, suggesting the game may matter less to her than the larger situation unfolding around them.
After the game, Branford asks that his winnings be credited, but he abruptly sits again and lowers his head. Jameson realizes why when Avery appears at the top of the staircase beside an older man in black with a platinum cane: the Proprietor.
Everyone in the room lowers their heads as if acknowledging royalty. The Proprietor offers Avery his arm, and Avery takes it, descending the staircase with him. Branford exchanges the slightest nod with the Proprietor, confirming the man’s authority and Branford’s connection to him.
Instead of bowing or staying seated, Jameson stands and walks to meet Avery and the Proprietor at the bottom of the stairs. With every eye on him, Jameson looks directly at the Proprietor and winks, choosing risk and defiance over submission.
Who Appears
- Jameson HawthorneLoses whist to Branford, then boldly challenges the Proprietor’s authority with open defiance.
- Avery GrambsAppears beside the Proprietor and descends the staircase on his arm.
- The ProprietorPowerful leader of Devil’s Mercy, revealed as an elderly man with a platinum cane.
- BranfordDefeats Jameson at whist and shows deference to the Proprietor.
- ZellaPartners with Jameson at whist and appears unconcerned by their loss.