She pouted like she had when she was five and was told she had to stop reading her books and go to bed. It felt odd, since she rarely wished to do something other than what was required. “I suppose I can stay in here one more day, but you must have Mrs. Boyd send up some barberry ice cream. Have my maid, Miss Clark, bring it. She’ll be able to get it to me when Rose isn’t paying attention.”
He didn’t smile like she’d hoped he would. “Is Rose making you well, then? Do I need to send for the duchess?”
“The duchess? Merciful heavens, no. I’m already better.”
He set his hand to her forehead then cupped her cheek. “I’m glad for that.”
Still, he didn’t smile. He was like another person, or as if he had troubles on his mind. She put her hand over his. “What is it, Tam?”
He squeezed her hand in his. “I thought I’d lost you.” He swallowed hard, his cravat moving as he did so.
“But you saved me, and I’m feeling well.” She gave him a reassuring smile, hoping to ease his worry.
He shook his head. “I can’t lose you. I don’t have much to offer you yet, but I promise I can provide for you. It won’t be as well asyou’re used to, but I can’t wait another moment to have you be mine.”
Her heart raced at the idea that he might put aside his plan for her. She clasped his hand with both of hers. “What are you saying?”
“I’m saying I want you to be my wife. I humbly ask you to believe in me and be at my side as we build a life together.”
Joy filled her. Letting go of his hands, she wrapped her arms around his neck. “Yes! I want you for my husband now and forever.”
His brows rose as his lips quirked upward. “Truly? I have only a few servants and the house is not up to snuff, and—”
She kissed him, unable to wait another moment. To know that she would be in his arms, in his life, forever was pure happiness.
He grasped her to him and deepened the kiss.
Just as she pressed herself harder against him, the door opened.
“Christopher!”
At Rose’s scolding, Tam stopped kissing her, but didn’t release her. He turned his head to look at Rose. “Yes.”
She closed the door quietly, a scowl on her face.
Sophie couldn’t keep her good news to herself. “Lord Tamworth has just asked me to be his wife, and I’ve agreed.”
Rose collapsed in a chair. “Then I’m very happy for you both.”
Tam seemed to take pity on her friend. “May I suggest that you go to your room and get some sleep? Lady Sophie has agreed to remain in her room for one more day, so you do not need to watch over her.”
Rose sat straighter in the chair and looked about to argue.
Sophie quickly added her own assurance. “Truly, Rose, you have made me feel much better. I promise I won’t leave my room until the morrow.”
Rose’s shoulders sagged once again. “I know you don’t break promises, so I will rest for a bit. Chris, you will leave with me.”
Tam nodded and released Sophie. “I will.”
“I wish you could stay.” She sighed.
“I must go to ask your father’s permission. I’m hoping he will be as understanding as you about my ability to support you.”
She’d forgotten about how much importance her father would put upon that, and it worried her. “My father is a quiet, studious man. He understands logic best. If you can act in the same manner, he will be more likely to accept your suit.”
“I will remember that. Continue to get well, and I will see you again in a few days.”
Rose stood then opened the door.
