“Can we not just retrieve the funds that Mr. Stanley stole?” Edwina asked.
With a resolute nod, her uncle replied, “We will try, but it might not be as easy as that. There are many ways to keep funds hidden, but you must not worry about that. You will have your money. I promise you that.”
Miles leaned closer to her. “That is your money that your father left you,” he whispered. “You are free to do with it what you please.”
She turned towards him and asked, “Do you truly mean that?”
“I do,” Miles replied. “My estate is very profitable and we have more than enough money for two lifetimes.”
Edwina felt her heart fill with gratitude for this man. How she loved him. With Miles by her side, it was as if all the pieces of her soul had finally found their rightful place.
Shifting her gaze back to Bennett, Edwina knew precisely what she wanted to do with her inheritance. “I would like you to use that money to help the village.”
Bennett’s brow lifted. “Are you in earnest?” he asked. “That is a small fortune.”
Edwina reached for Miles’ hand. “It is, but the villagers have suffered much by Mr. Stanley’s hand. It will take some time- and money- to regain their trust again. Perhaps you could even open an all-girls’ school.”
“We will do so, but in your name,” Bennett said.
Her uncle approached her, coming to a stop in front of her. His eyes were moist. “You are so much like your father, and I miss him.”
Edwina dropped Miles’ hand and embraced her uncle. “I do as well.”
In a low voice, her uncle said, “I’m sorry, Edwina. You deserved better and I let you down. I promise to make this right.”
Leaning back slightly, Edwina suggested, “Let’s start over.”
Her uncle released her and took a step back. “Thank you, Child.”
Her aunt stepped forward and announced, “You must hurry and eat breakfast. The dressmaker is coming to fit you for a whole new wardrobe. You will need one befitting your elevation of status. You are to become a countess.”
“I do not care about becoming a countess,” Edwina said. “All I care about is that I am Miles’ wife.”
Miles grinned. “This will mean that you will need to start acting more countessish.”
“That doesn’t have the same ring to it as ‘earlish,’” Edwina teased.
“I am not as good at making up words as you are,” Miles admitted.
Edwina patted his sleeve. “At least you are trying.”
Miles reached for her hand and brought it up to his lips. “I will always try for you,” he said. “You must know that.”
“I do,” Edwina responded, leaning closer. “And I promise I won’t make up too many words.”
“You can make up as many words as you want,” Miles remarked, keeping a hold on her hand. “I just want you to be happy.”
A broad smile came to her lips. “I am happy. Deliriously so,” she admitted.
Miles’ eyes filled with tenderness. “To love you is tobreathe, for without you, my life would be devoid of meaning or purpose.”
“I love you, too,” Edwina murmured, being transfixed by his gaze.
Winston let out a groan. “Just elope to Gretna Green already!” he exclaimed. “And leave me in peace.”
“Absolutely not!” her aunt shouted. “Edwina needs to get married in the chapel after the banns have been posted.”
Miles lowered her hand but didn’t release it. “It might be best if I write about my undying devotion to you.”
