twenty-three
The day couldn’t be more perfect for Anthony as he promenaded in his garden under the shade of the linden trees with Isabella. Lawson followed them.
Isabella wasn’t as upset as she’d been the other day, but not as bubbling and cheerful as usual.
“I hope you don’t mind walking in the garden,” he said. “I’m not comfortable going out yet.”
“The garden is perfect, but…” She pressed her lips together. “Never mind.”
“Speak your mind. I’ve always liked that of you.”
She gave him a small smile. “If you need company to go out, I’m happy to help. Sometimes it’s easier to do things we’re afraid of when we aren’t alone. The more you hide, the harder it’ll be to leave the house.” Her gaze lingered on his scar but never in a horrified way.
“Thank you for your honesty.”
She touched his arm, and the usual thrill coursed through him. “I try to be.”
He stopped under the shadow of a weeping willow tree. “I always feel better when you’re close to me. You bring me joy.”
She beamed, a bright, full beam that brightened the whole city. The sun hid in shame behind a cloud. “Really? Even when I wrestled you to the floor?”
He chuckled. “The stairs. That was one of the best moments of my life.”
“Coincidentally, one of mine too.”
They laughed together, and he didn’t care if his face twisted because of the scar.
“That’s why I want to propose,” he said almost without thinking, but then again, the words were true.
Her expression tensed for a moment before softening. “So you’re really still interested in marrying me.”
He hesitated only because he got lost in the depths of her dark eyes. “I am.”
Her cheeks flushed a delightful colour.
“I don’t want to make you uncomfortable.” He touched her hand. “I should apologise for not having talked about my proposal again. After the shooting, I thought you might not want to be with me. Look at me.” He flashed a bitter smile. “I’m hiding in my own garden while I look like someone who swallowed dynamite.”
“I don’t care about the scar.” Honesty rang in her steady voice. “I really don’t, Anthony. I care about you.”
He couldn’t believe the turn the day had taken. “I do want to marry you, but I thought you weren’t sure.”
“This period of separation made me think. And Helen has found other interests.” She glanced up at him.
“I’m happy for her.”
“Since she is no longer interested in being your duchess, I don’t have to worry about hurting her feelings.”
There were very few feelings to start with, according to Anthony.
“So, without competing with my sister, I would be happy to agree to your proposal.” She flushed a deeper shade of pink.
He sucked in a deep breath because he didn’t believe in his good fortune. Isabella wished to marry him, despite what happened to him. He hadn’t experienced such happiness in a long time. She wanted to marry him!
A jumble of thoughts and emotions overwhelmed him. He didn’t know where to start. If he could, he would marry her today.
“When do you want to get married? Do you prefer a long or a short engagement? Where do you want to perform the ceremony? Oh, no, wait. Grandmama will insist on St. George Chapel in Windsor. I hope you don’t mind.” He forced himself to shut up.
“St. George Chapel is perfect.”
