Mother chuckled. “At my age?”
“It doesn’t matter.”
“I would feel ridiculous.”
“No, you would feel wonderful.”
Alexander moved as if he were dancing. The only thing she understood was that he was quick and agile and elegant.
The official shouted again.
“Botheration, what is it now?”
“The duke won!” Mother clapped. “I might ask him to help me start fencing again when he becomes my new son.”
After shaking hands with Lord Warwick, Alexander ran towards her among the cheers and applause from the crowd. He beamed so brightly tears welled in her eyes.
“You were magnificent.” Her voice cracked a little.
He kissed her hand, but Mother cleared her throat. “May I borrow Esther for a moment?”
Mother put down her lorgnette. “Only a moment, Your Grace.”
Esther giggled as Alexander led her across the hall, weaving through people congratulating him, journalists asking questions, and other competitors shaking his hand. He exited the hall and headed to the end of the hallway.
“Where are we going?” she asked.
“Somewhere quiet.” He showed her to a small office and locked the door. “This is the best day of my life, and not just because I won the championship, but because you were here to see me.” He cupped her face and kissed her. “I’m so happy you came to watch me.”
“I wouldn’t have missed it for anything in the world.”
“I love you, Esther. I just wanted to tell you.”
She wrapped her arms around his neck. “I love you, too.”
“I decided not to give up fencing.” He held her by the waist and lifted her.
She laughed. “Good choice.”
“If it is, it’s thanks to you.” He put her down. “You give me hope and happiness.”
The honesty with which he declared that emotion left her breathing hard. She hadn’t realised how much she needed to be herself and be appreciated for that until she’d met him.
She hugged him tightly. He held her, close to his chest.
They’d won more than a championship.
One year later
* * *
Stretching out in his bed, Alexander stared at the collection of his cups shining on the shelves in the morning light. A year had passed since his competition in Brighton, but winning hadn’t been the best part of that day or the year.
Marrying the love of his life had surpassed any victory he’d ever achieved.
He pulled Esther closer and kissed her forehead. The bedsheets smelled like her, and with her tousled hair and crumpled nightgown, she was stunning.
“Did you sleep well?”
