Page 87 of A Tale of Two Dukes

The bond between us glows as she throws herself at me, wrapping her arms about my neck, refusing to let go. “It’s what I want most in the entire world.”

“Then come, let us dress and meet the ‘priest.’”

We’re both silent, moving as swiftly as we can to pull our clothes on. I assist her as she assists me until we’re both at least presentable. Pulling her up into my arms, I carry her down the stairs, ignoring the snickers from the patrons as we pass by.

No doubt they heard everything that transpired in those four walls, but I don’t care. Catherine feels a hint of embarrassment, but more than that is her love shining through. Over in the workshop, the blacksmith pounds away at whatever he’s working on, but stops the moment he sees us.

“Ahh. The wee lass. Glad to see ye back on yer feet. I assume this is the man ye wish to wed?”

Her eyes shine as she nods. “More than anything.”

He glances behind us to where Whiteport rocks back and forth, looking uncomfortable. “And this here is your witness?”

With a nod, he steps forward, his lips forming a thin line. “Fairly certain that’s my only reason for being here.” I glance up at him, my lips twitching. However, by my side, Catherine appears worried, her brows drawing forward. With a soft chuckle, he shakes his head. “Relax, omega. It’s merely a lark.”

“Lark or nae,” the blacksmith interjects, “my time is precious. If there are no objections, I say let’s get on with it.”

The crowd remains silent, allowing the band to release from my heart. Though I didn’t expect anyone to speak out, it’s a relief to know I won't have to dispatch anyone else before my nuptials.

I turn to my bride, gazing down into her loving eyes as the blacksmith binds our hands together. If he only knew the salacious thoughts that sizzle through her mind. But then, based on the twinkle in his eye, he might have an inkling.

We profess our love for each other, committing our lives to one another for eternity. My heart swells as the bond vibrates, humming with satisfaction. Everything clicks into place, leaving me with a sense of serenity I’ve never felt before.

Though she started off as my courtesan, my heart already knew she’d be mine. The words we share are mere utterings, a confirmation of what I already knew deep in my soul. She was mine from the very beginning, and now, all of London will know.

Though I already sealed our love with a bond, the most intimate thing an Alpha and omega can share, this kiss means more to me than anything. It’s a declaration to everyone that Catherine is mine and always will be. Around us, peals of laughter and clapping usher in our nuptials, bringing a smile to her face.

Whiteport glances about, looking stiff, but that’s to be expected. Shaking the blacksmith’s hand, I pull him aside. “It would be most helpful if you could witness this marriage as happening about a month ago.”

“That will cost ye double,” he teases, winking.

“I’ll pay any price. For her, she’s worth it.”

CHAPTER 37

Catherine

Two Weeks Later

My insides are a jumble of nerves as I look at myself in the mirror, smoothing the rich fabric over my waist. The mark William gave me stands out proudly against my white skin in an array of colors ranging from light pinks to darker purples. Though nearly healed, it still smarts sometimes when I brush across it the wrong way.

Every now and then, I’m still gutted by the pain of the missing bond, but those instances seem to be fewer and far between. It helps that my mate feels my distress and does his utmost to distract me from it. Turning, I lift the edge of my dress, pulling it up high to show off my backside.

The last distraction was painfully delicious indeed. Even now, the fabric abrades the tender skin, stirring up the tendrils of arousal deep inside. The love I feel for William swirls into the mix, leaving me breathless and needy.

“Hmmmm. As much as I’d like to indulge you,” he murmurs, stepping into the room. “We have guests waiting for us.”

Turning, I spear him with a soulful gaze. “Can you just tell them I fell ill, and you need to come tend to me?”

His rich, throaty laugh fills the room, making my insides clench. “My naughty little kitten. You ask me, a duke, to lie?”

“If it’s for a good cause?” I blink up at him, hope blossoming in my chest. “I’ll make it worth your while.”

Again, he laughs, the decadent sound brushing over my skin. “As sure as I am that you’ll keep your word, I do so want you to meet my family. They are all anxious to make your acquaintance. In fact, my sisters have been summoned from the family estate to be here.”

Guilt niggles at me. Of course, I’ll put aside my needs when so many have come from far away. Sinking into a deep curtsy, I lower my lashes, looking every inch the dutiful duchess.

“As you wish, Your Grace.”