Page 68 of The Marquess of Secrets

“Shall we say three months from today? In that time, you can plan your new clinic.”

“September twentieth?”

“Yes.”

“On that date, you will inform me if you want me—or not. I spoke the truth earlier; I am falling for you. I will not say the words, for I do not want to place any undue pressure on you. But I will do as you ask. Know this: on the twentieth, I’ll be telling you all that is in my heart. Is that acceptable to you?”

Lydia kissed his cheek. “The fact you even ask permission or ask for my opinion has me falling for you. Yes, it is absolutely fine as long as you allow me to tell you what’s in my heart.”

He touched her forehead with his. “You were brave this afternoon. You asked that Huntsford be cared for; it speaks of your generous heart.”

“Did you see him?” she whispered.

“For a moment. I administered the drug. Showed Robins how to do so. They will be heading to London tomorrow. A telegraph was already sent to L Division in Lambeth, and the police awaited his arrival. He’ll be charged with theft, attempted kidnapping, bodily harm to another, and anything else they can come up with. Too bad criminal transport is not still in effect. Sending Huntsford to New South Wales is appealing indeed.”

“A tragic ending, nonetheless. I no longer feel anything for Huntsford except pity. I haven’t for a long, long time.”

Harrison kissed her cheek. “I am gratified to hear it. Shall we rejoin the family?”

Lydia nodded, taking his arm. She loved him. And if all went well the next three months, she would tell him what was in her heart. For it was bursting with happiness.

Whatever the future would bring, she would embrace it—wholeheartedly.

Chapter 19

“I now pronounce you man and wife, and man and wife,” the vicar stated.

Applause broke out in the parlor as Tremain and Spencer thoroughly kissed their new brides. The small congregation of family and close friends rushed forward to offer their hearty congratulations.

Harrison stayed put, his gaze never wavering from Lydia. She did the same. It was as if they had said the vows as well, made an unspoken commitment.

God, how he ached for her, but not only physically. He wanted to share his life with her. All aspects. Duty pales in comparison to finding the love of your life. Hang society and their judgment on all counts. If only he’d come to that realization earlier.

He was not a perfect man.

He made monumental mistakes that caused pain to others. It would take time for him to forgive himself. Perhaps three months apart would put much in perspective. And he would be busy with the new clinic.

The future looked bright for the Hornsby brothers—the entire family.

A small hand slipped into his. “Come, Uncle! There will be chocolate cake,” Drew Payne smiled. “And shortbread with icing and small ginger biscuits.”

He squeezed the lad’s hand. Drew would soon have the Hornsby name as Tremain and Eliza had already put the adoption in motion.

“I believe there is more to eat besides treats.”

He scrunched up his nose. “Eggs and ham? I’d rather have cake.”

Harrison laughed, holding out his free hand in Lydia’s direction. “So would I, lad. So would I.”

Lydia took it and the three of them headed toward the happy couples.

The future looked bright indeed.

Three months later

“Nurse Lydia! Look at the sun I painted!”

Lydia took the proffered paper and admired it. “It is a brilliant sun, Sophia.” Sophia was one of the sweetest girls she had ever met. Only Sophia was not a girl but a young lady of twenty-six. She handed the paper back to her. “You’ve taken your medicine? Feeling better?”