Page 60 of The Viscount of Shadows

“Shh. I want to stay here with you for a while. Do you mind?”

Mind? His heart leaped with joy. “Not at all,” Oliver rasped. “As I said, I want you in my arms—for always.”

Claudia sighed deeply, which Oliver had learned meant she did not want to discuss what he had just said.

“I am too wound up to sleep and refuse to take any laudanum. I’ve seen what overuse can do. Besides, I needed to know if you are well.”

“And to seek comfort? For I could use it myself.”

She came in close on his uninjured side, and he placed his arm about her until she laid her head on his shoulder. “Yes,” she whispered. “Exactly that.”

Claudia, lying in his arms, felt—perfect. Absolutely perfect.

“What about your injury?” Oliver murmured.

“A little more than a scratch. I am fine.” She kissed his cheek. “Go to sleep. I will watch over you.”

“For the rest of our lives?” he replied drowsily.

Oliver didn’t hear her reply, for he had fallen asleep.