Page 65 of When the Duke Met His Match

“That’s why we need to put an end to it, but we don’t have much time.”

“And this officer fellow that helped you escape, where is he now?” he asked her, brows raised with interest.

“He and a comrade are off to speak with someone. They mentioned needing help. He wanted me to stay back and wait for them to return, but I thought it would be best for me to get help of my own."

Pride sparked within her father’s eyes as he stroked her hair. “That’s my daughter.”

Her mother gave him a look that said he shouldn’t encourage her, but he shrugged it off and took one of her hands in his. "Odette, you understand the gravity of this situation, don't you? It's not a simple matter. Do you truly trust Theophilus?"

She nodded without needing to contemplate the matter. “He saved me more times than I can count and has risked everything just to free me. He gave up everything to help, and I feel I can trust him with my life.”

He gave her a fond smile. “I am happy for you, my dear. He sounds good and honorable, even if he went against what is considered proper. A man willing to risk his station and comfort for another must have plenty of love in his heart.”

Odette felt heat move through her cheeks, sheepish when it came to the topic. She never pictured herself finding love or being married to anyone, but with Theophilus, it seemed possible for the first time. “He is one of the greatest men I know.”

Her mother wiped at her eyes, seemingly choked up by the thought of her daughter finding love, even if it was unorthodox.

“I know that no matter what we may try to tell you, we cannot stop you from moving forward with this. This is your decision to make, and you must try to make your own way,” her father began again, gentle yet reassuring with his tone. “We can only ask you to be careful and to look after each other. As your parents, we treasure you more than anything else, and we hope you two succeed in this endeavor. It would mean the world for you both to be pardoned.”

Her mother took a deep breath and wiped away her tears. She brushed a finger against Odette’s cheek. “When you are successful and manage to save the king, we would be pleased to meet this brave fellow of yours.”

She smiled back at her with a nod and quickly hugged her mother. “For that to happen, I need your help.”

Her parents looked back at her with love and conviction in their eyes.

“Anything for you, my girl,” her father said, his face warm from the fire’s gentle glow. “Whatever you need, we will do our best to assist you.”

Chapter Thirty-Five

THEOPHILUS

As they strolled through London's streets, nightfall had already descended, bringing an end to the usual hustle and bustle. The only audible thing was the spine-chilling sound of the wind howling past them, serving as a reminder of the world's desolate emptiness.

Theophilus and Eric moved beneath the shadows, hands in their pockets with their quickened strides. While walking those familiar streets, Theophilus was reminded of the life he had left behind.

He wondered how life would’ve been if he hadn’t been promoted and pulled from the lower ranks. He questioned if Eric would’ve found himself in his current position, left to drink himself into poverty and to find himself being approached by a rebel group for intel.

Silence lingered between them while Theophilus remained deep in thought until Eric spoke quietly, “You know, it’s a noble thing you’re trying to accomplish here. Most men would turn the other way if they stumbled upon information so grave as a planned assassination. The English crown put a bounty on your head and meant to send your missus away. Why did you come back?”

Sighing to himself, Theophilus took the time to mull over that question. He could’ve said many things, but he settled on a simpler answer.

“I haven’t figured out how to fully turn my back on anything just yet.”

It was true that he had no reason to remain loyal to the king after what had happened other than to soothe his pride and try to make amends. But he couldn’t find it within himself to hold on to that resentment.

Eric snickered at the answer, yet he nodded, seemingly understanding. “You’re better than most of them out there. I can’t say I’d do the same if I were in your shoes.”

“You’re here with me now, aren’t you?”

Eric’s lip pulled up in a smile, and he rubbed at the back of his neck. “I suppose you’re right. Sometimes a push in the right direction is all you need.”

Theophilus reached over and put a supportive hand against his friend’s shoulder, offering him a kind look. “Once we have this mess sorted out, you’ll be the talk of London. Every mother will line up to offer their debutants to you, with their poor fathers begrudgingly giving away the handsome dowry they had stashed away.”

Eric shook him off, clearly doubtful of the declaration. “I don’t need a heavy purse or the biggest estate. A station of any kind would suit me fine.”

“You’ll have your pick. I’m certain of it.”

“Speaking of wives, I do hope you didn’t chase after that French woman if you don’t intend to marry her,” Eric said with a mischievous glint in his eyes. “That would be a shame.”