Page 89 of How to Best a Marquess

“If you do not wish to marry me, then I cannot allow you to leave London,” he said, his voice full of purpose.

“My brother has decided,” she said.

“You need not leave. I shall.”

She stared up at him, her emotions a tangled web. “What of the Raven Club?”

“I no longer want it. It’s yours.”

Her eyes widened in astonishment. She opened her mouth, then closed it, unsure what to say.

“I will not stand in your way. I will leave London forever if that is what you wish.” Reaching into his coat pocket, he pulled out a parchment. He unrolled it to reveal an official-looking document with a seal. “It’s already done. My solicitor has transferred the deed to the club to you. Everything is now in your name.” He handed it to her.

She stared at the document in her open palm, then her gaze flew to his. She read despair in his green eyes. A despair that matched her own.

She was afraid to breathe. The words came out on a sob. “Oh, Hugh. Are you certain?”

“More certain than anything in my life. I love you. I wish for you to have everything you desire, even if I cannot be with you. You can have the club and continue to help others. I want you to be happy, Ellie.”

She looked at him in awe. He admitted his flaw and had proclaimed his love. Could she do the same?

Forgiveness was a virtue she’d struggled with. It was her own flaw, she knew. But she refused to allow her pride and stubbornness to ruin her future.

She raised her chin, and her lips curved in a smile. “I’ve been guilty of my own sins of pride. I forgive you.”

He let out a held-in breath. “Thank you.”

He might have gifted her the deed, but she still had her brother’s demands to contend with. Would Ian permit her to stay in London? Would he allow her to run the Raven Club without interference even knowing what she’d done…what she still planned to do?

No. He’d never allow it.

The deed burned in her hand along with the thudding of her heart. Her troubles were far from over, even with Hugh’s gift.

“I do believe forgiveness calls for a kiss,” she said, her voice breathless.

Once more to say goodbye.

She recognized the moment hope lit his gaze, and her chest squeezed.

She rose on her tiptoes as he lowered his head to capture her mouth. Seconds later, his strong arms pulled her to him. It was a sweet kiss, the kind that melted her bones and tugged at her heart. A kiss that made her feel treasured and, heaven help her, loved.

A small thought pierced her haze of joy. Not all was lost; an opportunity remained. But was she bold enough to seize it?

Yes, she was. If it meant finally obtaining the happiness that had escaped her years ago. A happiness they both deserved.

She pressed a hand against his chest and felt his own heart beat in response. Lifting her head, she looked up at him and took a deep breath. “You should know that I’ve never stopped loving you.”

“Truly?” he asked.

“Oh, yes. From years ago. And from the first moment I spotted you in the boxing ring with Bear. It took me a while to realize it, but now I know.”

He looked at her in delight. “I wish I had known. It would have changed everything.”

In spite of her nervousness, she laughed out loud. “While we are confessing, you should know there is something else I desire.”

Unmistakable mischief lit his eyes. “Such as?”

“Marry me.”

His hands covered hers where it pressed against his chest, and his eyes welled with tears. “I thought you would never ask. It would be my honor.”

“And the club?” she asked as she held up the deed she still clutched in her free hand. “Will you want this back?”

“No. It’s yours.”

Her heart danced with joy. “It’s ours. Together it will flourish.”

“I do believe I must speak with Castleton and seek his permission,” Hugh said.

“Luck is with you. My brother is in a good mood today.”