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“Only to discover me a lowly governess.” Lissa smiled as Ralph gripped her hand.
“And, when I rescued you through the window, I discovered you to be a very daring governess.”
“But still a lowly governess.”
“Well, perhaps,” Ralph conceded. “Now, though, you’ll only be pretending to be a lowly governess, living a life cloaked in danger and mystery and intrigue. And that, I think, is far more to your taste.” His tone was jocular before he revealed his concern once more. “Are you sure you’re up to this, Larissa? I could not forgive myself if harm came to you.”
“Working for my country to keep you safe, Ralph, is the best alternative to not having you with me.” Lissa sent him an arch look and Ralph in turn grinned a quick apology at Mrs. Crossing as he took his beloved in a quick hug.
“Ah, my mysterious governess, you will never stop surprising me.”
Lissa sighed happily. “And when we have worked together to fulfill our joint mission on behalf of the government and have brought these dangerous men to justice, I hope I won’t stop surprising you.”
She pushed herself out of her chair and fully into Ralph’s arms as he rose, too. Over his shoulder she caught a glimpse of Mrs. Crossing’s expression. There was understanding and compassion there as their visitor stood up and covered her hair once again with the hood of her cloak.
“Thank you for your visit, Mrs. Crossing.” Ralph broke away to bow to her in farewell and to raise the candle to light the way as he opened the door for her. “I am very happy to accept Sir William’s proposal and to serve the kingdom to the best of my ability.”
Lissa nodded. “And I, too, will do whatever I am asked to keep this country safe.” She smiled and reached for Ralph’s hand. “Even if it’s to become a spy, which it seems is what I must be in order to assist my dearest Ralph.”
As the door closed softly behind Mrs. Crossing, Ralph wrapped his arms around Lissa and kissed her deeply.
Suddenly the tiny, cramped quarters, which was all they could afford, seemed like the first step in a whole new world opening up before them. The moment they stepped over its scuffed threshold and into the cobbled alleyway, they’d be embarking on the adventure of their lives. Lissa couldn’t wait to taste what the real world was like, knowing her brave, darling Ralph was her greatest ally. Even when they could not be together.
“I cannot tell you how thrilling it is to learn of the depths to which you’re prepared to sink for me, my most beloved,” he murmured against her lips.
“You say that in jest, Ralph darling, but who knows what challenges this new adventure will throw at both of us. Then you’ll realise how much I’m willing to sacrifice for you, and the true depth of my love,” she whispered, before deepening the kiss.
THE END
