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“Still, it’s important for you to see friends.”
“Anna Rutley is not a friend.”
“Nonetheless, you must marry.”
Edward’s heart broke when she said that. There was so much sincerity in Laura’s eyes. She was incredibly intelligent and thoughtful, and this made him only want her more. “Let’s not talk of it.” Edward removed his hand and went to grab his ledger. “There’s something that I have not shared with you. Perhaps it’s why I seem less agitated.”
“What is that?”
“New Pembroke funds.”
Laura knitted her brow. “What?”
“It was discovered days ago. These are funds Norman cannot touch. As I see the Pembroke finances dwindle, this secret allotment means that the family name should never go under, entirely.”
“My goodness, Edward.” Laura brought her hands to her cheeks. “That’s wonderful.”
Edward smiled. He delighted in every time that she said his name. “It is wonderful. That doesn’t mean I still won’t try to amend my brother’s ways.”
“He is making very poor choices, but you’re responsible for saving the Pembroke name entirely.”
“I will take some credit, yes.”
“I’m so happy for you.” Laura leaned down, kissing Edward on the forehead. It was perfect, showing Laura’s tenderness and genuine concern. Not being able to help himself at that moment, Edward quickly pulled her down onto his lap, and she laughed in protest.
“You must beg me to kiss you now.”
Laura continued to laugh. “You’re terrible.”
“Beg me.” Edward began to tickle Laura’s sides, and then she screamed in protest. Her face was contorted in a tortured smile.
“Please, please, please!”
“Then I relent.” Edward ceased to tickle Laura and brought her lips to his. She stopped laughing entirely as she melted into his kiss. Edward felt his manhood swell with pride. He knew that this occurrence might be confusing for Laura, but he could not help myself. He was a man, and sitting on his lap was one of the most beautiful women he’d ever laid eyes on.
Laura pulled away and turned thoughtful. “I’m so happy here.”
“That gives me immense pleasure to hear.”
“But I still hold true to my dreams.”
“Your dreams?”
“To be a governess. It’s all that I wish for.”
“All?” Edward played with a strand of her hair. He was implying that there should be more that she wished for and dreamt of in this life.
“I was raised with letters, and I’m not ashamed of it.”
“Laura, I know all of this. Why do you feel the need to explain?”
“Because, when you are married … ” Laura seemed to have trouble getting the words out. “I would like to teach your children.”
Edward stood in stunned silence. He didn’t know what to say.
