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“He is calling for you.”
“Oh, I …” Laura looked around the dark room groggily. The taper was still lit by her side. “Let me dress.”
“With haste.”
As Harrison left the room, Laura realized that she was still dressed. She quickly inspected herself in the mirror, wondering what time it was. How long had she been sleeping? Did Harrison think it odd that she was being summoned at night?
Laura ran up the stairs with more energy than she anticipated. It was all becoming clear. Edward was to inform her that he was officially engaged, Laura would curtsy, then they’d part ways. Laura would stand by and watch the rest of his life.
Or if she didn’t have the heart to do so, Laura would depart the estate and find employment elsewhere. Previously, she thought that she would be strong enough for this moment. Now, Laura had to wonder if that was true.
Walking down the hall, Laura saw that the door to the study was open. She stepped in and discovered Edward standing by the fire. He looked distraught.
“Where have you been?”
“I was not feeling well,” Laura said, stepping into the room.
“Don’t lie to me.”
“Edward, I … I know that tonight was an important night, and I wished to give you distance.”
“An important night?” Edward stepped in, tilting his head to the side. “What do you mean?”
“I mean, with Anna. Then the ball. I’ll try my best to be happy for you.”
Edward came in close and brought his large hands to the sides of Laura’s neck. He held on softly. “I’m not marrying Anna Rutley if that’s what you mean.”
“You’re not?”
Edward laughed and shook his head. “Of course, not. She’s trying everything she can to prove me otherwise. She invited herself and her father to supper under the pretences of helping me ‘plan’ for my ball.”
Laura couldn’t help laughing, as well. “Is that true?”
“Yes, it’s true. There I was in my time of need, and you were nowhere in sight.”
“I was convinced that the ball was to announce the engagement.”
Edward moved his hands down from her neck, down her arms, and finally grasped her waist. “Not the truth.” He pulled Laura in closer so that their hips met. “Although I did want to warn you, I’ll be required to dance with other ladies, including Anna.” He leaned in and whispered into her ear. “But I will wish that all those women were you.”
A delighted smile came to Laura’s lips. So, none of it was true. All those terrible notions swirling around in her head. Edward did not yet have a bride. “I wish to dance with you one day.”
“You will.” Edward kissed the tip of her nose. “Promise me something.”
“Yes?”
“Tomorrow, after the ball concludes, meet me here. I can’t bear to have another night not knowing where you are.”
“I promise.”
“Laura … I love you.”
She felt his warm breath, the beating of his heart, the way his hands grasped her waist hungrily. “I love you, as well.”
