Page 155 of From Rakes to Riches

“Come with me.” Theodore gestured for them to follow as he moved farther into the close walks. He stopped when he came to the same place the broken branches in the hedgerow created a passage to the alleyway on the other side. The reminder of Fremont’s murder added another layer of urgency to their actions.

“We can go out to Langley Lane and hail a hackney at the corner,” he said calmly.

“But where will we go after that?” Lola asked. “If the duke has men here and at both our homes, nowhere is safe.”

“I have an idea. I’ll explain once we leave,” Theodore reassured her. “Thank you, Sofia. We appreciate all your help.”

They paused in front of the space in the hedgerow, but only for a moment. Theodore went first and then extended his hand backward. Lola grasped onto it tight. She met Sofia’s gaze long enough to see her friend nod before Lola pushed through to the other side.

Two hours later,the mournful clang of a far-off wherry sounded through the window glass, an appropriate echo of Lola’s distraught mood. It was nearly midnight and Theodore had secured a room for them at a modest inn near the London Docks. She scanned the dreary interior, a far cry from the opulent comfort of Theodore’s town house and yet he’d not uttered a single complaint, his every word an attempt to reassure her instead.

Come morning, he intended to book passage for their travel aboard any packet ship bound for America within the week. He’d already sent Wyndham a message and awaited his man-of-all-things’ reply concerning the necessary documents and funds for their trip. She glanced to Theodore as he tended the fire and wondered if he experienced the same morass of complicated emotions alive within her.

“This is madness. It’s never going to work,” she said, her voice both nervous and adamant. “We can’t do this.”

“Lola.” Theodore strode across the room, his expression serious. “There’s no time for second thoughts. I know you’re fearless, so unless your doubt arises from uncertainty concerning us?—”

“No.” She cut him off, unwilling to let him continue. “Our relationship is the only thing Iamsure of, but you’ve only just returned from America,” she said, closing her eyes as she leaned against his chest. He was strong and warm and always there to support her and yet she was forcing him to make rash decisions and hide in a dingy inn near the London Docks.

“That makes relocating all the easier. Every American I met on my recent visit will remember me and that will be helpful as we decide where to live. If you like London, you’ll adore New York City. I’ve established business contacts and invested in a few thriving companies there.”

“My sister knows nothing of what transpired tonight. I haven’t said goodbye to her or my family. What about Mercury and Venus?” Her voice trembled with the threat of too much emotion.

“Wyndham will arrange for our horses and belongings to follow. Once we’re settled, my solicitor will oversee all financial matters. The London house will be closed or sold if we prefer. The servants will be pensioned.”

She breathed deeply, wanting to believe it would all transpire as smoothly as he detailed.

“As for your family, you haven’t seen them in over two years, so you should write to them. We can post the letter in the morning.” He pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I know you’ve only just reunited with your sister. I’m sorry.”

“No,” she objected, pulling out of his embrace. “I’m sorry. I’m causing this upheaval in your life, forcing you to make difficult choices. It’s wrong.”

“You’re not forcing me to do anything. If I have to choose between the earldom and you, I choose you every time.” He pulled her forward until she was only inches from his face. “You belong with me. It doesn’t matter where we are because I’d go anywhere to be with you. I love you, Lola. Do you love me and want us to be together?”

“Yes,” she answered emphatically. “But?—”

“Yes is the only answer necessary,” he said softly. “Now, it’s late and we’re exhausted. Let’s go to bed and fall asleep in each other’s arms.”

For a long moment, she couldn’t breathe, her heart squeezed tight. “Thank you, Theodore.”

“You don’t have to thank me for helping you evade the duke’s charges. He’s a horrible man who beats animals and revels in other people’s pain. You acted out of love and kindness whenyou set that horse free and it’s a travesty anyone would punish you for your merciful act.”

“I wasn’t thanking you for that,” she said as she threaded her fingers with his and tugged him toward the bed.

“Oh?” He sounded confused and paused beside the mattress while he waited for her to continue.

“Thank you for loving me so completely.” She reached up and untied his cravat, dropping it to the floor before she undid the buttons of his waistcoat.

“Indeed.” He began to undress her now, too. “Once we’re in bed, I’ll remind you just how completely I do love you.”

Lola awokeat dawn and slipped from the sheets without waking Theodore. The fire waned in the hearth and she quietly poked at the logs to stir up the flames. After she dressed, she settled at the small table near the window and penned a letter to her family, explaining her plans. Her sister would complete the story by telling their parents of her life in London. Lola had just finished the note when Theodore stirred.

“Good morning.” He propped up on his elbow. “No more second thoughts, I hope. Although I wouldn’t mindreassuringyou repeatedly for the four thousand mile trip across the Atlantic.”

“I see you’ve slept well. Your usual charm is intact.” She tried for a teasing tone and waved the letter in her hand. “I’d like to post this as soon as possible though.”

“Of course.” He rubbed his eyes and got out of bed, dressing as soon as he washed his face. “I expect Wyndham’s delivery of the necessary documents later this morning. We’ll head out now so we’re here to accept the trunks he prepared for us and the paperwork needed.”

“Yes, I’m ready.” She tucked the letter in her pocket and picked up her shawl.

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