Page 108 of A Duke in the Rough

When she opened her mouth, he raised a hand. “Don’t answer hastily. I couldn’t bear it if you said yes now but changed your mind later as you had before.”

He wished he could tell her of his father’s hasty decision that led to the separation from his family. Would his father have received better medical care and still be alive? Would he and Honoria have met at sometonfête and already be happily married, perhaps with the joyful sound of children scampering about the enormous mansion?

Fully admitting his stubbornness in not confessing his true identity, he convinced himself it was a matter of pride. He not onlywantedher to choose him regardless of his station—heneededit. He needed to feel valued, accepted, and loved for himself as a man, not a title.

“Now”—he squeezed her hand—“let’s enjoy the fireworks. I’ve waited eight long years for you, Honoria. I can wait as long as necessary.” Banding his arms around her waist, he pulled her in front of him. With her back pressed against his chest, he rested his cheek against hers.

And he prayed he was doing the right thing.

Wrapped in Drake’s arms,Honoria allowed herself to savor the moment. She would prove her devotion and commitment to him, and together they would face her father. But unlike eight years prior, if all went according to her plan, she would have a secret weapon in her arsenal to use if necessary.

For once in her life, she would stand up to her father, making itclear in no uncertain terms that she had chosen Drake, and no amount of persuasion would make her change her mind.

Peace settled around her, even amid thebangs, sizzles, andshowers of sparks. She glanced over to where her parents watched the colorful display. Although she loved them both, even with their faults, Drake was her future, come what may.

“I should return you before your father notices,” Drake whispered, his warm breath brushing against her cheek.

Carefully, he guided her across the front of the house, behind the crowd, back to where she had stood before. Miranda waited nearby, as if keeping watch and marking their destination.

Unable to keep her amusement to herself, she said, “Did you involve Miranda in your scheme to abduct me?”

His delicious chuckle vibrated across her skin. “Abduct? I merely escorted you to the most advantageous viewing spot. And yes, Lady Miranda may have agreed to point your position out to me. It is rather dark, you know.”

“Hmm. I suppose you put Burwood up to extinguishing the braziers as well?”

“I admit to nothing. Except wishing we were alone. I very much want to kiss you goodnight. But even in the darkness, it wouldn’t be prudent with all these people present . . .”

She laughed. “Then you are not as adept at planning as it would appear. For you had your chance while we were still hidden in the shrubbery.”

He snapped his fingers. “Drat. You’re right. I shall do better the next time I engage in stealthy behavior. But until then, goodnight, my lady.” He lifted her hand and placed a kiss on her fingers, his eyes never leaving hers. “Sleep well.”

With that, he disappeared into the darkness moments before footmen relit the torches.

As the crowd dispersed back inside, her parents wound their way toward her.

She smiled in greeting. “Mother. Father. Did you enjoy the fireworks?”

“Bah, a waste of money,” her father groused, but there was a slight twinkle in his eyes.

“Don’t let him fool you,” her mother said. “He was as enthralled as everyone else. I believe I even heard a few oohs from him.”

“We should have the physician check your hearing, woman.” The twitch of his lips gave him away.

“Father, youdidenjoy them.”

“Very well. I did.”

With his agreeable mood, Honoria plucked up her courage. She might not have a better time to present her case. “Father, might I have a word in private?”

He cocked his head, his brows drawing down. “Can’t it wait until the morning? All this ball nonsense and fireworks has taken a toll.”

Was it the dim light, or did he suddenly look older? An unwelcome foreboding tripped up her spine. “Are you unwell? Should I fetch Ashton or Dr. Marbry?”

He batted a hand. “Bah. Just old.”

Her mother pulled her wrap up around her shoulders. “Can we discuss this inside?”

How could she be so selfish? With her mother cold and her father tired, her own needs seemed less urgent. She kissed her mother on the cheek. “Go.” She waved them forward. “What I have to discuss can wait until tomorrow.”

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