Page 98 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
She smiled, her hand coming up to cover his. “And I love you, Kenneth. With every beat of my heart.”
As they stood there, lost in each other’s eyes, in the steady hum of love and possibility that flowed between them, Kenneth felt something he had once thought impossible. He felt whole, complete, and utterly at peace.
This was where he belonged. And everything—every moment of pain and heartache, every misunderstanding and every tear—had been worth it, just to bring him to this moment. To bring him home to the woman who held his heart and soul in the palm of her hand.
He leaned down, capturing her lips with his once more, pouring every ounce of his love, his devotion, into the kiss.
Epilogue
Ten Months Later
The sun shone brightly over Hyde Park, casting a warm glow on the lush greenery and the elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen strolling along the paths. Among them were the Duke and Duchess of Dunford, walking arm in arm with contented smiles on their faces.
Beside them, the Duke and Duchess of Newden pushed a pram containing their nine-month-old son, George. The infant cooed and gurgled, his tiny hands reaching up to grasp at the ribbons dangling from the pram’s hood.
“He’s grown so much since we last saw him,” Beatrice remarked, leaning over to peek at the baby. “And he’s just as adorable as ever.”
Catherine beamed with motherly pride. “He’s quite the little charmer, just like his father.”
Thomas chuckled, his eyes twinkling with mirth. “I’ll take that as a compliment, my dear.”
The group was joined by Lady Bernmere and the Dowager Duchess of Newden, both ladies resplendent in their fashionable walking attire. They fell into step with the two couples, their faces alight with the latest gossip.
“Have you heard the news about Eric Westback?” Lady Bernmere asked, her tone conspiratorial. “He’s become the most sought-after artist in the ton. Everyone is clamoring for a piece of his work.”
Beatrice exchanged a secret smile with Kenneth, her heart swelling with pride. “Is that so? How wonderful for him.”
The Dowager Duchess nodded, her expression one of smug satisfaction. “Indeed. I always knew he had talent. It’s no surprise that the rest of Society has finally caught on.”
Kenneth squeezed Beatrice’s hand, a silent gesture of support and understanding. “It seems Mr. Westback’s star is on the rise,” he said, his voice warm with affection. “I’m sure he’ll continue to dazzle us all with his brilliant creations.”
Lady Bernmere leaned in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “Speaking of dazzling creations, have you heard about Lady Featherwell and Lord Eastfold?”
Beatrice’s brow furrowed, a flicker of unease crossing her face at the mention of Eastfold’s name. “No, what about them?”
The Dowager Duchess smirked, fluttering her fan in front of her face. “They were caught in a most compromising position at Lady Ashton’s ball last month. Quite the scandal, as you can imagine.”
Lady Bernmere nodded. “They had no choice but to marry, of course. And from what I hear, they’re making each other thoroughly miserable.”
Kenneth chuckled, shaking his head. “It seems they’ve found their perfect match, then. A pair of vipers, the both of them.”
Beatrice shuddered, remembering her unpleasant dealings with Eastfold. “I can’t say I’m surprised. They deserve each other.”
Catherine, sensing her friend’s discomfort, changed the subject. “Beatrice, have you heard anything from your mother or brother recently?”
Beatrice shook her head, a peaceful smile playing on her lips. “No, and I can’t say I’m disappointed. It’s been the most tranquil ten months of my life, not having to deal with their constant demands and criticisms.”
Kenneth pulled her closer, pressing a kiss to her temple. “You’ve been thriving, my love. Free from their toxic influence, you’veblossomed into the strong, confident woman I always knew you were.”
Beatrice leaned into him, her heart full to bursting. “Thanks to you, Kenneth. Your love and support have meant everything to me.”
Kenneth grinned, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “And here I thought it was my devilishly handsome looks and irresistible charm that won you over.”
Beatrice laughed, swatting his chest playfully. “Well, those certainly didn’t hurt. But it was your kind heart and unwavering faith in me that truly won my affections.”
“Ah, so you admit you find me irresistible?” Kenneth teased, his hand moving to the small of her back, pulling her closer.
Beatrice raised an eyebrow, a coy smile playing on her lips. “I never said that, darling. But I will concede that you’re not entirely without your charms.”
