Page 18 of Holly and the Viscount
“Yet quite satisfactory,” his wife put in, squeezing her husband’s arm. “Don’t you think so, my dear? Viscount Thornton has much to recommend him.”
“Well, in that case…”
They all stood, frozen, waiting for the earl’s response.
After a moment, Lady Hartley let out a sigh, and poked her husband in the side. “You mean to say yes, I believe.”
“Er, of course I do.” He turned to Lord Thornton and offered his hand. “Welcome to the family, young man.”
“Papa,” Rose whispered, “he hasn’t asked Holly yet.”
“That’s quickly remedied.” Lord Thornton turned to Holly and took her hand.
The light from the tree illuminated his strong features and long nose, and she thought she’d never seen a more handsome man. Nor one who saw her in return for who she truly was.
“I’m afraid it’s a bit difficult for me to go down on one knee,” he said. “But I assure you I am kneeling in my heart. Dearest Holly, I can think of none other I would want for a wife, a companion, a fellow crusader. Would you do me the very great honor of becoming my viscountess?”
“I will,” she said, happiness blazing through her, brighter than all the candles on the tree, or the stars in the sky. “I will, indeed.”
