Page 59 of Treating a Sinful Earl
Jasper exhaled deeply. “Then all is well. With any luck, it can all happen again tomorrow night.”
Felton cocked his head to the side. “She knows?”
“Yes, she knows.”
“And it does not frighten her?”
Jasper straightened his shirt as he replied, “Naturally, it must frighten her, but I have asked her to be my wife, and she has agreed. We shall dine tomorrow night, then the following day, I will pay a call to her father.”
Felton seemed positively in shock. “My word, things have progressed.”
“There is no time to waste any longer. I have made a bold decision, but it is the only decision to make. I advise you to do the same with Abigail.”
“Ask her to marry? So that I can have my heart ripped from my chest?”
“Indeed.” Jasper walked to the mirror and inspected himself. He definitely looked like a man that was still wearing the same clothing from the evening before. “You will benefit from choosing courage. We only live once in this life, and both of us are men in love. This requires action because the only other outcome is heartbreak.”
Felton came in behind him. “You impress me, my friend.”
“There is nothing impressive about it. I refuse to waste what precious moments I might have with Catherine. If I remain in fear of dying, then I never truly live. Finally, I am ready to begin my life, no matter how short it might be.”
As though the heavens were conspiring against him, Jasper felt a sudden constriction in his throat, the room began to spin, and that familiar sweat clung to his brow. He brought a hand to his forehead.
Felton asked, “You are unwell?”
“A momentary fit.”
“Ye gods!” Felton exclaimed, directing Jasper towards a chair.
Once seated, Jasper leaned over and rested his elbows upon his knees. “Perhaps it is from excitement,” he reasoned.
“Or stupidity. Do you not recall the conversation the Dowager Countess and I had with you?”
“I do recall,” he replied flatly.
“Then take heed. All of this excitement with Catherine might be stirring you too much. Does your mother even know? And where on earth is she?” Felton asked, looking all around.
“She is in London for two nights. I informed her that I need a bit of privacy.”
“So, no parents are aware of the fact that you and Catherine are to wed?”
“Indeed.”
Felton was making Jasper feel doubtful, and he did not like it one jot. The room continued to spin, and he thought that this might be the worst spell he had had in some time. Massaging his temples, Jasper asked, “Can you find me the tincture in my bureau?”
Felton seemed doubtful, but he did what he was told and quickly returned with the little glass bottle. Jasper opened the bottle, pulled out the dropper, and placed two tiny beads under his tongue. Once this was done, he felt instant relief.
“She really is something,” he said, sitting up straight.
“You need to see a doctor.” Felton folded his arms in front of his chest.
“I am tired of doctors.”
“Just to make sure. I shall send a note. Promise me that you will be examined before you see Catherine again.”
Jasper looked into his friend’s eyes unflinchingly. Seeing another doctor was the last thing in the world that he wished to do, but considering Felton’s deep concern, he obliged. “Very well. Summon the doctor, and I shall see him this afternoon.” He stood, straightening his shirt and trousers.
“Very well.” Felton walked towards the door. Before exiting, he turned. “Rest. Just for once.”
