Page 68 of Finding Hope
Hope’s throat was choking with tears, and she could not stop her chin from trembling. Before she knew what was happening, Rotham had pulled her into his arms and was holding her.
“Sweet Hope, say you will be mine.”
It was what she wanted more than anything. Before she could answer, he was showering her with kisses.
“But supposing the one responsible is not her?” she asked.
He sighed longingly as though he would rather do anything than discuss the situation. “That is what I came to speak to you about. We have no proof, but regardless of the outcome, she will not remain here. We could wait a little longer to see if the threats stop now that the Duchess is under guard. We could also set a trap, but that would leave you too vulnerable.”
“I am willing to do whatever is necessary to erase any doubt. What do you think we should do?”
“If we announce our betrothal and wed quickly, for the sake of the Duke, there is nothing anyone could do. Surely that would silence whoever objects to the marriage once the knot is properly tied.”
“You truly mean it?” She searched his eyes as if to find the answer beyond his words.
“Have I not been saying so?”
“It was only a week ago you were uncertain and considering several other ladies. It is an irreversible step and I would not want you to regret your choice.”
“Dearest Hope, witnessing the other ladies in the same situation as you has only reaffirmed my conviction that you are the only choice for me.”
Hope wanted more than anything to believe it. “You are certain you wish to marry in such haste?”
“I have no doubts in my mind whatsoever,” he said earnestly. “May we tell everyone today? I know it would please my father enormously.”
“If you think it is for the best to do so now, then, by all means. Have you spoken to Westwood?”
Rotham chuckled. “I have. He has been waiting impatiently for us to come to an agreement.”
Hope smiled, and before she could reply, Rotham grasped her face in both hands.
“I am also impatient for you to be mine.” His lips descended to hers and he kissed her with an urgency and tenderness that left no doubt as to his feelings.
She was still stunned when he broke away.
“I will return for you in an hour and we will first go and tell the good news to the Duke.” He kissed her one more time before casting her a look of such longing that it warmed her straight to her toes. “One hour,” he said firmly, and on the words, promptly left.
Max feltlike dancing as he left Hope’s room. In just a short time, she would be his, and the intolerable state of affairs with the Duchess would be over when she left Davenmere. He refused to let her overshadow their happiness.
“I trust your meeting went well?” Westwood asked, one eyebrow raised as he stepped out of his chamber.
Max grinned like a small child. “Indeed, it did. We will tell everyone today. I am coming back in an hour to escort her downstairs to tell the news to the Duke.”
Westwood shook his hand and gave him a hug. “Welcome to the family, officially.”
“What is this?” Lady Westwood appeared in their doorway.
“I should let your sister tell you the news.”
“Has she accepted you?” She squealed with delight and clapped her hands.
“We think it best to announce the betrothal today and wed soon—for the sake of the Duke, of course.”
“Of course,” she agreed knowingly and boldly embraced him.
“Would you and the Dowager be able to make the arrangements with Diana? The Duchess will not be available.” That was a kind way of saying she was unwelcome.
“I would be delighted,” she said. “Send her to me once you have told her the news yourself. I will go to Hope in just a moment.”
