“Oh, Edmund.” She cupped his cheek, relishing the feel of his freshly shaven skin. “I cannot imagine my world without you in it, for I love you as none other.”
He closed his eyes, nuzzling against her touch.
She stood stunned, hardly believing she’d voiced such intimate words to a man—and not just any man. To the most eligible bachelor in all of Oxford. How many times had he heard that same sentiment before? And yet here he stood with her.
Her!
Belowstairs, the deep reverberation of a gong sounded. Once. Twice. Thrice.
Edmund’s dusky blue eyes opened as he pressed his brow to hers, their breath mingling. “So how do we manage from here on out, with your heart set on Egypt and mine on Parliament? For I will not take away your dream.”
“And yet it seems you won’t haveyourdream if we linger here any longer. You heard the gong. Your election announcement is at hand. Time for you to pursue the path meant for you.”
Ever so slightly he shook his head. “You are my path now.”
A thrill charged through her, settling low in her belly. “I am happy to hear it, but I will not be a hindrance to your career. You need to run for office to change those tariffs that harm innocent men like Sanjay. If we are meant to be”—she pulled back and collected his hand, pressing a kiss to his knuckles—“then God’s will shall not be thwarted. He always makes a way.”
“You, my love”—mimicking her, Edmund pressed his lips to the back of her hand—“are an inspiration.”
“And you are going to be late.” Wrapping her fingers around his, she tugged him from the alcove and down the corridor, stopping before it opened out onto the landing of the grand staircase. Despite his declaration of love, it wouldn’t do to be seen together now. This was his night to shine, not to be shrouded in a cloak of romantic scandal.
Keeping to the shadows of a doorway, she turned to him. “You go first. You’re the man of the hour. I’ll slip in the side door of the ballroom like I did earlier.”
“Very well, but only if you promise me the first dance after dinner.”
“That won’t sit well with Violet.” She smirked. “This is her territory, after all.”
“True, but I am not.” He bopped her on the nose with a playful touch. “And I wish to dance first with the woman I love.”
Once again warmth surged in her chest. The words. The sultry look in his eyes. She swallowed hard. It was so much to take in, more than she’d ever imagined. He loved her.Helovedher. She held the knowledge close inside, protecting it like a freshly picked rosebud to be admired as it bloomed.
Then she lifted her chin. “I suppose you are used to getting your own way. So, yes, I will dance with you, sir. Now off with you before the viscount sends out a search party.”
A grin spread on his lips—lips he pressed against hers in a mischievous kiss before he dashed away.
For a few more breaths, she lingered in the passageway, fingering her mouth in wonder. She relived every part of those stolen minutes alone with him in the alcove, branding his taste on her memory that she might never forget. Sweet mercy. If she’d have answered that call tonight to meet with Mr. Dandrae’s seller, she’d never have known Edmund’s kisses.
And if she loitered here any longer, she’d miss the big announcement for his candidacy.
Hastily, she tucked Edmund’s cherished poem up her sleeve, then scurried down a different corridor, taking the back stairway to ground level. And just in time too. The viscount’s voice was already booming as she entered the ballroom and lifted to her toes, scouting for her father. She caught his eye, thankfully, and he motioned her to the front of the circle, where he’d gotten a good position for the event.
“My esteemed guests,” Lord Bastion began. Edmund stood at his right hand, Violet next to him, all in the center of the crowd’s rapt attention. “It is my honour to have invited you here tonight, but as you may have guessed, this evening’s gathering is more than merely an opportunity to socialize. I have animportant announcement to make, one I am supremely pleased to share in public.”
Murmurs bubbled all around. Edmund’s gaze found hers and held.
“I am sure everyone here knows the illustrious Mr. Edmund Price.” The viscount swept a hand toward him. “He is a man of remarkable achievements, a visionary leader in the realm of business, and a staunch advocate for the betterment of society. Edmund Price embodies the values and principles the heart of every Englishman holds dear.”
Ami smiled. She couldn’t be any prouder of Edmund. He would make such a fine MP. A stalwart one, championing causes for those who were powerless.
“And so”—Lord Bastion rubbed his hands together—“it is with great delight that I proclaim to you, my friends and colleagues, what can only be described as a monumental moment for me and for society at large.”
A collective breath whooshed around the room, ladies leaning closer, gentlemen tilting their heads.
The viscount grinned broadly, clearly reveling in the response. “It is my joy to announce the engagement of my daughter, Miss Violet Woolsey, to Mr. Edmund Price.”
Ami clenched every muscle from head to toe, waiting for Edmund to refute the absurd proclamation. Any second now he’d take command and tell the world this was a mistake. That he couldn’t possibly marry Violet because he loved her. Hedidlove her! He’d told her so only minutes ago.
But he merely stood there, jaw tight, saying nothing. Absolutely nothing. She grabbed her father’s arm, craving support until Edmund laughed and said what a grand jest this had all been.
