Emma’s uncle stared after them, his jaw agape.
The constable handed the license back to Aaron, then turned on Lord Windham. “I am afraid not, my lord. The document is legal and binding. They were wed this very morning by authority of the Arch Bishop of Canterbury.” He placed a guiding hand on Lord Windham’s arm. “You have no grounds to contest theunion.”
Aaron smirked in triumph. “If you will excuse us. My wife and I have much tocelebrate.”
The constable turned back to them and gave a bow. “Of course, Your Grace, Duchess. I am most sorry to haveinterrupted.”
Aaron placed a protective hand on Emma’s back and began leading heraway.
“You will pay for this Silas! Arrest him at once.” Lord Windham’s shrill voice filled thespace.
Emma looked back, causing Aaron to stop. He saw the sorrow in her eyes and it tugged at his heart. How could she care what happened to her uncle after what he’d put her through? The man should rot in debtor’s prison for the rest of his miserablelife.
He swallowed back his objections determined to see her happy. After all it was her kindhearted nature that endeared him to her. Leaning in close, Aaron asked in a low voice, “Do you wish to helphim?”
She nodded, a flicker of hope passing through hergaze.
“Then consider it done.” He released her and went to stand beside the constable. “There is no need to arrestanyone.”
The Baron sputtered. “Ignore him. This man owes me a great debt that he is unable to settle. I demand you arrest him atonce.”
Aaron pulled a satchel from his pocket and flung it at the Baron. “There is your coin.” He peered at Baxter. “You will never set foot near Emmaagain.”
“I understand. Th…thank you, YourGrace.”
“Do not thank me. It is Emma you owe your gratitude to. I’d have let them hang you for what you’ve done.” He turned his back giving the cut direct and swept Emma back into the dining room. He’d not waste one more precious moment of their lives on the nefariousme.
“We’re back, Princess,” Emma said as they strolled through thedoor.
“Now let us have cake,” Sophia said, a heaping piece already set beforeher.
“Indeed.” Emma took her chair, then lifted her fork and stuck it into the decadent slice that had been served forher.
Aaron brimmed with pride, love, and hope for their future as he joined in. Somehow, everything would fall into place. He simply knew itwould.
