"Our journey has taught us the value of trust, perseverance, and unwavering commitment," she continued, addressing their friends once more. "Aswe look to the future, we do so with hope in our hearts and the knowledge that together, we can overcome any challenge that may arise."
James nodded in agreement, his thumb tracing soothing circles on the back of her hand. "We stand before you not just as a betrothed couple, but as partners in every sense of the word."
Her gaze swept over their assembled friends, each face beaming with genuine happiness for their coming union. She felt a lump form in her throat as she considered how blessed they were to have such steadfast companions in their lives.
James raised his free hand, gesturing to their friends with a warm smile. "We invite you all to join us in celebrating not just our betrothal, but the bonds of friendship as well."
As their guests surged forward to offer their congratulations, Selina felt a sense of completeness wash over her. She turned to James, her eyes shining with unshed tears of joy. "I love you," she said, the words a sacred vow between them.
He leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear as he replied, "And I love you, my darling Selina. Always and forever."
Her cheeks flushed with warmth as his words sent a delightful shiver down her spine.
The boisterous laughter of their friends interrupted their intimate moment.
"I never thought I would see the day when the notorious Lord Blackwood would be tamed," Nicolas Winters quipped, his green eyes twinkling with mischief. "And by our dear Selina, no less!"
Selina could not help but giggle, her eyes darting between James and Nicolas. "I assure you, Mr. Winters, James is far from tamed. He is merely... redirected his roguish tendencies."
James chuckled, running his fingers through his dark hair. "I would say I have met my match, wouldn't you, darling?"
Before Selina could respond, Lady Charlotte swooped in, her blonde curls bouncing with excitement. "Selina, my dear, I simply must steal you away for a moment!" She tugged gently on Selina's arm, her eyes sparkling with barely contained glee.
Selina glanced at James, who nodded encouragingly. "Go on, love. I will be here when you return."
As Charlotte led her away, Selina cast a glance over her shoulder, watching as Nicolas and Alexander closed in on James, their grins promising relentless teasing.
"Now, Selina," Charlotte began, her voice lowered conspiratorially, "you simply must tell meeverything. How did James propose? Was it terribly romantic?"
Selina laughed, her heart light with joy. "Oh, Charlotte, it was perfect. But perhaps not in the way you might imagine..."
As she recounted the tale to Charlotte and Beatrice, who had joined them with a knowing smirk, she found herself continuously glancing back at James. Her breath caught as she saw him throw his head back in laughter at something Nicolas had said, his voice filled with mirth.
The soft strains of a string quartet, their melodies weaving through the air like gossamer threads, filled the surrounding space as Selina turned back to her friends.
“I do believe your betrothed is pining for you already,” Bea said, a teasing lit in her voice as she nodded toward the group of gentlemen.
Selina turned to see James approaching, his hand outstretched in invitation. "My lady," he said, his voice low and rich, "might I have this dance?"
With a quick squeeze of Charlotte's hand and a wink at Beatrice, Selina placed her hand in his. "It would be my pleasure, my lord."
As James led her to the makeshift dance floor, Selina's heart raced with anticipation. The momenthis arm encircled her waist, she felt as though the rest of the world had fallen away, leaving only the two of them in this perfect moment.
Her gaze locked with his as they moved gracefully across the garden, their steps in perfect harmony. The soft grass beneath their feet cushioned each movement, creating an almost dreamlike quality.
"I must confess," James murmured, his lips close to her ear, "I have been longing to steal you away all afternoon."
A delicious shiver ran down her spine. "Have you now? And here I thought you were thoroughly enjoying Mr. Winters’ company."
James chuckled, the sound reverberating through her. "Nicolas's tales of his latest hunting expedition pale compared to the allure of your presence, pet."
As they twirled, Selina caught sight of their friends watching them with fond smiles. Nicolas raised his glass in a silent toast, while Charlotte and Bea whispered behind their fans, no doubt concocting something scandalous.
"What do you say we indulge in a brief escape?" James suggested, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I believe I spotted a rather secluded path near the rose garden."
Her heart fluttered. "Why, Lord Blackwood, are you proposing we abandon our own betrothal celebration?"
"Only for a moment," he replied, his voice low and enticing. "I promise to return you before anyone misses us overmuch."
