Norman froze.
James watched the man’s face change, the color draining as he understood the implications. A scandal of that nature would not simply embarrass him. It would destroy what leverage he had left in society.
Charlotte’s lips parted. “Eleanor, you would not.”
Eleanor’s eyes stayed on her father. “I would.”
Norman’s jaw worked as if he wanted to shout, but the threat had found its mark.
James added calmly, “And if Arabella wishes it, she will no longer be under your care.”
Norman’s eyes snapped to him. “You cannot.”
James’s tone remained even. “I can.”
Eleanor turned to James, surprise flickering through her anger.
James met her gaze. “If she wishes it.”
Eleanor’s heart warmed in a way that made her throat tighten. She had spent so long fighting alone. Having him beside her felt like stepping into sunlight after years of shadow.
Arabella’s eyes widened. “You mean it?”
James nodded once. “If you wish to come to Blackmere Park, or to Langford House when we are in town, you will.”
Arabella’s face brightened with immediate relief. “I would love nothing more than that.”
Norman’s face contorted. “This is outrageous.”
James’s voice was calm. “Then consider it the consequence of your choices.”
Eleanor looked at her husband and could not stop the small smile that curved her lips.
James saw it, and something in his chest shifted, steady and certain.
He turned toward Arabella. “Go and pack.”
Arabella blinked. “Now?”
James nodded. “Immediately.”
Arabella’s smile was radiant. “Yes, Your Grace.”
She turned and nearly ran from the room.
Norman sputtered, “This is not finished.”
James met his gaze. “It is.”
The carriage door closed with a decisive click, sealing them into a space suddenly too small for anything but honesty.
James exhaled slowly, leaning back against the cushioned seat as the carriage remained stationary, waiting for Arabella to finish packing. Outside, voices moved distantly, but inside there was only Eleanor, her warmth beside him, her presence no longer something he feared losing.
Eleanor turned toward him, her expression softened by the quiet. “You did not have to do that.”
James met her gaze. “Yes, I did.”
“You challenged my father,” she said. “In his own house.”
