“I love you, Gray.”
“I love you too.”
“But you should know that I don’t follow orders very well.”
He barked out a laugh. “I knew that already, love. But I’m sure we can come to a compromise.”
He pulled her into his arms, holding her close. Ellen thought this was perhaps her new favorite place to be.
“Where did you go this morning, Gray? Ramsey told me you left the house.”
“I visited the Nicholsons after the news reached me that Brownly will be charged alongside the man who actually did the killing, for George’s murder. They had a right to know their son was murdered through greed.”
“Brownly—”
“Wanted theBlackstead Bestiaryat any cost. When George wouldn’t give it to him, he sent one of the Baddon Boys to retrieve it. There was a scuffle when George returned home to find the man inside his bookshop. He was stabbed, and the man fled,” Gray said.
“But Brownly did not get the book?” Ellen asked.
“He did. He had two men return the night he found us in George’s shop. There was yet another locked box, but this one was under floorboards in the room off the shop downstairs.”
“How did we miss it?”
“Clearly I was blinded by your beauty.” Gray kissed her again.
“I’m glad the Nicholsons have some closure now,” Ellen said when she could think straight.
“They do, and there is more.”
He told her about his talk with Olivia Nicholson, and Benjamin the man she loved.
“He was there this morning,” Gray added. “It seems the Nicholsons are coming to terms with the fact their daughter is in love. Olivia was the one who showed me out when it was time to leave. She thanked me for what I said to her the day I called. Her father is allowing Benjamin and Olivia to run the bookshop on a trial process and if that works, they will talk about making it permanent,” Gray said.
“Oh, Gray. That’s wonderful. I’m so pleased you spoke with her, and convinced her to introduce Benjamin to her parents,” Ellen said hugging him close.
“Now.” He released her and backed away. “I want to talk to your uncle and brothers, but here and now, I can’t wait.” He eased back from her and started to lower himself to the ground.
“Don’t you dare get down on your knees with all the injuries I know you have!” Ellen cried. “Yes, I will marry you.”
“I haven’t even asked yet.” He was smiling but had straightened.
She giggled and then was laughing. Ellen felt lighter inside than she had in a long time. So, this was love.
“You’ve had enough time alone in there with my sister. Get out here now, Fletcher!” A loud thump on the door followed these words. “All our family has arrived.”
“With me unfortunately comes them,” Ellen said.
“I can hardly wait,” he drawled. “Come along, my love, or all the apricotines will be gone.”
They were all in his parlor, and Gray’s butler was in his element, running about the place serving tea and food.
“You both look happier,” Uncle Bram said. He came to stand before them with Lottie in his arms. She held out her arms for Gray to take her, which surprised Ellen.
He took the little girl, holding her against his shoulder.
“I want to marry your niece,” he then said. “As this family is unconventional, I may as well ask all of you.”
“No!” Leo roared.
