"The only thing I regret is the eight years I wasted listening to people such as yourself instead of following my heart."
They stared at each other, aunt and nephew, locked in a battle of wills that had been building for years.
Finally, Lady Agatha turned to the bishop and solicitor. "We're leaving."
"But the impediments…" the solicitor started.
"There are no impediments except my nephew's stubbornness and his refusal to see reason."
“Do you mean to say you abandon the pursuit?" Gabriel asked, suspicious.
"I'm acknowledging temporary defeat. This isn't over, Gabriel. When this infatuation burns out and you're left with the ashes of your reputation, I shall not receive your lamentations on the matter.”
"I won't come to you for anything ever again."
"We'll see."
She swept out, the bishop and solicitor trailing behind her like confused puppies. The room fell silent except for the sound of the fire crackling.
"Well," Edmund said cheerfully. "That went better than expected. No one got physically assaulted, nothing was thrown, and the bishop didn't actually attempt an exorcism."
"The day is young," Gabriel muttered.
Clara sank into the nearest chair, suddenly exhausted. "Is it always going to be like this? Battles and confrontations and people trying to tear us apart?"
Gabriel knelt beside her chair, taking her hands. "No. Because once we're wedded, it won't matter what anyone says or does. We'll be legally, spiritually, and physically bound in ways that no amount of purple silk and episcopal disapproval can undo."
"Three weeks," Clara said softly.
"Three weeks," Gabriel agreed. "Think you can survive three more weeks of this?"
"With you? I could survive anything."
"Even the staff's knowing looks and inappropriate wagers?"
"Even that. Though we might want to be quieter tonight."
"Tonight?" Gabriel's eyes lit up. "You're planning on a tonight?"
"Gabriel, we're betrothed and we have already thoroughly compromised each other. The horse hasn't just left the stable, it's galloping across the countryside."
Edmund cleared his throat. "Still here, still listening, still scarred by your complete lack of discretion."
"Then leave," Gabriel suggested. "Clara and I have wedding plans to discuss."
"Is that what we're calling it now?"
"Among other things."
Edmund headed for the door, pausing to look back. “I must implore you to observe greater quiet this evening, as some of us require our proper rest.”
“Some would do well to confine their interests to their own concerns. Gabriel countered.
"Your business becomes everyone's business when conducted at volume."
“We shall observe the required quiet.”
After Edmund left, Clara looked at Gabriel. "We're not going to be quiet, are we?"
