“Oh no,” said Emily, feigning dismay. “We mustn’t dismiss the crying of banns without a good cause.”
“You’ve just provided excellent cause,” Callum muttered.
“Not so much fun, being tortured, is it?”
“Don’t worry,” he told her slyly while leading her back to the house. “I’ll find a way to repay you, beginning with…”
The wordshewhispered next made Emily stumble. “That’s not really a thing, is it?”
“I don’t know. Is it?” He chuckled with devilish delight. “I’ll let you know once you’ve done that other thing you just mentioned.”
She punched him in the shoulder. “Impossible scoundrel.”
“Delightful vixen.”
Pursing her lips, she gave him a very unladylike sideways nudge, in response to which he picked her up and spun her around. Improprieties aside, he’d done what she’d asked of him in terms of cheering her up. It was exactly what she’d needed and left no doubt in her mind that he was much more than the Duke of Stratton, the man she’d decided to marry. He had become her dearest friend.
Nothing could possibly ruin that.
Or so she believed, until she returned home two days later and found the review she’d written forSeductive Scandalmissing.
15
Callum had no doubt his marriage to Emily would be a smashing success. During the last few days, their relationship had been severely tested. They'd gotten engaged, fallen out with each other, mourned the loss of her grandmother, and made up.
Not only had they found their way through all of that together, but Callum believed they'd come out stronger. The connection they shared, because they'd had to deal with these difficult challenges, was one that couldn't be broken.
Happy in the knowledge she would become his wife, he returned home with a much lighter heart than when he'd left. He'd spoken with her parents before departing Seaton Hall. A hasty marriage by special license was off the table.
For starters, a mourning period was required. Emily’s parents refused to accept anything less than three months. This, they claimed, would also allow enough time for the crying of banns and to make arrangements for the big day, which would include a respectably large wedding breakfast.
Callum hadn't argued too much, despite his impatience. He understood that a respectable amount of distance would be necessary between yesterday’s funeral and the happy occasion. Plus, Emily was Lord and Lady Rosemont's only child. Of course they'd want to plan a big celebration when she married.
Peter greeted Callum when he entered the foyer.
“How was it?” he asked while Callum removed his hat and gloves.
Callum pondered how to answer that question and eventually settled on, “I’m glad I went.”
“Did you hug her like I suggested.”
“Yes,” Callum said, unable to keep from smiling.
“And did it help her feel better?”
“I believe so.”
“That’s good.” Peter dropped his gaze for a second before saying, “Now that you’re back, I was wondering if you might show me how to fly the kite you bought me.”
Callum’s heart squeezed. He’d purchased the kite a month ago. Until now, Peter had completely dismissed it. It was good to see him showing an interest in pastime activities, and in spending more time together.
“We can certainly try. Our success will depend on the wind. But first, before we go, there’s something I’d like your help with.”
“Really?” Peter’s eyes widened with interest.
“Come with me.” Callum led the way to his study. Once inside, he gestured for Peter to close the door. “You can’t share this with anyone, all right?”
Peter nodded. “I promise.”
