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He still struggled from time to time—likely would for the remainder of his life—but his compulsions no longer controlled him.

He was, to his utter astonishment, functioning well without them. Perhaps this reprieve was temporary. Ansley had no way of knowing, but he’d take the unexpected gift and savor it for as long as it lasted.

Never a man for idle conversation about the intricacies and the workings of a woman’s mind, at this moment, he’d sorely love to ask a few of those wicked earls or his chums at Bon Chance what the hell he should do.

How to persuade Willow to accept his proposal?

He’d spent so much time dodging the parson’s mousetrap, and now he was the one pursuing the holy state of matrimony with an incomparable, vivacious woman. The good Lord surely had a devilish sense of humor.

It wasn’t just her lush body he craved either. Though Ansley hadn’t deceived himself into believing his offer of marriage was purely to salvage her reputation. Yes, it was partially, but he wanted her.

Wanted to touch Willow’s perfectly rounded curves, to explore her satiny flesh. Yet, as much as he longed to sample her feminine charms, he also delighted in her quick wit, her logical suggestions, and ever-ready mirth.

She made him happy. Content. Brought him much-needed peace.

Was she what he’d been searching for without realizing it?

He slouched in a chair, having discarded his waistcoat, cravat, and coat. One knee slung over the arm, his shirt unbuttoned to the waist, he glowered morosely at the fire.

Willow cannot leave.

The mantra played over and over and over in his head.

Willow cannot leave. Willow cannot leave. I need her. I can’t breathe without Willow.

A log fell, sending sparks spiraling up the chimney, and it came to him in that showery maelstrom.

He loved her.

Yes. Yes! A thousand times, yes. I love her.

Head thrown back, he laughed out loud. He loved the unpredictable minx. And by God, she could, too, be a countess. She could be the best bloody countess that England had ever known. The Countess of Scarborough. His beloved wife. And he couldn’t wait to tell her.

Now.