Major Lord David (26 page)

“I cannot agree. Your aunt is like the very finest officers,
hanging about only when one needs them.”

“You mean that she purposely stays away?”

“I believe so” He leaned closer. “Billie, if I must go on to
Paris, will you wait for me?”

“To Paris?” She shook her head. “No.”

“Ah!” He frowned, but the clasp of his hand did not ease.
“Have I misunderstood, then? When you did not write-”

“I cannot bear all the waiting,” she said in a rush. “I have
waited all spring. I will not do it! You would not suffer it. Why
should I?”

His features relaxed. “I certainly will not suffer it! Which is
why Hayden has gone for the bishop.” At her questioning
gaze, he added, “He is very good at this sort of arrangement”

“The-bishop?”

David laughed. “One certainly hopes so! But no, I meant
that Hayden has done this before-hurried a wedding along.
Do you recall, dearest, the tune you played for me at the
New Year? The `Soldier’s Delight’? I told you that it referred
to home. I have determined that you are my home, Billie. My
home, and my happiness. I would have you with me always.”
His clasp tightened.

Conversation in the rest of the room had grown to an enveloping hum. Billie now scarcely noticed the noise. Having
waited so long, she saw only David.

“There is a chance,” he added, “that I might take a regiment
out to India. If I do, shall we have your brother Kit along with
us?”

The offer dazed her. “You would do that? For him?”

“I would do it for you”

As she moved to place her trembling right palm atop their
clasped hands, he startled her by abruptly withdrawing his
own. Sliding from his chair, he knelt on one knee before her.

The dining room instantly hushed.

“Billie-querida,” he urged, “would you do me the very
great honor?”

She held his intent gaze as she rose. “I fear you will miss
your dinner, Major.”

“I am not hungry.”

“Then … there is a waning moon tonight.” She fought a
smile. Memories of Ephie’s stairwell ruled her mind. “It is
quite dark out-of-doors. I would welcome your escort” She
extended both hands to help him up.

As he stood, his look held laughter. “Brave Billie,” he said,
pulling her close, “you will have to marry me now.”

And they stepped together into the warm June night.