Page 66 of The Earl

“But I went anyway. I pretended to need privacy but ran all the way to the river behind the tents.”

“I saw her go,” Conrad finished. “And sought to follow her. Rory stopped me. I could never remember what he asked, or what we spoke about, but you came along then.”

“And asked you to walk with me,” Terric finished.

He nodded. “I didn’t want Cait to be down there alone, but I couldn’t say anything without getting her in trouble. I planned to feign surprise when we saw her.”

The room went silent, each of them remembering their version of what happened next. She’d planned to take off her boots, dip her toes in the river, enjoy the bit of freedom she’d managed to gain.

The man had grabbed her before she even saw him coming.

“It was my fault,” she said, choking out the words like they were acrid smoke. Before Conrad could argue with her, she added, “But I know, now, it was actually more my attacker’s fault than anyone’s.”

Another squeeze.

“I love her,” Conrad said, his voice unwavering.

I will not cry. I will not cry.

“I fell in love with your sister when we corresponded and she told me of all her exploits, some you likely wish I didn’t know.” Conrad grinned at her brother. “And I love her even more now. I would marry Cait, with your permission, Terric.”

When her brother smiled at his friend, Cait’s silent plea was answered. Her eyes blurred.

“I give it gladly if you’ll answer just one more question.”

Cait’s heart leapt in anticipation of what her brother might ask.

“Did you consummate the marriage you’ve yet to have?”

Her mouth dropped open. “Terric!”

“I know you well, my friend, and believe you have not. But Guy and Idalia do not agree.”

“You . . .” She had no words. “You all speculated on whether or not we . . . Conrad and I. Terric!”

For his part, Conrad grinned broadly.

“We did not,” he said, clearly proud of the fact. “But know this,” he said over her brother’s laughter. “We wed immediately. Before London. I’d hoped to give Cait a better wedding but . . .”

Terric crossed his arms, nodding his approval.

“Go ahead, then. Say the words.”

This could not be happening. Did he mean . . .

Conrad spun her toward him, taking both of her hands.

Cait was about to be wed.