Page 63 of His One and Only Lady

“Celena, you, Theran, and Jordan are invited as well,” Ellise said. “I know that Violetta is still recovering else, naturally, we’d include her.”

“I thank you,” Jordan said. “But until Violetta is healthier, I’m not accepting any invitations.”

“Understandable,” Therese murmured.

“We’ve already prepared a room for you.” Ellise brushed a crumb from her mazarine-blue gown. “You can move in at your earliest convenience. I am quite looking forward to it as my daughter married last spring.”

Purity shot a panicked glance to Theran.

“Ellise.” Paul shook his head. “Not now, dearest. We can discuss all of the details later.”

Oh, bugger it.

Theran wasn’t waiting to propose.

Clearing his throat, he stepped forward. Bending his neck, he cupped his nape and fashioned a sheepish grin. “I’m afraid I may well put a damper in your plans, Paul.”

Frowning, Paul canted his head. “How so?”

“I intended to propose to Purity today,” Theran said, his gaze locked with hers.

The women gasped.

“Marvelous.” Grinning like a Cheshire cat, Mother clapped. “Splendid. Absolutely splendid.”

“I knew it.” Jordan chuckled, slapping Theran on the back. “I knew it. Even told Violetta.”

In three strides, Theran was in front of Purity. Pride be hanged. He’d propose and pray she accepted. Her emotional response in the corridor had sent his heart to singing and given him the hope and courage he needed.

He sank onto one knee and took her hand.

“How romantic,” Therese whispered.

“I love you, Purity. So much, in truth, that it frightens me but also makes me deliriously happy.”

Fully aware every eye in the room regarded him with rapt attention, Theran cupped her face tenderly between his hands.

“I want you to be Bernadine’s mother and for us to have children together. You brought me back to life, and I long to marry you more than anything in the world. I want to spend the rest of my days loving you. Please, tell me you love me too and that you’ll marry me?”

Purity swept her gaze over the others before bringing it back to settle on Theran.

Only the tick-tock, tick-tock, tick-tock of the long case clock interrupted the pregnant silence.

Holding his breath, Theran sent up a silent prayer.

Forgive me, God, for doubting you. I don’t understand all of your ways, but please, please, let her say yes.

“I love you too.” An adorable blush turned Purity’s cheeks pink. “I’ll marry you.”

The room exploded in applause, and cries of congratulations rang loudly.

It was scandalous, simply not done in polite circles, but right there in front of everyone, Theran sealed their troth with a thorough kiss.

She was his one. His only. His lady.

I know it’s short notice, but Theran and I are to be married October first at my uncle, the Marquess of Ballister’s home. It would mean so much if you could be there.

I shall explain then how my uncle found me.