Page 102 of Gone with the Rake

She just needed a plan.

They needed a plan.

She had relied on herself for so long that it was the only way she knew how to survive. But she didn’t want to just survive anymore. She wanted to live.

It was right. It was fitting. They would go to London together and face this problem head-on.

She wasn’t afraid anymore.

Buoyed by determination, Lydia slipped from Art’s arms, mourning the loss of his warmth.

But she would have his arms around her again. Many times.

Hopefully, for the rest of her life.

She pulled the servants’ bell and ordered a bath to be prepared in the viscountess’s chambers. She would soak her tired muscles, scrub away her worries, and begin this new day with a fresh mind and a positive outlook.

The bath took longer than she had expected. A part of her had hoped Art would wake and join her. But he was probably still exhausted from their thorough lovemaking the night before.

Her cheeks heated at the thought of it—the ways they had explored each other, the way he had worshipped her body.

And they would continue exploring each other.

Over and over.

From this day forward.

A small, satisfied smile touched her lips as she twisted her hair into a neat bun atop her head.

She dressed in a simple day gown—though the way she felt, this morning deserved her finest attire.

Humming softly, she crossed the threshold into Art’s chambers, ready to wake her sleeping husband-to-be… Only to stop short.

The bed was made, and Art was gone.

And on the bed, a single piece of paper lay waiting.

A note?

Panic gripped her insides as she rushed forward, snatching up the letter with trembling fingers.

Her breath caught as she read.

Dearest Lydia,

I know I said we would go to London together, but alas, I have lied. I promised to protect you, always, and I intend to keep that promise.

Rest assured, I have not decided to let you go or to tear us apart. I would never dream of doing something so foolish. On the contrary.

And if you try to run—and this is my solemn promise—I shall run after you.

We have spent most of our lives apart for reasons beyond our control. And now that we are together, I will not allow a few inconveniences to tear us asunder.

We are stronger together. We always have been.

Only with you do I feel strong enough to conquer the world. Because my love for you transcends all obstacles. And that is why I cannot risk taking you to London with me.

I shall deal with Rivendale on my own. When it is done, I will come for you. And I will marry you the next day.