Page 86 of The Duke Says I Do
This radiant happiness would illuminate the rest of her life. “That’s only fair, because I’ve been in love with you since the first day, too.”
“My darling girl.” He hauled her close as the choked words escaped. “I thought I didn’t have a prayer.”
This kiss was unlike any they’d shared before, miraculous as those had been. For the first time, love met love without any concealment. By the time Alaric raised his head, she was warmfrom her toes to her crown and leaning against the tree in a satisfied daze.
“I love you, Portia,” he said, as if making a solemn vow.
“And I love you, Alaric. So much.”
This kiss was longer and set the seal on their commitment. She twined her arms around his neck and gave herself up to the man she loved.
When they came up for air, Alaric rested his chin on her head. “You’ll marry me?”
She muffled a cracked laugh against his heart. It seemed bizarre to cry when she was so happy, but tears stung her eyes and coagulated in a tight ball in her throat. “I’ll be the world’s worst duchess.”
“I don’t care. I’ll be the world’s happiest man.”
“And I’ll be the world’s happiest woman.” She laughed. “Iamthe world’s happiest woman. It broke my heart when I was sure you didn’t love me while I loved you so madly.”
His arms tightened. “Love me madly forever, sweetheart.”
“I will. Forever.”
More kisses until Portia felt like she flew up to the stars.
The sound of a carriage rattling into the square brought her back to earth with a bump.
“I should let you go.” Reluctance weighted Alaric’s statement.
“Soon we can be together all the time.” An invitation to bliss.
The carriage stopped on the other side of the square. Doors opened and closed and there was a brief conversation before the carriage rolled away, leaving the square empty once more.
“Portia, my exquisite Portia, will you marry me?”
“Yes, with all my heart.”
“Will you marry me tomorrow? Well, today really. It’s after midnight.”
Dizzy with the swift change from despair to jubilation, Portia drew back, wishing she could see Alaric. “I’d love that. Can we manage it?”
“I don’t see why not. I’ll talk to the rector of St. James’s on Piccadilly. He’ll be delighted to perform the ceremony.”
“Oh, Alaric.” She rose on her toes and kissed him quickly. “I can hardly believe this is happening.”
He brought her back for a more thorough kiss. “Believe it, my darling.”
“Soon I’ll be your wife.”
“I’m so happy.” He paused. “What about your father? Should I ask his permission to marry you?”
Portia frowned into the darkness. “If we involve Papa, this will turn into an extravaganza. Especially as this time, he isn’t marrying a daughter off to quash a scandal. I don’t want an extravaganza.”
“Nor do I.” Even without seeing Alaric, she knew that he shuddered. “My wedding plans have come under enough scrutiny.”
“If Papa gets involved, we won’t be able to marry for weeks. Months even.”
“I don’t want that either.”
