Page 60 of A Virgin to Trap the Earl of Thornhill
His words hung in the air, a testament to his love, his commitment, as he looked at her with hope, with love, with promise.
There was silence, then a rustle of fabric as Eris rose from her chair. Her face held a soft blush, but her eyes were bright with unshed tears. “William,” she began, her voice shaking slightly, but her gaze never leaving his. “You have no idea how long I have been waiting to hear those words.”
Her grip tightened on his hand, a mirror of his own earlier reassurance. “I have loved you since the moment we first truly spoke. I was afraid, so very afraid, that you would not feel the same way. That the scandal, the talk of the ton would sway your decision. But it did not.” She paused, taking a shaky breath. “I love you, William. More than I can ever express.”
She moved closer to him, her voice dropping to a whisper that he alone could hear. “I would be honored to stand by your side, to face all the joys and challenges that lie ahead of us. Together.”
There was a palpable sigh in the room, the gathered family and friends watching the scene with teary eyes and soft smiles, but all William could see was Eris, her eyes shining with love, acceptance in her gaze. He felt his heart swell with emotion so profound it left him breathless. She had accepted his love, his proposal, and for the first time in his life, William felt truly complete.
He pulled Eris into his arms, her body fitting perfectly against his own. Amidst the soft clapping and happy exclamations of their family, he leaned down, capturing her lips in a kiss that spoke of love, promises, and a shared future.
Tonight, he thought as he savored the sweet taste of Eris’ lips,my future truly begins.
* * *
In the days following William and Eris’ engagement, the Thornhill London estate was thrown into a whirl of activity. Early morning light streaming through the tall windows found servants scurrying about, their voices echoing through the hallways as they rushed to prepare for the grand event. Delicate floral arrangements were hung, the elegant ballroom prepared, and sumptuous menus discussed, all under the watchful eye of the Dowager Countess Thornhill, who had taken command of the arrangements with the vigor of a military general.
Meanwhile, in a quiet office nestled in the heart of the bustling city, William and Cassian found themselves standing before the Bishop of London, ready to acquire the special licenses that would allow them to marry post haste. The process was surprisingly mundane for such an important event with the brothers signing their names to the appropriate documents before paying the required fee.
Once the paperwork was completed, they returned home, their hearts filled with excitement and anticipation. They found the house buzzing with energy, the upcoming weddings providing a tangible excitement that hummed through the estate.
The day of the wedding dawned bright and beautiful, a clear sky stretching above them. William and Cassian stood side by side, resplendent in their matching wedding attire. The guests gathered in the lavish gardens, a sea of vibrant colors and fluttering fans. Among them, Viscount and Viscountess Blackwell looked on, their faces displaying a tension that was palpable.
Under the soft glow of morning light filtering through the delicate stained glass of the Thornhill family chapel, the ceremony commenced. Rich garlands of English roses and delicate hydrangeas draped the mahogany pews, their sweet perfume mingling with the soft scent of burning beeswax candles. Large urns filled with peonies, gardenias, and lilies adorned the altar, an array of vibrant blooms that echoed the joy of the occasion.
Eris and Lily emerged from the chapel entrance, their gowns shimmering under the luminous chandeliers. Eris was an image of grace in a gown of soft ivory, the bodice intricately embroidered with pearls and tiny silver beads. A cathedral veil framed her radiant face, lending her an ethereal aura. Lily, on the other hand, was resplendent in a champagne gown that hugged her blooming figure. The gown was adorned with delicate lace appliqué that cascaded down to a flowing tulle skirt. Their beauty elicited an audible sigh from the guests, their vision a striking portrait against the solemn stone walls of the chapel.
As they made their way down the aisle, the guests rose in reverence. William and Cassian waited at the altar, their eyes filled with love and admiration. The sight of the sisters approaching was a breathtaking vision, one that would be etched in their hearts forever.
The ceremony began, and the resonant voice of the vicar echoed through the chapel, imbuing the air with a sense of serenity. It was time for the vows, and the room was hushed in anticipation. William took Eris’ hands in his, his gaze never leaving hers.
“Eris,” he began, his voice steady, “from the moment I met you, I knew you were special. Today, I promise to stand by your side through happiness and sorrow, through prosperity and need. I will honor, cherish, and love you for as long as I live.”
Eris’ eyes welled with tears as she reciprocated his vows, her voice filled with emotion. “William, I promise to stand by your side in good times and bad. To love you and respect you, to share my life with you, until the end of our days.”
The sight of Cassian, so strong yet so tender, brought a fresh wave of tears to Lily’s eyes. He held her hand, his gaze never wavering. “Lily,” he began, his voice choked with emotion, “I love you and the life we’re about to bring into this world. I promise to be a good husband and a loving father. I will cherish you and our child and love you unconditionally for the rest of my days.”
As they sealed their vows with a kiss, the crowd erupted into cheers, a cacophony of joy that echoed through the gardens. The newlyweds turned to their guests, their faces aglow with happiness. It was a sight to behold, a testament to their love and the journey they had taken to reach this point.
Epilogue
With the tolling of the chapel bells still echoing in her ears and her heart brimming with joy, Eris Hudson, the newly minted Countess of Thornhill, was still coming to terms with the events of the day. As they filed out of the chapel into the adjoining manor for the wedding breakfast, a wave of contentment washed over her. Her hand was entwined with William’s. She couldn’t help the radiant smile that graced her lips.
“Countess of Thornhill!” Lady Marianne Fitzwilliam’s voice cut through the joyous hubbub like a fine-edged blade. The woman was as distinctive as ever — her sharp nose and elongated teeth as memorable as her peacock-like voice. Her dress, an imposing creation of brocade and lace, rustled as she navigated her way through the crowd.
“Congratulations, my dear!” she called out, a somewhat strained smile on her face. Eris could recall their previous encounter at the Thornhill castle party, and Lady Marianne’s catty remarks were still fresh in her memory. However, today was a day of joy, and Eris was determined not to let anything dampen her spirits.
“Thank you, Lady Marianne,” Eris responded, offering a gracious smile. “Your good wishes are appreciated.”
The young woman studied her for a moment, seemingly taken aback by her courteous response. After a beat, her lips curled into a more genuine smile. “I must admit, the gown is quite fetching, and you do make a stunning bride,” she admitted.
Eris’ smile broadened. Her heart warmed from the unexpected compliment. “That’s very kind of you, Lady Marianne. I am glad you could join us on this special day.”
As the celebration carried on around them, Eris felt a profound sense of peace and joy.
Lady Marianne was whisked away by other well-wishers wishing to speak to Eris and William. A short time later, Eris found herself drawn toward the grand dining hall which had been transformed into a resplendent spectacle for the wedding breakfast. Gilded candlesticks adorned the lengthy table, flickering flames illuminating a lavish feast prepared in their honor. Vibrant flowers trailed the length of the table, their sweet scent filling the air.
The sound of crystal chiming against crystal rang out as William stood, a champagne flute cradled in his hand. The jubilant chatter that had filled the room quietened. All the guests’ attention focused on the Earl.
