Page 169 of A Winter By the Sea
He slowly shook his head. “I am not leaving.”
Her pulse leapt. “No? But I thought you were supposed to return to Kensington Palace and await reassignment.”
“I was. I am resigning my post.”
“W-what about your career?” she faltered. “And the duchess?”
“She will manage perfectly well with her brother and her German lady-in-waiting.”
James crossed the room to stand before her. “If I learned anything from watching the duchess and her husband, it is this: When you find the love of your life, don’t waste a single moment.”
He lowered himself to one knee.
Emily’s heart thumped hard and again she laid her hand over the spot. “Heavens ...”
He took her other hand in his. “Emily Summers, will you marry me?”
Emily swallowed. “I ... would like nothing more, but you told me you were in no position to marry.”
“That was true, but that has since changed.”
“Really? Tell me everything. But first, do have mercy on your kneecap.” She tugged his hand and helped him rise.
Once on his feet, he asked, “Are you familiar with Sir Thomas Acland?”
“Vaguely. I remember you spoke with him at Their Royal Highnesses’ evening party.”
“Yes, and again when he and his wife called at Woolbrook during Prince Edward’s illness. Sir Thomas was MP for Devon for six years and plans to stand for reelection. He is also a generous philanthropist. When we met initially, he hinted he might have a situation for me. At the time, I was not sure how serious he was, or if I was willing to leave the duke for a career in politics. But now? I went to see Sir Thomas this morning, asked if he still had a situation available, and when he said he did, I accepted.”
“Would you have to work in London?”
James shook his head. “I already told him I am not interested in living in London. His country estate, Killerton House, is only thirteen miles away. A reasonable ride from Sea View. I would be based there.”
“So your ... wife would not have to leave Sidmouth?”
“Not unless she wanted to.”
“And she could still write?”
“Of course. She is very talented. I plan to encourage her all I can. Who knows, perhaps the two of us might one day start a publishing company of our own.”
“Oh! I like the way you think.”
“And I love everything about you.”
He framed her face in his hands, looked into her eyes, then leaned down and kissed her.
Ah ... heavenly.His lips moved against hers in soft, slow, lingering caresses. Heady and sweet, and filled with promise.
He lifted his face and met her gaze once more. Low voice rumbling, he said, “You have not given me an answer.”
Emily wrapped her arms around his neck, drew him toward her, and pressed her mouth to his.
At this encouragement, he angled his head to deepen the kiss.
Finally, he pulled back breathlessly once more. “Should I take that as a yes?”
“Please do. Now do please hush and kiss me again. I have waited a long time for this.”
