Page 130 of Winterset
“Hilarious,” I said with dry wit.
He shook his head, his smile fading. “Do you have the deed to the property?”
I produced the document from my pocket and handed it to him.
He glanced over it. “Do you have a preferred solicitor, or will my man be sufficient?”
“You aren’t going to try to talk me out of it?” I asked. “Tell me I’m being foolish, as I once told you?”
“I know what it is to love someone as desperately as you do, Ollie. The law stood in my way, but I will not stand in yours.”
His words left me momentarily speechless. It had been so long since we’d had this bond, and I was grateful. “Thank you, Damon.”
“You don’t need to thank me, Ollie. We’re brothers. It is a blessing to finally be able to help you.”
“Inthatcase, I would like to help you. Let’s talk about your refusal to be called Lord Winfield.”
Damon groaned. “Not you too.”
“Explain to me why you refuse to use the title.”
“Father tarnished it. Refusing to use the title he cherished more than you or me seems an excellent way for us to spite the man.”
I rolled my eyes. “If you believe that, then you are an imbecile.”
He blinked in surprise. “You don’t agree?”
I shook my head. “You mustn’t allow him to hold power over you, Damon.Youare the Earl of Winfield now. Claim the title, and do something good with it.”
“You sound like Mother and Hannah.” Damon glowered.
“Yes, well. They are wise women.”
“Yes, they are.” Damon smiled. “And so is Kate.”
“She is, Damon. I don’t deserve her, but I will do anything to make her happy.”
“She’s a lucky woman to have you, Ollie.”
We spent several more minutes together, discussing the sale of Winterset and my plans for the future. I also wanted to be sure Mrs. Owensby and Bexley would be informed of our plans so they would not worry and that their futures were taken care of. Damon agreed to hire them as servants here at Summerhaven until such time that it was safe for them to join Kate and me in our new life elsewhere.
“Well,” I said. “I must go meet Kate.” It was time to begin the rest of our lives together.
“I am not ready for you to go,” Damon said, pulling me into a hug. “But I am glad for you, brother. Will you write?”
“I will,” I promised. “As soon as I can safely do so. My letters will be devoid of identifying information, so you won’t be able to write me back though.”
He nodded solemnly, and we parted with one last hug.
Damon remained in his study, looking over the deed, and I shut the door behind me and started down the corridor.
As I walked, I smiled.
Damon and I were reconciled. Kate would soon be my wife.My wife.
As soon as I climbed into the carriage, I could take her into my arms, and I would not ever have to let go.
“Excuse me, sir?”
