Page 99 of When He Was a Duke
“I cannot imagine a more perfect day.” Sebastian’s breath was warm against her cheek as they swayed together.
Rose looked up at him, this man who had started as her enemy and had become her salvation, her heart so full it felt as though it might burst. “Nor can I.”
His eyes darkened with promise as he spun her gently under his arm. “Soon we can slip away and begin our wedding night properly.”
Heat bloomed in her cheeks, but she met his gaze boldly. “I have waited long enough to feel you next to me.”
As they continued to dance under the deepening September sky, surrounded by the laughter and music of their village, Rose’s heart nearly burst with the joy of it all.
“Have I mentioned how much I love and adore you?” Rose asked, gazing up at her husband.
“Yes, but say it again.”
And so she did.
Epilogue
The day beforeChristmas, snow fell softly over Wentworth Manor, transforming the gardens into a winter wonderland. Inside the drawing room, a fire crackled in the hearth while the scent of spiced cider and pine filled the air.
Sebastian stood by the mantel, watching his wife with the contentment of a man who had found the center of his universe. Rose sat beside Sophia on the settee, their heads bent together in quiet conversation, while James lounged in an armchair, looking more relaxed than Sebastian had seen him in years. Having his siblings here for Christmas felt like a gift he’d never dared hope for.
Their new butler appeared in the doorway. “Excuse me, my lord, but Constable Stephens is at the door.”
Sebastian exchanged a glance with Rose before setting down his glass. In the foyer, Stephens waited with ruddy cheeks and an official-looking letter in his hand.
“Apologies for calling so late, Lord Ashford, but I didn’t think this should wait.” Stephens handed him the correspondence with a meaningful look.
Sebastian broke the seal with unsteady fingers, Rose appearing at his side as he scanned the words. For a moment, he couldn’t breathe. The Crown had officially restored everything—title, wealth, and Ashford Hall. His father’s name was completely cleared.
“What is it?” Rose whispered, her hand finding his arm.
“It’s all been restored.” His voice shook with emotion. “Everything. The Crown has righted the wrong done to our family.”
Rose’s eyes filled with tears. “Oh, Sebastian.” She turned to the constable. “Please, you must join us for a drink. Our family is in the drawing room. They will be overjoyed to hear this news.”
Back in the drawing room, Sebastian held up the letter. “The Crown has reinstated our title and returned our estate. With their deepest apologies.”
The silence stretched for a heartbeat before James shot to his feet. “You’re serious?”
“Completely.” Sebastian’s voice broke.
Sophia covered her mouth, tears spilling over. “Papa would be so proud and happy. Finally, justice.”
James grabbed the letter, scanning it himself. “It’s all here. We’ve won. We’ve finally won.” He looked between his siblings. “It seems impossible, but it’s all true.”
They all thanked the constable and asked again if he would stay, but he declined. “My family’s home waiting for me to begin our celebrations. However, I didn’t feel this could wait.”
After Constable Stephens left, the four of them sat in contemplative silence.
“Will you return to Ashford Hall?” James asked eventually.
Sebastian looked at Rose, knowing they were of the same mind. “No. Our work is here. The estate, the tenants—they’re counting on us. This is our home.” He met James’s gaze. “It is for you to with it as you please. If you want it. We have the funds now. You can restore it to its former glory.”
James grinned, rubbing his hands together. “I accept. There is nothing I like better than a project. We will make it a beautiful home once again.”
“Perhaps you can find a bride to share it with?” Rose said.
“Let us not get ahead of ourselves,” James said, laughing.
