Page 51 of The Widow of Falbrooke Court (Ladies of Devon 3)

“What—” Charles looked down at their hands and back at her.

“I swear to you, Charles, that I will not rest as long as I can be of assistance to Mrs. Halpert. I will devote myself to her wellbeing.”

“You needn’t trouble yourself—”

“It is no trouble,” she said, shaking her head. She’d taken so much from him. She couldn’t help that he had loved her so long, but now that he finally had feelings for another woman, Amelia would do everything in her power to ensure that Charles found the contentment he undoubtedly deserved. He was a gentleman of distinction, a kind-hearted man who deserved a chance at lasting happiness with a woman he loved.

Slipping her hand free of his, she wrapped her arms around herself as the cold finally seeped through her gown and chilled her skin. “I will call the carriage for you. You cannot ride home in this.”

“That is kind of you.”

“If you wouldn’t mind directing the carriage to the Greens’ house after it takes you home, then they can retrieve Andrew.”

“Very good.” His words were clipped, sounding strangled.

Reaching forward, she laid her hand on his forearm and gently squeezed, forcing herself to ignore the tense muscle underneath her bare fingers. “You may rely on me.”

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