Chapter 10
Ten
T hree days later…
Selina's heart raced as she stood before the gathered guests, her hand clasped tightly in James's. The summer breeze rustled through the garden, carrying the sweet scent of roses and the promise of new beginnings. She took a deep breath, steadying herself before addressing their friends and well-wishers.
"My dear friends," she began, her voice clear and strong despite the butterflies in her stomach, "Lord Blackwood and I have an announcement to make." She paused, savoring the moment as she gazed up at James, his bruises already fading and eyes sparkling with adoration. She could scarcely believe how far they had come in such a short time, but there was no doubt she belonged with him, and he with her.
James squeezed her hand gently, a reassuring gesture that sent warmth coursing through her. "It is with great joy that we share the news of our betrothal," he declared, his deep voice resonating with pride and affection.
A chorus of cheers erupted from the crowd. Mr. Nicolas Winters let out a boisterous whoop while Lord Rockingham raised his glass in a toast. Lady Charlotte clasped her hands to her chest, her eyes brimming with happy tears, and Beatrice's delighted laughter rang out like bells as the gathered guests applauded the happy news.
Selina's cheeks flushed with pleasure as she basked in the outpouring of support from their dearest friends.
"Our path to this moment has been far from conventional," she said, her voice softening as she recalled the trials they had faced. "James and I have weathered storms that threatened to tear us apart, but it was through those very challenges that we discovered the depth of our feelings for one another."
James nodded, his expression solemn as he added, "Indeed, we have a love that defies explanation and transcends all obstacles."
Her heart swelled at his words, and she found herself blinking back tears of joy. "James," she murmured, loud enough for their friends to hear, "you have been my rock, my confidant, and my greatest ally. I cannot imagine embarking on this new chapter of my life with anyone but you by my side."
He lifted their joined hands to his lips, pressing a tender kiss to her knuckles. "My darling Selina," he replied, his voice husky with emotion, "you have shown me what it truly means to love and be loved in return. Your strength and love have made me a better man, and I vow to spend the rest of my days proving myself worthy of your affection."
As their friends looked on, visibly moved by the couple's heartfelt exchange, Selina felt a surge of gratitude for the twists of fate that had brought them together. She thought of the countless nights spent poring over clues, the breathless moments of danger, and the gradual realization that her feelings for him ran far deeper than she had ever imagined.
"Our journey has taught us the value of trust, perseverance, and unwavering commitment," she continued, addressing their friends once more. "As we look to the future, we do so with hope in our hearts and the knowledge that together, we can overcome any challenge that may arise."
James nodded in agreement, his thumb tracing soothing circles on the back of her hand. "We stand before you not just as a betrothed couple, but as partners in every sense of the word."
Her gaze swept over their assembled friends, each face beaming with genuine happiness for their coming union. She felt a lump form in her throat as she considered how blessed they were to have such steadfast companions in their lives.
James raised his free hand, gesturing to their friends with a warm smile. "We invite you all to join us in celebrating not just our betrothal, but the bonds of friendship as well."
As their guests surged forward to offer their congratulations, Selina felt a sense of completeness wash over her. She turned to James, her eyes shining with unshed tears of joy. "I love you," she said, the words a sacred vow between them.
He leaned in, his lips brushing against her ear as he replied, "And I love you, my darling Selina. Always and forever."
Her cheeks flushed with warmth as his words sent a delightful shiver down her spine .
The boisterous laughter of their friends interrupted their intimate moment.
"I never thought I would see the day when the notorious Lord Blackwood would be tamed," Nicolas Winters quipped, his green eyes twinkling with mischief. "And by our dear Selina, no less!"
Selina could not help but giggle, her eyes darting between James and Nicolas. "I assure you, Mr. Winters, James is far from tamed. He is merely... redirected his roguish tendencies."
James chuckled, running his fingers through his dark hair. "I would say I have met my match, wouldn't you, darling?"
Before Selina could respond, Lady Charlotte swooped in, her blonde curls bouncing with excitement. "Selina, my dear, I simply must steal you away for a moment!" She tugged gently on Selina's arm, her eyes sparkling with barely contained glee.
Selina glanced at James, who nodded encouragingly. "Go on, love. I will be here when you return."
As Charlotte led her away, Selina cast a glance over her shoulder, watching as Nicolas and Alexander closed in on James, their grins promising relentless teasing.
"Now, Selina," Charlotte began, her voice lowered conspiratorially, "you simply must tell me everything. How did James propose? Was it terribly romantic?"
Selina laughed, her heart light with joy. "Oh, Charlotte, it was perfect. But perhaps not in the way you might imagine..."
As she recounted the tale to Charlotte and Beatrice, who had joined them with a knowing smirk, she found herself continuously glancing back at James. Her breath caught as she saw him throw his head back in laughter at something Nicolas had said, his voice filled with mirth.
The soft strains of a string quartet, their melodies weaving through the air like gossamer threads, filled the surrounding space as Selina turned back to her friends.
“I do believe your betrothed is pining for you already,” Bea said, a teasing lit in her voice as she nodded toward the group of gentlemen.
Selina turned to see James approaching, his hand outstretched in invitation. "My lady," he said, his voice low and rich, "might I have this dance?"
With a quick squeeze of Charlotte's hand and a wink at Beatrice, Selina placed her hand in his. "It would be my pleasure, my lord."
As James led her to the makeshift dance floor, Selina's heart raced with anticipation. The moment his arm encircled her waist, she felt as though the rest of the world had fallen away, leaving only the two of them in this perfect moment.
Her gaze locked with his as they moved gracefully across the garden, their steps in perfect harmony. The soft grass beneath their feet cushioned each movement, creating an almost dreamlike quality.
"I must confess," James murmured, his lips close to her ear, "I have been longing to steal you away all afternoon."
A delicious shiver ran down her spine. "Have you now? And here I thought you were thoroughly enjoying Mr. Winters’ company."
James chuckled, the sound reverberating through her. "Nicolas's tales of his latest hunting expedition pale compared to the allure of your presence, pet."
As they twirled, Selina caught sight of their friends watching them with fond smiles. Nicolas raised his glass in a silent toast, while Charlotte and Bea whispered behind their fans, no doubt concocting something scandalous.
"What do you say we indulge in a brief escape?" James suggested, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "I believe I spotted a rather secluded path near the rose garden. "
Her heart fluttered. "Why, Lord Blackwood, are you proposing we abandon our own betrothal celebration?"
"Only for a moment," he replied, his voice low and enticing. "I promise to return you before anyone misses us overmuch."
With a conspiratorial grin, she nodded. "Lead the way, my love."
Hand in hand, they slipped away from the party, the sounds of laughter and music fading as they ventured deeper into the garden. They traversed a narrow path lined with fragrant roses, their petals casting delicate shadows in the late afternoon sun.
"I can scarcely believe it," Selina murmured. "How swiftly disdain has turned to devotion."
His lips quirked into that roguish smirk that never failed to quicken her pulse. "My darling, I assure you, my devotion was there from the start. It merely took on a different guise."
Selina arched an eyebrow, a playful challenge in her voice. "Oh? And what guise was that, pray tell?"
"Why, the guise of a man desperately trying to deny his attraction to a woman he believed was his enemy," James replied, tugging her closer. His voice dropped to a husky caress. "A futile endeavor, as it turns out. "
A delicious shiver raced down Selina's spine. "James Barton, are you attempting to seduce me?"
"Always," he growled, before capturing her lips in a searing kiss.
Selina melted into his embrace, her fingers tangling in his dark hair as she returned his kiss with equal fervor. A hungry press of lips, followed by a slow slide of their tongues. She moaned, her hands sliding up his chest to rest on his broad shoulders.
When they finally parted, both slightly breathless, she gazed up at him with adoration. "I fear I shall never grow weary of that," she murmured, a coy smile playing at her lips.
He chuckled, his gaze alight with joy. "Then I shall endeavor to kiss you at every opportunity."
"I love you, James Barton, Lord Blackwood," she murmured, tilting her face up to his.
"And I love you, Selina Whitcomb, soon-to-be Lady Blackwood," he replied, before capturing her lips in a deep-soul consuming kiss that spoke of passion, devotion, and the promise of forever.
They strolled back toward the gathering, basking in the warm glow of their shared happiness, their cheeks flushed and eyes bright.
"There you are!" Charlotte's cheerful voice rang out as they approached. "We were beginning to wonder if you had eloped."
Selina laughed, embracing her dear friend. "And deprive you of the spectacle of our wedding? Never."
Charlotte's eyes sparkled with mischief. "Speaking of spectacles, I do hope you will allow me to assist with the planning. I have the most delightful ideas for your trousseau."
"Heaven help me," Selina groaned good-naturedly. "I shudder to think what scandalous creations you have in mind."
"Only the finest silks and laces befitting a lady of your station," Charlotte replied innocently.
"Though perhaps cut a trifle lower than is strictly proper," Beatrice added.
James cleared his throat, a roguish glint in his eye. "I, for one, wholeheartedly approve of Miss Beatrice’s suggestion."
Selina felt her cheeks warm. "You would, you incorrigible rake."
"Your rake," James reminded her, pressing a kiss to her temple. “Only yours.”
Lord Rockingham raised his glass in a toast, his usually stoic demeanor softened by a rare smile. "To Selina and James," he intoned. "May your love be as enduring as it is passionate. "
"Here, here!" The assembled guests chorused, glasses clinking merrily.
Mr. Winters approached, clapping James on the shoulder. "I must say, old boy, you have done well for yourself. Though how you managed to win over our dear countess is beyond me."
"I shall no doubt spend the rest of my days wondering the same," James replied, his gaze never leaving Selina's face. "I count myself the luckiest of men."
Selina's heart swelled with emotion. "And I am the luckiest of women," she said softly.
As the evening wore on, Selina found herself swept up in a whirlwind of congratulations and well-wishes. Yet through it all, her awareness of James never wavered. His steady presence at her side, the warmth of his hand on the small of her back, the tender glances they shared—all served as anchors in the sea of society.
Later, as the party wore on, Selina found a moment of respite near the refreshment table. She watched as James conversed animatedly with a group of gentlemen, his charisma on full display.
"He truly adores you, you know," came a quiet voice from beside her. Selina turned to find Bea, her lips curved up in a gentle smile .
"Is it that obvious?" Selina asked, unable to keep the smile from her face.
Bea nodded. "To anyone with eyes, my dear. The way he looks at you... it is as if you've hung the moon and stars."
Selina's gaze drifted back to James, her heart full to bursting. "I never imagined I could feel this way again," she confessed. "After Nile... I thought that part of me lost forever."
Bea placed a comforting hand on Selina's arm. "Love has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. You deserve every happiness, Selina. I am glad you and Lord Blackwood found each other."
Tears pricked at Selina's eyes. "Thank you, Bea. I do hope you and Charlotte find love as well. You are my dearest friends and I fear I may not have survived the trials of the past year if not for the two of you."
As if sensing her emotional state, James appeared at her side, concern etched on his handsome features. "Is everything alright, my love?"
Selina smiled, blinking back the tears. "More than alright," she assured him. "I was just reflecting on how blessed I am to have such wonderful friends... and a man who adores me."
His expression softened, and he drew her close. " Perhaps it is time we bid everyone goodnight," he murmured, his breath warm against her ear. "I find myself rather eager for some private time with the woman I adore."
A thrill of anticipation coursed through her. "Lead the way, my lord," she replied, her voice husky with promise.
The evening air was cool against her flushed skin as James led her toward the carriage. Tomorrow would bring new adventures, new obstacles to navigate. But tonight... tonight was for celebrating the love that had blossomed between them, against all odds.
And celebrate they would.