All’s Well That Ends Well

ALL'S WELL THAT ENDS WELL

Spencer

We were silent on the short walk back to Beauvillier House. The countess' steps were tentative. By the time we reached the entrance, I was alarmed at her condition and hammered the knocker against the door, shouting until Townsend flung the door open.

One look and he helped me steer her into the drawing room where he removed her pelisse, and I settled her on the sofa, draping a throw over her shaking form.

Townsend returned and I requested tea.

Her voice soft and hoarse, she said, "Thank you, Lord Kintleford. I have felt ill all day, but I believed I'd be able to survive the evening."

She struggled out from under the coverlet to sit up, her eyes sunken pools and her face creased with pain. "You wished to speak to me on an urgent matter, my lord?"

Distressed, I began to cough. My chance was slipping through my fingers, and yet I could not importune her in this state. "I fear you are not well enough. "

"I would hear what you have to say, sir. I am well enough to listen, even if dancing is beyond me."

With a deep breath for courage, I pulled over a chair. "My lady." I stopped. Then, drawing on fortitude I did not know I possessed, I took her hand and pressed forward. "Dearest Juliana, since I have known you, my life has changed. Your grace and intelligence enchant me. You are brighter than the sun, more mysterious than the galaxy. I would walk with you on the Milky Way."

The intentness with which she followed my discourse was unnerving. "My lady, I have spoken to your father, and he has agreed I may press my suit, with the caveat that the choice is wholly yours."

"That is kind of him, even though late in the day." Her tone was dry.

"Should I know what you mean by that?"

"When my late husband asked for my hand, my father insisted I accept. At least at this stage of life, he understands I am old enough to decide for myself."

"Thank God for that." The exclamation was out before I could stop myself. Amusement flitted across her face.

Distantly, I heard a door open and soft voices come into the hall, but I ignored them and forged onward.

"Juliana. You are the universe to me. My admiration is true and unstinting. If you agree to marry me, I will do my best to make you the happiest of women, not only in England, but in the whole world. I love you. Please tell me you are willing to be my wife."

"You do not ask whether I love you, my lord?"

"If you accept my proposal, I hope you will learn to love me."

Her hand still rested in mine. "What shall I call you? Viscount? Lord Kintleford?"

"No, as I would call you Juliana, I would have you call me Spencer. Between us, there should be no formality, only ease. While unfashionable, I care not for fashion."

Whispers emanated from around the doorway. Servants come to spy ?

Then she said the sweetest words I had ever heard. "Yes, I will accept, Spencer."

Then she allowed me to take her into my arms and kiss her as clapping and shouting from family and friends rang through the room.