“You did that for me?”
“I just wanted you to be safe. Now it seems that you are and so it is time I departed.”
“Why? We have a lot to talk about. Cecilia, please come closer.”
He held out his hand and gradually she came closer, when he could seize her hand and pull her down until she was sitting on the bed next to him.
“Tell me what’s wrong,” he said gently.
To his astonishment, he could feel her shaking.
“Cecilia, my dearest, whatever is the matter?”
“You must not call me your dearest – although I know you are only being kind. But I do understand.”
“Understand what?”
“Why it was wrong of me to propose to you. I did not know you were an Earl, but of course now I see why you could not marry me.”
“Can you?” he asked blankly. “I wish you would tell me. There is one reason that might
