“I can’t help but wonder what would’ve happened if you hadn’t saved me that night.” Her heart ached at the thought of never having him in her life.
“You had already saved yourself. I merely sped things along. We would’ve found each other. Somehow. Someway.” He kissed her then rolled to his side, bringing her with him to cushion her head on his shoulder. “I want to wake up every morning like this. With you in my arms.”
She couldn’t help but grin as she propped herself up to look at his handsome face. “That sounds perfect.” They kissed until her stomach grumbled with hunger, causing him to chuckle.
“Why don’t I bring some of that food over here?” he suggested as he sat up. “Pierre would not be happy if we didn’t eat any of it.”
“I do seem to have worked up an appetite.”
He leaned close to kiss her once more. “We might both need sustenance, for I don’t think I can keep my hands off you for the rest of the night. I love you, dear Beatrice.”
“And I love you, Daniel. Forever.”
“And always,” he added then kissed her again.
She enjoyed the view of him walking naked across the bedchamber to the table, her mind already considering how delightful the remainder of the night would be, and her heart overflowing with love.
Epilogue
Two Months Later
“I am so pleased with the companion the introduction agency suggested, Mrs. Walker.” The Marchioness of Whirlenhall’s beaming smile caused Beatrice to smile in return.
“That’s wonderful to hear.” Would she ever grow accustomed to being called by that name? Of course, she and Daniel had been married only a little over a month. She had years to become used to it. The thought brought an even bigger smile to her face. They’d enjoyed a trip to Bath soon after their wedding. This evening’s soiree was her and Daniel’s first social function as newlyweds.
The gathering was a celebration for the introduction agency with the hope of garnering notice. Daniel had suggested they also start a charity to help fund the endeavor with what remained of the money he’d taken from the brothel, so they announced that as well.
Beatrice had started the agency small but had plans to expand it to provide lodgings for the women to stay for a reduced fee until they obtained situations. For now, those plans would have to wait.
But it seemed as if anything were possible now that Finch was imprisoned. Daniel and Aberland had discovered the magistrate Hurdy reported to was firmly in Finch’s pocket and dismissed any cases brought against the man. He’d convinced Hurdy that Daniel and Beatrice’s claims were groundless. As evidence mounted, Hurdy had done what he could to work around the situation rather than report it, slowing the investigation.
Thank goodness all of that was behind them now.
Beatrice could hardly believe how wonderful the evening had been as she looked around the drawing room. The guests were generous and the conversation intriguing as other problems the city faced were discussed.
She searched for Daniel, meeting his warm gaze across the room. He was the reason her dreams were coming true and that she’d dared to reach for happiness and a fulfilling life.
Lady Granger, Caroline’s cousin and the marchioness’s daughter, joined them. “Miss Ramsey is a gem. I’m so pleased you found her for us.”
“Indeed,” the marchioness agreed. “With Louisa married, it’s been lovely to have someone to assist me this past month. Especially such a delightful young woman.”
“I’m pleased it’s working so well,” Beatrice said. She’d had no doubt Sarah would be the perfect companion for the marchioness. “We’d be appreciative if you would consider recommending the agency to your friends.”
“I’ve already told several,” the marchioness reassured her. “I must ask, what made you decide to start the introduction agency?”
The image of the brothel and the memories of the night she escaped filled Beatrice’s thoughts, sending a wave of panic through her. A voice in her mind insisted this was the moment she’d feared when all the world would know she’d been ruined, at least in Society’s view.
Yet Lady Whirlenhall’s eyes held no judgment, only curiosity. With that realization, Beatrice’s doubt eased as did her worry.
“As someone new to London, it occurred to me how difficult it must be to find reliable help for those requiring it as well as trustworthy employers for those seeking positions. It seemed that connecting the two would fill a need.” Beatrice lifted her chin with pride, knowing her father would be pleased.
“Quite clever of you.” The lady nodded her approval.
“Caroline was disappointed to have missed your soiree,” Lady Granger advised. “But she is looking forward to having us for tea on the morrow so we can tell her everything that happened.”
“I missed having her here as well. The baby will arrive before we know it.” Beatrice was so excited for Caroline and Aberland. They would make wonderful parents. She couldn’t wait to present Caroline with the christening gown she’d embroidered.
The Earl of Granger and Count Eastov, Lady Whirlenhall’s friend, joined them. The men’s warm regard for their ladies was touching.
“The soiree was delightful,” the count said, his friendly blue eyes twinkling.
“We’re so pleased you could come.” Daniel moved to stand beside Beatrice, his smile causing her heart to dance. “The charity and the agency are important to both of us, and we are happy to think they are aiding not only those seeking work who are new to London but our friends as well.”
Soon the marchioness and count took their leave, followed by Lord and Lady Granger, and many of the other guests departed too.
“The soiree was a smashing success,” Annabelle said as she hugged Beatrice. “I hope you’ll see additional donations to the charity as word spreads.”
“We’ll do our best to see that it does.” Mr. Raybourne raised a brow at his wife. “Didn’t you already mention it to Graham and Charlotte?”
“I did, indeed.” She looked
