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“I’ for exactly that”
A brief pause “There’s one thing we haven’t discussed”
“Which is?”
Aurora sighed, torn between eagerness and honesty—honesty winning out “The ton’s reception You touched on the subject before, then dis what you were dis Courtney, I’ve heard equally asto Elinore, they can be quite vicious During my sole foray into the London Season, she served as ers and icy stares But I don’t delude rand balls, I knew people hispering behind my back After all, I’ht out on Slayde’s ar—even after you and I have successfully enacted all we just discussed As you yourself pointed out, your plan—though positively brilliant—will elie-old scandal For myself, I don’t care I’ll withstand the less-than-kind reception, just to be a people, to see the world But for you, who’s already seen and done so reat deal of potential hurt to endure Remember, once you and Slayde are wed, the Huntley whispers will extend to you Are you sure you’re ready for that?”
Courtney’s eyes glowed “I’m sure I love your brother As for the world, I don’t care a whit about what they say or don’t say aboutwould make me prouder than to stand beside Slayde—as his wife and your sister” Rising, Courtney walked over to squeeze Aurora’s hands “ ’Tis not an issue—honestly But I appreciate your worrying about me”
A current of understanding ran between the tomen
“Now, back to our plan,” Courtney continued “Toether Once Slayde leaves, I’ll stand guard while you get the papers Then I’ll head off to the stables and fetch two horses while you plead our case to Cutterton” A worried pucker “I’m not the best of riders, but for the relatively short distance to Morland, I’ll hthouse, wait a prescribed period of tier to see Mr Scollard, but too peaked to walk That will explain e’re not on foot”
“Perfect”
Courtney gave Aurora’s hands another squeeze “Again, thank you”
“No, Courtney, ’tis I who thank you,” Aurora ht you to Pehtful nod “But thepart…” She smiled “My brother is a very lucky man”
“Ah, I’ve been expecting you” Mr Scollard reeting Courtney and Aurora as they bustled through the lighthouse door “Actually, you’re a bit early,” he a at his ti ability, I assued “No matter Tea is prepared”
Courtney laughed, unfastening her ht I did need that time Unfortunately, alloped; I prayed”
Nodding his white head, Mr Scollard poured three cups of tea “Prayers are invaluable—as you’re fast finding out” He offered her a cup, assessing her with those probing blue eyes “I didn’t anticipate another visit frolad you found your way”
“As a to more than today’s jaunt
“The journey continues,” he apprised her, handing Aurora her tea “You and Rory are entering a dark segment, but one you must embark upon—carefully Drink up”