Page 134 of The Governess Who Stole My Heart

“And did you visit yourparents?”

“I intended to but I was delayed. And that is why I wasn’t atsupper.”

“Ah… Nothing serious, I hope,” he said as he stole at a glance atSusan.

Susan didn’t respond immediately but finally said, “John, I needed to break off my attachment to Daniel,” she saidsimply.

“Oh…” he said insurprise.

“Daniel is not well, and is in no condition to move forward with his life rightnow.”

John stopped and turned to her. “That is certainly sad news. Will herecover?”

“It’s not a physical ailment,John.”

John was silent as he contemplated theimplications.

“Is it insensitive of me to ask if that means you are free of your obligations toDaniel?

“Yes, John, I’mfree.”

“And do you still have feelings forhim?”

“I feel sad. I feel compassion, but I no longer have romantic feelings for him. And, if truth be told, I believe they began disappearing after I began to know the fine man youare.”

John’s face lit up with a broadsmile.

“Oh, Susan…” He took both of her hands. “Then is it too soon to think that you might consider becoming mywife?”

Susan suddenly felt a wave of peace and serenity wash over her and she nestled her head on John’s chest. “No, John, it’s not too soon, but you know I have no rank or title, and only the most modest living that I can bring to the marriage. Isn’t one in your position expected to marry much better than the daughter of a lowlysquire?”

“Susan, do you think so little of me that you might imagine any of that matters to me onewhit?”

“But you haveresponsibilities…”

“None that would preclude me from marrying you. If that is what you want. Susan Wilton will you be mywife?”

Susan was shivering in the cold—or was it passion andexcitement?

“But there is another person to be consideredfirst.”

“Elizabeth?”

“Yes. I will consent if she totally agrees with this. But I want you to speak to her first—alone. I don’t want my presence to influence what she has to say in anyway.”

John nodded. “Yes, but I think I already know what her answer willbe.”

“That’s as it may be. But I want you to do this. I would not only be coming into your life but hers as well. Will you do this forme?”

“I will, and as soon as I get her permission, I will go to see your mother and father and seek their blessing. I want this to be done correctly. I want you to be happy and at peace with ourengagement.”

“But wait… there is one other matter,” Susansaid.

“What isthat?”

“I must speak to Katherine and her family before there’s any announcement. I owe it to them and to Daniel. Katherine is my very dearest friend and I want her blessing as well. As difficult at that might be forher.”

“I understand. But know this—I love you,Susan.”

“And I love you John Chamberlain, Duke of Lennox.” Susan suddenly blanched. “Oh my, I’m going to be the Duchess, am Inot.”

“Yes, you will be, YourGrace.”

Susan burst out laughing. “Me… a duchess. How ridiculous. I shall never know how tobehave.”

“In no way different than you do now. You are just perfect as youare.”

Susan snuggled in closer. “I don’t know about you but I’m freezing and I’m ready for breakfast. I’ve not eaten since yesterdaynoon.