“As soon as possible. We’re very much in love.”

“Oh, Blanche. That’s wonderful.” Viola rose and gave her a hug.

“Lord Flanders to see you, Your Grace,” Sebastian announced.

“I’ll entertain him in my study.” West chuckled. “This is an unexpected development. But I must have foreseen it when I chose him for you. I think I can take most of the credit.”

Viola laughed as West left the room. “I’m so glad for you, Blanche. I know you two will be very happy.”

“Viola,” said Bernadette, “there’s something I want to talk to you about. Your friend the Duchess of Ravenwood has invited me to travel to Greece to assist her and her husband with an important archaeological expedition. Please say you’ll convince West to allow me to go. Please, please, please.”

“It could be dangerous.”

“The duchess will protect me. She’s promised to teach me how to wield a dagger.”

“I want to learn how to fight with a dagger,” Betsy said. “Why does Bernadette get to have all the fun?”

“I’ll talk to him,” Viola promised. “I do think it would be an enriching adventure for you.”

“Really and truly?” Bernadette asked.

“Really and truly.”

Viola spoke with West about it that very night as they lay in bed together reading. He was reluctant, at first, but she had her methods of persuasion.

“Do you know, West,” she said much later, after they were sated and tangled in each other’s arms. “I’ve come to the conclusion that being a duchess is remarkably similar to conducting an orchestra. One must be ever vigilant, able to perform a dozen tasks at once, and be comfortable with hundreds of pairs of eyes watching your every move.”

“I knew you’d be the perfect duchess.”

“I didn’t know it. I was intimidated by the prospect.”

“You rise to every challenge. You were superb tonight. You touched everyone’s hearts with holiday cheer.” He cupped her cheek with his hand. “But you completely stole mine. Merry Christmas, my love.”

His kiss was tender and reverent . . . and then it deepened, becoming wild and passionate until she forgot all about her notoriety and existed only for the pleasure of loving West.

And being loved by him in return.

Carol

Author’s Note