“I loved her very much. She became ill when I was fifteen. We couldn’t afford the medicine she needed.” Evie’s hand stilled against Ash, anguish overtaking her. “That was when Heloise went to work at the brothel, but it was too late, and Nadine died. She said it broke her heart that Heloise had become a prostitute.” She turned her gaze back to Gregory. “But what were we to do?”

“You did what you thought you had to.”

Evie was caught up in the past in a way she hadn’t been in a long time. “Heloise sent money to me, but it wasn’t enough. I tried to sew, but I am terrible at stitching. I knitted instead, but socks don’t earn much. Plus, I was lonely on my own, and men in the neighborhood knew I was alone. I didn’t know how long I could keep them at bay, and I determined that if I were going to share my body, it was going to be my choice and for a decent sum. I lasted about eighteen months, then I went to work at the same brothel as Heloise. By then, she’d become the most popular lady in the house and was negotiating her first protector.”

Gregory had been stroking her arm while she spoke, but when she’d talked about her choice to work at the brothel, he’d stopped. “I can’t imagine what you had to do at such a young age without any parent or guiding force.” He shook his head, and she thought she saw the shimmer of a tear in his eye.

“Gregory, please don’t pity me.”

“I don’t. I’m sad for your losses, and I’m angry that you didn’t have better choices. It’s not right, Evie. I can’t believe how you’ve managed. Look at you now.”

“Naked in the bed of a man who is not my husband,” she said wryly.

“We could change that.”

“I am a little cold, actually, though Ash is quite warm.” She smiled at the dog.

“Not that part, though I’ll fetch your chemise.” He got up from the bed and came back with the garment.

She sat up and drew it over her head.

“I meant I could be your husband, if you’d allow me to. I love you, Evie, now and forever. If you become my wife, I’ll spend the rest of our lives showing you how much and making you happy.”

He stood next to the bed, his brown eyes warm and earnest—and so full of love. She knew he would take care of her in ways she’d never imagined. She’d never want for anything. And she wouldn’t ever be alone again.