It was the unique situation he’d been born into. As the bastard son of a nobleman and an actress of the opera, Gabriel straddled both worlds. He blended just as easily in a ballroom full of pompous lords and silk-clad ladies as he did in a whorehouse populated by murderers and thieves.

“Ah, Gabriel. From the moment I fought alongside you behind that French brothel, I’ve known you as a man of honor, honesty, and fortitude.” Sebastian smiled, his tone gentle but stern. “These characteristics are far more valuable than titles or land holdings. I challenge anyone to dispute your worth.” He sighed heavily. “I feel our friendship holds you hostage. The vow you made has held you here longer than I ever expected. You should not spend a lifetime tied to me. It’s time you sought a wife. Time you put aside your oath and find happiness within your own home. Find contentment with a family you may call yours. Everyone deserves that. I dare say bastards deserve such gifts far more than the average man. And if Lady Celia is not the woman you see spending a lifetime with, then you must find someone who does make you happy.”

Gabriel found it difficult admitting Celia Buchanan was precisely the woman he wished to claim for his own.

If only she wasn’t so far out of reach.

“You are quite mad, my friend.” Gabriel sighed. “Does Lady Ravenswood realize how mad her husband truly is?”

“Of course, she does. Who else would demand I speak with you on this subject?” Sebastian replied cheerfully. “She and I share the same affliction, apparently, because she first pointed out how your eyes never stray far from Lady Celia. And that the lady’s gaze seeks you out as well when she believes no one watches.”

“Now, that, I know is a lie.” Gabriel laughed heartily. “The lady in question has no interest in me. True, I’ve aided her a few times in past months, but we’ve hardly said two words to one another. She views me as little more than a servant. Perhaps even less.”

Although he laughed at the possibility of Celia Buchanan ever accepting him as a suitor, Gabriel admitted the idea filled him with a longing he could not ignore. He’d give his soul to have all obstacles of class and background erased between them. To be seen as an equal, one fit to pursue the lady he desired, accepted based on his character and deeds.

“Who knows what will occur?” Sebastian shrugged. “Give it a chance and see where it goes, my friend. I vow the lady will not resist if you exert even a tiny bit of the charm you possess.”

“You truly are mad as a hatter, Ravenswood.”

Sebastian only grinned. “You may be right, but I’m also rarely wrong. Now, drink up and gather your courage, for when the lady arrives, you will find yourself quite busy with the task of proving yourself worthy.”