“Oh.” Understanding dawned. She held out her left hand and watched mesmerized as he slid a star ruby, richly faceted, and deep reddish purple, onto her ring finger. “It’s so beautiful,” she breathed, turning her hand this way and that to catch the light in the depths of color. “And it’s a perfect fit.”

“I hoped it would be. My mother had small hands and slender fingers too,” Guy said. “It’s part of a set. History dates the Granville rubies to Tudor times but my own mother had all the pieces reset with more modern designs. There’s a necklace, earrings, which are pigeon’s blood rubies, a bracelet and a tiara. They are traditionally worn by Granville brides and I hope you’ll wear the set on our wedding day, my love. For all that it will be a simple ceremony,” he added, with a flicker of an eyebrow.

“I will be honored,” Petra said simply.

Guy held out his hands to her, grasped hers and pulled her into him. “Now, my quarrelsome bride-to-be, kiss me and we’ll seal our bargain.”

Petra melted into him, losing herself in the warm aff ir-mation of his kiss, only to jump apart as the door was abruptly opened. “What’s going on?” Jonathan’s startled voice broke the peace. “I couldn’t credit it when Foster told me you were entertaining Granville alone in your bedroom. What on earth do you think you’re doing?”

“Kissing, what does it look like, Joth,” Petra said, unable to resist the urge to tease her brother.

“For shame, Petra,” Guy chided. He took her hand and smiled at the irate but confused Jonathan. “Rutherford, I am happy to say that your sister has just agreed to be my wife.” He extended his free hand.

“Oh.” Jonathan took the offered hand and shook it, still bemused. “Betrothed? I . . . I . . . how did that come about? I knew you were seen around town together, but I didn’t think it meant anything . . . oh, damn it, what am I saying. Congratulations, both of you.” He hugged his sister. “I don’t know how you got to this point, but I’m very happy for you.”

Petra hugged him warmly, kissing his cheek. “Thank you, dearest. I’m very happy. See my ring.” She showed him her hand. “Isn’t it beautiful?”

“Stunning,” Joth said simply.

“But you’re the first to know about this, so don’t say anything yet.”

“No, no, of course not. Haven’t you even told Diana and Fenella?”

“No, not yet. It only happened this afternoon. You’re back early from the races.”

“Yes, I wanted to read some reports on improving shipping access to Bristol harbor. Dredging needs to be done,” he said. “Perhaps I could persuade you to look at them with me, Granville.”

“Oh, Joth, not now,” Petra exclaimed, half laughing. “Please.”