Scarlet smiled, and inside she nearly screamed with desire to shout her identity to him. She should tell him. She would tell him all about her role as the Pimpernel. Just as soon as she was sure he would be safe in France. She knew if he discovered where she travelled and what she was doing, nothing could stop him from following after. And she doubted her ability to keep him safe. The faces of the DuPont family flashed in her mind. Those dear children who would no longer know joy, would never experience the love she felt.

“What is it?” He ran his hand along her forehead and down her hairline, tucking a tendril behind her ear. “Your eyes went dark. A great worry passed right before me across your brilliant greens. Tell me.”

His expression was so earnest, his smile so hopeful, what was she to say to him? “I worry for you, Matteo. I can’t keep you safe.”

He chuckled and watched her face. “And why would you need to be keeping me safe?” He lifted her legs and laid them across his lap. “You are a formidable foe, I give you that, but my dear Scarlet, it is I who has promised to his dying breath to love and cherish and protect you.”

She shrugged, grateful to not have to say more. “It is a worry all the same.”

Matteo rested his hands on her knees. “I shall do my best to not need rescuing, my lady.”

Scarlet eyed him with partially concealed skepticism but noticed their familiar surroundings. “I am sure Henry has taken the longest possible route from the church to our home, but we are now coming down the lane. Come, let me introduce you to your kingdom.”

As the carriage rolled to a stop, a footman opened the door and the entire staff, from the upstairs maids to the outside gardeners to the stable hands, lined the entryway to their home. She looked proudly on them all then she turned to Matteo. “Welcome home, my lord.”

Matteo helped her exit the carriage. Her hand secure on his arm, they turned to walk up the path lined with their staff. She watched their expressions. Many had been here serving Rupert long before she’d come to the estate. Her shoulders relaxed as great loyalty and kindness reflected in their faces. They straightened as she and Matteo approached and seemed pleased when Matteo addressed them. From the looks of things, the transition to Matteo would be emotionally easy for them all. Rupert had chosen his staff well. And because they were always treated well, they were loyal and excellent in their service.