She could tell, from the way he’d spoken of the marriage like a business arrangement. Although there was no doubt he desired her, she didn’t know if it would be enough. Everything had happened so fast. She hadn’t even had time to purchase a new gown but had borrowed another one from his sister’s wardrobe.

“The blacksmith will carry out the ceremony,” he explained, leading her toward the smith’s shop, “but I’ve also bestowed a goodly sum for the magistrate to register the marriage.”

Such measures would ensure a fully legal marriage. But why then, was she feeling so uncertain? With each step she took, her fears multiplied. And when they stood before the Scottish blacksmith at last, her trepidation transformed into wild fear.

If she married the Earl of Whitmore, she would become a countess. It was easy to hide away as Baron Hollingford’s forgotten sister. She had no social duties, and hardly anyone knew of her existence. But by becoming Stephen’s wife, everyone would have an opinion about her. And not a single one would be complimentary.

“Wait.” She gripped his sleeve. “We need to talk first.”

The expression on his face was less than pleased. “Now?”

“Yes, now.” Before it’s too late, she thought desperately.

He seemed to sense her panic, for he excused them from the blacksmith and took her into the stables for privacy. Though it was dark inside, she didn’t miss his displeasure. “Have you changed your mind after we’ve come this far?”

She couldn’t give him an answer. While her heart was irrevocably lost, her head was ordering her to do the right thing and let him go.

“Yes,” she whispered. “I can’t marry you.”

“Why?” The question was clipped, a wellspring of anger contained in a single word.

Because you don’t love me. Because you’re holding my heart in your hands, and I’m afraid you’ll break it again.

“Because I’ll never be a fitting countess. There’s nothing but scandal surrounding me. And I care about you too much to bring that shame upon you.” She drew off the ring and pressed it into his hand, her eyes blurred with tears. “I should have told you before we left England. But I wanted so badly to marry you. It was what I dreamed of, more than anything.”

He took the ring, remaining silent for a time. She waited for him to be angry with her about all the trouble she’d been. Instead, he glanced up at the rafters. “Do you remember the last time we were caught in the stables together?”

Of course she did. But why would he bring that up now?