John could barely keep a scowl off his face when she went off to dance with Bolingbroke. And that was knowing the man had attracted the attentions of a lady he seemed likely to wed. As quick as a flash of lightning, John knew he’d do anything to keep Eleanor with him. Life without her would be empty. This was the feeling his brother-in-law and his friends had felt for their wives. This was love.

I’m in love with Eleanor.

The realization was not earth-shattering. There were no bells ringing. His feet were still on the ground. His sister was probably correct when she said that was not the kind of love that lasted. What he was experiencing now went much deeper. Eleanor was his future and his home. Together they could build a life with love and laughter, children and house animals—he smiled to himself, thinking of Posy’s lick—and helping others.

He had to speak with Worthington, but when? Tomorrow there were early meetings at the Lords that threatened to last all day. Somehow John would have to manage it. He would not wait to propose to her. The sooner they were betrothed, the sooner they could be married. Damn, he needed to write to his solicitor and have him ready his finances to be reviewed.

“You’re scowling,” Aurelia murmured.

He glanced to his side. “I am not.”

She raised a brow, giving him her I-know-better-than-you look. “Shall I find you a mirror?”

“I don’t like seeing her with other men.” Too late; he could have bitten his tongue. What the devil made him tell his sister that?

“You do know that once you are betrothed, you may have all of her dances? Providing she agrees, that is.”

John dismissed the second part of his sister’s sentence. Of course Eleanor would agree. “I may?”

“Yes. It is one of the benefits of a betrothal.”

If he could be the only one to stand up with her, what else was he allowed? “Is there anything else I may do?”

“Hmmm. Ride with her in a closed carriage. She will of course be allowed to come to your house and meet your housekeeper. Although Mama or another female relative must be in the house as well.”

A closed carriage. A lot could be done in a closed carriage. He was getting hard just thinking about it. But he’d rather show her his—their—bedchamber. Unfortunately, that could hardly be accomplished with his mother in the house. John glanced at Aurelia. Was she actually suggesting she would turn a blind eye to what he and Eleanor decided to do if she was there?

“But first you must speak to Worthington and propose to Lady Eleanor.”