“My father still lives, but he’s a weak man and I chose to leave. I studied abroad until I joined my king’s ranks in service, and ’twas there I was lucky enough to find a man of honor.”

“Do you have any other family?”

“None I would speak of. I turned my back years ago—and the devil himself couldn’t make me look upon them again.” He spat the words, his anger barely contained.

“I’m sorry, Gavin.”

“Nay, Gwen.” He shook his head. “’Tis I who am sorry, for I left much behind. Though I’d not take for granted what I’ve gained in the years since.”

The conversation lightened as servants cleared the dishes. And after another hour or so by the fire, Lady Madelyn excused herself, kissing each of them before leaving. Greylen stood a short while later and held out his hand to Gwen. They left Gavin and Isabelle sitting across from each other in the chairs before the fireplace.

Gavin finally looked to Isabelle. She leaned against the side of the chair, her feet tucked beneath her. “What I wouldn’t do for things to be different, Bella,” he said, staring into her eyes.

“Imagine they are, Gavin, just for a moment,” she whispered. “What would you do then?”

“You’d be mine already, Bella. My babe would grow fat in your belly, and I’d care for you as I’ve only dreamed.”

Isabelle left the comforts of the chair, taking those few steps until she stood before him. “Dance with me again, Gavin?” she asked, reaching out. “Please.”

He stood and pulled her in his arms. Then he moved her about the room, imagining the music they listened to earlier. Imagining the life he feared could never be his. Gwen had opened a myriad of emotions tonight, and he was surprised he answered her questions. But somehow, spoken aloud, the memories seemed to lessen those that forever haunted his mind.

“Come, I’ll walk you to the stairs,” he whispered, brushing the hair from her face.

“Will you kiss me, Gavin?”

He couldn’t seem to stop himself tonight. He reached out and held her face and then he slowly leaned forward and covered her lips. He remained perfectly still, feeling as close to heaven as he’d ever been.

He held her hand as they walked to the stairs. Then with his foot atop the step and his hand on the banister, he watched as she made her way. She turned at the landing, but just before she reached her door, she leaned against the railing.

She mouthed the words I love you.

And he was lost.

His hand covered his heart as he closed his eyes. When he opened them again, he looked at her. He looked at her until he was sure that she understood, first, that he accepted her words, but more importantly, that he would love her until his dying breath.