Memories of their night together filled his thoughts. “She definitely isn’t a nun.”
Balstead waved him off. “I don’t want to know. But I can tell you, she would not have attempted to deceive you if I hadn’t first lied and, as your wife, she’ll be unfailingly honest. In fact, you may wish for a few falsehoods after a while.”
His eyebrows cocked. Somehow, he doubted that. “Good to know.”
Balstead started his horse forward again. “If we push our horses, we could be back by tonight.”
Damian followed behind the other man, feeling the license in his pocket. He’d told himself that he’d stay at an inn until after the wedding. It was part of keeping his distance. But the idea of holding her in his arms tonight, was tempting beyond belief. “You go ahead. I’ve got another errand to complete before the wedding.”
Balstead stopped again. “I’m not going anywhere without you.”
“I’ve made nine-tenths of the journey. I’m not backing out now.” He passed by Balstead. “I’ve obtained the license. I’m marrying her.”
Balstead narrowed his gaze. “I leave the trusting to Cassandra.”
Damian let out a small noise of dissent deep in his throat. He kicked his horse forward, not sure if he just travelled his path and left Balstead to follow, or if he should take the time to explain. It occurred to Damian that Balstead would be a part of his life for a long time, he finally turned his horse back. “If you must know, I still need to purchase rings.”
Balstead’s eyes widened. “Why didn’t you say so? I can help.”
“I don’t need help. I need you to stop acting like my shadow.”
Balstead smiled. “Sorry. I don’t take hints very well.”
“That wasn’t a hint.”
His smile broadened. “I don’t take overt suggestions well either. What I know is you bedded my very moral friend. I’ll not allow you to slip away without providing for her and any consequences that may have arisen.”
Damian blinked. He hadn’t even considered that a child might have been created from their night together. But it was possible.
And he was a man of honor. He’d marry her now, no matter what.
Chapter Thirteen
The sound of the front door pulled Cassandra from her late-night fireside musings. She stood, turning to the door as a deep voice echoed through the foyer.
Charlie stood too. “Was that Raithe?”
Cassandra gave a curt nod. “I believe it was.”
Without a word, both women started for the door and quickly made their way down the stairs. For Cassandra’s part, she had to curl her fists into her skirt to keep from lifting her skirts and running.
But she stopped short at the bottom of the steps. Charlie raced ahead of her, launching herself into Raithe’s waiting arms.
Damian hadn’t arrived too. Her throat burned as she blinked back a sudden burst of water in her eyes. She’d told herself she’d understand, but in this moment, she wanted him more than anything else in this world.
She covered her mouth as she blinked back tears.
Raithe glanced up at her, lifting his head from the crook of Charlie’s neck. “He’ll be here first thing in the morning. You’re getting married tomorrow.”
For some reason, his reassurances didn’t stop the tears, in fact, they only burned the more, though she blinked them away. “Why not come now?”
He drew in a breath. “He had another errand to run. But he’s on his way.”
She looked toward the far wall, drawing in several deep breaths. Did she believe Raithe? Why would he lie? And even if Damian would arrive tomorrow, why wasn’t he here now? She’d thought of little else but him these past several days. “All right,” she said. After all, what choice did she have in the matter now?
“The priest will perform the ceremony at nine sharp. And best of all, he’s agreed to stay here until Charlie and I get married so you’ll be able to attend.”
It was on the tip of her tongue to ask if Damian planned to take her with him when he left or if he just intended to leave her here. “I’m glad on that front.”