"Of course," Aurora answered unevenly, not quite certain how she should behave or what he expected of her.
"Would you like some wine? Or perhaps something stronger?"
She started to refuse, but then changed her mind, realizing wine might help ease the tension that had suddenly seized her. "Yes, thank you, I would."
The commander's quarters were neither large nor particularly sumptuous; the chamber they occupied was both a dining room and parlor. But they were the best the grim fortress had to offer.
Aurora had been surprised to learn the colonel had leant his rooms for their wedding night at Nick's request. Even in prison her new husband was not completely powerless at influencing his fate.
When Nicholas went to the sideboard, Aurora absently toyed with the overlarge ring on her finger.
"You don't have to wear it," he said, observing her action.
"I am just concerned that I will lose it. Perhaps I should put it away for safekeeping."
"That might be wise."
She slipped it into her reticule, then clasped her hands together to keep them steady.
Nicholas poured a snifter of brandy for himself and a glass of sherry for Aurora, which she accepted gratefully. Then he raised his glass in mock salute before taking a long swallow of brandy.
Unable to meet his gaze, Aurora sipped her wine more slowly. She felt her heart skip a beat when her new husband indicated the adjoining door with a polite sweep of his arm.
"Shall we retire, my lady?"
Reluctantly she preceded him into the bedchamber. The room was dim, lit only by a bedside lamp and a low-burning fire. Aurora eyed the bed warily. The frame was rather narrow, yet the covers had been turned down invitingly and her nightdress had been laid out with evident care. Her mouth suddenly went dry.
She felt his gaze survey her as she stood frozen. After watching her a moment, though, Nicholas went to the hearth and stirred the coals, rousing a more lively flame. "My manners are remiss again," he said casually. "I haven't thanked you yet for accepting my proposal."
"It… seemed the most sensible course," she replied, fighting to keep her voice from sounding weak.
"And are you always sensible?"
"Usually, Mr. Sabine."
"Why don't you call me Nicholas? After all, we are husband and wife now."
Aurora shivered slightly at the reminder.
He turned to her, his gaze locking with hers. "Bridal nerves are not uncommon, I understand."
"I suppose not."
"I have told you before, Aurora. You have nothing to fear from me. You needn't look as if you are going to the guillotine."
She took a deep breath, chastising herself for being such a mouse. She had agreed to become his bride, and she would uphold her end of the bargain – or die trying.
"Do you know what is supposed to happen between us?" he asked when her chin lifted in determination.
"I have an idea. Jane told me generally what to expect. I am prepared to submit as your wife."
His eyes softened. "I am not interested in your submission, Aurora. I want you to enjoy this as much as I do. In fact, I think you'll find lovemaking quite pleasurable."
"Jane said… it might prove so with you."
His faint smile held more than a hint of charm. "I shall do my utmost to justify her faith in me."
When Aurora remained immobile, Nicholas raised an eyebrow. "Come and sit by the fire, sweetheart. I won't ravish you, I promise."