Don't Forget to Dream (49 page)

"I am very happy for you with this freedom," she said softly trying once again to pull her hands from his.

He laughed, the sound burning deeper into her broken heart. "No Rhyla. You don't understand."

"What is it I don't understand? All I can see is you free to choose a different Princess to wed," she said bitterly.

"I don't have to marry a Princess. I just need a wife of noble standing. And you," he said getting down on one knee as he held her hands,
"Lady Rhyla of the Black Swan Estates
are a woman of noble standing." Rhyla began to shake, her hands quivering in his as the reality of his words blossomed within her. "Lady Rhyla would you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"

"Wife," Rhyla whispered.

"Yes, my wife. Father and mother have already given us their blessing, and I don't think Grandmamma will
mind if I marry her ward.
Will
have me
as your husband
?
."

Slowly to truth of his words broke down Rhyla's final defences and with a joyful sob she uttered, "Yes" and fell into Callum's arms. No longer would she have to dream of finding her true prince.

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