The Orphan and the Duke (21 page)

“Oh, no, that’s where you’re mistaken, my darling. I’ve taken action to settle them all in your name and have added additional sums so you never have to worry about being turned out again.” He pulled her closer. “Not that your groom would ever do such a thing.”

Amelia burst into tears and placed her right palm on his face. “That means so much to me. I was so terrified that night in that doorway and when those men were jeering at me. Just knowing you love me enough to take care of me makes my heart full.”

“You seem to have no idea of the depth of my love for you, but I plan to spend a lifetime proving it to you.” Basil leaned forward as if to pull her closer, but before he could, Archimedes jumped up and took over his lap.

“What are you doing here, mouser? Can’t you see I’m wooing my bride?”

Archimedes ignored the duke and settled in as if he planned to stay forever.

Amelia ran her hand down his furry back. “He’s a sweet kitty who loves you.”

“He’s a terrible menace.” Basil grinned. “But he’s grown on me.”

“You know, Archimedes and I are a lot alike.” She continued to pet the cat.

“How so?”

“We were both strays, and while he lived in a barn and I lived in a nice townhouse, we were both out in the cold. He and I were both brought in by Saffron and Jonquil, and we both fell in love with
you
. You not only rescued our physical beings, you rescued our hearts.”

“I had no idea I was marrying a poet.” Basil said the words in a teasing way, but she could tell he was moved by what she’d said. He’d saved her from a life of loneliness and abuse, but he’d also given her some of the best gifts she’d ever received—her true heritage and family, as well as another new family with him and his sisters. She also had friends, which was a new and pleasant change.

“I’m no poet, but I’m so in love with you that I’ve become eloquent in my praises of a truly unique man.” She leaned in to kiss him but disturbed Archimedes in the process.

The cat let out a displeased screech.

Basil raised an eyebrow, looked down at the cat, and soothed him. When Basil’s eyes met hers again, he said, “I guess it’s love me, love my cat.”

“And I
do.
I love you both, though I must confess, I love you a tiny bit more.” She held her thumb and forefinger up to show how much.

“Thank God for that.” Basil pulled her close and captured her mouth with his.

Archimedes leapt off Basil’s lap and stalked off to lounge by the fire.

Amelia snuggled into her beloved’s arms and forgot about the past. Her future secure, she delighted in the present.