His heart settled as he drew her back into his arms. “You’re certain you’re not hurt?”
“No, and you?” She leaned back to look him over as if expecting to find an injury.
“Not a scratch.” He pressed a kiss to her forehead, gratitude filling him. “I want to apologize for acting like such a fool these past few days.”
“I’m the one who needs to apologize. You’ve done so much for our family, and I—” She shook her head, blinking back tears. “I’m certain you’ll be happy to have your home back to yourself.”
“No. I won’t be. I want you to stay. If not in my home, in my life.” He glanced at the men behind them, noting Will stirred. “This isn’t the time or place, but I don’t want to wait to tell you that I care for you deeply. I hope that you might feel the same.”
Tears filled her eyes as she took a step back. “Gideon, you must know I admire you greatly. But I think it best if we part ways.”
Chapter Ten
“Miss Compton?”
Ruby looked up from the ledgers on her desk to see Mr. Francis in her doorway.
“A moment of your time, if you please. A customer insists she must have a woman’s opinion.”
“Of course.” She set down her pen and rose, pausing a moment to find her balance before stepping away from her desk. She felt fragile, as if one wrong move might break her. No, that wasn’t true. She was already broken into a thousand pieces.
Saying goodbye to Gideon a week ago had been the most difficult thing she’d ever done. No matter how many times she told herself she’d done the right thing by setting him free to pursue a noblewoman, it didn’t make her feel any better.
Once again, she had the sensation that she’d held a dream within her grasp and let it go. Forever.
Yet how could she have continued seeing him, falling harder and harder for him even as she waited for the moment when he realized they truly didn’t suit? Their worlds were completely different. The danger presented by the gambling scheme had been the only thing that had held them together.
If she’d said yes to continuing to see him, how could they move forward? Would he find someone to introduce her to Society? The thought of attending a party or ball filled with titled lords and ladies made her physically ill. She did not belong among them, and she had the ink stains on her fingers to prove it. They would take one look and realize she was a fraud. That would hurt Gideon as much as it hurt her. A relationship between them would never work. This was for the best.
So why did she feel as if she’d made the worst mistake of her life?
She drew a deep breath to compose herself then followed her boss into his office, her steps slowing as she caught sight of the Countess of Westering seated before his desk.
It took all her wherewithal to step inside her employer’s office and face the countess. Her deep red gown with black trim and matching hat set off her blonde hair and smooth complexion. Her beauty and impeccable attire made Ruby feel plain and inferior. What were the chances that the woman so anxious to find Gideon a wife used their printing shop?
“Lady Westering, may I present Miss Compton,” Mr. Francis said with a broad smile as if suddenly proud that he employed a woman. “I’m sure she can offer her thoughts.”
“How lovely to meet you.” The countess smiled as Ruby curtsied. “I’ve heard many things about you.”
Ruby glanced at Mr. Francis, wondering what he might’ve said.
“Would you give us a few minutes alone?” the countess asked Mr. Francis. “We have much to discuss.”
As he closed the door, the countess patted the chair beside her. “I hope you don’t mind my coming to visit you.”
“Me?” Ruby asked, thoroughly confused.
“The printing order is straightforward, though I would like your opinion on the colors.” The countess gestured toward the invitation sample sitting on the desk. “But the true reason I’m here is to speak with you.”
Ruby sank to the edge of the chair because her legs would no longer hold her. “Begging your pardon, my lady, but why?”
“Gideon told me about you.”
Embarrassment rushed through Ruby at the idea of Gideon discussing her with the lovely countess. She couldn’t imagine why he’d do so.
“It took some prodding on my part, of course. Gideon is such a gentleman. But I’m not above that sort of inquisition when it comes to those I consider family.”
“He’s well?” The past week had been painful, the simple acts of waking, working, and sleeping exhausting her. She missed him so much. Surely, he didn’t feel the same pain.
“No, actually he’s not.” Ruby’s gaze flew to the countess’ in alarm. “Nor are you, I’d be willing to wager.” The countess shook her head. “Poor choice of words on my part with that whole gambling scheme still fresh in your memory.”
“I don’t understand,” Ruby said, ignoring her remark about the lottery.
“You both look as if the life has been swept out of you.” Before Ruby could decide if she liked knowing that Gideon might be as miserable as she, the countess continued, “I’ve come to ask your intentions.”
“My intentions?” Perhaps the countess wasn’t of sound mind.
The woman glanced around Mr. Francis’ office and then through his window that overlooked the printing press area. “I don’t think you belong here. Haven’t you felt that yourself?”
Ruby bit her lip as she followed the countess’ gaze. “I hope to find more suitable employment—”
“That’s not what I mean.” The countess reached out to grasp Ruby’s hand. “Gideon told me that you don’t think you belong in his world. I disagree. I don’t think you belong here.”
Ruby could only blink. She’d once thought the same thing. But those had been girlish dreams that had no place in reality.
“How can you know for certain whether you belong in Gideon’s world when you haven’t stepped foot in it?” Before Ruby could protest, she continued, “I would like you to come to a party we’re hosting this evening. Arrive by seven o’clock so we can make certain you’ve something suitable to wear.”
“I couldn’t possibly—”
“Nonsense. Your father has already agreed to join us briefly, and he’ll bring your brother as well.” The countess leaned forward, her eyes holding intently on Ruby. “Gideon is worth fighting for. He’s a de Wolfe, you know. And from what he’s told me of you, you’d make a fine match for him. Just like Tessa is for Marcus. Just like Jordan was for William—I’m assuming Gideon shared the story of his however many great grandparents?”
Ruby nodded, her thoughts racing.
“Good. Then you must see the similarities. The de Wolfe men always choose strong women. If what Gideon told me is true, then you’re perfect for him. You need only prove it to yourself.”
Before she knew it, Ruby was alone in Mr. Francis’ office with instructions to expect the countess’ carriage this evening.
Ruby pressed her cold fingers to her cheeks to cool them. Dear heavens, this was going to be the biggest gamble of her life. Could she take such a risk?
Gideon drew a deep breath as he was shown into the drawing room where the Earl and Countess of Westering stood visiting with several other guests. The last thing he wanted to do was socialize but telling the countess “no” had proven impossible. He hoped to make an appearance and leave as soon as he could manage.
Every day without Ruby was miserable. He’d been tied up with helping the police, but come the morrow, he intended to speak to her father then wait for her after work and insist she reconsider. He needed to prepare an argument, perhaps a list of reasons they belonged together. Something that would convince her that where they’d spent their lives thus far didn’t matter. Only the future did.
“My darling, I’m so pleased you could come.” The countess offered her cheek to him. Her familiar gardenia scent enveloped him as he leaned in to kiss her.
“Thank you for inviting me,” he said as he turned to t
he earl.
The older man shook Gideon’s hand then drew him closer for a one-shouldered hug. “From what my wife has told me about your recent activities, we’re lucky you’re still with us.”
“We had quite the time of it, but I’m pleased the police put an end to the gambling scheme and those responsible are behind bars while they await trial.”
Thanks to Ruby, Gideon had provided the police with Pike’s address. There they’d found evidence to prove fraudulent activity. Pike had kept detailed records to tally his profit which also aided the police. Though it was doubtful that those who’d lost money would be reimbursed, at least the scheme had been stopped. Gideon was setting up a hardship fund for workers in need of assistance.
“With your help. We’re proud of you.” The admiration in the earl’s eyes brought a warmth to Gideon’s chest. “Now then, let’s pour you a drink.”
Gideon followed him to the sideboard where several crystal decanters stood along with glasses.
“How is your father?” the earl asked.
Gideon accepted the drink and shared the news from home. But soon, he stood alone as more guests arrived. Though he knew many, he didn’t care to remain much longer. Exchanging pleasantries was nearly more than he could manage. He hoped the countess hadn’t invited any of the women she’d been so anxious to introduce him to. That would truly be unbearable.
As the crowd grew, he set down his glass and wandered toward a window where torchlight lit a portion of the garden. The glass’ reflection played tricks with his mind. For a brief moment, he swore he saw Ruby.
Heart thudding, he turned to seek the source of the image.
“Gideon, my dear,” the countess said with a mischievous smile as she approached. “I believe you may have already met Miss Ruby Compton.”
Ruby’s eyes held his, a hint of panic visible in their dark depths. Her hair was drawn back into an elegant chignon. A pulse beat wildly at the base of her throat, belying the polite smile she wore as she dipped into a graceful curtsy.
The range of emotions tumbling through him stole his ability to think. He managed to bow. “Ruby.”
He must’ve reached for her because she placed her white-gloved hand in his. The gloves reached her elbows, leaving lovely alabaster arms bare nearly to her shoulder where the capped sleeves of a lilac silk gown began. The fitted bodice and modest bustle with cream ruching accented her slim curves.
“You look…beautiful.” The word was inadequate and had little to do with the way she was dressed. “As always. You’re here.”
A genuine smile tilted her lips at his observation. “I am. As are you.”
“But why? How?” He glanced to the countess who watched them with a twinkle in her eye.
The older woman gave an exaggerated sigh. “I do love romance, don’t you?” She winked. “I’ll leave the two of you to discuss the topic. Do not disappoint me.” Then she walked away, leaving them alone.
“The countess called on me at the printing shop this afternoon and suggested I shouldn’t judge your world until I experienced it for myself.” Her gaze swept over the other guests. A few sent questioning glances in her direction, and her shoulders tensed.
He leaned close. “They’re just people. I’m sure you’ve met others like them. These particular ones might wear expensive clothes, but they’re not so different on the inside.”
Before he could say anything further, Viscount Beaumont joined them. “Good to see you, de Wolfe.”
“Beaumont.” Gideon nodded. “May I introduce Miss Ruby Compton?”
Admiration showed in Beaumont’s gaze as Ruby curtsied. “A true pleasure, Miss Compton. May I say how impressed I was at de Wolfe’s description of your efforts to end the gambling scheme?”
The pair conversed several minutes, making Gideon long for a private corner so he could keep Ruby to himself.
Ruby nodded toward the far side of the room. “My father and brother are in attendance as well. Perhaps you’d like to meet them?” she asked Beaumont.
“They are?” Gideon asked, astounded at the thought.
“I look forward to conversing with them,” Beaumont said, only to be pulled away by another guest.
“They both look so handsome this evening,” Ruby said as she caught sight of them. “Father promised not to tire himself, and I don’t think Douglas can be convinced to leave his side.”
Gideon smiled. “The countess might have something to say about that.” She was introducing them to a young lady and by the look on Douglas’ face, he was already smitten. The countess took Mr. Compton’s arm and turned him to walk several steps toward an older gentleman, a retired Oxford professor, if Gideon remembered correctly.
Ruby shook her head. “The countess is amazing, isn’t she?”
“She is, indeed. I must find a way to thank her.”
“Oh?” Ruby raised a brow as she faced him.
He tucked her hand in the crook of his arm and drew her through the crowd toward the foyer. “I planned to visit you, as well as your father, tomorrow.” He nodded at several acquaintances but didn’t stop until they’d passed through the foyer and reached the earl’s library.
“You did?”
He drew her inside the empty room and took her hands in his. “Ruby, I love you. I know we haven’t known each other long, but I’m asking you to give me a chance to prove—”
“Gideon.” She reached out a gloved finger and placed it over his lips. “I love you, too. With all that I have and all that I will be. I should never have doubted you. Doubted us. Our worlds might be different, but that doesn’t mean we can’t find a way to share them.”
He drew her into his embrace and kissed her, long and deep. Their tongues circled and danced. When Ruby wrapped her arms around his neck, his heart nearly burst with joy.
“Darling,” he whispered as he kissed her once more. “Please make me the happiest man on earth and say you’ll marry me. We can be engaged as long as you like.”
She tipped her head back to look into his eyes, her lips parted in surprise. “I took a gamble by coming here tonight. I feared I would fail in my attempt to prove to you, and to me, that we belong together. But I think I like the odds of this wager, after all.”
“Is that a yes?” he asked.
“Yes. Absolutely. Positively. Yes.”
“I believe that means I can claim my prize.” He kissed her again until they were both breathless with need. “How do you think your father and brother will feel about moving to Northumberland? Or we could make arrangements to spend most of our time in London, if you’d prefer. I don’t care. I only want to be with you.”
Ruby’s eyes glittered with tears. “You are so thoughtful. I don’t know how I believed I could live without you.”
“Thank goodness you came to your senses. As did I.” Then he kissed her once more.
Other Books By Lana Williams
Victorian Romances:
The Seven Curses of London Series:
Trusting the Wolfe, a Novella, Book .5
Loving the Hawke, Book I
Charming the Scholar, Book II
Rescuing the Earl, Book III
Dancing Under the Mistletoe, a Christmas Novella, Book IV
Tempting the Scoundrel, a Novella, Book V
Falling For the Viscount, Book VI
Daring the Duke, Book VII
Wishing Upon A Christmas Star, a Christmas Novella, Book VIII
The Secret Trilogy:
Unraveling Secrets, Book I
Passionate Secrets, Book II
Shattered Secrets, Book III
Medieval Romances:
Falling for A Knight Series:
A Knight’s Christmas Wish, Novella, Book .5
A Knight’s Quest, Book 1
A Knight’s Temptation, Book 2
A Knight’s Captive, Book 3
The Vengeance Trilogy:
A Vow To Keep, Book I
A Knight’s Kiss, Novella, Book 1.5
Trus
t In Me, Book II
Believe In Me, Book III
Contemporary Romances:
Yours for the Weekend, a Novella
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About the Author
Lana Williams is a USA Today Bestselling and Amazon All-Star author who writes historical romance filled with mystery, adventure, and a pinch of paranormal to stir things up. Filled with a love of books from an early age, Lana put pen to paper and decided happy endings were a must in any story she created.
Her latest series is The Seven Curses of London, set in Victorian times, and shares stories of men and women who attempt to battle the ills of London, and the love they find along the way that truly gives them something worth fighting for.
Her first medieval trilogy is set in England and follows heroes seeking vengeance only to find love when they least expect it. The second trilogy begins on the Scottish border and follows the second generation of the de Bremont family.
The Secret Trilogy, which shares stories set in Victorian London, follows three lords injured in an electromagnetic experiment that went terribly wrong and the women who help heal them through the power of love.
She writes in the Rocky Mountains with her husband, two growing sons, and two labs, and loves hearing from readers. Stop by her website and say hello! You can also connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Instagram.
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