“How did you arrive at that conclusion?”
Ewan and Juliet, visibly tense, laid out the evidence before the archbishop. Letters, notes, and cards were spread across the desk, each containing threats and warnings.
Ewan pointed to a particularly chilling note. “This was found among my father’s belongings after his accident. It warns of dire consequences if I continue my investigations.”
Juliet nodded, holding up the Ace of Hearts. “And this card was found with my brother when he died under mysterious circumstances. It seems to be a signature or calling card of sorts.”
The Archbishop evaluated their situation. He glanced once again at the threatening letter and other documents and items.
“Your circumstances are as you say, I concede, but…” His voice trailed off, leaving the sentence hanging.
“Your Excellency,” Juliet stepped forward. “Did I mention why I want to marry Lord Glenraven?”
A nod came, indicating he already knew the reason. “To shield yourself from this threat?”
“While many seek to marry for such reasons, mine lie elsewhere.” Her response was gentle yet firm.
All attention returned to Juliet.
“Fate brought me to a puppet theater, where I, as Judy, found myself in a twist of drama only to be saved by a gallant Punch, played by Lord Glenraven.” Her eyes met Glenraven’s, a shared memory sparking a soft smile between them. “And just as fate had scripted for our puppets, it guided me to my true hero, my destined partner.” She turned back to the Archbishop, her expression earnest. “That, Your Excellency, is the heart of why I accepted Lord Glenraven’s proposal. Lord Glenraven is my heart’s desire.”
Glenraven waited as understanding dawned on the Archbishop’s features, his concern deepening. “Then we shall be discreet in our proceedings. Your courage is to be commended, and the church will offer its sanctuary,” he declared. The Archbishop’s gaze lingered on Juliet, clearly moved by her sincerity. “Is tomorrow too soon for the ceremony?” he proposed, a hint of compassion emerging amidst his stately manner. “I leave London tomorrow in the early afternoon. If you need secrecy, come at ten, and I shall be honored to marry you in my private chapel. When you’re able to reveal your marriage, few will argue about the ceremony.” Glenraven clasped Juliet’s hand as a silent message passed between them. Words were unnecessary, given the Archbishop’s understanding and promise of protection. A ripple of excitement passed through the room, and with a flourish of his quill, the Archbishop signed the paperwork, sealing their fate with the church’s blessing.
“You haven’t changed your mind, have you?” The Archbishop’s eyes twinkled with a delight he could scarcely conceal.
“Not at all, Your Excellency,” Ewan replied with conviction. Juliet’s grip on his hand tightened in silent affirmation.
“Good. Congratulations,” the archbishop handed Juliet the license. “Now, if you will excuse me.” He crossed the room with the air of having done a great deed.
Glenraven, still holding her hand, found his voice. “Your Excellency, we are profoundly grateful. We are indebted to your kindness and discretion.”
The Archbishop paused at the threshold, turning back with a reflective gaze. “Don’t thank me,” he said, his voice carrying a note of respect. “It is Miss Hayward’s eloquence and conviction that swayed me. I could find no fault in her argument. I look forward to seeing you both tomorrow at ten.” With a final nod, he stepped out the door.
Chapter Eighteen
As their carriagerolled away from the archbishop’s residence, Juliet’s voice cut through the clatter of hooves. “I would like my aunt, Mrs. Murthy, and Mr. Wilcox to attend our wedding.”
Glenraven caught the subtle longing in her request and understood her wish for the comfort of someone close when her family could not be there. “Is there anyone else you would like to attend?”
Juliet’s eyes met his. With a nod and glance across the carriage, he followed her meaning.
“That is a fine idea,” Glenraven agreed, turning to Hughes and Duncan. “Gentlemen, Miss Hayward and I would be honored by your presence at our nuptials tomorrow.”
“I would be most honored,” Hughes said as he nodded, accompanied by a deep, appreciative smile.
“Aye, and I’ll give the groom away,” Duncan declared with a wink at Juliet.
They all settled back for a quiet carriage ride. Glenraven reached in his pocket for his watch and felt the slick surface of the playing card. The Ace of Hearts. He understood the urgency the card played other than it was part of a mystery that had brought them all together.
He pulled out the card, breaking the silence. “We won’t be able to ignore this much longer.” He glanced at Juliet. The others nodded with as much conviction as his. “I fear the clearanceof your debts will not stop the villain’s attempts. We must be prepared.”
“This is the playing card Juliet found among her brother’s effects.” He handed it to Duncan, rested his back against the seat, and glanced out the window as if the answer was there. “It’s identical to one I found among my father’s belongings.”
“That can’t be a coincidence.” Hughes took the card from Duncan and studied it.
“My brother…” Juliet paused and took a breath. “He had it with him the night he fell from the balcony. I didn’t think much of the card until Glenraven mentioned it.” She turned to him. “What do we do now?”
Hughes nodded, his mind already at work as he handed the card to Juliet. “We’ll investigate this matter thoroughly. For now, let’s focus on securing your marriage. We must prepare the settlement and letter for your aunt. This is the first step in protecting you both. Tomorrow afternoon, with the documents signed and secured, we can dwell on this puzzle.”
