“Moreover,” Barrington continued, “the stain of this same scent was detected on the fragment of cloth found at the scene of Bradley’s death and the binding of his diary.”
“And my carriage!” Aurington shouted, his voice shaking with rage. “By God, you have the nerve to tamper with my property and smear my name with your vile schemes!” He turned to Barrington. “And I owe Watts an apology.” He shook his head.
Sebastian’s eyes darted around, seeking an escape or an ally, but found none. Desperation etched lines across his face. “You cannot prove any of this! You’re all against me!”
“It’s over, Sebastian,” Ewan said coldly.
Chapter Thirty-Six
“Sebastian Morgrave,” oneof the Bow Street Runners announced, “you are under arrest for conspiracy, fraud, and the murders of Bradley Hayward and others.”
“You think you’ve won?” he spat out the words. “The Order of Shadows reaches further than you know!”
Barrington met his gaze evenly. “Perhaps. But justice must start somewhere.
As the Bow Street Runners escorted Sebastian out of the library, his protests faded into the distance. The small group left behind in the library took a moment to gather themselves, the magnitude of what happened fully understood.
Ewan turned to the others, his voice calm but resolute. “We should return to the ballroom. People are waiting for us.”
Together, they made their way back to the ballroom. As they entered, the guests, who had been anxiously awaiting news, turned their attention to the group. Conversations hushed, and all eyes were on Ewan, Juliet, and Barrington.
The archbishop came forward. “It is good to know that we are once again safe. Let us also remember the joy and celebration that brought us together tonight. In moments like these, we must hold fast to the bonds of community and fellowship. Sadly, I must tell you that no one had the winning wager at White’s.”
A collective chuckle, as well as disappointment, went around the room.
“I do have a joyous announcement to make.”
The room fell silent, every ear tuned to the archbishop’s words.
“On the twenty-first of April, in the sanctity of my private chapel, I had the honor of joining Lord and Lady Glenraven in holy matrimony. Tonight, they wish to recommit to those sacred vows before you, their family, and friends. Please find your seats, and we will begin.”
In the stillness of the ballroom, with the soft rustle of her gown, Glenraven knew that this image of Juliet, splendid, unadorned, and wholly his, would be etched upon his heart forever.
Ewan’s surge of emotion, a blend of joy, gratitude, and something he could not define, threatened to overwhelm him. Whatever this unknown thing was, it filled him to the brim and spilled over in a single tear.
Juliet stood before him, and his heart pounded in a silent thunderous drumbeat. His hand reached for hers, and as their fingers entwined, a sense of rightness settled over him. “You are a vision,” he murmured for her alone. With a gentle squeeze of her fingers, they turned to face the archbishop.
They both turned and stood before the archbishop. In a gentle voice that resonated through the chamber, he began, “We are gathered here to join this man and this woman in matrimony, witnessed by those they hold dear.”
As the archbishop’s words echoed through the stillness, Juliet and Ewan listened, each understanding the full meaning of their commitment. The archbishop paused with a silent invitation to Ewan.
Glenraven took a deep breath, his gaze never leaving Juliet’s. “Juliet, with you, I find the courage to face any challenge, the joy in every moment, and the peace I’ve longed for. I vow to cherish our bond, to support and respect you, to laugh with you in joy,and to comfort you in sorrow. Together, we will create our own destiny.”
Tears shimmered in Juliet’s eyes as an overwhelming sense of completeness filled her as she gazed into Ewan’s eyes. “Ewan, you are my heart’s true companion, my strength when I falter, and my light in the darkest times.” Her voice was a soft but firm declaration of her commitment. “I vow to stand by your side with unwavering support and share the endless adventures that are before us. Together, nothing and no one can come between us.”
Glenraven turned to Duncan, who placed an etched gold band in his hand. He faced Juliet and took her hand. He placed the ring on her finger and stared into her bright hazel eyes. “With this ring I thee wed, with my body I thee worship, and with all my worldly goods I thee endow.”
The archbishop cleared his throat softly, a smile dancing on his lips as he drew the couple’s attention. “By the sacred trust placed in me, I declare you husband and wife. May your journey be rich with love, steeped in understanding, and abundant in joy.”
The vows had been spoken, echoing through the grand hall, binding Ewan and Juliet once more.
Ewan’s gaze shifted to Duncan, who stood proudly in his kilt with Baron and Lady Fairmont. Duncan came forward and handed him Glenraven Circlet.
With the heirloom in hand, he turned to Juliet. Ewan gently placed the circlet upon Juliet’s head. He leaned in close, his breath a whisper against her ear. “Juliet, my starling. Try to keep it this time,” he murmured.
Juliet’s eyes closed for a brief moment, the passionate overtones in his voice curling her toes. Her eyes glowed with a mischievous glint. “Oh, I fully intend to, Ewan,” she whisperedback, her lips curving into a teasing smile. “But if I return it again, just know you’ll have to win me back all over.”
“Ladies and Gentlemen, Lord and Lady Glenraven.”
