The applause that followed was heartfelt and thunderous, a celebration of love’s triumph. Juliet’s eyes met Ewan’s, and in them, she saw not just her husband but her partner, her champion, and her dearest friend.
Juliet and Ewan found a quiet moment to slip away from the festivities as the gala continued. In a small, dimly lit anteroom, they finally saw her parents. Her mother’s eyes were bright with unshed tears, and her father’s usual stoic manner softened as he saw her.
“Mother, Father,” Juliet said, her voice catching with emotion. “This is Ewan, Marquess Glenraven.” Juliet stared at him, a smile broadening on her lips. “My husband.”
“We arrived last night. Ewan was waiting for us. He remembered flitching tarts from Mrs. Murthy with Bradley. We had a lovely time getting reacquainted,” her mother said.
“I cannot believe a coincidence brought you home,” Juliet said.
Her father placed a hand on her shoulder, his touch reassuring. “Barrington and Aunt Geraldine sent word of what was happening. Your mother and I were distraught to think that Sebastian would go to such extremes. We would move heaven and earth to protect you.”
“Let’s go back to your party. You and your husband should be celebrating.” Her mother adjusted Juliet’s skirt and glanced up at her with tears in her eyes. “Lady Aurington asked to see your father and I.”
“I have one more thing to do,” Ewan said as the four returned to the ballroom.
“I’m going to miss you.” Her mother dabbed a handkerchief at her tears.
“Mother, don’t cry.” Juliet glanced at Ewan. “We are taking up residence at Glenraven Manor. I won’t be far away. Don’t keep Lady Aurington waiting.”
“Come with me. I must speak to Barrington.” He took her hand and led her to the far corner of the ballroom.
He found Barrington near the entrance, overseeing the final arrangements with the Bow Street Runners and Sebastian. Ewan approached him, the gold coin held firmly in his hand. “Barrington,” he called, his voice steady.
Barrington turned, his eyes meeting Ewan’s with a knowing look.
“Is it done?” Ewan asked, even though Barrington’s expression made the answer clear. He extended his hand, the gold coin twinkling in the candlelight.
“The job is done. The culprit is captured, and justice will be served. Edward sent word that Bradley’s information about Paris was correct. The assassin provided all the information.” Barrington took the coin, a rare smile breaking across his stern features. “Well done, Ewan.”
Ewan felt a sense of pride and relief wash over him. “Thank you, Barrington. Your guidance were invaluable.” He turned to Juliet. “As was Juliet’s.”
Barrington nodded, pocketing the coin. “This is just the beginning. Bradley provided more information about the Order of Shadows. There will be more work to do, but tonight, we celebrate a victory.”
“Why don’t you both celebrate your victory,” Juliet said. “I need to speak to someone.”
As she moved through the room, glancing into several quiet corners, she finally found Duncan standing alone by the grand windows. His gaze was lost in the night sky. She approached him hesitantly.
“Duncan,” she began, her voice barely above a whisper. “I owe you an apology.”
Duncan faced her, his expression unreadable. Silent, his stoic gaze was fixed on her. Her heart raced, and her mind grappled with the possibility that things could not be repaired or forgiven.
She took a deep breath, steadying herself. “I was wrong,” Juliet continued, her eyes meeting his. “I let my own needs and fears blind me. I put you in an impossible position, and I am truly sorry.”
The rigid lines of his posture eased as he listened. She waited. Finally, Duncan spoke in a low voice. “It takes courage to admit when you’re wrong. Your apology is accepted.”
Duncan’s expression lightened, a chuckle escaping him as he regarded Juliet. “The rumors had your touch. It was a clever plan. And when Ewan heard them, he spun his own to bring Sebastian into the open. It seems you’re both quite the strategists.” With a playful nod, he added, “It was a good plan. Just try not to set our hearts racing next time, eh?”
A smile lit her face. “No racing hearts. I am glad you both approved of the plan.”
Chapter Thirty-Seven
“Do you thinkthey mind that we’re gone?” Lady Glenraven asked as they walked through the garden and out the gate to their enchanted cottage.
“Not at all, my lady. They would wonder if we weren’t.” He smiled one of those smiles that could charm a bird off a tree.
Ewan retrieved the key from Artemis, and they entered the cottage. A large bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine were on the table next to a hamper.
He opened the wine and poured them each a glass. “To Punch and Judy.” He raised his glass.
