Together, he said slowly, testing the word. Together, Emma confirmed. Charles exhaled shakily. Then we fight. We fight. God help us both. Or God help anyone who gets in our way. Charles laughed. A real laugh, surprised and genuine. It transformed his face, made him look years younger.
When did you become fierce? I've always been fierce. You just forgot while I was gone. I'll never forget again. His hands framed her face, thumbs brushing her cheeks with devastating gentleness. Emma Ashford, I love you. I've loved you since I was 12 years old. And if the world has a problem with that, then the world can go to hell.
Emma's breath caught. This was Charles unleashed. Charles without walls. Charles choosing himself. Choosing them for the first time in his life. I love you, too, she whispered. So much it terrifies me. Good. We'll be terrified together. He kissed her then, slow and deep and full of promise. Emma melted into him, her hands sliding into his hair, holding him close.
This kiss was different from the one on the bridge. That had been desperation and goodbye. This was hope and hello. When they finally broke apart, Charles rested his forehead against hers. I need to see Ben first thing tomorrow, he said quietly. Start the investigation officially. Hire solicitors. Build a case. I'll come with you.
Emma, you don't have to. Yes, I do. We're doing this together, remember? Emma smiled. Besides, I read Latin and Greek. If there are old contracts or documents to translate, I can help. Charles stared at her. You're remarkable. Do you know that? I'm practical. There's a difference. No. You're remarkable. He kissed her forehead gently. And I'm the luckiest man alive.
Not yet. But you will be. Emma stepped back reluctantly. You should go before someone sees your carriage outside and starts rumors we can't control yet. I didn't bring a carriage. I walked. You walked in the snow from Mayfair. I couldn't wait for a carriage to be readied. I just, I needed to see you. To know you were still here.
Emma's heart squeezed. Well, you can't walk back. Not at this hour. I'll wake the stable boy. He can take you in my cousin's carriage. Emma, don't argue. You're exhausted. You need rest if we're going to war tomorrow. Charles smiled tiredly. When did you start giving me orders? The moment you decided to listen to them.
He laughed again, and Emma realized how much she loved that sound. How rare it had been. How precious. They walked to the door together, neither wanting to let go. Tomorrow, Charles said. We start tomorrow. Tomorrow, Emma agreed.
He kissed her one more time, quick and fierce and full of promise. Then he was gone, disappearing into the snowy night. Emma stood in the doorway long after the carriage left, her fingers pressed to her lips. They were going to fight together. And whatever came next, scandal, ruin, or redemption, they'd face it side by side.