Beatrice stared at him, her composure finally cracking. You're serious. You're actually going to do this? Yes. For her? For myself. Charles held her gaze. I should have done this years ago. Before we signed contracts. Before I let obligation trap me in a life I never wanted. But I'm doing it now. And what about me? Beatrice's voice rose, anger bleeding through. What about my reputation? My family's honor. You think you can just walk away without consequences?
I know there will be consequences. I'm prepared to face them. Are you? Because my father has friends in Parliament, Charles. Friends who can make your life very difficult. We can drag out that investigation for years. Tie up your assets. Make sure every door in London closes in your face. Then do it. Charles stepped forward, his own anger finally showing. Threaten me. Destroy me. Do whatever you think you need to do. But I'm done, Beatrice. I'm done with this engagement. Done with pretending I can be what you need. Done sacrificing myself for a marriage neither of us actually wants.
Beatrice's breath came fast, her chest heaving. For a moment Charles thought she might actually strike him. Then her expression smoothed. The mask slipped back into place. You'll regret this, she said quietly. When the scandal hits. When society tears you apart. When that girl realizes the cost of loving you and leaves anyway, you'll remember this moment and regret it.
Maybe. But at least I'll have tried. How noble. Beatrice moved to the door, her hand on the handle. Get out, Charles. And don't expect mercy when this all falls apart. My family doesn't forgive embarrassment. Charles gave a slight bow. Not mocking. But final. Goodbye, Beatrice. He left without looking back.
Emma was waiting at Lord Thornhill's townhouse when Charles arrived. She stood as he entered the study, her eyes searching his face. How did it go? About as well as expected. She threatened legal action. Social ruin. The usual. Charles moved to her, taking her hands. But it's done. The engagement is broken.
Emma's breath caught. Charles, I should feel something, shouldn't I? Regret. Fear. Something. He shook his head. But all I feel is relief. That's not nothing. No. It's everything. He squeezed her hands gently. Where's Ben? In the library with the solicitors. They've been going through documents since dawn.
Emma's expression grew serious. Charles, there's a lot of evidence. More than Thornhill initially thought. Your father was cheated out of thousands of pounds. Can we prove it? We can. But it's going to be ugly. Public? These men have reputations to protect. They won't surrender quietly. Charles nodded slowly. I know.
How long? Months at least. Maybe a year. Emma studied him. Are you sure about this? Are you asking if I'm sure about breaking the engagement or if I'm sure about you? Both. Charles pulled her closer, one hand cupping her face. I'm sure about you. Everything else is just details.