Silence. Absolute silence. Why are you telling the truth now? Peton asked. Beatrice looked at her hands. Because I've spent six weeks watching what real love looks like. Watching Charles and Miss Ashford endure scandal and mockery and genuine suffering. And I realized, she looked up at the judge. I realized I was helping perpetrate something monstrous. And I couldn't anymore. I couldn't stand in front of God and lie about this.
She stepped down, her father's murderous glare following her. The judge was silent for a long moment. Lord Harrington, do you wish to testify in your own defense? Harrington's face was apoplectic, but his barrister whispered urgently in his ear. Finally, he shook his head.
Very well. The judge looked at the papers before him. This case is adjourned while I consider the evidence. I will render my decision within the week. The gavel fell.
Charles found Emma outside the courtroom, Margaret having discreetly disappeared. He looked exhausted. Drained by hours of testimony and the weight of everything riding on this verdict. Did you know? Emma asked quietly. That Beatrice would testify. No. Peton approached her 3 days ago. I had no idea if she'd agree.
Charles ran a hand through his hair. Emma, if the judge doesn't believe her, if he thinks it's a coordinated lie, he'll, he'll believe her. Everyone in that room saw her face. That wasn't acting. She destroyed her own father. Her family's reputation. Everything. She told the truth finally.
Emma took his hand. Charles, whatever happens now, we did everything we could. The rest is up to the judge. And if we lose, then we leave London. Start over somewhere else. I can translate manuscripts anywhere. You can manage the estate from the countryside. We'll survive.
Charles pulled her close, his forehead resting against hers. I don't deserve you. Probably not. But you're stuck with me anyway. He laughed, a tired, genuine sound. I love you, Emma Ashford. I love you, too, Charles Blackwood. No matter what happens.
They stood like that in the courthouse corridor, holding each other, while London's elite streamed past, whispering and judging and speculating. Let them talk. For the first time in weeks, Emma felt something like peace. They'd told the truth. All of it. Now they just had to wait.