A Rogue's Downfall

“You will observe that your finger is bare,” he said. “Will you marry me, my love? Because you love me and for no other reason?”

“Oh,” she said, looking down at her hand. “Oh, yes. Yes, Hugh. For that reason. And for no other.”

“Well, then.” He released his hold on her and reached into a pocket. “Let us cut this to the bare essentials, shall we?” He fitted her wedding ring over her finger and slid it on. “With this ring I thee wed, my dearest love. Because I love you. For all time.”

while the others gaped and Lady Plumtree turned sharply away to smile dazzlingly at Willett’s father.