Page 65 of A Lady of Letters
“I needn’t waste my breath telling you all my faults and weaknesses, for you have them all down in writing. You also know all my fears in life, and doubts, as well. But there is onething of which I have no doubt—I want to spend the rest of my life with you. Will you be my wife as well as my best friend, Gus?”
This time the tears on her cheeks were one of joy. “Oh, Marcus, I should like it above all things. I think I’ve been in love with you since that first curse popped out of your mouth.” She hugged him very tightly, then looked up and bit her lip. “But I must warn you. I doubt I shall be able to change. You already know I’m headstrong, opinionated, and sharp-tongued. And not very obedient.”
He couldn’t repress a laugh. “Really? I hadn’t noticed.”
When her own soft laughter had died away, she ventured to speak again. “There’s also the matter of Firebrand. Perhaps you don’t want a wife who would insist on writing such incendiary things? For I would, you know. Not even for you could I give up fighting for Good to triumph over Evil.”
His expression turned very serious. “You can’t imagine that I would ever try to prevent you from doing that which is so very much a part of who you are.” A tentative smile. “Besides, I have quite a fondness for our fiery friend. After all, it was he who introduced us.”
“You’re not afraid of the sparks that sometimes fly between us?” ventured Augusta.
“On the contrary. They will keep our marriage from ever burning down into a bed of cold coals. In truth, my love, I can’t conceive of a better match.” His mouth took hers in a long, lingering kiss. “Have you an answer for me?”
Augusta reached down and picked up her pen. Grabbing a fresh sheet of paper, she dipped the nib in the ink and scribbled a single word across it.
YES!
