Page 156 of A Baby to Seal the Duke’s Fate

Her father waited for Honora just outside the chapel doors. When she and Leopold emerged, Gideon Bellamy fiercely embraced his daughter. He held her for a long moment, and Leopold stepped back to give them a moment together.

Neither father nor daughter said anything for as long as the embrace lasted.

Then, Gideon stepped back.

“You looked so beautiful up there,” he said. “Your mother would have been so proud. I whispered to her briefly while you were walking to the altar. I know she was smiling down on you today.” He paused. “And Celestine, as well.”

Honora smiled as fresh tears welled in her eyes.

“It means so much to hear you say that.”

Gideon nodded, rubbing at one red eye.

Honora smiled through the tears still gathered in her eyes. “I am glad you came.”

“I am grateful that you wanted me here.”

Honora wiped a tear from her face. “I could never get married without my father.”

Gideon cleared his throat, taking a second to compose himself. He looked at her for another moment, glancing back at Leopold. Leopold thought he looked sheepish and uncertain, so Leopold approached them again.

Gideon gave him a short nod before turning back to Honora. “You are happy?”

Honora looked at Leopold with the affection in her eyes that made him feel weak all over.

“I did not know such happiness existed.”

Gideon looked toward Leopold again, offering his hand then. “Thank you for bringing the light back to my daughter’s eyes, Leopold.”

Leopold took his father-in-law’s hand, giving it a firm shake. “I only reflect the light she brings to me.”

Gideon gave a nod of approval. He released Leopold’s hand and turned back to Honora. “Congratulations, my darling daughter.”

Honora nodded. “Thank you, Father.”

He touched her shoulder. Honora hesitated only a second before placing her hand on her father’s. Gideon suddenly looked as bright as a beacon. He nodded to Leopold once more before stepping away.

***

The wedding breakfast was small but cheerful. Family and friends filled the ballroom of Belgrave Manor, and for the first time, Leopold wished that all of London could see his home so full of love and joy.

However, there was one person who was not quite as happy as everyone else. Leopold approached a group of guests in time to overhear an important subject.

“I did not cry,” Barnaby said, his voice full of indignance.

“You absolutely did,” Sabina replied.

“I did not.”

“You did,” Martha said, carrying another plate past them.

Barnaby stared after her.

“That is two against one.”

“Then it is settled,” Sabina said.

“I am surrounded by liars.”