Page 74 of A Scandal for the Beastly Earl

"Just brandy," Lucien said. "In my study."

"Our study," Arabella corrected.

"Our study," he agreed.

Julian yawned dramatically. "And that's my cue to retire. I'll want all the gossip in the morning, but for now, I'll leave you two alone."

After he left, they made their way to the study, Thistle padding along behind. The fire was already lit, the brandy waiting, everything perfect for a quiet end to a tumultuous evening.

"We did it," Arabella said, sinking into what had become her chair. "We faced society and survived."

"We did more than survive. We conquered."

"That might be overstating it."

"Did you see Cassandra's face when you defended me? That was conquest."

"That was instinct. Nobody speaks ill of my husband."

"Your husband." He pulled her from her chair and into his lap. "I like how that sounds."

"My husband, the Beast of Blackthorn."

"Former Beast. I've been thoroughly tamed."

"Have you?"

"Completely. I even dance now."

"Three whole dances. Very impressive."

"I might manage four next time."

"Next time? I thought you said never again."

"I might have been hasty. Perhaps for our anniversary."

"Our anniversary of what? Meeting? Marrying? Falling in love?"

"Yes."

"That's three anniversaries."

"Then three balls."

"You hate balls."

"I hate most things. But I love you, which seems to override the hate."

"That's possibly the most romantic thing you've ever said."

"I'm new to romance. Give me time."

"All the time in the world," she agreed, then kissed him.

They were interrupted by Thistle, who had apparently decided that Mrs. Fielding’s bonnet wasn't sufficiently destroyed and was now attempting to bury it in the rug.

"Our life is never going to be peaceful, is it?" Lucien asked.