They had not heard her entrance for they had been standing gazing at each other and not speaking, but just looking, joined by a desire that drew them like a magnet and made them vibrate to each other’s presence.
“We are ready,” the Duke replied.
“Then we must go. Ivan hates to be kept waiting and I am consumed with eagerness to be with him again.”
“I can understand that,” Cornelia told her softly.
“You will need a wrap in the carriage,” Renée said, “so I have brought one for you.”
She held out a scarf of silver lamé lined with sable and the Duke took it from her to wrap it tenderly around Cornelia’s shoulders.
“I love you,” he whispered as he did so and she felt his lips touch her ear and was glad that she had not worn earrings.
“I feel so excited,” Cornelia exclaimed, “that I am su
