Delaney let out a breath she hadn't realized she was holding. Her shoulders sagged with relief.
He was going to do it. He was going to follow the plan. He was going to marry the girl, and she would get her money. The nightmare was almost over.
"Splendid," Delaney replied. She forced the word out. "That is… that is excellent news, Your Grace. A morning call is the perfect next step. It shows intention."
Rowan watched her. He saw the relief wash over her face. He saw the way she relaxed, thinking she had won.
"But on one condition," Rowan added.
Delaney frowned. The relief vanished instantly, replaced by a new wave of wariness.
"A condition?" she asked. "What is it?"
Rowan took a step toward her. The gravel crunched loudly under his boot. He didn't invade her personal space, but he stood close enough that she had to look up to meet his eyes.
"You accompany me," he said.
Delaney blinked. She stared at him, sure she had misheard.
