Chapter 225

Jonathan stretched out, feeling at ease for the first time in as long as he could remember. A smile spread across his lips, and it had everything to do with last night. Finally bedding Audrey and telling her they were to be married had been a dream he'd never thought possible. Yet it had happened, and she hadn't said no. Every moment of last night had been a victory a year in the making. He rolled onto his side, but when he reached for Audrey she was gone.

What in the blazes?

He sat up, brushed his hair out of his eyes, and realized with a sinking feeling that the room was empty. Had she simply stepped out for a moment? Seen to her needs? Yes, that was possible.

"Audrey?" he called out. Only silence answered him. He glanced around the room; not a piece of clothing was left. Not even a note this time.

His little sprite had run out on him. Shame cut through him, and he had trouble swallowing past the pain.