The Jewelry Box

"Does Brand know of your plans?" Carlisle had turned his eyes once again to the crowd.

"He does, and he agrees completely." His brother was quick to jump on his words as soon as they left his lips. He had even promised to give him a surprising assistance.

Alexander paused. "I do not intend to trouble my wife with fear for her life."

"Indeed, you are in love." Carlisle said and sipped gently from his wine.

Alexander's brows hitched. Then he exploded with laughter. He gave his friend a thorough once-over. He scarcely thought such words could ever pass Carlisle's lips, not in a thousand years. He was the romantic one who believed in love, not Carlisle and never Brand. Whatever Lady Carlisle had done, he prayed it never to be undone.

But Carlisle was right; he was in love, and more than his own life, he would protect hers.

They stayed in silence.