A warm, glowing feeling filled Delaney's entire chest. She knew the Duke of Ford was a very wealthy man, but the sheer scale of his generosity was still overwhelming.
Delaney smiled. It was a bright, playful smile.
"Stop teasing me, Rowan," She said, her tone light and full of fond amusement. She looked up at him, her eyes sparkling. "I have my own money now. A lot, actually."
Rowan watched her with deep, focused eyes. He listened quietly, allowing her to speak.
"I have my fair payment from your aunt for my time working as your matchmaker," Delaney explained proudly. She listed her newfound wealth on her fingers. "And I have the large inheritance from my father, which the Crown has finally restored to me. It is quite enough money for me to spend on my own dresses and my own needs."
Rowan did not smile back. The playful, charming light completely left his face. His expression became incredibly serious, firm, and deeply devoted.
