Chapter 19
"Henry?" Rupert laughed. "Henry Duval? The caterer? He's a commoner."
He couldn't stop laughing. "Is he the one who gave you that ring? Does he know who you are?"
Danielle watched him disappear across the street. He never even acknowledged that she had called his name. Maybe it wasn't him after all. She turned her attention back to Rupert.
"You didn't answer my question, Dani?"
"Which one?" Danielle asked.
"The one about Henry," he said quietly.
"Sure I did. I told you that it was none of your business."
She looked down at the diamond. It wasn't big, but it was beautiful. She looked up at Rupert. "Why? Does it make any difference? I've always loved you like a brother. Didn't know you felt any differently."
Rupert shook his head and looked down.
"I don't feel any differently at all, Dani. I thought you knew that."
Danielle smiled. "Then it's okay if we don't get married?"
Rupert laughed. "Of course, we just need to explain this to..."
Danielle shook her head. "No need to explain. Now you and my stepsister can get married. Go, get Margo and leave as quickly as you can."
Rupert looked at her, a little confused. "What about you?"
Danielle shook her head. "Don't you even give it a second thought. Go now before someone catches on."
Rupert narrowed his eyes and shook his head. "No regrets? No second thoughts?"
Danielle smiled. "Sounds like you have some major issues, Rupe. Care to discuss them with me? "
Rupert shook his head and smiled again. He kissed her on her forehead, and then pulled away. "You are so patient and wise, Danielle. " He took a step away from her. "Still won't tell me who gave you that ring?"
Danielle smiled, walked forward and looked in his eyes. "Think about it, Rupe. You've already answered your own question." She touched him on his cheek and kissed his forehead. "Now, get out of here before they come looking for you."
They both looked at each other for what seemed an eternity. It was Rupert who broke the silence first. "Then goodbye, Danielle. Good luck with you and your caterer."
And before she could confirm or deny, he was gone.