The duke's heart swelled at her words; he couldn't remember ever feeling so happy or content in his entire life. He cupped her cheek in his hand, leaning down to kiss her gently on the lips before pulling back to look into her eyes. "I love you too," he whispered, the sincerity in his voice leaving no doubt as to how he felt.

The duke took the soap from her hand with a grateful smile, lathering it up between them before starting to wash her body with gentle, sensual strokes. His hands moved slowly over her curves, paying attention to every inch of skin he touched; his lips following suit as he trailed kisses down her neck and chest.

"You're so beautiful," he whispered against her ear before nipping at the lobe playfully, making her gasp and arch into him. "I can't get enough."

The duke's eyes flickered briefly as he processed her words. "A life filled with peace and love... It is indeed a noble aspiration," he said softly, his tone heavy with respect. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that you attain it." His gaze met hers once more, and for a moment, the air between them seemed charged with an intensity that belied their outward composure.

"And now...," he began, his voice taking on a huskier timbre as he stepped closer, "

The duke's voice was soft and gentle as he spoke, his words like a caress against her ear. "Now, I think it is time we retired to our bedchamber." He placed a hand on the small of her back, guiding her towards the opulent four-poster bed that dominated one end of the room. The sheets were of the finest linen, adorned with intricate embroidery and freshly scented with lavender.

"I hope you will find it comfortable,"