“We do not have to get married,” Vivian whispered, clasping his coat.

Everleigh put his arm around her waist. “We must.”

“I don’t care if I’m ruined,” she said. “I’m almost anticipating it. It’s not bad compared to what I’ve been through.”

“It isn’t fair to you,” he muttered. “You deserve to be respected. A place among the ton. Vivian, will you marry me?” he asked.

Something concerned him. He should feel sad that Vivian was ruined. He should feel sorry for his culpability in all this. But he didn’t. He just wondered why he’d not kissed her more in the carriage.