Page 56 of One Night of Temptation
“He did,” Diana said. “I’m still working on a recipe. Wewillcreate a beer you like.” She nodded with determination.
“Thank you, that’s very kind.” Kindness was all around her. Before the ceremony, Diana and the other women present—Isabelle, the Duchess of Eastleigh, Lady Viola Barrett, Lady Felicity Langford, and Priscilla, Mrs. Thaddeus Middleton—had helped Penelope prepare. She’d already befriended Viola and Felicity at the park, and the others had gleefully declared they were her friends too. Right after they’d urged her to call them all by their first names, so yes, they were friends already.
“It’s necessary,” Cole responded. “We always take care of our own. We also havecream cheese.” He winked at her before they continued on.
Isabelle and her husband came forward and asked if she wanted a tour of the tavern.
“I would, actually.” Penelope looked around the primary salon where they were currently gathered. “I still can’t believe I’m inside the Wicked Duke.”
“You are welcome any time,” Eastleigh said.
Isabelle cocked her head to the side. “I think we need a ladies’ night. One night a week when we encourage ladies to come. We can play cards or discuss books.” Her eyes lit as she mentioned books.
“Or embroider?” Penelope asked.
Eastleigh laughed. “I’m afraid you just mentioned my wife’s Achilles’ heel.”
A faint blush colored Isabelle’s cheeks. “I’ve tried, but I’m afraid I’m a lost cause.”
“It isn’t for everyone, though I do enjoy it,” Penelope said. “I also like to paint, and I’ve recently developed a passion for cards.” She slid a look toward Hugh, who stood a few feet away. He was engaged in conversation with Giles Langford, the racer and Felicity’s husband, and Tom.
“Then we shall definitely play cards,” Isabelle said. She turned to her husband. “What say you about a ladies’ night?”
“I think we’ll do whatever your heart desires.” Eastleigh kissed her cheek, and Penelope marveled at just how much warmth and love there was in the room.
“Breakfast is served!” a maid announced from the doorway into what Penelope had learned was the private salon.
“I suppose our tour will have to wait,” Eastleigh said.
“Actually, Hugh said he was keen to show me around.” As she said his name, he turned toward her and moved in her direction.
Eastleigh clapped Hugh on the bicep. “Then I shall leave him to it.”
As Eastleigh and Isabelle went into the private salon, Hugh offered his arm to Penelope. “Leave me to what?”
“Giving me a tour of the tavern.”
“Ah yes, I am quite looking forward to that.” He lowered his voice. “Mostly, I was looking for an excuse to get you alone.” He kissed her cheek.
She took his arm. “Can we take the tour now?”
He laughed, a dark, seductive sound deep in his throat. “We should probably eat first.”
“I suppose.” She smiled. “I’m looking forward to the breakfast, even though we ate earlier. Everyone has gone to so much effort on our behalf. There’s even cream cheese.”
“They were happy to do it,” Hugh said.
She shook her head, still not quite used to her change in fortune. “I expected to be wed to Lord Findon. I’ve never had friends. And I’ve certainly never experienced kindness or love.”
Hugh took her in his arms, and she realized they were quite alone in the salon. His brow creased with concern, and his eyes shone with love. “Is it overwhelming?”
“Maybe, but in the best way possible. When we arrived at the church and my parents were there with the bishop…” She shuddered. “I was so afraid they would stop the wedding.”
“They had no right to do so. Still, I’m glad Barrett was there to set them straight. Not that I think Bishop Howley would have allowed your father to do anything untoward.”
“It’s a little strange celebrating my wedding without any family present.” She gave him a sheepish smile. “But your family isn’t here either.”
Hugh cupped her cheek. “Yes, it is. You’re my family. And Tom and the others.”
