Page 133 of Duchess Material

“She didn’t. I’ve been in love with Lucy for years—well before I said anything. I was her friend for years and years. I know her heart. I always have. She is an incredibly genuine, lovely, and caring person. There is nothing to be fooled about. She wears her heart on her sleeve. Your daughter is a credit to you, sir. I don’t know why you would ever want to put her down. She’s a brilliant person. There is a reason why she is considered the second most important voice on the royal payroll.”

“It’s all silly stuff. This royal shit!”

“I don’t disagree with you. But it matters to a lot of people. Lucy keeps the Princess’s world spinning. She almost guarantees success. Even if you think all of this is hooey, your daughter deserves credit for her work. Moreover, for being such a wonderful human.”

Winston’s words made Lucy tear up. His defence of her was always so sweet. Sometimes, it was scary how much he loved her. Unconditional love was still a surprise to Lucy. She didn’t expect it.

“Well, this is shit. She’s perfect. She’s perfect. She just deserted her entire family—her country, too,” Dwight said. “Such bullshit.”

Tim stood. “Dwight, I think it’s time for you to leave.”

“Really?” Dwight scoffed.

“I think it is best, yes. We don’t allow people to speak like this to others in our house. I am sorry you are upset. However, this is not how we should speak to Lucy and Winston. We should be congratulating them.”

Jen looked at her fiancé also confused. None expected Tim to grow a backbone.

“Go to the car, Dwight,” Jane said. “Brittany will join you in a moment.”

Dwight took his plate and tossed it on the floor like a child.

“Dad!” Jen shouted. “That’s new China!”

“If you want to side with her, you’re fucking pissing me off!” Dwight called back.

Lucy cried, “I’m so sorry. I just made it worse for all of you.”

“You didn’t,” Tim assured. “Lucy, he has been sniping at you and causing trouble regardless. I can’t take it anymore. My own father is mortified by his behaviour. I won’t put up with it.”

“I am sorry, sweetheart,” Brittany was in tears as she came around the table give her daughter and Winston a hug. “Congratulations. I don’t know what to say other than I am sad I missed it. I expect pictures.”

“You will get them, Mom.”

Brittany left in tears.

Lucy said, “I’m sorry, Grandma, for ruining your party.”

“You did nothing wrong—nothing other than be happy, baby girl. Tim is right. He knows better. If he wants to act like a child, that’s on him.”

“Do you have something to clean this up?” Winston asked, standing over the carnage that was Dwight’s plate. “If you can point me in the direction, I can take care of it.”

“Oh, don’t do that. I’ll get it.”

“No, no, really. It’s no bother. It’s what family does,” Winston insisted.

“Under the sink,” Jen relented.

It was as if she had just accepted Winston into the fold, officially.

* * *

From the Desk of the Duke and Duchess of Lauderdale-

It is with great excitement that we announce the marriage of our son, Winston Ferguson Earl of Lauderdale, to his bride, Miss Lucy Chandler. They were married near their home in Kensal Rise in a private ceremony with only a few family members and close friends to witness their vows.

We are excited to welcome another member of the family and wish the Earl and Countess of Lauderdale many happy years together.

-The Duke and Duchess of Lauderdale

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