“Maybe. In any case, they were quite friendly. Perhaps I’ll invite them to tea after we marry.”
“You may invite whomever you wish, although I don’t think you’ll be without company for long. I’m sure many in Society will be clamoring for your favor,” he said.
“I don’t know about that, but I wouldn’t mind cultivating a friendship with Miss Adams and Miss Burton.”
“I do love your generous spirit, my darling. Would you care for a drive in Hyde Park after tea?” George asked.
“Yes. That would be lovely. Aunt, would you care to join us?”
“No. I think I’ll rest before dinner. It’s been quite a day so far. You two enjoy the ride.”
Lydia nodded. They talked for another half-hour before she stood. “I’ll just be a moment. I need my bonnet and gloves.”
“I’ll walk upstairs with you,” Agnes said. “Good day, George.”
“Good day, Agnes.”
The two women went up the stairs, and when they reached Agnes’s bedchamber, Lydia asked, “Are you sure you won’t like to go riding with us?”
“Not today, dear. I’m quite tired.”
“I understand. It has been a whirlwind of activities of late. Rest now, and I’ll see you later.” Lydia went into her bedchamber to retrieve her bonnet and gloves. “Ellie, are you here?”
The maid stuck her head out of the dressing room. “Yes, do you need something, miss?”
“Yes, Lord Hutchinson is taking me for a drive in Hyde Park.”
“Let me gather your bonnet and gloves. I’ll only be a moment.”
When they’d tied their bonnet ribbons, they headed back downstairs. George was waiting in the foyer.
“Are you all set?” he asked.
“Absolutely,” Lydia said, taking the arm of her beloved.
The sun shone on the perfect May day, and they had a delightful ride in the park. Many of thetonstopped to chat and wish them happy.
“I’m so pleased with the way people have been treating you, my dear. You deserve respect for the wonderful person you are.
“I’m quite surprised and happy with the reaction of theton.It was something I never dreamed would happen.”
“I hope to make all your dreams come true, my darling,” George said, squeezing her hand.
“Have I told you how much I adore you?” Lydia asked.
“Not in the last five minutes,” George said with a chuckle.
Chapter 20
Lydia opened her eyes tosunlight streaming through her bedchamber’s windows. She stretched her arms over her head and arched her back like a contented cat. It was finally here. Today was her wedding day! She could hardly wait to walk down the aisle and marry the man of her dreams. Lord Surry was due to pick her up later this morning and take her to the church. When her father refused to walk her down the aisle or even attend the ceremony, Lord Surry offered to escort her, and she’d gladly accepted. Getting to know her grandparents during these past weeks had been a dream come true. They were kind and giving, and she enjoyed their company immensely. Plus, they’d offered to host the wedding breakfast at their townhouse after the ceremony. Her grandmother had been thrilled to be able to organize the celebration.
There was a quick knock on the door before Ellie walked in. “Good morning, miss. It’s your big day. Are you excited?”
“Oh Ellie, I cannot believe how my life has changed this past month. I confess I’m a little nervous about the service, especially with so many of thetonattending.”
“Pay them no mind. You’ll dazzle everyone with your grace and beauty.”
“Thank you, Ellie. That’s very kind of you to say.”
