“Good morning, Lord Surry,” the butler said.
“Good morning. Do let my granddaughter know I’m here,” he started to say.
“I’m here, Grandfather,” Lydia said. When she reached him, she kissed his cheek. “I’m so pleased to see you.”
“My darling girl, I’m the one who’s so very pleased. I never thought I’d have the pleasure of walking a granddaughter down the aisle. You’ve given me a gift that is immeasurable.”
“Where’s Grandmother?”
“She’s waiting in the carriage. Are you ready to depart?”
“We are.”
“Perhaps it would be better if I took a hackney to the church, my lord,” Agnes said.
“I won’t hear of it, Mrs. Kennedy. You will ride with us.”
“Do you think that’s a good idea? What will thetonthink?” she asked, concern written on her face.
“You’re part of the family, and as such, you will ride in the family carriage. Shall we?” he asked.
“Thank you, Lord Surry. That’s very kind of you,” Agnes said with a smile.
They all piled into the carriage for the ride to the church.
“Good morning, Grandmother,” Lydia said.
“Good morning, my darling girl. You look stunning,” Lady Surry said, her eyes filling with tears.
“Grandmother, what’s wrong?”
“Nothing. These are merely happy tears that we get to share your life.”
It didn’t take long to get to the church, where there were multiple carriages dropping off guests and a crowd already lining up outside. Everyone wanted to see the future Marchioness of Hutchinson.
When the Surry carriage stopped in front of the church steps, the driver jumped down and opened the door. He handed Agnes down first.
“I’ll see you after the ceremony, my dear,” she said before walking up the stairs to the church doors. Lydia was sad her aunt had opted not to sit with the Surrys during the service, as she didn’t want to remind people of Lydia’s connection to trade. No amount of pleading with her to sit with the family would change her mind, and Lydia had had no choice but to accept her decision.
“Are you ready, Lydia?” Lord Surry asked.
Lydia took a deep breath. “Yes. I can’t wait to marry my betrothed.”
Lord Surry exited the carriage, handing down Lady Surry and then Lydia. They all walked up the stairs of the church together.
Lord and Lady Evans were waiting inside for them.
“Miss Weston, you look so beautiful,” Helena said.
“You should thank Ellie and Mrs. Dumont. They’re the real stars of the day,” Lydia said with a chuckle.
“Lady Surry, may I escort you to your seat?” Richard asked.
“Thank you, Lord Evans,” Lady Surry said, placing her fingertips on his outstretched arm. He walked off with her, and Lydia knew the plan was to take her to her seat, then join George at the altar.
“Well, it’s time, my dear. Are you ready to be married?” Lord Surry asked.
“Absolutely,” Lydia said, slipping her hand into the crook of her grandfather’s arm.
