“I do not want to live in Scotland during the winter. However, I would like to be there for Hogmanay.”
“We could take my family with us. I am certain everyone will be interested in the celebration.” She laid her head on his chest again. “Shall we spend most of the summer in Scotland?”
“I like that idea. We’ll have the bairns speaking Scots in no time.”
Alice stroked his chest, enjoying the texture of the soft curly hair covering it. “And wearing kilts as well.”
He kissed her. “Will we attend the Season?”
“I think we must. That is when we will be able to meet with people regarding politics and consult on charities.” She kissed his chest, running her tongue over his nipple as he had done to her. His body tightened in response. “We should probably be in Scotland for the harvest and can spend the rest of the year here.” She licked him again.
“Keep that up and you won’t get much sleep tonight.” His low growl made her smile.
“Ican sleep in the coach. Butyouwill have to drive your carriage.”
“Minx.” He rolled her over so her back was to his front, holding her close to him. “Go to sleep. We can continue this discussion later.”
“I love you.” It was so good to be able to say that and know it was true.
“I love you too. Sleep.”
Her maid woke Alice early in the morning. “My lady. We are departing within two hours.”
“That is not much time at all.” She grabbed her robe and rose. Giving one last look at her beloved, she left the room. She truly did wish they did not have to leave Whippoorwill Manor, but there was so much to do to prepare for the wedding.
Giff was waiting for her when she left her chamber. She took his hand. “No one is panicking about breakfast this morning.”
“Which means they are doing what I told them to do.”
Yesterday while she and Giff had visited tenants, her nieces and nephews had taken boats out onto the lake, ridden ponies, and played in the maze. They barely made it through dinner before they were falling asleep. This was the perfect place to raise children. She touched her stomach. She could already be pregnant. “When are they going to let the groom go?”
“An hour after we leave.”
“Good.” Considering Normanby only had a pair for a traveling coach, there was no way the groom could catch them on the road. “I wish I could ride with you.”
“Your sister would not allow it. Once we reached the toll road, it wouldn’t be possible.”
They would be lucky if there was not talk from the inn Normanby had taken her to. Thank God Lady Bellamny had been there. And Giff. If he had not immediately followed, they would not be preparing to wed.
“There you two are,” his mother exclaimed. “Have you decided where the wedding should take place?”
Alice took her place at the foot of the table. “I have. I will give the decision over to you and Grace.”
“Intelligent girl,” Con whispered from her left.
On her right, Rothwell nodded his agreement.
“Before I forget,” the duchess said. “I remembered to bring a selection of family rings. Alice, you may choose the one you wish to have as your betrothal and wedding ring.”
Matt took out his pocket watch and flattened his lips. “Make it fast. I wish to depart soon.”
She gave him a look Alice doubted he had received in years and signaled to a footman. “Please have my maid bring the ring case down.”
The servant left immediately.
Giff caught her eye. His sparkled with laughter. “Thank you, Mamma.”
“You are welcome, my son. This must be done properly after all. We will put it about that the gathering was planned to celebrate your betrothal.”
