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“That sounds like a good lot.”
“I’ll speak with Mrs. Finch and Cook in the morning to see how quickly we can arrange something.”
“Capital idea. Now that that’s settled, would you care to play chess?”
“My mind is not up to a game of chess this evening. I think I will go to bed.”
“Of course.” Owen rose with her. “Good night, Selena. Sleep well.” He raised her hand and kissed it.
“Good night.”
She left the room, her steps silent on the carpet. After changing and getting into bed, Selena gave thought to all that had occurred in the last twenty-four hours. She had gone from being cool and distant with Owen, to being a wanton wildling who craved his touch. Owen was finally the type of husband she had always wanted. So why did he want to go and possibly ruin their second chance together?
Because he would always have questions about his past. The shadows would always lie between them. Wasn’t it better to find out now if his memories would return rather than years later when it might do more damage? It didn’t mean Selena had to like the idea. Just the small bit he had mentioned at dinner had made her feel faint. But she would go ahead with the plans for the dinner party, for Owen’s sake.
* * *
The next day, Selena, Mrs. Finch, and Cook put their heads together to come up with a plan for the dinner party. It would be in two weeks. Plenty of time to send the invitations and order the food. The staff threw themselves into preparation. Mrs. Finch had the maids do a deep cleaning of the dining room and drawing room.
During that time, Selena and Owen fell into a routine. She did not see him much during the day since he was busy running the estate. More businessmen came, even from as far as London. It appeared Owen was growing accustomed to his new life.
Owen had made no further sexual advances. Selena was slightly disappointed. There were times she recalled the feel of his lips and body pressed against hers. During their evenings, she would steal glances at him. Once or twice, she caught him doing the same. Was he remembering as well?
The night of the dinner party arrived. Selena was putting on her second glove when a knock sounded at the door.
“Come in.”
It was Owen. “I thought I would see if you were ready to go down.”
Katie gave a quick bob before leaving the couple alone.
“You look lovely.”
Selena stood, allowing her skirts to flow around her. For the special occasion, she had chosen a gown of red taffeta. The neckline was cut low, ending just above her bosom, which now heaved as Owen came closer. A diamond necklace adorned her collarbone, with matching earrings. Owen raked his gaze over her body. Selena’s mouth went dry at seeing his eyes glaze over. He looked to be about to take another step toward her but hesitated. Instead, he took a deep breath.
“Are you ready?”
Her heart sank. For a moment, she’d thought he was going to embrace her. “Yes. I’m ready.” She took his arm, and they went to meet their guests.
