I hurry after my parents, already dreading the rush of the next few weeks while everything is prepared for the wedding.
I wonder if I'm going to be allowed a moment alone with Lord Cygnus before we have to walk down the aisle. I certainly hope so. It felt as if something had changed between us while we were talking in the gardens, but we didn't have enough time to actually talk to one another about it.
Perhaps there is hope for a happy marriage despite the unconventional start we've had.
Or there is a chance that I am fooling myself into believing that will be possible and that the two of us won't end up perfectly miserable when we are required to spend more time in one another's company. I dread to think what the truth of the matter is going to be.
Six
Philip
The tense atmospherehanging over the table was almost too much to take, and if it wasn't for the horrified expression on Letitia's face, I would have excused myself already. At least the meal is done and we can move on to the after dinner entertainments.
Mother's eyes narrow at my future wife, scrutinising everything about the way she eats.
"Miss Swanley," I say to get her attention.
She looks up, somewhat startled, but relaxing once she realises it's me speaking with her. "Yes, My Lord?"
"Would you wish to take a turn about the gardens?" I ask.
"I do not believe that would be wise," Mother snaps.
"I don't see any harm in it," Father responds. "They are already to marry, and there is enough light that you will be able to watch them from the parlour should you wish to."
She leans back in her chair and purses her lips, clearly displeased with Father stepping in.
"I would be delighted to join you, if that is what you wish, My Lord," Letitia responds demurely.
A frown pulls at my face. I don't think I've ever seen her like this. She's always so full of life and wit, and now she's acting as if she has none of that.
"It would be an honour for you to join me," I respond, rising to my feet.
She nods and pulls on her gloves. I watch intently as the fabric slips over her skin and find my thoughts straying to what it would be like to pull them off her.
I suppose it won't be long until we're lifted of the restrictions imposed on us by our desire not to ruin her.
I clear my throat and rid myself of the inappropriate thoughts.
Letitia meets me by the door and smiles up at meapprehensively. I offer her my arm and she slips hers through it, resting her hand on my sleeve.
I lead her out of the dining room, ignoring the unimpressed stare of my mother as I do.
The evening sunshine lights up the gardens in the most delightful way. "I was thinking we could take a turn around the lake," I say.
"That would be agreeable," she responds. "Do you often swim on the lake?"
I nod. "Often in the early mornings. You're welcome to join me once we've been married."
"Thank you."
I look at her, trying to work out what's causing the stiffness in her demeanour.
"I must apologise for Mother's behaviour," I say.
She pauses, confirming my suspicions that it is something that is affecting her.
"It is no matter."