Page 103 of Juliet's Touch

Theodore Ravenforde and his wife, a lovely red-haired woman Juliet had never met before today, strolled out of the dining parlor. Lord Chesterhill had insisted the young couple be invited, and since Mother was fearful about Juliet’s status in society, and she thought Theodore was Lord Ravenforde’s heir, she insisted they attend. Juliet saw no point in arguing. Although Theodore seemed a bit growly, Victoria had smiled all through the service and the buffet.

Charlotte and Victoria hugged. When they separated, Charlotte patted Victoria’s belly. Taking in Victoria’s glowing countenance, Juliet assumed she was with child.

Theodore whispered something in Hugh’s ear.

Frowning, Hugh stiffened. “Let’s go get a drink and let the ladies talk,” he said.

If their scowls were any indication, neither Eric nor Theodore looked thrilled about Hugh’s proposition. Still, they followed him.

“I suspect they are discussing manly things,” Charlotte said. “But that gives us a chance to get to know each other better.” She motioned for Juliet to lean close.

Goodness. More confidences?

“Victoria is our secret sister-in-law,” Charlotte whispered.

Victoria clasped Juliet’s hand. “I am delighted to have another friend.”

Juliet pretended not to know about Theodore’s true parentage, even though Emily had already filled her in on the secret. Juliet must have a bit of thespian in her, because Victoria added, “My husband is also Chesterhill’s by-blow. ’Tis rather shocking. But now that you must keep our secret, I suspect that we will all become the best of friends.”

“I quite agree,” Juliet said.

“You shall come to lunch next week. Both of you,” Victoria said. “My mother-in-law loves company.”

“I shall be there,” Charlotte said.

“I would be delighted to visit,” Juliet said with an embarrassing overenthusiasm. However, the ladies echoed her reaction with elated declarations and hugs.

Family, friends, and most importantly, Eric—and she mustn’t forget his horse. Life was grand!

Eric wore a winsome smile as he escorted Juliet around their new home. Although not as elegant as her parents’ properties, Eric had chosen a charming house on a lovely street. Everything was sublime, from the pretty brick facade on the front of the house to the cheery drawing room. From the inviting dining room to their staff’s small, albeit comfortable, sleeping chambers.

Eric had even ensured there was a nursery. “For whenever you are ready,” he said.

“I’m ready whenever you are,” she responded.

He kissed her shoulder. “Perhaps we should simply enjoy ourselves and let nature take its course.”

So, enjoy herself she would.Immensely. Thoroughly. Fervently…

“This is the best part,” he said as he threw a door wide and ushered her into the room. “Our shared chamber.”

Wonderstruck, Juliet strolled to the center of the room, taking in the floor-to-ceiling windows, a canopied bed, and the lush, purple draperies against pale lavender and cream walls.

“This is lovely,” she said. “Thank you, Eric. Everything is perfect.” She swiped at her joyful tears.

With a mischievous wink, Eric inclined his chin toward a dressing screen.

“Is that what I think it is?” she asked.

His eyes twinkling devilishly, he shrugged.

Juliet approached the screen, then peered around it. Eric followed her. Standing side by side, they stared at his large copper tub.

“I know you enjoy your warm baths,” he said. “And my muscles require cold soaks after I fight.”

“How did you move it across London?” she asked.

“Alexander, Hugh, Theo, Flynn, Billy, Stilts, and Curly.”