“I apologize that I do not have a ring with me. I had no idea how this day was going to go. Shall we go back to Devon House and share our good news? There are a number of rings in the Devon jewelry collection for you to choose from.”
“I would love that, but might we first stop and tell my sister and brother-in-law?”
“Of course. Whatever you’d like.”
“I like the fact that I’m engaged to the man I love.”
With one last look at the swans, the happy couple made their way out of the park.
Chapter18
When Mia and Easton returnedto Fletcher House, Beckwith opened the door as they mounted the steps.
“Lord Easton, Miss Parker. I hope you enjoyed your walk.”
“We did. Thank you, Beckwith. Do you know where my sister is?” Mia asked.
“I believe she’s with Mrs. Trotter. Shall I let her know you wish to speak to her?”
Mia shook her head. “No. Is Fletcher still in his study?”
“He is.”
She grabbed Easton’s hand. They walked down the hallway to her brother-in-law’s study and knocked.
“Come.”
They walked in, and Fletcher immediately smiled. “Those are happy smiles. So are you courting or engaged?”
“We’re engaged. I’m so thrilled,” Mia said.
“I wish you both happy. Have you told your sister yet?”
“No, she was busy with Mrs. Trotter, and I didn’t want to disturb her.”
“Was someone looking for me?” a voice behind them said.
Mia turned around to see Audrey standing in the doorway and rushed to her. “Audrey, Lord Easton has proposed, and I’ve accepted.”
“Such happy news, dearest,” Audrey said, hugging her tightly. She turned to Lord Easton. “I wish you happy, my lord.”
“Thank you, Lady Fletcher. I am indeed the happiest of men.”
Mia stepped back. “We wanted you to be the first to know.”
“This is indeed such wonderful news.”
“Thank you, but now we must go to Devon House to tell Easton’s parents.”
“Of course. I’m sure your parents will be thrilled for you,” Audrey said.
Easton turned to Mia. “My dear, I do hope you don’t want a long engagement.”
She tapped her cheek, pretending to think about her betrothed’s question. “Well, I was hoping we could wed at the end of the Season. June is a lovely month to be married.” The look on Easton’s face sent her into a fit of giggles. “Oh, you silly man. You’re so easy to trifle with. I wish to wed as soon as possible.”
He released a huge sigh of relief. “I’m most pleased to hear that. Would you like me to get a special license?”
Mia looked at Audrey before answering. She didn’t want to deprive her sister of the joy of helping to plan the wedding. “No, that’s not necessary. I’m sure my sister, your mother, and I will have much planning to do in the next three weeks.”