“Well, this is certainly a change,” she said, walking into the room.
Audrey looked up and smiled. “Good morning, dearest. I found myself quite famished this morning.”
“I’m so very pleased you’re feeling better,” she said.
“Thank you. I am as well. Do you like the decorations?”
Her sister had turned the drawing room into an extension of the garden. Vases of flowers were placed around the room, and their delicate perfumes scented the air. The windows were draped with pastel-green chiffon, and the whole room looked like something out of a fairytale. It was stunning.
“Audrey, you have outdone yourself. I’ve never seen such a beautiful room.”
“I’m glad you approve. I want you to have the perfect wedding day.”
“It will be perfect no matter what because I’m marrying the man I adore,” Mia said.
“I thought about a few more details I’d like to add to the decorations,” Audrey said.
Mia walked to her sister and kissed her cheek. “No more, dear sister. You’ve done enough. How about we promenade later instead? No more appointments, no more decorations, just a leisurely walk with my sister.”
“But I do—”
Fletcher put his hand on Audrey’s arm. “Listen to your sister, my darling. She’s grown very wise while in London.”
Audrey chuckled. “I suppose she has. Yes, that’s an excellent idea. Why don’t we all promenade?”
“What’s this about promenading?”
“Lord Easton, what a pleasant surprise,” Audrey said.
Easton walked into the room. “Please, no formality. Easton is fine. We’re soon to be family, after all. I do apologize for not sending a note, but I couldn’t wait another moment to see my betrothed.”
“Of course, and please do call me Audrey. Tomorrow, we’ll all be family.”
Mia smiled and rushed into his arms. “I’m so happy to see you.”
“Come sit with us, Easton,” Fletcher said. “Mia has suggested we promenade later, and I agree. All the arrangements for the wedding have been made, so today should be about enjoying this fine May day.”
“Excellent idea. I stopped by to let you know the renovations have been completed.” He turned to Lady Fletcher. “Lady Fletcher, I mean Audrey, I can’t thank you enough for helping me interview the candidates the agency sent over. I think Harrington and Mrs. Dowd are perfect.”
Audrey nodded. “Excellent. I liked Mrs. Dowd immediately. She has such a warm personality.”
“Agreed. Harrington’s a little on the young side to be a butler, but I think he’ll suit us fine,” Easton said. “I’ve left the hiring of a few maids and footmen to them, as they’ll know better than I what positions need to be filled.”
“Come join us,” Mia said, taking Easton’s hand and leading him to the table.
He held the chair for her before taking the seat next to her while the footman poured him a cup of tea. “Everything smells delicious.”
“I agree, and I’m hungry. Shall we fill our plates?” she asked Easton.
“Absolutely.”
After everyone had eaten their fill, they left Fletcher House and headed to Hyde Park.
Mia held onto Easton’s arm and smiled as they greeted those who stopped to congratulate them on their betrothal. They were halfway through the park when she looked up and stiffened. Walking down the path were Lady Whitestone and Lady Nestle.
Easton felt her stiffen and looked at her. “What is it, my love?”
Before Mia had a chance to answer, she heard an unwelcome greeting.