Penelope’s heart swelled as she watched them, her chest tightening at the sight.
“But I am happy that the both of you are together,” Alexander said, clearing his throat . “Because I have something important to announce.”
Penelope raised an eyebrow. What was so important that even she didn't know? Usually, Alexander told her everything.
“Well, will you tell us?” Odette said, equally curious.
“Let me just say that everything is handled now,” he nodded.
“What do you mean?” Odette asked.
“Yes, darling. You are being rather vague,” Penelope agreed.
Alexander’s gaze flicked between them. “I’ve made arrangements,” he said. Penelope wondered if he was being deliberately coy.
“Alexander,” Penelope laughed. “Tell us in simple terms.”
“I’ve sold the club,” Alexander said finally. Both Penelope and Odette gasped.
It was a huge thing, coming from Alexander, considering how he had spent so much effort sustaining it.
“The gentleman’s club. It’s in new hands now. A trusted friend. I have no further ties to it,” he explained.
“But when did you…” Penelope’s mouth parted in surprise. “When did you decide to do this?”
“I do not want to lower the quality of your lives just so I can run an inherited club,” Alexander nodded. “It is no longer worthwhile for me. I’ve decided it’s time to close that chapter of my life.”
Penelope felt a mix of emotions. She reached forward and grabbed Alexander’s hand.
“But that place meant something to you as well.”
“It did not mean more to me than you and Odette,” he replied. “Besides, I can busy myself with other ventures now that the club is no longer in my possession.” ”
Odette took this moment to cut in.
“Does this mean no more bodyguards following me everywhere?”
“Perhaps not,” Alexander chuckled. “But starting tomorrow, we’ll be beginning some lessons, just as a precaution.”
“Lessons?” Penelope arched a brow.
“Yes, what kind of lessons?” Odette asked suspiciously.
“Boxing,” Alexander grinned, looking all too pleased with himself.
Both Penelope and Odette stared at him.
“Boxing?” Penelope repeated slowly. She could not imagine herself in the ring, let alone Alexander teaching her.
“Yes,” he said cheerfully. “I’ve already arranged for an instructor to come to the estate. It’s high time the women of this household knew how to defend themselves properly.”
“You wantmeto learn how to box?” Odette’s mouth fell open. “But you always asked me to keep away from violent sports.”
“I insist upon it,” Alexander shrugged. “And do not think of it as violent. It is more of self-defense.”
“You are too much,” Penelope laughed.
“Practical,” Alexander corrected smoothly. “And you’ll both thank me for it.”
