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Altheliachoked on a half gasp, half guffaw.

God above.

Hadher grandmother no restraint?

“Grandmama! You are outside of enough.” Althelia shook her head, instantly regretting when the motion rattled her brain around her skull. She said in a ferocious whisper, “I cannot believe you said that. You are truly outrageous.”

Insteadof remorse, Grandmama winked. “I do try.”

“What am I to do with you?” Althelia shook her head. “Swear right now that you will not say anything to Mr. Lockington or anyone else about your fanciful musings.”

“But child, I have no control over fate.” Genuine bemusement creased the corners of Grandmama’s eyes and sketched parallel wrinkles over her crepey cheeks.

“Grandmama. I mean it.” Althelia squeezed the frail hand she still held. “Please.”

“I shan’t say anything yet.” Her grandmother cocked her silvery head, the usual assortment of colorful feathers swaying with her movement. “I’ll wait to see how things play out.”

Perfectly wonderful.

NowAlthelia had to worry about her grandmother saying something inappropriate, and Grandmamaalways said unsuitable things.

“My dear, you look a bit piqued. Are you feeling quite the thing?” Grandmama pressed her hand to Althelia’s brow. “You’re a trifle warm, but it could be your gown.”

“A slight headache. Nothing more, I⁠—”

Justthen, the door opened, and the men filed in.

Husbandsfound their wives straightaway, and as Althelia stood, she tried to appear casual as she sought Owen. Last in, his broad shoulders practically touched either side of the doorway, or perhaps his commanding presence made it appear that way.

Herheart skipped a beat, then kicked back into an irregular tempo. She was delighted to see he’d also sought her out with his gaze.

Heshared a private smile with her.

Washe remembering their kisses too?

Papacleared his throat, drawing everyone’s attention.

“Forgive our tardiness in joining you, ladies.” Always the cavalier, he kissed Mama’s knuckles, and she gave him an adoring smile. Their first marriages were not happy matches, but they’d found lasting love the second time around.

“Mr. Lockington, that is Owen…” Papa grinned, as did her brothers, as they exchanged pleased, secretive glances.

Whatwas going on?

Papacontinued. “TheWestbrooks have invested in Owen’s mining operation, and after TwelfthNight, we shall venture to Cumberland and inspect our new project. Moreover, he’s purchased Sampson, and I’ve agreed he might have one of Inez and Apollo’s puppies.”

Oh, well done, Owen.

Atriple triumph.

Didthat mean he intended to extend his visit until January sixth when TwelfthNight ended?

Giddinessburbled in Althelia’s tummy, and she was hard-pressed not to give a gleeful whoop.

Thatgave her and Owen almost another fortnight together.

Hetraveled farther into the room, accepting congratulations from the women and shaking the men’s hands. He wasn’t at ease but was more relaxed than when he arrived.

TheWestbrooks had that effect on people, and Althelia couldn’t be happier that her family had embraced the man she hoped to marry—even if he didn’t know it yet.