Page 72 of A Rogue to Forget

Chapter Twenty

When their guests arrived, Hannah could barely breathe. It was the first time that she and Henry hosted, and she’d fretted all day over every detail.

Thankfully, both Felicity and her mother had come early that day and helped, giving her time to ensure the food was done to perfection.

Marta had been overly excited and had accidentally burned her hand. Now as the food was served, she remained in the kitchen with her hand wrapped, still barking out orders.

The main rooms of the house were ready for company, there still was much work to do, but with gleaming floors and bright candlelight, at first view, the house would impress.

It was not a large gathering: Henry’s parents, her parents, Felicity, Evan, and Grant. Miles arrived with his sister, both stunningly attractive. Hannah immediately loved Penelope who, unlike her brother, was lively and talkative.

Henry’s sister Alana, having just given birth, was absent.

As the guests arrived, Hannah could barely keep from shivering. Henry neared and handed her a glass. “Drink it. Stop fretting, everything is perfect.”

Was it? Never in her wildest dreams did she expect to end up hosting a lavish dinner to which such highly esteemed people would attend. And to live in such a grand house with the most handsome man she’d ever met was like a fairytale come true.

The Campbells arrived; her mother-in-law took in the space and looked to her. “What you have done in such a short time is impressive. I am not sure you require my assistance with décor.”

The compliment made her chest expand with pride. “There is much to do, but the flowers and paintings are good at covering up certain things.”

To her surprise, she and Mrs. Campbell were becoming quite close. The woman was disappointed if ever Hannah could not come and have tea. It turned out Henry’s mother had a quick wit and was quite funny.

Felicity’s parents arrived, followed by Felicity and Evan, who entered with Grant.

When the bell rang for everyone to go into the dining room, Henry approached her, and she slipped her hand through the crook of his arm.

“You are flawless,” he whispered into her ear as he assisted her.

She turned to him, their lips a hair’s breadth apart. “I love you.”

“And I adore you.”

The clearing of throats was followed by chuckles as she was sure her entire face had turned a bright red. She had never been happier.

The End