Talk of the Ton | S. Basset DoH

The Tour and The Thunder

The Tour and The Thunder

Swish - Part I

Previously...
   
I look skyward. "I feel wonderful, sated, sensitive," I tell him, looking at him again. "I feel many things, but what I feel most is loved..." I smile, absolutely enamored with this man. "Let us rest for tonight. We may break our fast tomorrow morning with a large meal."

"Of course, my dear," He pushes himself up, kisses my stomach, then moves up to kiss me. He falls to his side, pulling me into him, spooning me, and covers us both with a blanket. "Goodnight, Elena, dream of me."

"Always, Goodnight, Simon." With that the darkness of sleep consumes me.

}~~~~~~~~~~~{

We are finally leaving the inn and are on our way to Clyvedon. Simon and I have been in a constant state of lip-lock since getting into the carriage this morning, only pulling away to breathe and to answer the footmen and the coachman.

Dearest gentle reader, I must send felicitations to the new Duke and Duchess of Hastings. Congratulations and stamina as they embark on the most exhilarating time in a young couple's life.

I am, of course, talking of the honeymoon. Is there a more romantic notion? To retreat together... finally leaving watchful eyes behind.

The horses pull up to the front steps of Clyvedon Castle. A footman helps me out, and as I step out I see the entire staff lined up outside along the steps. I wait for Simon to get out before we both start walking up them. I nod a small and sweet smile on my face, to the staff who nods back with smiles on their faces. We reach Vera, Simon's manservant, Jeffries, and who I assume to be the Housekeeper. I nod to Vera, a giant smile on both our faces.

"Welcome to Clyvedon, Your Grace," the housekeeper said. A warm smile graces her face as she looks at Simon. "It has been so long since we have been blessed with your presence, but I trust you will find everything to your liking."

Simon smiles at her, humoring her for a moment. "I do not doubt it, Mrs. Colson," he tells her. So that's her name. "I hope you have been well." He turns to me and smiles. "May I introduce to you the Duchess of Hastings?" He gestures to me before grabbing my arm and pulling me closer to him.

I look at the woman and smile. She does not quite look happy to see me, I frown inwardly. "I am looking forward to making your acquaintance, Mrs. Colson," I smile.

"Thank you, Your Grace." She looks to Simon again, before looking back at me. She looks between the two of us as she speaks. "I have planned everything to make you both comfortable. First, a light meal served on the terrace. Then a tour to show you all the improvements I have made." I smile at her enthusiasm. "Then-"

"I am sure it will be most diverting, Mrs. Colson" Simon interrupted. "But I am afraid it will have to wait." He looks at me, an exciting look in his eyes. "I have plans of my own for my new bride." A tight smile forms on my lips, trying to hold in the excitement he causes when he looks at me like that. He grabs my hand and pulls me away from the line of the staff.

We walk into the entryway, and I look around in awe. "Simon, this place is amazing," I whisper. He chucked in amusement at me, causing me to look at him. "What?" I ask a small, curious smile on my face.