Epilogue
Three Months Later
‘We have plenty to be grateful for,’ Nora said.
She sat at the end of the dining room table with Candace to her right and Sara to her left. Ralston sat at the head of the table. Adler had also joined them.
‘I am the most grateful of all for my lovely wife,’ Ralston said.
Nora felt her cheeks heat.
Candace spoke up, ‘I was unsure of Lord Raslton. I’ve always been protective of my sister. But you have made Nora brilliantly happy and so I am honored to have you as a brother-in-law.’
Nora understood Candace had a distrust of men and her approval meant much to both of them. She hoped her sister would one day find happiness like she had.
Sara pushed her hair across her shoulder. ‘I always knew it was a good match.’
‘As did I,’ Adler said. ‘Even though my friend can be mule-headed.’
Ralston chuckled. ‘I’m no longer mule-headed. Marriage has cured me of my faults. Now, as my wife said, we have much to celebrate. Nora’s been invited to join the Scientific Society. I only hope you have no regrets from not travelling, my dear.’
Nora sat up straighter. She’d been thrilled when she’d received the invitation to join the Society.
She’d never dreamed they would ask her. ‘I have no regrets. I have much more I can do here as a member. I hope to inspire other budding lady scientists.’ She eyed her husband.
‘And I hope you consider proposing another bill.’ She’d been so proud when his bill on child labor had passed.
Ralston’s lips curled up. ‘It’s on my mind.’
Candace nodded. ‘The scandal has passed over.’
‘She’s right,’ Sara said, a glint of mischief in her eyes. ‘Did you hear Lady Gavinport’s lover was caught hiding in the maid’s closet when Lord Gavinport came home unexpectedly? It was rumored he had to stand in a cramped closet for over two hours.’
Nora gaped. ‘Two hours!’ The man wasn’t thin and she couldn’t envision it.
Ralston waved a dismissive hand. ‘See? The ton is fickle and they have a voracious appetite for new gossip.’
Nora’s heart swelled as she gazed at her husband. He caught her eye and smiled back. She’d sneaked into the right bed the night of the house party. She couldn’t imagine being with another.
He raised his glass. ‘To my lovely wife.’ He turned to study those at the table. ‘And may each of you find someone as special.’
All the glasses rose.
Keep reading for an excerpt from HER ROYAL HOUSEGUEST by Jade Lee.