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The day after returning to London, I received a surprise call from Penelope Ramsey, saying she was in town. After we spoke for several minutes, I asked what her plans were and if she was free that night. When she said she was, I asked if I could ring her back.
“I’ve just heard from a dear friend who’s in town. How would you feel about getting together with her and her beau tonight?” I asked Levi, who I found seated on the sofa.
“Beau?”
“His name is Brando Ripa. He’s actually the half brother of another woman I met the year I attended boarding school in the States. Had my parents not yanked me out even after I begged them not to…Sorry, I went quite bitter there for a moment. Anyway, Pen is really lovely. I’m sure you’ll adore her.”
Levi had an odd expression, but when he realized I was studying him, he smiled. “Let’s make a night of it, then. We could take them to Five Hertford.”
I squealed in delight and clapped my hands. “That will be perfect.”
He wiggled his finger and patted his leg. “Come here, my love.”
“Yes?” I said, settling myself on his lap. I had always been taller than most of my friends and at least one of my previous boyfriends. That Levi was so much taller than me—bigger everywhere, actually—made me feel dainty, and I loved it.
“Do you recall what the day after tomorrow is?”
I cocked my head. “No, is something special happening?” I could only fake my blank expression for so long and, soon, burst into giggles. “You will become my husband.”
“Just so I don’t put my foot in it, so to speak, do you plan to share our news with your friend?”
“I don’t. I mean, it hardly seems fair, given we haven’t told anyone else.” We’d discussed telling Kima and asking her to be one of our witnesses but had changed our minds for the same reason I’d just said. Instead, the registry office said they could provide witnesses should we need them.
“It’s another reason I suggested Five Hertford. It can also be our secret prewedding celebration dinner.”
“I love that idea, Levi,” I said, kissing him before scooting off his lap.
“Where are you going?”
“I have to ring Pen and let her know we’re on.”
“Have them meet us at the pub on Georgian Square.”
“Excellent thinking.” Penelope and Brand wouldn’t be granted access to the private club where we’d be dining.
Levi and I arrived a few minutes early, and when Pen and Brand walked in, I rushed over to greet them.
“Penelope! Is it ever good to see you.” I embraced her and we cheek-kissed.
“Likewise, and wow, you look amazing.”
“As do you. Come, let me introduce you,” I said, leading her over to where Levi and Brand stood chatting.
“Leviticus Marras, meet Penelope Ramsey.”
“I’m Brando Ripa,” he said to me, reaching over to shake my hand.
“Levi, do you two know each other?” I asked, looking between the two men.
“We do,” he responded, glancing at the other people standing within hearing distance.
“Right. So, rather than order anything here, let’s head over to Five Hertford. You’re in for quite a treat,” I said.
Levi took my hand, and I leaned into him. “You didn’t let on you knew him earlier,” I whispered.
“My understanding is he’ll be working with the coalition.”
We waited while Typhon spoke with the maître d’.