Page 13 of All Roads Lead To Earls (To All The Earls I’ve Loved Before #2)

T he morning was frosty, but Patrick’s fast-beating heart kept him warm.

As he’d predicted, the Dowager and Patrick’s mother, who had arrived in time from Ireland, rubbed along mischievously.

He knew they would happily conspire to make more matches in the years to come.

If mother stayed busy, she wouldn’t have time to interfere in his or his new bride’s life. A good outcome all round.

Well, they could have their fun, he was delighted to be making his own match. He even pretended to himself that he’d achieved this without anybody else’s interference whatsoever.

The sight of his bride walking down the aisle on Lord Caernarfonshire’s arm brought a lump to his throat and a tear to his eye. He didn’t care if he sniffled a little from emotion; this moment was so joyful he wanted to leap toward her.

Thankfully Mr. Alwyn was by his side, holding him steady so they could get through the ceremony without incident.

Hannah walked dreamily up the aisle. Sarah and Anne walked ahead, sprinkling the floor with primroses, herbs and even a little holly. Not many plants flowered at this time of year, but Hannah had refused to wait until Spring.

The ceremony passed in a blur of happiness and love as Patrick pressed the Tullamore bridal ring onto her finger. There was no miracle sun to burst through the church windows, but light shone from her husband’s face all the same.

Their first married kiss was soft and sweet, and over far too quickly. They were being mindful of their audience. It would be a privilege to continue their relationship without one.

Lady Mary put on a magnificent wedding breakfast for them, and then her husband had another surprise waiting as they were about to depart.

It was his carriage, repaired from its encounter with that dangerous road.

“I’m surprised it was worth repairing,” Hannah gasped. There were so many new sections to it, it reminded her of ‘grandfather’s favorite ax that had four new handles and two new heads’.

Patrick delivered her another quick kiss. “It will remind me of the terrible accident that led me to my greatest happiness.”

They boarded the carriage, which was filled with extra blankets and hot stones for their feet. They waved out the window until Rosstrevor Hall vanished behind them.

“My goodness,” Hannah said with a sigh, “Alone at last!”

Patrick snuggled closer and wrapped them both in a blanket. “Whatever shall we do?”

“We could talk about our feelings?” Hannah teased. “But I don’t think you want to talk, though?”

“You do read me very well.” He chuckled. “And I shall tell you my feelings. I feel very fortunate, and I feel very much in love.”

He kissed her with tenderness and care, love and passion. She kissed him back with all her heart.

“I feel that too,” she said