The Perfect Wife's Perfect Revenge

Gwyneth kept her head down, cheeks flushed, unsure how to answer Leonie's question.

There was no denying it, though-Hawthorne really was a gentleman, far more so than anyone she'd ever dated. Her only relationship had been with Bill Crawford, but Bill had always kept his distance, treating her more like a prize to be won than someone he truly cared about. He'd seemed to think the time just wasn't right.

Hawthorne, on the other hand, felt like he belonged to a different world-a true heir, raised with all the poise and confidence that came with old money. Bill was just... a footnote by comparison.

"Aunt Gwyneth, since you and Uncle Hawthorne aren't having the wedding right away, why don't you just stay here with me for a while?" Leonie suggested brightly. "That way, I'll have someone to keep me company during the day!"

Gwyneth was tempted. She would have liked to accept, but now that she and Hawthorne were married, she doubted he'd agree.

"I'd better stay with your Uncle Hawthorne," she replied gently.

Leonie stared at her in disbelief. "You're living at Uncle Hawthorne's place now?"

Hawthorne's family estate was practically legendary-nobody but family ever stayed there, and her uncle guarded its privacy fiercely.

Gwyneth felt her cheeks burn. "Yes."

shook her head, half laughing, half astonished. "When did that happen? How

turned everything upside down. They chatted for ages, and Gwyneth gradually opened up. Where once Leonie had struggled to draw her into conversation, now the words came easily, and the two young

time to

Gwyneth and Leonie paused, startled. Leonie grumbled, "Uncle Hawthorne, can't you lend Aunt Gwyneth to me

not," Hawthorne replied, not missing

muttering under her breath, “Honestly, you're so possessive. She's your wife already-what, do you think I'm going to

Hawthorne remarked, not even pretending to hide his amusement. Then, after a moment's thought, he added,

not sure she'd heard right. "Wait,

said nothing more, simply guiding

main hall, Mr. and Mrs. Everhart were seated on the sofa.

couple descend, they stood up

finished talking

close relatives the way Hawthorne wants it, nothing too

nover

invite some of the city's socialites and business partners,