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."

her head, half laughing, half astonished. "When did that

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

time to head

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

replied,

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

added, "I'll be away Echo City for a conference

sure she'd heard right. "Wait, so I actually get to stay

nothing more, simply

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

they

finished

family and close relatives the way Hawthorne wants it, nothing too extravagant. Of course, if

nover

the city's socialites