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."

"When did that happen? How come I

and Gwyneth gradually opened up. Where once Leonie had struggled to draw her into conversation, now the words came easily, and the two young women lost track of time as they talked and laughed upstairs—until Hawthorne

to head

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

not," Hawthorne replied, not missing a

her breath, “Honestly, you're so possessive. She's your wife already-what, do you think

added, "I'll be

heard right. "Wait, so I actually get to stay

nothing more, simply

and Mrs. Everhart were seated on

descend, they stood up

just finished talking about

relatives the way Hawthorne wants it, nothing too extravagant. Of

nover

of the city's socialites and business partners, we