“Because while it’s true my staff knows why this marriage is taking place, you’re still going to be Addison’s wife, and that position demands respect. To not give it would go against everything they’ve been taught. It took me weeks to interview and choose this staff, and the result is a group of people who are proud of what they do, where they work, and who they work for. They were hired for their aptitude, their decorum, and for their diplomacy. They know not to tell tales outside these walls and to give respect to those who live under this roof. Of course, eventually a few of them may call you by your first name, but that’s not going to happen overnight. They’re much too professional for that.”

Mulling over what Evelyn had said, Joanna sighed. “It sounds like I have a lot to learn, but I don’t want them to think I come from money and expect all the pomp.”

With a snigger, Evelyn said, “I’m fairly sure that they don’t.”

“No?”

“Most of the upper class I’ve met don’t use bin liners for suitcases.”

Having not yet heard that particular detail, Noah burst out laughing, and his loud, unexpected guffaw caused both women to jump. Covering his mouth to prevent any more shrieks from escaping, he turned around and buried his head in his hands as he tried to get himself in check.

For a split-second, Joanna got angry, believing the man thought her stupid, but the more he fought to rein in his funny bone, the more his mirth became contagious. After all, she was about to marry one of the richest women in the country, and she did use rubbish bags as her suitcases.

Joanna looked over at Evelyn to see if she was equally as tickled, and when she saw tears of laughter forming in the woman’s eyes, Joanna decided to fan the flames. “It’s not that funny,” she said with the straightest face possible. “It wasn’t like they were used.”

As soon as her words reached their ears, there was nothing they could do to restrain their merriment as it erupted from within. Noah crumpled to the floor, and Evelyn bowed her head as her shoulders quaked, and less than no time, Joanna had joined in. It was nice to laugh again.

***

A breakfast of Eggs Benedict was delivered to Robert Sheppard’s room a short time later, and with Joanna at his side, eating scones and sipping coffee, father and daughter enjoyed yet another meal together.