She walked with him to the door, feeling shy again. He kissed her absent-mindedly on the cheek and was gone before she could say anything. Not that she had anything special to say, but she had expected a proper kiss at least. Disappointed she went back into the sitting room.

‘It’s very kind of you to let me stay with you and I’m really grateful for your help with the wedding arrangements,’ she told her hostess.

Louisa smiled and waved one hand dismissively. ‘Oh, I’m happy to do that. I’ve sorted most of it out already. It’s not hard. The Royal Aztec is a first-class hotel. I only had to go and talk to one of their function organisers and it was settled.’

‘I should be paying for that,’ Megan worried. ‘It’s usually up to the bride’s family to deal with that side of the day.’

‘My dear, Ben won’t even notice the money. And I gather your family would. He said you’d not told them you were getting married. Is that wise? Have you changed your mind about that?’

‘No.’

After a short silence, Louisa said, ‘Well I hope you’ll let me stand in for your aunt, then. We ought to discuss the wedding dress first, don’t you think? I presume you don’t want a traditional gown and veil?’

‘Goodness, no. But I would like something pretty.’

‘We’ll go shopping together tomorrow. I know a rather special little boutique and there’s a hat shop nearby. How about something romantic and Edwardian?’

‘Have you been reading my mind?’ Ben had been perfectly correct, she did like his aunt. Very much indeed.

Half an hour later, as they were finalising the menu for the small reception, Louisa laid one hand on Megan’s and said, ‘I’m glad my nephew’s found the right woman at last. You’ll be good for him.’

Megan blinked at her in surprise. ‘Will I? Can you tell so quickly?’

‘Oh, yes. I’m sure of it. You’re so blessedly normal and practical. And you’re not obsessed with your own body and appearance. In our circles there are some women who waste all their money and time on clothes and jewellery. I was terrified Ben would choose someone on appearances only. I’m already sure that you’re more than just a pretty face.’

Megan grimaced. ‘I’ve never been into jewellery and make-up. I’m an outdoor girl, really.’ She chuckled. ‘Though I am normal enough to enjoy flattering clothes and I do want to look special on Monday.’

‘You will. We’ll make sure of it. Welcome to the family, Megan.’ She gave her a big hug.

Which made Megan feel even more guilty about not telling her own family what she was doing.