Gabriel nodded. “It did. And yours, little wife?”

A strange expression passed over her face before she gave him a bright smile. “It was fine although confusing. This house is so huge that it’s easy to get lost. I wandered through most of the rooms this afternoon, attempting to gain an understanding of its layout.”

“I’ve thought the same. In fact, I’ve yet to explore all of it. Did you have a chance to visit the stables? I know your fondness for horseflesh, so if none of the mounts here appeal to you, I shall take you to Tattersalls. You may choose a horse to be kept here while we are in residence. Then we can both ride when I’ve the time and if you are available. I would enjoy spending those moments with you.”

Celia grew a shade paler with the mention of the stables, and Gabriel thought it strange. But once again, she smiled radiantly at him.

“Oh, that would be lovely, Gabriel. And very thoughtful. However, I do not think I shall spend much time riding while we are in London.”

Gabriel frowned, knowing how much she enjoyed the activity. Her reluctance to share that time with him was far more disturbing than anticipated, but he shrugged it off. No doubt, she just required time to adjust to both married life and life in society’s crosshairs.

“We shall discuss it later, but right now, let us make a decision as to whether we go tonight or remain at home,” he said, giving her yet another kiss because he could not seem to help himself. “I will do what you think is best. After all, you have all the expertise in such matters.”

He sensed how she struggled with the decision, but in the end, she agreed the opportunity was too great to let pass. They would attend the dinner later that evening.

It was a strange thing, Gabriel decided. This preparing to go out into the world as an official married couple. Celia’s maid went about getting all the necessities ready, and he watched as Celia was dressed for the evening knowing he would be the one undoing all those preparations at night’s end. This first time making love to his wife within the walls of this house would be something they would both remember.

Once they were both ready for the evening, they descended the stairs and exited onto the stone terrace as the coach was brought round. Celia’s unease was pronounced when one of the grooms appeared. Stepping forward to take one of the horses by the bit, the man held the matched black geldings in place.

Celia fumbled with her reticule, dropping it.

Gabriel retrieved the small bag, holding it out to her with a puzzled tilt of his head. She clutched it so tight her fingers were crushing the beaded fabric.

“I shall not embarrass you, petite femme, if that is what has you so nervous,” Gabriel murmured, drawing her startled gaze away from the coach.