Basset had not seemed to mind it last night, and his attentions had been almost pleasing. If she had not known that kissing was to be involved before they began, she might have thought he actually meant them. She had never been kissed before, but Basset seemed to do it well enough. It was not distasteful, and it had not been in any way dramatic or overwhelming.

Until the end, that is. That was rather remarkable, and Basset’s blessed restraint had fallen away. But then he had returned to himself, asked after her welfare, and, once she had assured him she was very well, he had informed her that consummation was completed. He’d taken her hand and kissed it, which seemed rather sweet yet formal after all that had transpired, and then he’d dressed himself and bid her good night.

And that had been that.

Not a lot of fuss, consummation. A mere matter of bodies and clothing. And yet, such things could not be discussed.

Should Adelaide have any daughters throughout this marriage with Basset, she would ensure that, upon the event of their marriage, they would not be so wholly ignorant.

It was simply not fair.

But perhaps she would produce a son and heir first, and then in a few years, a spare. And then there would need to be no more, unless Basset wished for a daughter. Most men did not, but she was beginning to wonder if Basset qualified for the description of “most men.” He was rather fond of his sister, from what she had gathered, so it was possible.

And Adelaide might like having a daughter. Especially now as she knew the way daughters and sons were created. After a fashion.

She leaned her head back against her stacked pillows, looking up at the embroidered canopy above her bed. Now that she was here at Trevadden, her journey completed, and all haste and scheduled events done, she might settle into being Lady Basset in truth.

Whatever that might entail.

She had been trained how to run a household her entire life, but the particular responsibilities of her title and station were unclear. They could only be made clear by her investigation, growing familiar with the house, and showing her face in the village and to the tenants. Basset would certainly be expected to host an event for her, something to introduce his wife to his neighbors and friends, though he might not be aware such a responsibility was his.

She’d be happy to enlighten him and even to plan the affair herself.

Though he would need to provide the list of guests. She hadn’t the faintest idea who was in the vicinity, let alone who was important. Perhaps if she focused on her tasks and setting a routine for her new day-to-day life, she would not feel so self-conscious. So awkward. So vulnerable.