They took their places, and she put her hand on his waist, but this time, she knew what it was like to be held and kissed by him. The memory brought a slight warmth to her cheeks.

He leaned his head down so that his lips were close to her ear. “I love your blushes.” His words only caused more heat to rush into her face. “If only I could kiss you now.”

“You are going to have me as red as a beet if you do not stop.” She was going to get him back for this. Unfortunately, she could not respond in kind. “When would you like to wed?”

“The day after tomorrow?” John had a hopeful look on his handsome face.

That would be very nice, but it took time to arrange the church, write the invitations, and have new clothing made. “I think two or three weeks is the best we will be able to manage.”

He uttered a low groan. “I’m never going to make it that long.”

“You poor man.” She chuckled softly. “Perhaps Grace will take pity on you.”

“Your sister?” John seemed shocked. “What does she have to do with it?”

“My dear, Matt might negotiate the settlement agreements, but Grace plans the weddings. We need her approval for the date.”

John stared at Eleanor for a few seconds until they had to change positions and twirl. “Of course we do. I have been so focused on Worthington, I completely forgot Lady Worthington would play a large part. She has stood in lieu of a mother to you.”

“Yes.” Tears pricked Eleanor’s eyes and she blinked them back. “She has.”

“Very well, then,” John said in a rallying tone. “May we ask her at supper?”

She almost burst out laughing. “Oh, I have no doubt that will be a major part of the conversation this evening.”

His forehead wrinkled as if in thought. “Naturally with all your sisters here, and mine, and my mother, I’ll be surprised if anything else is discussed. I feel like a laggard, not immediately understanding.”

John reminded her of her brothers-in-law. None of them seemed to understand there was more to getting married than the actual wedding. She was proud of his quick acceptance of the fact. “I think you have been more focused on the actual time of the ceremony rather than the planning.”

“You’re right. I was.” They ended the set with a twirl. “If it was up to me, I’d carry you off tonight.”

“Like a knight of old carrying a lady off on his horse?” Eleanor tried to remember who had said only a man could think that was at all comfortable but could not.

“I suppose most gentlemen would like to do that.” He tucked her hand in his arm and headed slowly toward her family. “I have read family accounts of elaborate wedding celebrations going on for days.”