“I have no idea.” John shrugged. “She has seemed rather distracted lately. Perhaps she has been too busy to be bothered.”

She would give her ladyship the benefit of the doubt. On the other hand, Grace was busy this Season as well, and she had not allowed the household standards to slip. It did not matter. Eleanor would soon have control over Montagu House. “Yes, that must be it.”

He guided her around a puddle. “When will you be able to visit the house again?”

“The day after tomorrow. I will also bring my footman and maid so they can meet the staff. It is important they all get along.” They would also tell her if there was anything she needed to know about the senior staff especially. “I take it Rennie does not travel from the country and back again.”

“No. She and Lumner remain here with a skeleton staff.” And for whatever reason, Lady Montagu did not increase the staff.

They turned the corner on to South Audley Street. “If you allow me a free hand, I shall make the changes I believe should be made.”

John glanced at her, the warmth in his eyes making her want to walk closer to him. “Of course you may do as you see fit.” They made the turn onto Mount Street. “I forgot all about a betrothal ring for you.” He pulled her to a stop. “We have several family rings if you would be interested.”

“I would love to see them.” Many of the older rings were so much more beautiful than the modern ones. They also served to act as a thread to the history of a lady’s new family.

“Excellent.” He began walking again. “I will have them ready the next time you come.”

This was going even better than she had thought it would. Thus far, they had been completely in accord. And the passion she felt for him exceeded even her wildest hopes. Her sisters and Dotty had been right. Passion was almost impossible to describe, but so very enjoyable. Perhaps the next time she was at Montagu House, they would make love. After all, none of her sisters had waited until their wedding day. But right now, Eleanor needed to find a cook. “We have Dotty’s ball tomorrow evening.”

John’s eyes dropped to Eleanor’s lips. “I want all your waltzes.”

Just his look made her lips tingle. Fortunately, although she had received several notes asking for dances, she had not had time to answer them. “Then you shall have them. Would you like to join us for dinner?”

“Thank you.” He grinned. “May I bring my mother if she is free? After all, we have no cook.”

“You may.” She wished she knew what Lady Montagu would make of their family dinner.

After luncheon, John went off in search of Turley and Eleanor to attend to her correspondence. Later that afternoon, a knock sounded on her door. “Come.”