CHAPTER NINEBefore Lucia knew it, champagne corks were popping for the first time in ages at Bingham Hall.
Her stepfather laid on a lavish luncheon for their friends and some close relatives. Even Sir Arthur’s brother came down from Manchester for the occasion.
Lucia tried to smile at the luncheon party.
Everyone admired her engagement ring – an enormous square-cut emerald surrounded by diamonds that had been in Edward’s family for generations – and said how fortunate she was to make such a good match.
The date was set for July 14th on what would have been her father’s birthday.
“Sir Arthur seems very happy,” Moston said to Lucia, “and I am so pleased that your mother appears to be making a full recovery.”
Indeed her mother was up and dressed in one of her best gowns for the occasion
