Page 111 of A Wanton Adventure
This was the question that mattered to the duke the most, Sebastian realized. He nodded. “I will try every day to make sure she and Robert are happy. It will be my greatest honor and duty.”
He smiled. “My son, when he was very sick, told me that was all he wanted for Diana and Robert. If you can do that, you and I will get along well.”
Relief coursed through him. “Thank you. I also plan to step away from some of my businesses that may not be acceptable for Lady Hensley’s social standing.”
The duke sighed. “I’m not worried about that. The world is changing, Devons. No matter how many of my titled friends dislike it, what was once unacceptable is becoming tolerable.”
The words shocked Sebastian, but he did want the duke to understand that he took Diana’s reputation seriously. “Still, I will do everything I can to make sure that Diana’s social standing isn’t impacted by our marriage.”
“Do not fret, Mr. Devons. Thetonadores a love match. How about a drink to celebrate?” he asked, as he pulled a cord, summoning a servant.
Chapter Thirty-Six
Diana frowned asshe stepped out of the carriage. She’d always wanted to visit the Den but hadn’t brought it up to Sebastian yet. They’d been preoccupied with their news. Yesterday, Wescott gave Sebastian his blessing, and this morning, Diana explained to Robert that he hoped to be a permanent part of their lives.
The joy that had crossed her son’s face caused her great sadness and happiness. The sadness came from knowing Robert didn’t really remember his father. Stuart had not been far from her mind lately. She missed him but knew he would be happy that Diana found love again with Sebastian.
A butler approached her and bowed. “Lady Hensley, Lord and Lady Derry are waiting inside.”
She nodded and followed him in. As she stepped inside, the building had an opulent small foyer, leading to a massive grand hall. It was as if the foyer was made intentionally small to highlight the staggering size of the next room. The grand hall was empty except for the marquess and marchioness. The butler said, “Lord and Lady Derry, Lady Hensley has arrived.”
Diana knew both as her sister was married to Lady Derry’s brother, but they were no more than acquaintances. Lord Derry nodded to the butler. “Thank you, Donahue.”
“I appreciate the invitation to tour the Den, Lord and Lady Derry.”
Lady Derry beamed at her. “Please, you must call me Sophia and my husband Malcolm. We are to be family.”
Warmth coursed through Diana at her kind words. “Thank you.”
Malcolm sighed and his wife frowned at him. Diana wasn’t sure what to make of the two of them. “Is something amiss?”
“My husband would like to speak with you, but first, we want to show you this place.”
Diana nodded. “Of course.”
Malcolm looked around as if to see where to go first. “We shall start on the second floor that overlooks the grand hall.”
Diana followed Malcolm and Sophia up a grand stairway, leading to a second-floor landing, running the length of the massive room. The view of the grand hall from the second floor was breathtaking. It was clear this was the spot where Sebastian and his brother watched over their business. It was a kingdom they’d created with great care.
“It’s stunning,” Diana said.
Malcolm nodded. “It is. While Sebastian and I created all of this together, it was his vision and determination that made it the best gentlemen’s club in all of London.”
Diana turned to him. “Why do you want me to know this?”
“First, let’s finish the tour, and then I will explain.”
Sophia squeezed her arm. “Let him show you.”
Diana nodded.
A few hours later, she sat with Malcolm and Sophia in an expansive study. They’d walked through the entire building and the grounds that housed several decadent cottages used for liaisons by lords and ladies. Malcolm handed her and Sophia a glass of wine before taking a seat in a wingback chair while holding a brandy for himself.
“Thank you for letting me walk you through the club.”
Diana frowned. “I only wish Sebastian would have joined us. Does he know we are here?”
Malcolm sighed. “No. I asked you here, specifically, without him. He is planning to sell his shares in the Den.”
