Had Ben not believed her when she told him about the marriage? The rumor wasn't anything he wasn't already aware of, at least not what she'd heard. Perhaps some other version also included more details than even she was privy to. Melody was somewhat convinced her mother was the one spreading the gossip as a way to elevate the wedding event. Her father couldn't very well skimp on the wedding if society's eyes were pointed directly in their direction.

Before she could expand on any of it, Ben noticed how frigid it was outside. "Thank you." Seated and wrapped in his jacket, Melody stared up at him wondering if this was a dream. Ben had discarded her for years, but suddenly the notion of her getting married was enough for him to pay closer attention? Discreetly, she pinched the palm of her hand. So this wasn't a dream. What in Merlin's beard were they doing here, then?

"He's some American, Mr. ---. The announcement will be in the papers next week or the week after. The wedding is set for sometime in March, I think. Honestly, I haven't been included in much of the planning thus far." It was only her wedding, why would she be included at all?

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