A Wallflower's Bloom

Chapter 30: The Honeymoon

The Honeymoon

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the bustling streets of London, Thomas and Penelope bid farewell to their wedding guests at Northumberland House and departed for Alnwick Castle, their carriage trundling through the cobbled streets as they left the city behind.

Inside the carriage, Penelope leaned against Thomas' shoulder, her hand clasped in his as they journeyed towards their honeymoon destination. The soft glow of the lanterns illuminated their faces, casting a warm and intimate ambiance as they shared in quiet conversation.

Thomas whispered, his voice barely above a murmur. "Can you believe that we're finally married?"

Penelope turned to him with a radiant smile, her eyes sparkling with happiness. "It still feels like a dream." She admitted, her voice filled with wonder. "But I could not be happier to be your wife, Thomas."

Duke Thomas Debling reached out to caress Penelope's cheek tenderly, his touch sending shivers of delight down her spine. "And I, my dear duchess, could not be more blessed to have you by my side." He replied, his voice filled with sincerity.

As the carriage rumbled on, Penelope and Thomas continued to share tender kisses and whispered words of love, savoring the quiet moments of intimacy and connection. Thomas restrained himself into taking his wife at the carriage as he wants their first time to be spent at the comfort of their bed. But having Penelope by his arms, kissing her plump lips, and the warmth of her touch makes him aroused causing pain to his throbbing member.

As the carriage rolled through the grand gates of Alnwick Castle, Penelope and Thomas were greeted by the majestic sight of their official home. The imposing structure loomed before them, its stone walls standing as a testament to centuries of history and tradition.

As they stepped down from the carriage, the two were greeted with warm smiles and respectful bows from the staff. Jefferson, the main butler, approached them with a welcoming demeanor, followed closely by Mary, the housekeeper, and the rest of the household staff.

"Welcome home, your Grace, your Grace." Jefferson said with a deep bow. "We are delighted to have you both here at Alnwick Castle."

Mary stepped forward, her face beaming with joy. "Indeed, we have been eagerly awaiting your arrival, my lady." She said, turning towards Penelope, their new Duchess. "Please allow us to show you to your chambers so you may refresh yourselves after your journey."

Penelope and Thomas followed the staff to their own separate chambers, where a luxurious bath had been prepared for them. The warm water was a welcome relief after the long journey from London, and Penelope sighed with contentment as she sank into the fragrant bubbles.

After dressing in fresh clothing, Penelope and Thomas made their way to the main dining hall, where a sumptuous meal awaited them. The table was set with fine China and gleaming silverware, and the air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of roast vegetables and savory dishes.

Over dinner, Thomas regaled Penelope with tales of the history of Alnwick Castle, pointing out various points of interest and sharing anecdotes from his childhood spent within its walls. Penelope listened with rapt attention, her eyes sparkling with interest and wonder.

After their meal, Thomas suggested a tour of the estate, and Penelope eagerly agreed. Hand in hand, they explored the opulent drawing rooms, the cozy study rooms for each of them and the vast library filled with ancient tomes and treasured volumes.

Finally, Thomas led Penelope to their shared bedchambers, where a large comfortable bed awaited them. As they stood together in the dim light of the flickering candles, Penelope felt a surge of gratitude and love for the man standing beside her.