Passion at the Castle Read Free

“You’re both lucky to have each other. Not many marriages last anymore. You’re truly blessed.”
    Susan nodded. “You’re right. It’s not easy holding a marriage together. Fortunately, we found a way that helps us keep things”—she paused and smiled at her husband—“lively and fun.”
    “Oh? I’d love to hear how you do it.” Gwen bit into a piece of pineapple.
    Jonathan lifted his drink. “What are you doing this evening?”
    “I don’t have any plans.”
    “Have a drink with us in the bar tonight and we’ll fill you in on our secret to a lasting marriage.” Susan took a bite of her food.
    Gwen shifted her gaze between them. “Oh, I don’t want to interrupt your—”
    “Nonsense.” Jonathan set his glass down. “We want you to join us. Please. We’ll have a good time, the three of us.”
    “You must come.” Susan insisted with pleading eyes.
    “Okay. I’ll join you for drinks and you can share this secret with me.”
    Susan nearly jumped from her seat. “Excellent. Oh, I’m so excited. We’re going to have a great time.”
    Gwen sat quietly while the couple continued to eat. Curiosity chewed at her and she wondered what it was that kept Susan and Jonathan together. In any event, Gwen was glad to be in their company. They were as friendly as could be. If she guessed right, spending time with them would undoubtedly make her stay at the castle more memorable.
     

Chapter Two
     
     
     
    Gwen stepped into the bar at about quarter to five. She’d arrived early only because if she’d returned to her room to change and freshen up she knew she would be late to meet Susan and Jonathan. She hoped they wouldn’t mind her wearing the same spring dress from when they’d first met in the morning. The two guided tours she’d taken during the day had left her with little time to do anything else. Her feet were tired from walking so much, but she’d seen amazing parts of the castle grounds, inside and out, and learned a vast amount about the history of the building and surrounding area.
    She strolled into the heart of the establishment and headed for the bar. Several glass doors overlooked a large stone patio. Light spilled in from the windows and illuminated the room. The bar ran half the length of one of the walls on the side. Liquor bottles sat on shelves behind the bartenders’ work area. Square tables in the centre of the room offered guests more seating options. After Gwen had passed a group of men drinking beers at one of the tables, she spotted Jonathan and Susan sitting at the bar at the back, near the patio doors. A quick appraisal revealed they were wearing the same clothes from earlier as well. She wondered if they’d had a busy day too.
    Jonathan turned slightly to face his wife as he lifted a martini. His gaze met Gwen’s and he set the glass on the counter. “Our new American friend has arrived.”
    Susan twisted on the stool. When she saw Gwen, she clapped softly and jumped from her seat. “Ooh, you made it. We’re so glad you decided to join us again.”
    Gwen sat at the vacant spot next to Susan. “Have you been here long?”
    “Only ten minutes.” Susan gestured for the bartender. “What would you like to drink?”
    Gwen glanced at Susan’s tall glass in front of her. It looked like wine. “Whatever you’re having.”
    As Susan gave the order to the bartender, Jonathan leaned past his wife and over the counter. “Did you have a good day, Gwen?”
    “I did. I took a couple of tours of the inside and outside of the castle, including the stables. This place is huge and I haven’t even had a chance to visit the gardens yet.”
    The server placed a glass of wine before Gwen. “Thank you,” she told him.
    “Did you learn a lot about the castle?” Susan lifted her drink.
    “Yes. The guide knew the history of Dromoland very well. My daughters would love this place, especially Krystal. She loves historical sites and architecture.
    Susan swallowed. “Tell us more