“Oh, my son!” Selina cried out dramatically and showered him with kisses while Mary climbed all over Dominic as he sunbathed.
All the adults physically relaxed when they were raided by kisses, laughter, and tiny voices. Austin leaned closer to Deena, his voice low enough so only she could hear.
“Do you want children?” His question surprised her.
“I—do not know. I did not think it possible until…”
“Until me?” Austin looked at her curiously.
Deena pursed her lips and did not answer, but he smirked as if he knew what she meant to say already.
How could she tell him that she felt unworthy to be a mother just as she felt unworthy of being a wife? She truly did not believe that she would ever get married either. It felt impossible for her, and yet it happened. The question was daunting, but as she looked at her niece and nephews, her heart warmed to the idea.
Perhaps…this is possible too.
Your Grace,
I write to you with gratitude I cannot fully express.
Penelope is safe because of you and Her Grace. She is recovering well, and her spirits are high. The pregnancy is going well, too. My father, Viscount MacKenna, has gifted us a small estate in the Highlands.
It is a modest home, but it is ours. And you and Her Grace are welcome whenever you wish to visit. We owe you both more than we can ever repay.
With respect,
Edward MacKenna
Austin read the letter twice, warmth settling in his chest. Penelope had been a fragile shadow when he last saw her. Knowing she was safe and happy felt like a victory he hadn’t expected to need. He folded the letter just as Deena entered the breakfast room, her fiery hair was loosely pinned, and her cheeks were still flushed from sleep. She wore a soft muslin gown the color of cream, and the sight of her stole his breath away.
“Good morning,” she said, smiling as she took her seat beside him.
He handed her the letter. “This arrived this morning…for us.”
Her expression fell. “Who is it from?”
Austin knew who she was thinking about, but he gently assured her. “It is nothing bad; it is from Edward and Penelope.”
“Oh!” Deena exclaimed and opened the letter.
Austin watched her read. He noted the way her eyes widened, and her lips parted. He memorized the slow, radiant smile that bloomed across her face. It was a sight he could have stared at for hours.
“Oh, Austin…” she whispered. “I still cannot process that she is safe.Trulysafe.”
“She is,” he said softly.
“And happy.” Her voice trembled with relief. “And they have a home. Everything has worked out for them.”
He noted a hint of sadness in her tone.
“Is everything all right, Dee?” He wanted to reach out for her, but, if he was afraid that one simple touch would unravel them both.
“Yes, everything is fine.” She gave a small smile.
Something is on her mind.
“Do not worry about anything. You are protected.” Austin encouraged her.
It always surprised him how much he was noticing about her.
