Alexander shook his head. “But that is just it. I have not decided anything for her. I left in such a rush to be with you that I did not get the opportunity to truly discover if it is like us, or if it is Alain taking advantage.”
“You know him well. Do you think that is something he would do?”
Frowning, he said, “No, I do not. I suppose I was taken off guard having been so distracted by you, and then when you witnessed it, I became even more confused.”
Though she was sure he did not mean it that way, a little part of her felt like he was holding her partly responsible for his reaction. Was that a fair way for either of them to think about it? Probably not, but it did illustrate how important communication was in a relationship.
“Would you like my thoughts?”
“Aye, Marion, I very much would.”
“I think you should talk to them both separately and then together. Hear what they have to say and then make a decision that makes sense once you know all the facts.”
He reached for her and pulled her across to sit on his lap. “How did I become so fortunate to find you?”
She smiled as she stroked his short beard and kissed his forehead. “I do not know, but you must have pleased God in some way.”
Squeezing her thigh, he said, “Oh dear, we are not vain, are we?”
“Not at all. I merely tell the truth,” she said in a teasing tone.
“I am fortunate,” he said. “In all seriousness, I could not have imagined a more perfect partner for me.”
“Nor I, husband,” she said as she slid off his lap to sit beside him. “About Jean, I do have a question.”
“And what is that?”
“Is she still to keep house or will those duties now fall to me? I am not asking to stir anything. I simply wish to know.”
“Do you think I would ever assume you would stir trouble?”
“Nay, I just wanted to say that so you would have no reason to think it.”
“Marion, I have overreacted where your intentions are concerned and I do apologize for it again, but that is not my general opinion of you.”
“I am glad to hear it. I want only the best for us and for your family.”
“I know you do, and I love you for it. They are your family now too.”
The way he said those words made her insides turn to mush. Moving into a new home, even under good circumstances, was a little nerve wracking as she had no idea if she could step up to fill Jean’s responsibilities.
“Are you worried about your new status?” he asked in a soft tone.
“Not really, but maybe a little. I do not want to undermine Jean in any way as I have come to think of her as a friend in the short time I have known her. Maybe she enjoys running the castle. I would not wish to take that from her.”
“When I speak with her about Alain, I will ask her. Is that satisfactory?”
“Aye, Alexander, that is perfect, and I thank you for supporting me.”
She could understand that it would be awkward for him and her really if she was to be a countess and the responsibilities for running the castle remained with his sister, but she did not want to arrive and then put the place in upheaval.
“All will be well,” he said and squeezed her hand.
She hoped so. They rode the remainder of the way without speaking. Marion was sure Alexander was running through in his mind what he would say to Jean, and she was thinking of what she would say as well. She dearly wanted to remain friends with her new sister and understood these first moments with a new mistress could be delicate.
Before long the carriage stopped, and she drew in a deep breath. Hundreds of butterflies were loosed in her belly as Alexander exited the carriage and then stood by to assist her. She stepped out onto the stone walkway and was immediately embraced by Jean.
To Marion’s relief, the woman whispered, “I am so very glad you have returned.”
