Page 65 of Maid for the Marquess

“I have not upset you with my story?” I queried.

“No, Alexander. It is part of your life, and I want to know everything. I am sad to hear how your father treated you and of that woman’s careless disregard for your feelings, but I am pleased you told me.” She colored prettily again. “Especially since I know you love me as you do.”

I leaned forward and kissed her. “I do, my love. I do.”

CHAPTER 18

ALEXANDER

Afew days later, I sat across from my wife, breaking our fast. She wore a pretty morning gown in a pale blue, gathered under her breasts, the material flowing over the small mound of her belly. I loved touching it, cupping my hand over the growing swell, anxious to feel its movement, although Maddie had informed me it would be a while before that occurred. She looked further along than she was, due to her small stature, and I could only imagine how appealing she would be as she blossomed.

Her hair was up, tendrils escaping around her ears and neck, the small ringlets bright in the morning sun. I loved her curls, and when I heard her and Lydia bemoaning the fact that they could never get them to behave, I informed them I liked it when they escaped. I found them charming and beguiling.

Much like my wife.

She was eating slowly, methodically—the way she liked to do. Enjoying every morsel. I knew she’d been denied so much for so long, and I enjoyed watching her savor her food.

I simply liked watching her, if the truth be told.

She looked up, coloring slightly at my stare.

“Sir?” she asked, impertinent and demanding. “Might I ask what you are so boldly looking at?”

I smiled as I set down my cup. “You, my wife. I am boldly looking at you and enjoying your beauty. You are glowing this morning.” I refilled my cup, the aroma of the strong coffee I liked so much rich in my nose. “Perhaps you have had a good morning so far? I know I have enjoyed it immensely.”

Her eyes rounded, knowing I was referring to our earlier lovemaking. I had woken this morning to her mouth around me, pleasuring me in ways I had never fathomed she would. She had licked and sucked my length, taking me to the back of her throat before I had reluctantly cried surrender, wanting to be inside her cunny when I reached my crisis.

After, she had ridden me, finding her pleasure quickly, then again moments later as I spent inside her. She collapsed on my chest, exhausted and slipping back into sleep for a short time. I had held her, content to let her rest, pondering how quickly she had become paramount in my life.

She blinked, her cheeks darkening. “How imprudent you are,” she admonished with a smile playing on her lips.

“Only for you, my sweet.”

“I would think so,” she replied cheekily with a toss of her head, causing her curls to bounce.

“Would you enjoy a picnic today, Maddie mine?” I asked. “It is supposed to be fine all afternoon.”

“Do you have time?” she asked eagerly.

“I can make time for you. Perhaps by the brook again. I’ll have a footman take a comfortable chair down under the shade of the trees.” I winked at her. “Perhaps I can persuade you to swim with me today.”

She looked away, the color extending down her neck and to her ears. I had tried to convince her to shed her clothing and join me in the cool water of the brook once. She had looked scandalized, refusing my invitation, but I had a feeling she was curious. Perhaps today was the day I could coax her. I could show her how pleasurable the water could be.

“How brazen you are today,” she murmured primly, taking a small sip of her tea—but she did not refuse my idea.

Just then, Edward strode in, looking anxious. He glanced toward Maddie, offering her a quick bow. “My lady. Forgive the interruption.”

“We were planning our day,” I said firmly. “We can speak shortly.” Whatever it was could wait. A roof needing repair or a dispatch could be handled quickly so I could be with my wife.

But Maddie was ever the lady and frowned my way before looking to Edward.

“What is it?” she asked. “You look upset.”

“There is a situation,” he replied. “A serious one.”

“Pray, then do tell,” I insisted.

He glanced toward Maddie, then leaned close, lowering his voice.