Page 90 of Maid for the Marquess

I grinned, lowering my head to hers and pressing a kiss to her sweet mouth. “What fun would that be, my wife? I think you like me just as I am.”

She had smiled. That beautiful, wide smile she had only for me. “I do.”

I glanced down, seeing she was asleep. Her eyelashes rested on her skin that was slightly rosy from the sun today. I ran a hand over her head, feeling the silk of her hair. Liking how she relaxed against me, knowing I would keep her safe. I rested my hand on her stomach, pleased to know it wasn’t the only place she was growing. She was no longer thin and malnourished-looking. Her skin glowed, her hair was luxurious, and her body had filled out well. Add in her condition, and she was glorious.

I finished my brandy and carefully lifted her from my lap. My arm pulled a little, but it wasn’t overly painful and I ignored it.

I sat her on the bed, carefully divesting her of the pretty silk gown and laid her down. She slept through the entire happening, obviously more tired than she allowed me to see.

I stretched out beside her, smiling as she rolled into place with her head in the crook of my neck and her arm flung over my chest. I lay in the dark, the stars outside bright in the night sky. I was thankful for this day. For every day. Perhaps more aware now of how precious they were.

Then I slept.

CHAPTER 25

ALEXANDER

Three days later, I strode into the library, taking note of the cheery blaze in the fireplace. Maddie was on the chaise, reclining against pillows, a blanket draped over her feet. She was staring out the window at the stormy sky, heavy with rain. It had begun to cloud over the day before, and my farmers predicted it would last for a few days. Lydia was in the window seat, looking despondent. I had a feeling it was due to the fact that Edward was in London on a task for me. He had looked rather grim when he departed the day before, his mouth turned down in an unfamiliar frown. He usually enjoyed the missions I sent him on, but then again, he’d never left behind someone he cared for.

They looked up as I entered, Lydia immediately standing. Maddie held out her hand. I took it, kissing the palm and holding it to my face. “Are you well, my love? You look sad.”

“No, I am fine. The weather is gloomy and makes me somewhat melancholy.”

“Edward has sent word he has arrived and will conclude his business swiftly.” I glanced at Lydia. “He plans to return as soon as possible.”

She smiled, looking pleased.

“Would you be so kind as to fetch tea, Lydia? I should like a moment with my wife.”

She departed quickly, leaving me with Maddie. I sat beside her, and she watched me with a confused frown. “Is something wrong?”

I stroked her cheek. “No, Maddie mine, but I am pleased you regarded me so calmly and without worry when asking that question.”

“I know you would never hurt me.”

“No, I wouldn’t. I would rather cut off my own arm than to cause you pain.”

“Yet, you look serious. Something is amiss, I fear?” she asked.

I set the small bundle I was carrying on her lap. “These were given to me.”

“From?”

“Geraldine. They were your mother’s.”

She eyed them with caution. “How did she come to have them in her possession?”

“She stole them from the baron’s desk. They are how he discovered he was not your father. Geraldine felt they should be in your possession, not his. I thought you might like to read them.”

“Have you already done so?”

“Yes. There is a great love story there of your true father. And many thoughts of your mother on her love for you. Even fondness for the baron. Your mother seemed to be of a determined nature, wanting to find the good everywhere.” I touched her cheek. “Much like you, my sweet. You take after her in many ways.”

“I wish I could remember her face clearly,” she whispered.

I opened the bundle and handed her the small portrait. She inhaled sharply, staring at it, tracing her mother’s features with a trembling finger.

“You resemble her very much.”