Page 57 of Regency in Color

It was past midnight that Mary finally trudged to the bedroom. After using a cloth and water from the basin to wash up, she slid on her nightgown. Unsure how long it would be before Thomas joined her, she settled into a chair with her journal.

The candlelight dance across her paper as she noted her thoughts. Lips curving, she did her best to describe the wedding just as the door opened.

Thomas entered and neared to press a kiss to her lips. “It was a long day,” he said. “You shouldn’t have waited up for me.”

Mary bit her bottom lip. Was Thomas not to be like Mr. Yarnsby and not seek her in bed that night?

“We’ve barely spoken today. I wished to see you alone...” she gave up and stood. “You’re right, I should let you rest.”

Thomas took her shoulders and gave her a playful look. “I will rest, but not until after I thoroughly ravish my beautiful wife.”

* * *

Mary was intriguedthat each time they made love, it was so very different. She wondered if the lovemaking would depend on their mood.

This time, they took turns, overtaking one another. Thomas taught her how to be in control, to come over him and take him. Although a bit tentative at first, the exciting sensation soon removed her inhibitions.

Much later as they lay on the bed, she with her leg across his midsection and head on his shoulder, Mary listened to his even breathing.

He barely moved when she rose up and straightened his arm. Then she pulled the blankets over them and nestled against his warmth.

Three months later...

The sound of birdsong alerted Mary it was time to rise. The sun was not quite up over the horizon yet as she finished dressing and hurried into their small kitchen. Thomas, who looked to have been up for a while, was fully dressed and sat at the table drinking tea.

In the mornings, they ate breakfast at the main house every day. The new cook was wonderful. To everyone’s delight, she’d trained with the Humphries’ cook in London, so was familiar with the family favorites.

“We are spoiled,” Mary said, nearing and kissing Thomas on the jaw. “To not have to cook our meals before our duties begin.”

Thomas nodded. “I agree.” His warm gaze moving over her. “If I recall, you and Mrs. Yarnsby will be gone most of the day today.”

A large group had booked the estate for a family gathering and Vivian insisted on attending at least one event to ensure everyone felt welcome.

So far, the venture was turning out quite well, the staff at the estate barely having time to clean and organize everything before the next group arrived.

“I look forward to going, although it is a family who thrives on melodrama,” Mary said with a chuckle. “Be prepared for entertaining stories upon my return.”

Just as they were to head out, they spotted a small carriage arriving. Mary immediately recognized the Yarnsby emblem on the door and knew who it was.

Lady Yarnsby.

It was a rare visit since Mr. Yarnsby’s mother, preferred her pampered life in the city. The entire time she visited, the woman spent most of her time complaining of boredom.

“There may be a change in plans,” Thomas said in a dry tone. “Lady Yarnsby must have left in the dark to have arrived this early.

“If I know her, she probably left from a ball and is still in her cups. Hurry,” Mary tugged his arm and they raced to the back entrance of the main house.

“Fix a basket of food for Mrs. Yarnsby and myself, we must leave at once,” Mary called out as she hurried past the startled kitchen staff up the stairs and rapped on Vivian and Alexander’s bedroom door.”

“What’s the matter?” Alexander opened the door and she had to look away as he was shirtless. “Your mother is here.”

“Oh no,” Vivian exclaimed from inside. “Alexander, you must find a way to keep her busy until I can escape.”

Mr. Yarnsby gave Mary a bored look. “Is this necessary? I am sure she will insist on promptly going to bed.”

“Please,” Vivian said taking Mary’s hand and yanking her inside while managing to throw a robe at her husband.

When he staggered away sleepily, both she and Vivian began giggling. “Help me dress. Did you ask Thomas to prepare a carriage?”