Page 45 of Every Rake Has A Silver Lining

Mrs. Beckham’s gaze shot to Charlotte. “I just shooed him out.”

“The other duke. Ashton is a physician, but he’s also a duke.”

With a chuckle, Mrs. Beckham said, “The best for the best. You are all the oddest group of nobles I’ve ever met.” As if realizing how her statement might appear, the woman’s face whitened, and her eyes locked on Charlotte’s. “I didn’t mean any disrespect.”

Charlotte shook her head. “None taken, Mrs. Beckham.”

“Perhaps you might call me Judith, or someday, Mother.”

Aware how Honoria watched her with Mrs. Beckham—Judith—her green eyes shining with interest, Charlotte forced a smile. “Of course, Judith. I should be honored. Although I pray you will give me time to call you Mother.”

Beatific peacefulness shone on Honoria’s face. She actually radiated beauty. “I’m so glad you have a loving family now.”

A strand of Charlotte’s hair swung loose, and Honoria grasped the end with her fingers. “Your hair looks lovely like this. Now I understand why Drake likes mine down.” She smiled shyly. “Is all going well with Simon?”

Charlotte grappled for an answer—especially with her mother-in-law present.

Unexpectedly, Honoria’s grip on Charlotte’s hand became crushing. Pain contorted her face as she lifted her head and cried out. “Oh, here’s another one!”

“Breathe through it, Your Grace. Deep breath in and blow out.”

“Honoria,” Honoria said through her moans of pain. “Not. A time. For. Formalities.”

Something tight and uncomfortable rose in Charlotte’s throat. Is this why Simon appeared so terrified? Having five younger sisters, he had probably heard his own mother’s cries from the pain of childbirth. But panic and terror wouldn’t help Honoria.

“You can do this, Honoria. You’re one of the strongest people I know.” Charlotte bit her lip as Honoria continued her vise-likegrip on her hand. At last the episode seemed to pass, and Honoria released the pressure on Charlotte’s fingers.

Mrs. Beckham wiped Honoria’s forehead with a wet cloth. “That was a strong one. You’re getting close.”

Charlotte knew little about giving birth, but she’d heard it could take many hours, sometimes a whole day. “Is that normal? She was fine this morning at the wedding.”

Honoria’s chagrined expression said otherwise. “I didn’t want to upset anyone.”

If they had been alone, Charlotte might have told her that it would have been a blessing to have her wedding interrupted and postponed. Instead she remained silent and sent her friend a censorious, but gentle shake of her head.

After a sharp knock, the door opened, and Ashton poked his head inside. “May I come in?”

“Ashton,” Charlotte said and silently added,Thank God.

“Your Grace.” Mrs. Beckham curtsied.

“No offense, madam, but we don’t have time for frivolous courtesies. If you would both excuse me while I examine my patient.”

As he ushered them from the room, Charlotte grabbed his arm. “I know you and my brother Nash had your difficulties, but I’m begging you as Honoria’s friend, please make sure she survives.”

He patted her hand. “Nash and I have mended things. And rest assured, Lady Charlotte. Women have given birth for eons. I will give her the best care possible.”

In the hall, she locked eyes with Simon, somehow now sharing his fear.

Because Honoria wasn’t simply any woman.

Simon had practically worna path in the carpet, walking in circles outside Honoria’s room.

“Will you stop. You’re making me more nervous.” Drake ran a hand through his hair. “Thank God, Ashton is here.”

“Get used to it, son.” His father chuckled.

Simon wasn’t sure if he addressed him or Drake. Perhaps both of them. But unlike Drake—who most certainly would have a houseful of children—at the rate Simon was progressing with Charlotte, he would be lucky to produce one.

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