Page 100 of A Bargain with the Rakish Duke
Beatrice leaned into him, her head resting on his shoulder. “Oh, just how incredibly fortunate we are to have married such wonderful men,” she replied, her voice soft with affection.
Kenneth pressed a kiss to her temple, his heart swelling with love. “I assure you, my darling, the feeling is entirely mutual.”
Thomas, who had been quietly listening to the conversation, suddenly perked up. “Oh, I almost forgot! I received a letter from Philip the other day. He says he’s planning to return to England soon and for good this time.”
Kenneth raised an eyebrow, surprise and curiosity flashing across his face. “Really? That’s quite the news. Philip has always been such a free spirit, always chasing the next adventure.”
Beatrice looked between the two men, a hint of confusion in her eyes. “Philip? I don’t believe I’ve had the pleasure of meeting him.”
Thomas smiled at her warmly. “Philip is the Duke of Northbridge, an old friend of ours from our school days. He’sbeen traveling the world for the past few years, seeking out new experiences and cultures.”
Kenneth chuckled, shaking his head fondly. “He’s always been a bit of a wanderer, never content to stay in one place for too long. It’s hard to imagine him settling down.”
Thomas nodded, a knowing smile playing on his lips. “Yes, it’s rather intriguing, isn’t it? He hinted that he might have found a reason to settle down, but he didn’t elaborate.”
Beatrice’s curiosity was piqued. “A reason to settle down? How mysterious! I wonder what, or perhaps who, could have captured his heart.”
Catherine grinned, bouncing little George in her arms. “Perhaps he’s found his own Beatrice, someone who makes him want to put down roots and build a life together.”
Beatrice blushed, glancing up at Kenneth with a tender smile. “If that’s the case, then I wish him all the happiness in the world. There’s nothing quite like finding the love of your life.”
As the conversation continued, Beatrice found herself growing increasingly uncomfortable. A wave of nausea washed over her, and she felt a sudden need to return home.
“Kenneth,” she said softly, placing a hand on his arm, “would you mind if we found a coach and returned to the townhouse? I’m feeling a bit unwell.”
Kenneth furrowed his brow in concern, and he immediately turned to face her, his hands grasping her shoulders. “Of course, my love. What’s wrong? Are you ill? Should we call for a doctor?”
Beatrice shook her head, a small, exasperated smile tugging at her lips. “No, no, I don’t think that’s necessary. I just need to rest for a bit.”
But Kenneth was not to be dissuaded. He fussed over her, his hands fluttering around her as if she were made of glass.
“Are you sure? Perhaps we should have you examined, just to be safe. I won’t take any chances with your health.”
Beatrice sighed, her patience wearing thin. “Kenneth, really, I’m fine. I just need to?—”
But he cut her off, his voice rising with anxiety. “No, I insist. We’ll send for the doctor as soon as we return home. I won’t have you falling ill on my watch.”
Beatrice’s temper flared, her frustration boiling over. “Kenneth, stop! I’m not ill, I’m pregnant!”
A stunned silence fell over the group, everyone staring at Beatrice with wide, surprised eyes.
Kenneth’s mouth fell open.
“Pregnant?” he whispered, his voice trembling with emotion. “You’re… we’re going to have a baby?”
Beatrice nodded, her anger melting away at the look of pure joy on her husband’s face. “Yes, my love. We’re going to be parents.”
Kenneth let out a whoop of delight, swooping her up into his arms and twirling her around. “A baby! Oh, Beatrice, this is the most wonderful news!”
The others gathered around them, offering their congratulations and well wishes.
Catherine hugged Beatrice tightly, tears of happiness shining in her eyes. “I’m so thrilled for you both,” she said softly. “You’re going to be amazing parents.”
As the news sank in, as the reality of their impending parenthood settled over them, Beatrice and Kenneth found themselves lost in each other’s eyes, their hearts full to bursting with love and anticipation.
“I love you,” Kenneth murmured, his hand resting gently on Beatrice’s still-flat stomach. “I love you both more than I ever thought possible.”
Beatrice smiled, her own eyes glistening with tears of joy. “And we love you, Kenneth. You’re going to be the most wonderful father.”
