Page 109 of The Miracle of Love
She nodded. “But they can be bribed to keep quiet. James can be bought for a shilling and a cherry tart. The girls will settle for ribbons and ginger cake.”
“Done. I know when I am defeated.” He sent the children off again to fetch cakes for him, then turned serious a moment later. “I’ll talk to Wooton now that he has had a few months to calm down. I think he will agree for Richard to be sent into exile. Your parents won’t be happy, but surely your brother will appreciate regaining his freedom, albeit outside of England. He will eventually be permitted to return since he is heir to your father and will inherit the viscountcy on his passing. He’s forfeited the baronial title inherited from his mother’s side, though.”
She nodded. “I did not think His Majesty would allow him to go unscathed. It is small punishment considering all he’s done.”
“If he does get a new start in life, hopefully he will not muck it up. But he’ll have to change his ways. He cannot revert to his old habits. I doubt there is anything anyone can do for him if he does.”
Later that night, they climbed into bed together.
Deklan held her in his arms.
He slept without clothes, but Grace had not overcome her shyness and wore a thin nightgown over her luscious body. He was not going to coax it off her or make love to her because of her delicate condition.
She would likely punch his shoulder if he dared call her delicate, but he could not help feeling overwhelmed and wanting to protect her and their child. Was this not the time she would need him most?
He knew she had spirit and determination, had taken on the care of her siblings and become involved with charitable work in Brighton. Some people had even started referring to her as the little duchess because she and the Duchess of Dunfell often worked on these charitable endeavors together.
She did not need him to hover over her and treat her like a fragile flower, but she was the sweetest wife any man could have and he wished he could protect her from all the ills, all the stupidity, all the hurt in the world.
“Did you see your Aunt Miranda when you were in London?”
He nodded. “Of course. Miranda first, then His Majesty and Wooton.”
Her eyes lit up with mirth. “And what does she say aboutThe Book of Love? Has the family decided on who gets it next?”
“Not yet. She’s handed it over to Sophie Farthingale for safekeeping until the next victim comes along.”
“There are no victims here, only fortunate men whose eyes are opened to love. So no one yet?”
“No, sweetheart.” He arched an eyebrow as he studied her. “Do you have someone in mind?”
“Yes…no…not really. He is married already and miserable about it, but I do not think the book works that way.”
“Who are you talking about?”
“You will think my brains utterly scrambled if I tell you. But I’ve met him at the Duchess of Dunfell’s several times now. He never says a disparaging word about his wife, but you can see the misery reflected in his eyes. I am speaking of the Earl of Somerset.”
“Genevieve’s husband? Grace, keep away from that pair. She will eat you alive if you interfere in their marriage.”
“I have no intention of interfering. She is back in London with her society friends. He is here in Brighton at his country estate. I think he was already unhappy with his choice of wife before that incident at the Pavilion Hotel. The scene she and her cousin Velda caused merely confirmed his worst fears. Well, it is too bad. He is rather a nice man, but I would never wish ill on his wife. Never. All I am saying is that if he is ever free to marry again, I would like to give him that book.”
“Should I be jealous of him? You seem to have become quite friendly with Somerset.”
“No, good gracious. I am in the arms of the only man I ever want. I’ve found my love match and now you are stuck with me forever.”
“That is no chore for me, love.”
She kissed him lightly on the lips. “I am so proud of you, of the man you are and the sacrifices you quietly make to keep us all safe. There is no one better, and I am certain our children will feel the same. By the way, I know it is too early to be sure, but I think there are two sets of feet kicking inside me.”
He gasped. “Grace…truly?”
“Yes, I am sure we will have twins to add to our family come October.”
He laughed wholeheartedly. “Two baby leopards?”
“Yes, isn’t it just grand?”
“It certainly is, love.” He gave a low growl and nuzzled her neck. “We’ll have to make room for them in our leopard tree.”
The End
