Page 102 of Tempted By the English Marquis
“What did you say?” whispered Clifford. He took hold of Gideon’s coat sleeve. The look of hope on his father’s face made all those horrid days of him having been sea sick onboard the ship to and from Italy worth it.
“Mama is waiting in the carriage in the mews. She wasn’t sure as to whether to come in or not. I told her she was being . . .”
He barely had time to step out of the way as Clifford dashed past him and out the door. The thump of ducal boots echoed through the hallway.
A soft kiss touched Gideon’s cheek, and Serafina whispered, “Do I take it from your father’s reaction that he thinks that is good news?”
Gideon towed her over to the window and they pressed their faces against the glass. Outside in the rear yard, the duke dashed across the cobblestones. When he got to the travel coach, he flung open the door and then disappeared inside.
Gideon held his breath.
The door opened once more, and his father climbed out. He turned and picked up the duchess, slinging her over his shoulder. A cry of “Oh, Clifford!” came from Lady Anne.
Tears rolled freely down Gideon’s cheeks as Clifford marched back inside the house, carrying his wife. Servants gathered around the coach and began to unload the luggage.
Gideon drew his own wife into his arms, smiling as she brushed away his tears. “Yes, Serafina my love, it is a most excellent sign. Don’t be surprised if my parents are not seen outside of their private apartment for several days. I expect they have a lot of catching up to do.”
Serafina’s cheeks turned a rose pink, but her blush was accompanied by one of her sweet smiles. His wife knew exactly what that smile of hers did to him and Gideon grinned.
“Well then, perhaps we should follow the example of our elders. Show me to our bedroom, Lord Holwell. If I like it, I might be tempted to linger there with you for an hour or so,” she said.
Gideon took hold of Serafina’s hand and led her to the door. If he played his cards right, the rest of the day would be spent with her in bed. “If there is one thing, I do know about you, Lady Holwell, it’s that you can always be tempted by this English marquis.”
