Epilogue
Dalkeith Castle, Scotland
One year later…
Lainey smiled up at Julian as they stepped outside to greet the carriage coming down the drive.
“Are you warm enough?” he asked as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Is our little prince warm enough?”
Julian had taken to marriage and fatherhood in the same way he took to most things, with a great amount of worry. Lainey knew it was the way he cared for those he loved and didn’t mind having to reassure him.
“We are fine.”
She placed a kiss on their son’s head. Wee Bentley had been born in Egypt in February and, much to their relief, was an intrepid traveler. Julian called him their little prince as he’d been born in the Valley of the Gods. And despite his promise to the duke, they named him after Ben since he claimed the man was the true hero.
“I don’t recall it being so chilly in Scotland in May,” Julian said and rubbed her arm. “I’ve grown as weary of the cold as Ben.”
Julian’s former valet had stayed behind for this visit, but had sent a letter that he’d found a bit of treasure in a preserved papyrus.
The carriage stopped and before the coachman could open the door, Aunt Rose was hopping down and bustling up the stairs.
“Oh, there he is. My great nephew.” She turned to yell over her shoulder. “Henry, you must see how precious he is.”
“I’m coming, love. I prefer not to jump from the carriage while it’s still moving.”
“Let us go inside so no one takes a chill,” Julian suggested.
When their guests were seated in the drawing room by the fire, and Aunt Rose was holding baby Ben, Julian stood behind Lainey and wrapped his arms around her waist before leaning down to press a kiss by her ear.
“Perhaps we could sneak away while they’re all distracted,” she whispered causing him to laugh.
Years ago, that sound had broken her, and set her heart to anger and vengeance. But now, it was treasured proof of her husband’s happiness.
“As much as I would like to do just that, I’d also like to stay here a moment longer and enjoy being part of a loving family.”
She leaned back to kiss him and he squeezed her tighter.
It was still a mystery to her why his father had been unable to love this very loveable man. Fortunately, Julian had no issues showing his love for her or their child.
She often wished the rotten man could see Julian now and know how happy he was despite the old earl’s plans. Julian rarely ever spoke of his father. Perhaps that was the best revenge. Allowing the man’s memory to drift away into nothing.
“I have basked in this happy moment enough for now,” Julian said. “Let us give the grandparents time with their grandson, shall we?” He took her hand to lead her toward the stairs. “I don’t know if anyone has ever told you how convenient it is to kiss someone of your height.” He gave a saucy wink. “Among other things.”
Enjoy an excerpt from Tempting Her Viscount!