Chapter 24
Chapter Twenty-Four
Edmund rode home, feeling better than he had in ages. The feeling of restlessness that had assailed him since he’d broken off with Daisy was completely gone.
He looked forward to seeing his son if only to tell him that he would see Daisy again.
He knew he wasn’t the only one suffering from her absence.
The carriage came to a stop, and he jumped out, not waiting for the coachman to open the door for him.
He took the stairs two at a time and opened the door on his own.
Stepping into the house, he noted how well lighted it was as compared to Daisy’s home.
I cannot wait to get her out of there.
“Papa!”
He looked up and saw Harry standing on the stairs, looking at him in surprise. He began to descend slowly, supporting himself on the banister. “Where have you been?”
“I’m sorry I went out without telling you. I had something urgent to do.”
“Oh.” Harry walked up and hugged him. “I looked for you in your study, but you weren’t there.”
“I was out.”
Harry nodded. “I wanted you to read to me before bed.”
Edmund smiled. “Of course.” He bent down and picked up his son. “Let us adjourn to your nursery.”
Harry put his hand around Edmund’s neck, smiling widely. His cheeks were rosy with happiness. Edmund watched him with regret. It had been almost a month since he’d read to Harry.
I’ve really been negligent.
He tightened his hold on Harry as they ascended all three floors to his nursery. It took the entire length of the third floor. There was his bed chamber, which was divided into his bedroom, bathing space, school room and then a roomful of toys where he could play to his heart’s content.
Edmund wondered if he and Daisy would have more children and how that might change things with Harry. He lowered his son to his feet and then squatted down so they were the same height.
“Harry? I have something to tell you.”
Harry looked intently at him. “What is it?”
“Well, you remember Daisy?”
Harry’s eyes lit up. “Of course! I miss her. Is she coming to visit?”
“In a way…how would you feel if I were to marry her?”
Harry gasped, giving a little jump. “Marry Lady Daisy?”
“Yes.”
Harry screamed in joy, making Edmund smile ruefully.
“I see you like the idea,” he said.
Harry nodded energetically. “I do.”
Edmund nodded. “Good. Now come put on your night clothes and I shall fetch a book from your toy room.”
“All right, Papa.” Harry skipped away towards his closet.
He’s going to need a valet soon.
Edmund chuckled to himself. His son was growing up.