Page 87 of Landen

Sliding his weak,battered body off her, he gathered her up against him, cradling hergently.

“I guess it wasdifferent because we are now married.” She finally whisperedinto his chest.

A chuckle escaped himas he stroked her back soothingly. “Are you saying what I thinkyou are saying?”

“Hmm.”She was so sated and content just to be in his arms that nothing elsemattered. “We are legal now, so the lovemaking is moreintense.”

“Is thatright?”

“Hmm.”

“I suppose Ihave to agree with you.” Tucking his hand under her chin, hestudied the slumberous eyes. “I adore you, Mrs. Chapman.”

“I thought Iwould get to be Lady Chapman.”

His laughter echoedaround the room. “Is that a title you would want?”

“It might.”

“We will seeabout getting you one,” he promised as his lips claimed hersagain.

*****

Their son, NoahGeorge, was born on a blustery day in February. His proud father andgrandparents were gathered around the cot, staring at the beautifulbaby with ink-black hair and a creamy complexion.

“He has thosebeautiful hazel eyes.” Lady Margaret Chapman murmured in anemotional voice as she stared at her grandson. “He isperfect.”

“He is.”Her husband agreed gruffly.

Two days later, shewas sent home with her healthy baby boy.

“Now that wehave gotten rid of my parents, my sister, and her husband, we arefinally alone.” Wrapping his hands around her waist, he stoodthere staring at the miracle they had created together. “Have Itold you how much I adore you?”

“Not since thismorning. Are you taking me for granted?”

“Never.”His arms tightened around her waist. “Thank you for what youhave done for me. For my son, for loving me and giving me hope.”

Turning his arms, shewrapped her arms around his neck. “You are most welcome,darling.”

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