Page 76 of Signed, Sealed, Married

‘And you’re not in love?’

His brother-in-law’s mouth turned down. ‘It’s not so simple. I’m well now, but asking someone to take a chance on that long term—’

‘That’swhat’s holding you back? Gisèle and I couldn’t work out what was wrong. Noemie won’t talk about it.’

Julien looked outraged. ‘You’ve asked her?’

‘Gisèle did. Her advice was that if you didn’t commit soon she should walk away. But your girlfriend refused to push. She said you needed time.’

‘She did?’

Adam’s mouth twitched at his brother-in-law’s expression, the firming jaw and hopeful light in his eyes.

‘She did. But we wonder how long she’ll be patient. You’ve seen the way that new advertising exec looks at her, haven’t you? You don’t want to wait too long.’

Adam knew the executive in question hadn’t left Angela’s side since the party began. He’d have to have a word to his sister about leaving broken hearts behind when she returned to Australia.

But it was enough to stir Julien into action. He clapped Adam on the shoulder. ‘You’re a good man, Adam. I’m glad to call you brother.’

Adam was surprised at the rush of warmth he felt at the words. The pair had worked together for a year, though Adam’s role in Fontaine’s was advisory only. In that time they’d become close, but Julien’s hard-won friendship meant a lot. He smiled as he watched the Frenchman cross the terrace to Noemie.

‘What are you up to?’ whispered a familiar voice.

An arm slid around his waist and he pulled Gisèle close, kissing her cheek.

‘Nudging your brother in the right direction.’

‘You clever man! I thought he’d never make his move.’

Adam nuzzled Gisèle’s throat, finding that spot at the base of her neck where she was sensitive. She shivered and leaned close. He slipped his hand between them, palm to her abdomen, excitement rising.

‘Shall we tell them tonight?’

Her eyes locked on his and Adam felt himself fall into those bright blue depths. ‘Would you mind if we kept it our special secret for now? You know they’ll all fuss.’

‘Whatever you like, sweetheart.’ Adam wanted to shout their news to the world. But sharing it with the one woman who meant everything to him was the greatest blessing of his life. ‘I love you, my beautiful wife. Have I told you that?’

She laughed. ‘Frequently. And I love you.’

When she looked at him like that he couldn’t resist. His mouth found hers and they kissed with all the tenderness and pent-up passion that characterised their marriage.

Finally Adam lifted his head, aware that the buzz of conversation had quietened. Most guests were still chatting but his mother and sister, and Julien and Noemie, were looking their way, expressions arrested.

He made to lift his palm from Gisèle’s flat stomach, but stopped as she placed her hand over his.

She sighed. ‘It looks like our secret’s out.’

‘Do you mind?’

Her expression made his heart roll over. ‘How can I mind? I’m the happiest woman in France.’

Adam lifted their joined hands and kissed her palm, drawing in the scent of orange blossom and gorgeous woman. ‘And I’m the happiest man in the world.’

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