Page 113 of The Duke's Unclaimed Bride
“Oh…” Tilly murmured, taking the daisy chain back.
Edith beamed as she watched them working together. Tilly’s little hands worked diligently to fix her mistakes, and eventually, she had a chain of daisies.
“It’s a flower crown!” she squealed.
“Well done.” Edith beamed.
“It’s for Mama,” Tilly said, placing it on Edith’s head.
Edith’s heart melted. She adjusted the flower crown. “It’s beautiful, Tilly.”
The little girl’s smile widened.
“You did so well,” Laurence praised, hugging her tightly. He kissed the top of her head and then looked at Edith. “Do you think it’s time to tell her?”
“Tell me what?” Tilly asked, looking between them.
“Tilly,” Laurence began gently. “There’s something we need to talk to you about.”
“What is it?” Tilly asked. Her expression shifted, suddenly looking very anxious.
Laurence stroked her back, trying to soothe her.
“Do you know that the Duchess of Richmond has been growing a baby?” Edith asked.
Tilly nodded. “Yes, she keeps getting bigger and bigger,” she mumbled.
“Tilly…” Laurence chuckled. “That is not how you refer to a lady in Her Grace’s condition.”
“It’s still true.” Tilly pouted.
“In any event,” Edith piped up, “how would you feel if we told you that I was going to grow a baby?”
Tilly’s eyes widened. “I could have a baby brother or sister?!” she shrieked.
“Yes.” Edith beamed. “You could. And they could be here in spring.”
“In spring…” Tilly echoed, her eyes filled with wonder. “And I could play games with them?”
“When they’re a little older, yes,” Edith said warmly.
“And we could take them to the duck pond on Richmond Estate?” Tilly asked.
“And to the village near the castle, and to church,” Laurence added.
Tilly giggled and wriggled with excitement. “Yes! Yes! Have a baby!” she demanded.
Edith snorted, and several people around them turned to look.
“Tilly,” Laurence chided gently. “You can’t just shout that out.”
“Why not?” Tilly asked. “I want you to have a baby.”
“The process of making a baby is very private,” Edith explained.
Tilly nodded. “And… have you done it already?” she whispered.
Edith giggled and nodded. “Yes, Tilly. I’m pregnant.”
