A picture of the three of them as a family once again formed in his mind.
She paced again, waving her arms as she spoke. Was it possible his Jeanne was nervous?
“I’ve thought about what to do with grandpère’s money. I want to use most of it to hire someone to find my brother. Even if he’s no longer living, I want to find out what happened to him. And with the rest, I thought I would find a small comfortable place to live near the Bartlett estate. I should be able to live comfortably, if I’m careful.”
Robert waited until she paused. “Are you quite finished?”
She bit her lip and nodded.
He stepped toward her. “I can’t think of a better woman to care for Andrew than you. I’m honored that you wish to help me raise him. But there is one adjustment I would like to make to your proposal.”
“A-a-adjustment?”
“I agree Andrew needs a mother as well as a father. I don’t remember my mother; she died when I was quite small. If Andrew is in need of a mother’s hand, perhaps I am, too. I need someone to provide some gentleness to my life. Someone who understands my shortcomings and is willing to take me to task when I don’t treat another person with due respect. Someone who will bring warmth and beauty to my rather drab existence.” He watched her carefully as he added, “Perhaps we could agree to a partnership.”
Her eyes narrowed. “What sort of partnership?”
He stepped even closer, and a tinge of scarlet blossomed on her cheeks, but she didn’t back away. So she’s not averse to idea. He grew bolder. “A very… close partnership. One that might require a visit to the vicar.”
She blessed him with a tremulous smile. “A legal partnership, Mr. Townley?”
“Absolutely. I believe Andrew might benefit from learning to cooperate and look after some younger children. Besides, he’d likely get lonely if he’s the only child in the house.”
Her smile widened. “Undoubtedly. Er, when would this partnership begin?”
One more step, and they were nearly abreast. Her eyes sparkled, and he knew he wanted to gaze into them for the rest of his life. “As soon as the banns can be read. If it’s agreeable to you.”
Just before their lips met, he heard her breathless, “Oh yes.”
About the Author
In a previous life, Patricia Kiyono taught elementary school students by day and changed diapers at night. Now she teaches college students part time and changes diapers only when she’s taking care of grandkids. She loves to do anything that doesn’t involve exercise. Right now her favorite activities, in addition to writing, include scrapbooking, sewing, and making music. She and her husband live in southwest Michigan, near their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
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The Patricia Kiyono Christmas Collection Page 37