by Vanessa Lee
She smiled at him, and every ounce of emotion that she felt for him was written clearly on her face. “I love you, Darren. I always will.”
He leaned down and kissed her hard and quick. “You are damn right.” Kissing her once more, he rose from the bed. “Rest now. There is much to celebrate when you are well.”
Darren sat watching her until she drifted off to sleep. Justine had fallen asleep with a peaceful smile on her face. Darren grinned. He would have the rest of his life to make her happy. He would see to it. His beautiful wife had healed every part of him. She had saved him from the worst of his demons. He was lucky to have her love, and he was going to treasure hers, for all eternity.
Epilogue
The party at Hawley Manor was a lively one. Darren and Justine Wellington were surrounded by all of their friends and family, once more. Everyone had heard about Justine’s close call and they were relieved that she was alright. How very alright she was. The lady in question was happily chatting with her husband, who appeared to be doting on her with much adoration and affection. Everyone agreed that they had never seen a more happy and in love couple, with the exception of Nicholas Wellington and his wife Erica.
The Duke of Eastham had brought along their two new charges, Tommy and Emma. The siblings were settling in well at the Wellington estate, and just as Nick had predicted, they had become like family. Well, they would be needing plenty of practice, Nick thought, looking tenderly at his wife. She caught his gaze and gave him a smile that heated his entire body.
Justine’s mother, Lady Serena, and her Aunt Lydia and Aunt Penelope were chatting gaily with Countess Agnes Richardson. The women had met at Justine and Darren’s wedding and had formed a delicate acquaintance. The Countess was likely relating some delicious gossip that she had read about in the dailies that morning.
General Benjamin Fletcher was speaking with Sir Linnus on some matter and were deep in conversation. The General was doing most of the talking. Linnus looked inclined to listen. He was also keeping a sharp eye on his daughters, Genevieve and Anastacia. One never knew what might happen at a social affair if one was not watching his daughters. His new business partner was proof of that. Not that he could complain. His partnership with Nick was the best thing that had ever happened to his business.
The Duke of Eastham suddenly called for everyone’s attention. When the entire party had quieted, Nick pulled his wife to stand next to him. He wrapped his arm around her and said, “Dear friends and family, we are gathered here today to celebrate the life of my dear sister-in-law, Justine.” He waited until the applause and cheering died down. “My sweet sister,” he said to Justine, “My wife and I have been so happy to have you in our lives. You are a blessing to this family and we are so pleased you will continue to be in our lives for a long time to come.”
Justine raised her glass to him in acknowledgement.
“In going with the theme of continuing the Wellington blood line, my wife and I have an announcement to make. Lady Erica and I are with child.”
Delighted gasps rose up from the crowd. Sir Linnus looked as though he was going to faint. The General wacked him on the back and took out two cigars from his pocket, offering one to the man.
Darren made his way to where his brother was standing and embraced him enthusiastically.
“Congratulations, brother!” he said. Reaching over to treat his sister-in-law to a more gentle hug, he said, “Congratulations, my dear sister.”
Smiling widely, Erica accepted his hug. “Thank you, Darren!”
She received a hug from Justine, next. “Oh, this is the most wonderful news!” she exclaimed. “I am so very happy for you.”
“Well, our son or daughter will need a cousin. You and Darren should catch up!”
Darren and Nick laughed. “I like the way you think, dear sister,” Darren said, and winked at Justine.
Gavin Thorpe made his way to them. “Congratulations!” he said to Nick and Erica.
Nick shook his hand, “Thank you, friend. It is your turn now. Have any of these smashing young ladies caught your eye, this afternoon?”
Laughing, Gavin said, “One or two of them. It is far too early to know if they are a perfect match, however.”
Darren pulled Justine close to him and smiled down into her happy face. “Don’t wait too long. Your perfect match may be right under your nose.”
“Yes well, one day soon I will wed. And until then,” he raised his glass at them and went to mingle.
Darren took his wife’s chin in his hand, holding her in his gaze. “You look happy, my love.”
“I am happy. You make me happy.”
Darren kissed her. It was a hot, deep kiss of longing and promise.
Laughing, Nick said to Erica, “Apparently we will have a cousin for our little one sooner than we thought.”
Darren pulled away from Justine and smiled. Soon, he thought. Very soon.
Watch for Gavin & Honor’s story in the upcoming novel,
"A Bride by Necessity”
About the Author
Vanessa Lee is the author of The Bride series, which includes A Bride by Morning, A Bride by Arrangement & A Bride by Necessity. Having developed a love of romance novels at an early age, she started writing as a hobby, and now shares her stories with the world. From North Central Massachusetts, Ms. Lee has a background in Finance and enjoys cooking, traveling, spending time with friends & family, and relaxing with a glass of wine at the end of the day.
If you would like to send Ms. Lee a message, please feel free to email her at: [email protected]