A Dorset Girl

by Janet Woods

  He gazed sternly at her. ‘You do understand that you can’t take in every child who is orphaned, don’t you? As it is, we’re going to start married life with five children to care for.’

  A wide grin spread across her face. ‘Don’t look so horribly fierce about it. Be warned, as soon as possible I intend to present you with a son, then there will be six. He can grow up with Ashley for companionship and you can teach him to be a fine doctor, like yourself.’

  He pulled her against his body, murmuring with a grin. ‘Now we have a wedding date I’m almost tempted to get some practice in for this son of ours.’

  Her breath chuckled against his ear, making him shiver. ‘Make your mind up to this, Doctor Matheson. Once I have you in my bed you will not escape easily. Now, as you pointed out earlier, you are expected at the infirmary. So, be gone.’

  ‘So I am.’ They sprang apart, laughing as a knock came on the door and Siana told whoever it was to enter.

  Rosie came in carrying a large bowl and a jug of water.

  ‘Leave them on the table, I’ll bathe her myself,’ Siana said, seeing him to the door. She was about to give him a chaste peck on the cheek when he gave a chuckle and swept her into his arms.

  When he was finished kissing her entirely to his satisfaction, he strode off, laughing inside as she stood there, hot-faced and flustered.

  Rosie was grinning from ear to ear when Siana turned towards the child. She couldn’t quite meet her eyes. ‘Indeed, I don’t know what came over Doctor Matheson,’ she said, fanning her face with her hand.

  ‘Looks like he might be a lusty fella, the doctor, with the pair of you always kissing in corners where you think you can’t be seen.’

  Siana tried not to grin. ‘You think so?’

  ‘Stands to reason, don’t it? Since his wife died he ain’t had time for a woman, until he sets eyes on you – or so I hears.’ She lowered her voice. ‘Built like a stud bull, too, but I supposed you’m noticed it.’

  ‘Rosie!’ Siana said, half in protest, half in laughter. She wouldn’t have taken this familiarity from any other servant. But Rosie had been her maid since her first marriage, and had become her confidante and ally in her transformation from peasant girl to lady. ‘You should not say such things.’

  ‘‘Tis only the truth. You’ll be walking around with a smile on your face from the word go. Now, when’s the wedding going to be?’

  ‘The first day of spring. And he doesn’t mind about me keeping Marigold.’

  ‘Have you told him you want him to move into the manor?’

  She shrugged. ‘I’m sure he won’t mind.’

  Rosie’s look was measured. ‘Best you ask him soon, with the wedding so close. The doctor has his pride. He’ll want to provide for his wife and children himself.’

  Siana promised herself she would ask him as soon as possible. After all, what objections could Francis possibly have to moving into Cheverton Manor?