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Maisie giggled and clutched Yvette’s hand.

“I can’t wait to meet Aaron. Do you think he’ll like me?”

Yvette smiled. “I’m certain he will.”

With Fiona following behind them, her lilac gown equally stunning, the three women made their way outside, where Killian was waiting by the carriage.

Yvette’s breath hitched the moment her eyes landed on him. He stood tall and imposing, his dark coat perfectly tailored to his broad shoulders.

The morning sun seemed to play across his features, emphasizing the sharpness of his jawline and the striking color of his eyes. He appeared every bit the dignified duke, but there was an undeniable warmth in his expression as his gaze met hers.

Killian’s lips curved into a faint smile as she approached.

“Ye’re breathtaking this morning,wife,” he said, his brogue slipping out, deep and soft.

Her cheeks flushed instantly, the compliment catching her off guard.

“Thank you,” she murmured, her voice barely audible. She hesitated before placing her hand in his, feeling the rough strength of his palm as he helped her into the carriage.

“Ye’re welcome,” Killian replied, his tone light but his gaze lingering on her a moment longer.

Once Yvette was seated, Killian turned to assist Fiona and then Maisie. Fiona caught Yvette’s flustered expression and smirked knowingly, but Yvette avoided her gaze, focusing instead on the view outside the window.

As the carriage moved away, the journey to Yvette’s family’s townhouse began in comfortable silence. Maisie occasionally chattered, her excitement evident, while Fiona responded with indulgent smiles. Yvette, however, found herself lost in thought.

She hadn’t returned to her childhood home since her marriage to Killian. A part of her had dreaded this day, fearing that setting foot on familiar grounds would resurrect memories she had tried so hard to bury.

But to her surprise, as they neared the estate, a wave of nostalgia washed over her instead of dread.

The grand stone manor came into view, its walls standing tall against the vibrant greenery of the surrounding gardens. Yvette’s heart fluttered with anticipation as the carriage came to a halt.

The moment the door opened, she stepped out without waiting for assistance, eager to see her family. Edward was already waiting on the steps, his arms crossed and a teasing grin on his face.

“Finally, you made it,” he called out as she approached. “I half expected you to get lost on the way!”

Yvette laughed as she embraced him. “You’re hopeless, brother.”

He pulled back, studying her for a moment.

“I suppose marriage hasn’t completely changed you.”

“Not entirely,” Yvette replied with a playful smile before turning to greet Georgiana, Edward’s wife.

“Welcome home, Yvette,” Georgiana said warmly, pulling her into a hug.

Maisie’s delighted squeal drew everyone’s attention as the introductions were made with pleasantries exchanged. She had spotted Aaron, and immediately ran toward him.

“Oh, you’re so cute!” Maisie exclaimed, pulling Aaron into an enthusiastic hug.

The adults chuckled at the children’s antics as Edward motioned for everyone to head inside.

“Come on, then. Let’s not keep the cakes waiting.”

Inside, the house was filled with warmth and familiarity, something Yvette never remembered feeling before in the cold mansion.

The scent of freshly baked scones and lavender wafted through the air as they settled in the sitting room. Edward and Killian lingered behind the women, engaged in light conversation, while Maisie and Aaron began playing with wooden toys in the corner, a wide smile on Maisie’s lips as she served Aaron.

“So, Fiona, how has the Season been for you? Any gentlemen caught your eye?” Georgiana turned to Fiona with a curious smile, while they sat for tea.