Page 125 of An Unwanted Spinster for the Duke

“You’ve definitely gone soft,” Simon said as he leaned close to his friend, his eyes glinting mischievously.

“I’m not denying it,” Dominic grumbled.

“I remember when you used to hunt wild boar with your bare hands, or singlehandedly take down three partridges within one hour.”

“I still hunt. I have to get carrots for Perseus.”

“That’s called gathering or gardening, my love,” Marianne reminded him. “He hasn’t looked at a hunting rifle in weeks!” She then kissed his bearded cheek, adding, “You’re certainly my gentle giant. By the way, can you go on a stroll with me? I believe I’m stuffed.”

Simon mouthed, “Soft,” but Dominic did not care. He rose to accompany his wife for whatever stroll she needed.

“I had to get you away from the rest, just for the moment,” she confessed once they were out of earshot in the gardens.

“I understand. Simon can be annoying,” he said.

“While I am proud of what I’m about to say, I want to tell you first. Just you, for now,” she continued.

“What is it?” he asked, alarmed. “Are you not well?”

“On the contrary,” she replied. “I am very much well. So well that I am healthy enough for the little one I am carrying.”

Her hand gently caressed her still-flat belly.

Dominic reached out in wonder and placed his hand on hers. They rubbed circles.

“Are you telling me what I think you’re telling me?” he asked after a moment.

“Of course, I am! Dominic, we will soon have a child. Are you ready?”

“If I can endure your zoo and mine, of course I am ready for a baby,” he said, blinking back tears.

“Oh, and there’s another thing I need you for,” she whispered, her voice growing husky. He looked into her heavy-lidded eyes and knew what she meant right away. “Because I am carrying a child, I feel more, uh, you know…”

“I believe I know. Can I relieve it anytime soon?”

And he did. Over and over. He let her rise over him, riding him hard as he filled his hands with her full breasts.

She was life. She was everything.

The End?