Dare I ask how you were received?”
“Warily, at first. Then somewhat belligerently.” His eyebrow quirked. “But my reception improved markedly, once I extended the invitation to a dinner party with my aunt.”
A rueful smile curved Sophia’s lips. Yes, that would be her parents’ reaction. They’d dine with the Devil himself, if a duchess were in attendance. “They are dreadful, aren’t they?”
He shrugged. “Isn’t everyone’s family? I doubt your father and I will ever be great friends, but we did discover one interest in common.”
“What’s that?”
“You.” Strong fingers cupped her chin. “We both want to see you happy. We both love you.”
For a moment, Sophia did not trust herself to speak. Relief and joy swelled within her, until there was room for nothing else.
His lips brushed hers in a gentle kiss. “Am I forgiven, for not telling you first?”
Yes, yes. Forgiven, cherished, treasured, adored. Loved, beyond reason.
“I suppose,” she said coyly, tracing the line of his jaw with her fingertips. “So long as you will extend me the same forgiveness.”
“Why?” His eyes narrowed. “Have you been keeping secrets again?”
“Just one.” Smiling, she took his hand and pressed it meaningfully against her gently rounded abdomen. “A very, very tiny one.

Autore: Tessa Dare