‘What are we going to do instead?’ She felt that greediness open up inside her. Having Elias all to herself was such a treat.
‘We’re taking some leisure time. We’re going to lunch at your favourite restaurant and later, when Lily gets home, we’re taking the jet somewhere warm and sunny for our babymoon.’
Her jaw dropped. ‘Babymoon?’
He looked smug. ‘A little break before the baby arrives. I have plans for us to take a few, actually.’
‘A few?’ She giggled. ‘You really did guess my secret.’
‘Uh-huh.’ He leaned closer. ‘Are you okay with the idea?’
She nodded. She was very okay with it.
‘But first I’m going to pamper youpersonally.’
‘Oh?’ she murmured. ‘That sounds good.’
His wolfish smile flashed. ‘I thought so.’
Making love to her husband was the most luscious thing in the world. How had she ever thought he was controlled and unemotional? When he breathed his vows to her she wrapped herself around him like a limpet. He choked, a little laugh, a cry of such relief in the ecstasy they shared, and the bliss that then flooded through her was enhanced all the more.
And later, when she was sleepy all over again, she laced her fingers through his and marvelled at all they’d built together.
‘Lily has her place in the world. She’s surrounded by people who love her,’ she mumbled dreamily. Together they were like a net—holding her in security and love and with strength in their unity. It was everything she’d ever wanted for the girl. And for herself. She rolled to face him as her emotions wobbled out of control again. ‘And so am I.’
‘Yes.’ He brushed back her hair and his smile was lopsided. ‘We love you. So very much.’
She knew. She believed him. And she loved him right back.
‘I didn’t think I would ever be this lucky,’ she breathed.
‘I know. But it’s not luck,’ he said. ‘You deserve it, Darcie. We all do.’ His lips curved. ‘Even me.’
She smiled tremulously, accepting it all and adoring the fact that he did, too.
Love had won.