Page 50 of When She Was a Governess
“I agree,” Georgiana said. “I am still learning new things about my husband, the former rogue.”
“Is that true, my love?” James asked, eyes sparkling with humor. “I think I have told you all my stories.”
“I have a feeling there are several I do not wish to hear.” Georgiana pretended to shudder, smiling.
“Nor I,” Sophia said. “There are certain things a sister does not want to know.”
Everyone laughed as the door opened and Lucy entered with Amelia. The child wore a pale pink dress with white ribbons, her chubby cheeks rosy and blue eyes bright.
“Papa, I’m here.” She ran straight to him, and Henry caught her up, settling her on his hip with an ease that would have been unthinkable a week ago. “Are you ready to meet your new family?”
Amelia nodded, suddenly shy, pressing her face into Henry’s shoulder.
“It’s all right. They’re very nice. This is your Aunt Rose.” He turned so Amelia could see Rose, whose face had melted into pure tenderness.
“Oh, she’s precious,” Rose breathed. “Hello, Amelia. I’m so happy to meet you.”
Amelia peeked out, considering. “You’re pretty.”
Rose laughed, clearly delighted. “Thank you. So are you.”
“And this is your Uncle Sebastian.” Henry moved to where Sebastian stood. The Duke smiled, transforming his serious face into something almost gentle.
“Hello, Amelia. I’ve heard a lot about you,” Sebastian said.
“I can count to ten,” Amelia announced, clearly gaining confidence.
“Can you? That’s very impressive,” Sebastian said.
“And this is your Uncle James and Aunt Georgiana.” Henry turned to the other couple. James’s intense expression had softened considerably at the sight of Amelia, while Georgiana’s usual composure had cracked into a genuine smile.
“Hello, little one,” James said. His voice, usually so sharp with questions and skepticism, was warm. “What do you like to do here at Montrose Manor?”
“Outside smelling flowers. Going to watch the waves.” Amelia’s small hand patted Henry’s cheek. “Papa saw my crab. And we found shells.”
“Did you?” Georgiana moved closer. “I love shells. Perhaps you could show me sometime?”
“Yes.” Amelia squirmed to be put down. The moment her feet touched the floor, she ran to Sophia. “Mama, can I show Aunt Georgiana my shells?”
Henry watched Sophia’s face transform as she pulled Amelia onto her lap. “Of course, love. Tomorrow, perhaps. Right now it’s almost time for bed.”
“But I’m not tired,” Amelia protested, even as she yawned.
“That yawn suggests otherwise.” Sophia smoothed the child’s curls. “Say goodnight to everyone. Lucy will take you up for your supper.”
Amelia made a circuit of the room, saying solemn goodnights to each person. When she reached Henry, she threw her arms around his legs. “Goodnight, Papa. I love you.”
The words, so simply said, melted him. “I love you too, dear one. Sleep well.”
After Lucy had taken Amelia away, an odd silence settled over the room. Had they noticed Amelia calling Sophia “Mama?” And him “Papa?”
“She’s adorable,” Rose said finally. “And she seems quite pleased with her new situation. Sophia, when did she start calling you Mama?”
“After I explained to her that I was to marry Henry.” Sophia took a sip of sherry. “She’s remarkably adaptable. It didn’t seem to phase her at all. She asked if she could call me Mama and Henry Papa and that was that.”
“Isn’t that something?” Rose asked. “Children are so special. I wish we could all remain so trusting and innocent.”
“Well.” Sebastian set down his glass. “It is a blessing how it’s all come to be. The three of you need one another.”
