“Every word.”
She took two steps toward him. “It’s just that I’ve always worried I am the princess you accused me of being. That I don’t know how to put my own wants aside to—”
“Abby.” He sat up, his feet coming to the floor, the blankets falling away, completely naked. “I understand why you don’t like the nickname, Abby, it’s what your father calls you. But I hope you’ll let me use it. It’s just, I’ve never been close enough to anyone to warrant that sort of affection.”
She nodded as she took another step toward him.
“And I’ll call you Princess for the rest of our lives because you’re the most wonderful woman I know. I was wrong about you being spoiled. You are so giving, and so loving, and you’ve taught me what it means to love and—”
She didn’t let him finish. She didn’t need any more words. With one movement, she pulled her night rail over her head and started toward him.
He opened his arms and she fell into his embrace, both of them tumbling backward on the bed.
His mouth captured hers in a searing kiss even as her legs spread, straddling his hips.
In one movement he was inside her, their bodies joined.
Abigail moaned to feel him filling her in the most satisfying way.
His hands came to her backside, holding them together in a way that made them both groan in pleasure.
“Chad,” she gasped as she slid up his staff and then took him back inside her. “I love you too, so very much. I can’t believe we found love out of an arranged—”
He kissed her long and hard. “I always thought you were the most beautiful woman I’d ever seen. From the moment I saw you at your sister’s wedding, I knew I’d never forget you.”
Her fingers played out on the hard muscles of his chest. “Really?” Then she kissed him again. “I remembered you too. You made me nervous. Now I realize that I wanted to touch you.”
He rolled them, still in her and pushed inside her again. “Touch away, my princess. I’m yours to do whatever you wish with.”
She wound her hands about his neck. “Kiss me.”
He did. Again and again.
She loved this man. The one who’d made her feel worthy of love.
Epilogue
Eight months later…
Abigail sat in the drawing room of her home she shared with her husband. They’d stayed in the country, not bothering to return to London.
Well that wasn’t true. They’d returned for a few quick visits to take care of club business but had decided the country was where they’d spend most of their time. It suited them…
But she missed her family and so, they’d all come to Kent.
Her three sisters sat on a settee together, while Avery had taken the seat next to Abigail.
“Look at us. Married women.” Avery smiled, her eyes twinkling with a light that Abigail had never seen before. She reached for her cousin’s hand, giving it a squeeze. She was so happy for her.
“A few of us are even expecting…” And Eliza gave a pointed glance at Isabella’s stomach.
Isabella placed a protective hand over her belly, a blush creeping into her cheeks. “Bash is beyond thrilled. I’m excited too but also…nervous.”
Abigail gave her sister a wink. The truth was she’d also missed her monthly courses for the past two months, but it was too soon to know for certain and she didn’t wish to take away from Isabella.
A sentiment that Chad said was very admirable but unnecessary. Her sisters would want to know.
“When is the baby due?” Emily asked, giving a small clap.