Inherited by Ferranti

‘Sierra?’ His voice floated up the stairs and Sierra called back.

‘I’m in the nursery.’

Grinning, Marco appeared in the doorway, his warm glance resting on the gentle swell of Sierra’s bump. They were expecting a baby girl in just over three months—a new generation, a wonderful way to redeem the past and forge a future together.

‘You’re feeling all right?’ he asked as he came towards her.

Laughing, she shook her head. ‘You don’t have to coddle me, Marco.’

‘I want to coddle you.’ He slid his arms around her, resting his hands over her bump. She laced her fingers with his, savouring his gentle touch.

That had been another mountain to climb: forcing her fears back and trusting in Marco’s love and goodness. And he’d been so good, so gentle and patient with her in so many ways. It had taken her a few years before she felt brave enough to start a family, to trust Marco not only with her own heart but the heart of their child’s.

The reality of their baby, their joined flesh, had made their marriage all the stronger. Sierra had never looked back.

As if agreeing with her, their baby kicked beneath their joined hands. Marco laughed softly. ‘I felt that one.’

‘She’s a strong one,’ Sierra answered with a little laugh and leaned her head back against Marco’s shoulder.

‘Just like her mother, then,’ Marco said, and kissed her.