Epilogue

EPILOGUE

One Year Later

"Oh, George, look, he's walking!" Arabella exclaimed; her hands pressed together in excitement. Having just recently turned one year of age, Charles was shaping up to be a complete mischief, and was dogged constantly by his shadow, their first born, Samuel. At eleven months old, Samuel was their constant joy, trying to do everything his older brother did.

A beautiful autumn day, George had the staff set up a picnic lunch for them out in the garden, not knowing how many more lovely days would be had until the chill of winter made outside fun impossible again.

With the two boys playing off to one side, Arabella knew it was time to talk with George.

"George, Christmas will be here before we know it."

"True." He nodded absently, watching the boys.

"I thought, perhaps, just this once, I might give you your gift a little bit earlier?"

"Really?" He looked across at her, his face lined with curiosity.

"George," taking his hand in hers, Arabella leant closer to George, close enough to whisper. "Our family is set to grow again," she placed his hand on her slightly rounded stomach, "in spring, April if my dates are correct."

"Darling, that's marvellous!" George grasped her hands in his, love shining from his eyes. "You truly have made me the happiest man on Earth."

"I love you George, always."

"As I love you my darling, forever."

THE END