Her Wicked Proposal novel Chapter 66

Had it only been two weeks since Anne had married Cedric? How was it even possible that she could know such happiness in such a short time? Life with Cedric had settled into a perfect rhythm. They did so much together: dining, playing, lovemaking. Long conversations would end wrapped in one another's arms, forgetting what they had even been talking about. Each day brought new discoveries as they explored each other's bodies and souls. It was almost inconceivable to believe she could be this happy.

Anne lounged back in Cedric's bed. Their bed. She'd ceased sleeping in her own chamber. She surveyed the mess they'd made of the bedroom this time. Clothes hung from every surface. She giggled. They'd been a little too enthusiastic in their latest bout of lovemaking. Cedric lay sprawled out on his stomach, naked and uncaring. His eyes were closed, one arm tucked under his pillow, the other curled around her waist.

"What are you laughing about?" His voice was heavy with sleep.

"Us. I'm afraid your valet will be distressed at the new mess we've made."

"A few wrinkled shirts and trousers won't distress the fellow. He is glad to see me happy."

Anne rested one of her palms over his arm about her waist. "And before the accident? You were unhappy then?"

Cedric's sigh told her everything. "Somewhat. Ever since my parents died...it has been hard. I was close to them. There was so much love in our house. My parents were a love match, you see. To lose the life they brought to..." Cedric was unable to continue.

"We don't have to talk about this."

Cedric looked toward her. "No. I need to. It's why you affect me, Anne. What I feel for you, it's what my father felt for my mother. Love matches are rare in our world. What I mean to say is that you are mine, Anne. My love match. I need you, all of you, forever."

He sat up in the bed and tugged her close, so their hips touched and he could curl his arms around her.

"I want children, lots of them. I want us to sit at afternoon tea years from now, surrounded by laughter and grandchildren. I want to be with you when we are old, when life has finally given us peace. These last few weeks have been such a gift." He rubbed his hands on her back, their loving touch so full of gentleness that Anne couldn't resist leaning into him for a kiss. Cedric moved in at the same time she did, embracing her in his arms. Their mouths met, brushing lightly, then shifted into a deeper, lingering kiss that left her weak. With a smothered laugh, she fell back as he tipped her back on the bed and settled into the cradle of her hips.