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“Hmm” She sank into his kiss

“E to hear her affirmation

She laughed, and he could see the awareness dawn in her eyes of the feminine power she held over them

“I will think about it”

She shrieked as Max started to tickle her underar and jubilant, stealing into his heart He could feel the echoes of Max’s love and obvious joy in her happiness

“Yes, yes,” she conceded, shouting with laughter “I will ht and wonder evident in her tone

Life would change for them all, Marcellus conceded They both had her love, this wo to accept the pleasures they could give her, the lifestyle they would lead, and the love they had for her He would marry her, and he and Maxould ensure she was always cherished and loved This woman of their heart

Christmas Eve

Merriment danced on the air Christs of “Silent Night” filtered through the crowd, its rendition so beautiful and poignant Ehtened

It seee had turned out for the ball Chatter and joyous laughter had been pealing through Willow Lake’s rounds for hours Fresh-cut red and white roses scattered about with hundreds of slow on the snow and lake The place felt enchanted

The dinner itself had been splendid Mrs Bough, the head cook, and their staff had outdone themselves in the preparation of the ers had eaten meat The duchess had ensured the dinner was a veritable feast There were several platters of roasted rib of Hereford beef, roasted Yorkshire turkey, roasted joints of pork, cured s served with nuthted, and the aiety There had been no reservation as the villagers entry and their families, and the duke and his fa in the ballroom Some had retired to the card areas, but everyone was entertained in some manner

“You look ravishing,” Marcellus murmured at her nape “Happy”

Ehed and leaned into his chest She did feel happy, blessed Between him and Maxwell, she felt like a rare treasure

“I love seeing everyone so cheerful I feel as if we are healing”

He pressed a fleeting kiss along her neck, and she shivered