She could not imagine what it would be like to lose a beloved family member. Luckily, her parents and sisters enjoyed robust health, but she knew things could change in an instant. With no definitive direction to her life at the moment, she was planning on going to London in the Spring with her mother and sister. Perhaps they could even convince her father to join them this year. Sir Owen Wilson didn’t care for London, but he might relent, especially since he’d want to make sure that Serena made a good match.
The suddenness of Noah’s family tragedy made her all the more anxious to be settled into her own home. How long would it be before she learned anything more? She could only assume Emma or Mr. Walker would let her know if something else happened with Noah’s family. She was so wrapped up in her thoughts that she didn’t immediately notice when Cecily walked into the parlor.
“Good morning, Bett,” Cecily said. “You look quite lovely this morning.”
Bett looked up. “Thank you. How are you faring today?”
“Quite uncomfortable today. I don’t know how I will endure this for another month. I waddle around and hardly sleep at night.”
“I can only sympathize. But remember, at the end of this, you’ll be holding a precious child in your arms.”
“Oh, Bett. You’re absolutely right. Thank you. You always know how to comfort me.”
“Would you like me to ring for tea?” Bett asked.
“No. Seems I must use the necessary much more lately, and tea will only add to those trips.”
Cecily started to sit on the sofa, and Bett jumped up and held her arm as Cecily lowered herself.
“Oh my, that wasn’t very graceful, I’m afraid. Thank you for helping me. I don’t know what I’d do without you.”
“Of course. Is there anything else I can do to make you a little more comfortable? Perhaps a pillow behind your back, or I could help you swing your legs around so that we may prop them up?”
Cecily shook her head, but then a strange look crossed her face. “No. I’m f—”
Bett immediately noticed the horrified look on her sister-in-law’s face. “Cecily, what’s the matter?”
Tears began to stream down Cecily’s face. “Oh, Bett. I’m so embarrassed. I think I’ve soiled myself.”
“There’s no need to feel embarrassed with me. Come, let me help you to your bedchamber,” Bett said, grabbing Cecily’s hands to help pull her up. Once she was standing, Bett noticed the back of Cecily’s gown was soaked through.
“I’m so sorry you have to see me like this. I don’t know what happened. Usually, I can make it to the necessary in time.”
As Bett walked with her to the staircase, Cecily doubled over and groaned.
“Cecily, I don’t think you’ve merely soiled yourself. If I’m not mistaken, your child has decided it’s time to be born.”
Cecily straightened, delight crossing her face. “You think so?”
“I do.”
“But, it’s too early. The babe is not supposed to come for another month,” Cecily cried.
“Cecily, babies come on their own schedule. Let me take you to your maid to help you change, and then I’ll find Peter to let him know.”
There was no more talking, as the contractions seemed to come on with a vengeance every few minutes. By the time they made it to Cecily’s bedchamber, she could barely walk.
“Fitzwilliam, Lady Williams needs assistance!” Bett called out urgently.
The lady’s maid peeked out from the dressing room. “My lady, what’s the matter? Are you well?”
“The babe is coming,” Cecily said, panting between contractions.
Fitzwilliam quickly leapt into action, turning down the bed and helping Cecily out of her wet dress and into a night dress.
“Fitzy, it hurts so much,” Cecily cried. “Why does it hurt so?”
“I know, my lady. That’s the nature of having a babe, but soon, you’ll have your precious child. You must remain strong.”
