Page 38 of How to Best a Marquess

Grace lowered her cup, angling her face at Ellie. “Good luck at the Raven, Ellie. I wish I could be there to watch you work.”

“You taught me all I know about the ledgers. I’ll forever be grateful.” Ellie kissed Grace on the cheek and rested a hand on her stomach. Her eyes widened as she felt a flutter of movement beneath her palm. “My niece or nephew is quite active.”

Grace’s lips curved. “Ian wants a girl, but I think it’s a boy.”

For a stabbing instant, trepidation returned and queasiness churned her stomach. She feared for Grace. And Ian.

Sweet lord, Ian couldn’t lose Grace. He would be devastated. His guilt would be overwhelming. Nothing Ellie could do would be able to help him. Her brother would be tossed into an ocean of despair so deep, she didn’t think he’d return. It would be worse than when Matthew died. Much worse. Grace was his soul mate, the love of his life, the woman who saved him from a life of loneliness and reckless behavior. Ian had only known the Raven Club and believed the casino was all he’d needed in life. Until Grace had walked into his office and insisted on paying off her father’s debts and demanding Ian refuse her sire membership and a seat at the tables.

Ellie forced a smile. No sense letting Grace see her fears.

All would be well.

It had to be. The alternative was unthinkable. God couldn’t be that cruel, could he?

Ellie picked up the empty tray and turned to leave.

“One more thing,” Grace called out.

Ellie hesitated, her hand grazing the door handle. “Yes?”

“Keep in mind what I said about the marquess. From what I discerned, he wants more than just to win the club.”