Page 97 of Maid for the Marquess

I nodded. She laid a hand on my arm. “Remain calm, my lord. For her and the children. Do not let them see you frightened.”

I straightened my shoulders. “Of course not.” I bent and scooped up Maddie, who whimpered. I pressed a kiss to her head. “All will be well, my love. I have you, and you will soon be bringing our child into this world.”

She gasped as another pang hit her. She was correct—it was too fast. I only hoped the midwife came quickly.

“We cannot wait,” Lydia murmured. “I must do this without the midwife.”

“I will help.”

I had not left the room yet. Maddie’s obvious pain was too much for me to leave her. She gripped at my hands during the more painful moments, holding them so hard, I knew her agony had to be great. Edward was keeping the children entertained and busy. I was required here.

Mrs. Dougall spoke. “This is woman’s work, my lord.”

Maddie shook her head wildly, her voice pleading. “Alexander. I need you.”

“And you shall have me.” I looked at Lydia. “Tell me what to do.”

She heaved a sigh and indicated the head of the bed. “Get behind Maddie. Hold her and help her. She needs to push.”

I rolled my shoulders and did as she asked, once again sending a prayer above for the safe passage of my child and the well-being of my wife.

Then I held her close, offering the only thing I could—encouragement and my strength.

“Was it…terrible?” Edward asked.

I shook my head, still trying to put to words what I had witnessed.

“Seeing Maddie in such pain was horrendous, but seeing my child born was a miracle I am still trying to comprehend,” I replied, taking a long draught of brandy. My hands were still shaking.

The midwife had appeared just as the babe was born, and she took over, not blinking an eye at my refusal to leave the bedchamber. I held Maddie and rocked her, soothing her brow with a damp cloth and murmuring my love before a small bundle was placed in my arms.

“Your son, my lord.”

I looked down at the red-faced little boy. Fat and wrinkly, he was one of the most beautiful things I had ever seen. Carefully, I handed him to Maddie.

“My love,” I whispered. “What a gift you have given me. Look at our son.”

She smiled, exhausted and pale but more beautiful than ever.

Shortly thereafter, I was escorted from the room and turned over to Edward. Mrs. Dougall took the children to the kitchen, promising tarts. I assured them their mother was resting and they could see her shortly.

“Have you chosen a name?” he asked.

“We have. He shall be called Edward Thomas.” I paused. “After one of the greatest men I know.”

He blinked. “Alexander. I am at a loss for words.”

“I pray he follows in your example. We would like you and Lydia to be godparents.” I requested.

He reached out and grabbed my hand. “I would be proud.”

“Thank you.”

Lydia appeared, looking tired but happy. “Maddie wishes to see you now.”

I drank the last of my brandy and set down the glass, anxious to return to her.

As I passed Lydia, I paused. “Thank you,” I stated sincerely. “You are the epitome of friendship to Maddie. To us both.”