Page 123 of A Scandal for the Beastly Earl

"Never too many plans."

"What happened to my impulsive wife who dived into lakes?"

"She got pregnant and practical."

"I want her back."

"Too late. You're stuck with responsible me."

"Responsible you is still writing to bankers in bed while wearing my shirt."

His hand moved to her stomach, still flat but somehow different. "Our little grape."

"Our future criminal mastermind."

"Don't say that."

"Thistle's influence is inevitable."

"We could lock him out."

"He'd pick the lock."

"True." He kissed her, slow and deep. "No more investment talk tonight."

"But..."

"No arguments. You need rest."

"I need..."

Whatever she needed was lost as he kissed her again, and all thoughts of business fled.

Later, as they lay tangled together, a letter arrived that would change everything.

Morrison knocked apologetically. "Forgive the intrusion, my lord, but this just arrived by express messenger."

Lucien took the letter, frowning at the unfamiliar seal. As he read, his expression darkened.

"What is it?" Arabella asked.

"It's from France. From the magistrate who investigated the fire."

"After all this time?"

"He says there's new information. Someone has come forward."

"Who?"

"He doesn't say. But he wants me to come to France immediately."

"Then we'll go."

"You're not travelling to France while pregnant."

"I'm not letting you go alone."

"Arabella..."