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Alexander smiled and leaned forward, capturing her lips with his in a dizzying kiss. The carriage rolling to a halt in front of the Mannfield home was the only thing that made them break away. He grinned at a flustered Caroline.
“There, now you had no time to feel nervous and we’re here already,” he said.
The two of them stepped out, quickly making their way inside. It would be most unfortunate to catch a chill from the cold morning air.
“Well, thank you for reminding me of it right before we entered, as I am now once again fraught with nerves,” Caroline said, as they went up the steps into the house.
"Relax, my wife. Rest assured that my parents will adore you. I do not believe you have anything to worry about," he said, looking into her eyes so she could see how certain he was of what he was saying. She nodded in response, but Alexander could see the worry still lodged in her eyes. He knew there was nothing he could do to completely assure her of what he was saying, but all that would be fixed the moment his parents talked to her.
The door was opened by Baldwin who was clearly excited to see them. “Master Alexander, Lady Caroline, I'm glad you have both decided to pay us a visit today. Please, do come in."
"Baldwin," Alexander called out. "What are you doing coming to the door?"
"Ha! Master Alexander, Do you really want to bother me when you've only just arrived?" Baldwin smiled fondly. He turned to Caroline. "Welcome, Lady Caroline, it is so good to see you again. I had not been expecting you, but I am overjoyed that you are here."
Alexander looked at his wife and noticed how calm she had become since she saw Baldwin. Everyone seemed to love and be comfortable with the older man. "Where are my parents? Is Colin in or has he gone on one of his escapades again?"
"The young Master Colin is very much present, and as for your parents, they are currently in the sunroom, Master Alexander. I will notify them of your arrival," Baldwin said as he marched off.
Alexander and Caroline were on their way to the drawing room when they saw Colin coming down the stairs, obviously fresh out of the washroom with how wet his hair was.
"You shall catch a chill with all that wet hair," Alexander said.
Colin rolled his eyes, "Is that the way to greet the brother you have clearly missed and come all the way here to see?" he joked, batting his eyes and causing Caroline to laugh.
"Good day, sister-in-law, you look as beautiful as always. You must tell me how you put up with this brother of mine," he placed his arm around her shoulder leading her away as Alexander watched them.
Alexander was glad to see that Caroline's nerves had finally disappeared. "Unhand my wife this instant Colin and stop filling her head with whatever has got you whispering so quietly.”
He hurried over to them, groaning when they both looked at each other and laughed conspiratorially. He really hoped his wife did not turn into a prankster like his brother, he doubted he could handle two of those.
…..
Colin excused himself after they reached the drawing room refusing to tell them where he was heading off to so early in the morning, despite Alexander's prodding. Caroline watched him stare at the door after his brother left them for his mysterious outing. Although her nerves had returned to some degree now that they were at his family home, his attempt to comfort her in the carriage had the permanent effect of making her more comfortable around him.
"Should you not be used to his constant disappearing by now? Baldwin told me it was something he always did to annoy you and yet you always seem to fall for it," she said as she watched her husband.
Alexander caught himself as she drew attention to what he was doing. It seemed he didn’t realize he had been staring after Colin so obviously. "I know, but I still worry that he might find himself in trouble someday."
Caroline thought of it and shook her head. "I do not think that will happen. Colin likes to joke but he does not appear to be a daredevil who likes to court trouble. I believe there is nothing to worry about." She tapped the seat next to her. "Why don't you come sit with me instead of standing by the door?"
Alexander turned, heading to comply when the door opened, and his parents walked in and suddenly Caroline's nerves returned.
"Alexander, I'm glad you came to visit us today. I was fearful you were avoiding us," his mother teased him. "How are you, my son?"
"I am well, mother. How have you and father been these past few weeks?" Alexander asked.
"Oh splendid, we have been wonderful. Your marriage made your mother and I realize that we needed to spend more time alone, enjoying each other’s company," Henry said, winking at his wife. Caroline smothered her chuckle. She could see why Alexander wanted to marry for love. Her parents were sweet and in love as well, but not like this. Her parent’s love was more private and subdued.
Caroline watched their interaction with fascination. She could see clearly how wonderful the relationship was between her husband and his parents as they spoke, glad that Alexander had grown up surrounded by love.
"Caroline, how are you?" Elizabeth asked, waving her over. She made to join them, equal parts nervous and excited. "I am delighted you are here. We would have visited you sooner but we wanted you to get acquainted with each other before we started meddling in your affairs," she laughed. A laughter so free that Caroline found herself relaxing.
"I am well, Lady Mannfield. Thank you fo—"
"Lady Mannfield? No, you are to call me Elizabeth or mother. I have always wanted a daughter, and now I have one!” Her excitement baffled Caroline. It seemed Alexander was right when he said his mother liked her. The woman was so welcoming.
"Now, how are you enjoying married life?" she asked, who blushed deeply causing her to laugh.
