Читать книгу Regency Society - Хелен Диксон, Ann Lethbridge, Хелен Диксон - Страница 106

‘So, Selwyn Luke John Arnold Hartingdon, future Lord Clarendon and one day heir to this old pile,’ the earl said, looking down at the child in the cot beside Roxanne’s bed. ‘How does it feel to be the first-born of a clever girl like your mama? I dare say you are pleased with yourself and will lead us all a merry dance one day.’

‘Grandfather,’ Roxanne scolded with a smile of affection. ‘He is but a day old and interested only in feeding and sleeping.’

‘He is my great-grandson and will take after his father and his great-grandfather,’ the earl replied with satisfaction. ‘He is going to be a fine big chap and will make us all proud of him. I dare say he might be the Prime Minister or a famous general if he chose.’

‘I think he may have some of Roxanne’s qualities,’ Luke said and raised his brows at her. ‘I certainly hope he has more sense than either of us ever had.’

‘Well, yes, of course—but he’s got my nose and his mouth is just like yours, Luke.’ The earl chuckled. ‘And I am an old fool clucking over him as if I’d never seen a babe before. Roxanne, I am proud of you, girl. I wanted to tell you that I love you and make sure you were well—but there never was such a beautiful child.’

‘Thank you, dearest Grandfather. I love you, too.’

‘Well, I’ll leave you together for a while—but you should let Roxanne rest, Luke. She needs to get her strength back.’

‘I shall do so in a moment, sir.’

Luke grinned as the door closed behind him. ‘I’ve never seen him look so happy and proud. Anyone would think the boy was his son.’

‘He loves us all,’ Roxanne said. ‘Are you proud of me, Luke? Are you pleased with your son?’

‘You know I am,’ he said and perched on the edge of her bed, reaching for her hand. ‘I am the happiest man alive—except perhaps for Grandfather. He looks younger and I begin to think he is an old fraud. He will live for years.’

‘His health is not good,’ Roxanne said and held his hand tighter, ‘but he is content and will have some time with us yet.’

‘Yes, I know.’ Luke bent his head and kissed her. ‘Now I must do as Grandfather bid me and leave you to rest. Beth will be here later and I know she will be eager to see you. Rest now and you will feel better when she arrives.’

‘I am perfectly well, you know,’ Roxanne said. ‘I shall rest, but only for a little time. Come and see me soon, my love.’

‘Of course. I have no intention of going anywhere else,’ he said, blew her a kiss and went out.

Roxanne lay back against her pillows, a smile on her lips as she closed her eyes and slept.