Brethren of the Coast Box Set 2 by Barbara Devlin

Author:Barbara Devlin [Devlin, Barbara]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9780996250955
Publisher: Barbara Devlin
Published: 2016-01-04T16:00:00+00:00

CAPTAIN OF HER HEART

CHAPTER ELEVEN

“I arrived yesterday afternoon.” Molly poured two cups of tea. “Cap’n installed me below stairs and bade me keep out of sight, until he could surprise you, this morning. I hope you are pleased.”

“Dear friend, I am overjoyed, but I had no idea you wished to be a nanny.” After fluffing a pillow, Alex reclined on the chaise in the back parlor. “I thought you intended to continue in service as a charwoman.”

“Well, that was my original plan.” The onetime housemaid averted her gaze and picked at her sleeve. “I had hoped Mr. Penniman and I would take employment in a grand household and work for a single family, for the remains of our days.”

“And what of Mr. Penniman?” A pang of guilt settled on her shoulders, as Alex recalled her advice doomed her friend. “You had renewed your acquaintance prior to my departure from Plymouth. Did you never resolve your differences?”

“We spent some lovely Sunday evenings, just talking.” With a wistful expression, Molly emitted something between a sob and a sigh. “But he wanted the girl he once knew, the Molly who existed before I met you. And I find it impossible to revert to that person, as you changed me.”

“What have I done?” Not only had Alex ruined her life, but also she had wrecked Molly’s future. “I was wrong to meddle in your affairs, as you were content with your situation, until I spoiled it.”

“No. You are mistaken, as you were right about me.” With tear-filled eyes, Molly smiled and shrugged. “I was too naïve and trusting, and I had no confidence. But I like the way I am now. Yes, it cost me Mr. Penniman, but I have hope that I might enjoy a marriage with a strong man who adores me, as Cap’n does you.”

“Do not emulate me, as I am a poor role model.” Alex offered her handkerchief. “Your nose is running.”

“Thank you.” After a healthy blare, Molly giggled. “Captain Collingwood is a prime catch. And when I think of what you did to land him, well, I do so admire your courage.”

“Your admiration is seriously misplaced.” If only she could travel back in time and undo her actions. She would not have ventured to Plymouth. She would not have seduced Jason. But then she would have no babes growing in her belly, and that she would never regret.

“Now why do you blush?” Molly chuckled. “I wish I had your courage, given what you enjoy. Cap’n loves you just as you are, else why would he have married you?”

Because he got me with child, and my brother would have killed him, otherwise.

“Jason required a chatelaine to manage his properties, and we are compatible.” As she summarized the truth of her relationship with her husband, her heart fractured, and Alex wanted to cry. “And my family’s connections are impeccable.”

“And now you have a blessed event to anticipate.” Molly squeezed Alex’s fingers. “You have it all, brave Alex. A perfect existence. What more could anyone want?”

“Indeed, I am very fortunate.

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