Sitting down on the sturdy tree limb, Evelyn adjusted her skirts and placed her parasol against her leg, just as she’d been taught so many years before. Sighing in relief for the shade, she could not help but smile as she watched her dear husband trying to teach their four-year-old son and two-year-old daughter how to fly a kite. Well, little Phillip was trying to learn, while Dina raced about the meadow chasing butterflies.
“Collect the twine, Phillip,” Justin advised as the kite plummeted into the grasses. “I’m going to visit your mother.”
Justin dropped down beside her and pulled her into his arms, planting a warm kiss on her brow. “The boy is good with his hands.”
“Just like his father,” she teased, laying her head on his shoulder. Inhaling his familiar woodsy scent, she relished the affection of his strong embrace. She sighed with contentment.
He grazed his hand over her round middle. “How are you feeling?”
“About as big as this old oak.” Shaking her head, she remarked, “I’ll tell you one thing, Justin Barclay, I’m not about to go through this nine more times. Besides, you don’t want to be an old codger when your daughters are coming out.”
“Heavens, I hadn’t thought of that. I certainly hope Sully is retired from the Branch by then.”
She tilted her head to see his handsome features. “Why?”
“He’s a crack shot, and I’ll need all the help I can get keeping the rogues and scoundrels away from my innocent angels.”
“Don’t worry, I’ll be sure to teach our daughters how to deal with them.”
He beamed wickedly. “Oh yes, you always knew how to charm a rogue into behaving.”
Drawing his head down so that his velvety lips met hers, she murmured, “Haven’t you figured out by now, Justin? I like it when you misbehave.”