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The sun cast a golden glow across the expansive grounds of Ashbourne Manor, illuminating the lush landscape that stretched before them. Evelyn and Sebastian, hand in hand, stood on the grand steps of their home, gazing out at the land that had been transformed by their shared efforts.
“Shall we take a ride?” Sebastian’s voice held a playful lilt as he turned to Evelyn, a mischievous glint in his eyes.
Evelyn’s heart fluttered at the suggestion, her gaze meeting his with a mix of excitement and anticipation. “I would love that,” she replied, her voice tinged with laughter. “It’s been far too long since we’ve explored our lands together.”
As they mounted their horses, their connection felt as strong as ever—a bond that had weathered challenges and trials, only to emerge even stronger. Evelyn’s riding skills had grown over the years, a testament to her determination and the joy of sharing experiences with the man she loved.
“Ah, you’ve become quite the accomplished rider,” Sebastian remarked, his admiration evident in his gaze as he watched her settle into the saddle.
Evelyn chuckled softly, a warm blush gracing her cheeks. “Well, I did have a good teacher,” she replied with a playful wink. “But I fear our rides will become less frequent in the coming months.”
Sebastian’s brow furrowed in curiosity. “And why is that?”
A radiant smile spread across Evelyn’s face as she shared the news that had filled her heart with uncontainable joy. “Because I am with child,” she announced, her voice laced with a mixture of wonder and happiness.
Sebastian’s eyes widened with a mixture of surprise and delight. His hand moved instinctively to rest against Evelyn’s belly, his touch gentle and reverent. “A child,” he breathed, his voice tinged with emotion. “Our child.”
Tears of happiness glistened in Evelyn’s eyes as she nodded. “Yes, our child,” she affirmed, her heart swelling with love for the man who had become her partner in every sense of the word.
As they embarked on their ride, their laughter echoed through the rolling hills, carrying with it the promise of a future filled with love, laughter, and the joys of parenthood.
News of Evelyn’s pregnancy spread through Ashbourne Manor like wildfire, bringing an air of excitement and anticipation. Katarina, Evelyn’s mother, radiated joy as she shared stories of her own experiences as a young mother. Her laughter echoed through the halls as she regaled Clara and the other staff with tales of Evelyn’s childhood escapades.
“I cannot believe I am going to be a grandmother,” Katarina exclaimed, her eyes shining with happiness as she sat in the cozy sitting room, surrounded by her daughter and close friends.
Clara beamed at Evelyn, her excitement palpable. “And I shall be the best auntie to our little one,” she declared, her hand resting on Evelyn’s growing belly.
Charles, who had grown to be a cherished friend over the years, chimed in with a grin. “I suppose that means I shall be an honorary uncle and spoil the child with tales of adventure and daring.”
Arianna, now a proud aunt to Evelyn’s child, chuckled as she watched the scene unfold. “Ah, the joy of a growing family. It warms my heart.”
Sebastian’s presence was a calming anchor amid the excitement. His devotion to Evelyn and their unborn child was evident in every gesture, every glance. He had embraced the role of an expectant father with a mix of awe and determination, his protective instincts kicking in.
“Clara, I trust you’ll make sure Evelyn takes the rest she needs,” Sebastian teased, his eyes dancing with amusement as he regarded the two friends.
Clara’s expression turned mock-serious. “Of course, your Grace. I shall ensure she remains properly pampered and well-rested.”
Amidst the laughter and lighthearted banter, there was an overwhelming sense of unity and support. The bond that had been forged through years of shared experiences had only grown stronger with the impending arrival of the next generation.
As the evening sun cast a warm glow over the manor, Evelyn leaned against Sebastian’s side, a contented smile gracing her lips. She looked around the room, taking in the familiar faces that had become her family—each person playing a unique role in their lives.
“Thank you all for being here,” she said softly, her gaze moving from one friend to another. “Our journey has been one of unexpected twists and turns, but I wouldn’t change a thing. And now, as we prepare to welcome our child into the world, I am reminded of the beauty that can come from embracing the unknown.”
Sebastian’s arm tightened around Evelyn, his affectionate gaze locking with hers. “Indeed,” he agreed, his voice steady and full of emotion. “Our love has weathered challenges and grown stronger with each passing day. I couldn’t be more grateful for the life we’ve built together.”
As the evening wore on and laughter filled the air, Evelyn couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of contentment. She was surrounded by the people she loved most, on the cusp of a new chapter filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a future shaped by their shared dreams.
The days unfolded with a sense of eager anticipation as Evelyn’s pregnancy progressed. The manor hummed with activity as preparations were made for the impending arrival of the newest member of the Ashbourne family. Evelyn’s chambers were transformed into a haven of comfort and serenity, with soft fabrics, delicate draperies, and an array of charming baby essentials.
Sebastian had taken it upon himself to oversee every detail, ensuring that Evelyn lacked for nothing during this special time. He’d personally selected books for the nursery, each volume holding a story of its own. With his guidance, the room exuded an air of enchantment and wonder, much like the world he and Evelyn had created together.
One afternoon, Evelyn found herself seated by the window in the newly adorned nursery, a contented smile on her lips. She gently traced her fingers over the spine of a book, a gift from Sebastian, while she gazed out at the serene landscape beyond. The room was bathed in soft sunlight, casting a warm glow that illuminated the promise of new beginnings.
Sebastian entered the room, his presence eliciting a sense of comfort. He walked over to Evelyn and pressed a gentle kiss to her forehead. “I can hardly wait to see our child in this room,” he murmured, his voice soft and full of wonder.
Evelyn looked up at him, her eyes reflecting the love that had only deepened with time. “I can hardly believe that soon, we’ll be holding a piece of our love in our arms,” she said, her voice catching with emotion.
Sebastian knelt before her, his hand resting on her belly. “You’ve given me more happiness than I ever thought possible,” he whispered, his gaze fixed on her. “I vow to protect and cherish both you and our child, for all the days of my life.”
Evelyn’s heart swelled with love as she reached out to cup Sebastian’s cheek. “And I vow to stand by your side, through every joy and challenge that comes our way. Our love has already conquered so much, and I know it will continue to light our path.”
Their tender moment was interrupted by the arrival of Clara, who carried a tray laden with a variety of delectable treats. “I thought a little indulgence was in order,” Clara said with a mischievous grin.
Sebastian rose to his feet, his expression amused. “Clara, you always seem to have impeccable timing.”
Clara chuckled and set the tray down on a nearby table. “I’ve been serving the high and mighty of this household for years now. I’ve learned to anticipate.”
As they enjoyed the treats Clara had prepared, the room was filled with shared laughter and fond anecdotes. The camaraderie among the three of them was a testament to the unique bond they had forged over the years. In each other, they had found companionship, support, and an unbreakable connection that transcended titles and social expectations.
Later that evening, as the moon rose in the sky, Evelyn found herself once again seated by the window, a soft breeze rustling the curtains. Sebastian joined her, his arm slipping around her shoulders. Together, they watched the stars twinkle in the velvety night sky.
“I often find myself reflecting on the journey that brought us here,” Evelyn mused, her voice a gentle whisper. “From the moment I walked through these doors as a simple maid, to now, when we’re on the brink of becoming parents.”
Sebastian leaned his head against hers, his gaze fixed on the stars. “It’s a journey that I wouldn’t change for anything. You’ve shown me the true meaning of love and given me a life filled with purpose and happiness.”
Evelyn turned to look at him, her eyes shimmering with affection. “And you, Sebastian, have given me a love that is greater than I ever dared to dream of. With you, I’ve found my true home.”
Sebastian’s lips curved into a tender smile as he pressed a loving kiss to her forehead. “Together, we’ll create a life filled with love, laughter, and endless possibilities. Our story is a testament to the power of love, and I have no doubt that our child will grow up surrounded by the same love that brought us together.”
As they sat together, gazing out at the night sky, Evelyn couldn’t help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The path they had walked had been fraught with challenges, but it had also been adorned with moments of pure joy and unwavering devotion. And as they looked forward to the future, they knew that their love story was just the beginning—an enduring legacy that would shape the generations to come.
The Duke and Evelyn’s love story had reached new heights, crowned by their shared joy and anticipation. As the seasons changed, their happiness bloomed along with the gardens of Ashbourne Manor. Evelyn’s pregnancy progressed, and the estate seemed to share in their excitement, with every flower and blade of grass holding a promise of the new life that would soon join their midst.
The couple found solace in each other’s company, often taking leisurely strolls around the estate or simply sitting by the window, watching the world go by. One sun-drenched afternoon, as they walked hand in hand through a path lined with vibrant wildflowers, the Duke couldn’t help but reflect on the journey that had brought them here.
“Can you believe how far we’ve come?” he mused, his gaze fixed on Evelyn’s radiant smile.
Evelyn chuckled softly, her free hand resting on her rounded belly. “It feels like a lifetime ago when I first walked through those doors as a maid.”
The Duke’s eyes softened as he remembered that day. “Little did I know that the spirited maid with a secret love for literature would capture my heart.”
Evelyn leaned her head against his shoulder affectionately. “And little did I know that the enigmatic Duke of Ashbourne would become my greatest love and ally.”
As the days passed, Evelyn’s due date drew near, filling their hearts with both excitement and a touch of trepidation. The anticipation in the household was palpable, and their friends shared in the countdown, gathering often to offer their support and well-wishes.
One evening, the drawing room of Ashbourne Manor was adorned with soft candlelight and the laughter of dear friends. Katarina’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she embraced her daughter. “You are about to become a mother, my sweet Evelyn.”
Clara, her smile radiant, couldn’t contain her joy. “I can’t wait to hold the little one in my arms.”
Arianna’s twin boys were full of questions and curiosity, their young hearts eager to welcome a new playmate. And Charles, ever the loyal friend, raised his glass in a toast. “To new beginnings and the miracle of life.”
As the room erupted in cheers, Rose’s presence was a reminder of love’s unpredictable course. The ton’s whispers about her unmarried status were overshadowed by the shared happiness of the moment. Evelyn, her hand resting on her swelling belly, approached Rose with a knowing smile.
“Do not fret about society’s expectations, my dear friend,” Evelyn whispered. “Your heart knows its own rhythm, and love will find its way.”
Rose’s gaze softened as she looked at Evelyn. “You are right. Love does not adhere to timelines.”
The air was filled with laughter and heartfelt wishes, the room glowing with the warmth of friendship. In the midst of it all, the Duke’s hand found Evelyn’s, their fingers entwined with a promise of unity and strength.
As the evening drew to a close, the couple retired to their chambers, the excitement of the impending arrival enveloping them like a comforting embrace. Their shared moments were filled with quiet conversations and stolen glances, a reflection of the journey they had taken together.
And then, on a tranquil morning bathed in golden light, their world shifted once more. Evelyn’s laughter echoed through the halls as she cradled their newborn baby in her arms, a living testament to their enduring love. The Duke gazed at his wife and child with awe, his heart overflowing with gratitude.
As they held their baby close, their friends gathered around them, their smiles mirroring the happiness in their hearts. Katarina’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she held her grandchild for the first time. Clara’s joy was infectious, and she couldn’t help but touch the baby’s tiny fingers.
Charles, ever the loyal friend, offered his heartfelt congratulations. “A new chapter begins, my dear Duke.”
And Rose, her smile as genuine as ever, looked at the baby with a soft expression. “A new life brings new hope.”
In that moment, surrounded by love and the promise of the future, Evelyn and the Duke of Ashbourne knew that their story was one of resilience, love, and the beauty that could emerge from even the most unexpected beginnings.
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OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Regency Hearts Entwined", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello my dears! I really hope you loved the book and the Extended Epilogue. I can’t wait to read your wonderful comments. Thank you from the bottom of my heart! 💕