I tried not to grimace as a small flutter in my belly reminded me of the one I had, growing within me. Immediately, his expression sharpened.

"You alright, little one?' he said, the strain in his voice palpable.

I smiled.

And because I could not help myself, I laughed at the concern in his voice.

This was what I had dreamt of when I lay awake, alone and unhappy in the huge bed, longing for him to be beside me.

Reaching out my hands to frame his harsh face, I whispered,

'You stayed with me. I have never come awake to find you beside me, before, Lucien.'

For a long...