Page 80 of Wife Wanted

“Not like mine?”

“No. Not like yours,” he said, wrapping his arms around her and kissing her.

A little while later, she said, “At the risk of upsetting you, Annis told me in her letter that Bidenden has been packed off to India by his father.”

“Hm,” he grunted. “He’s lucky he didn’t get sent to Australia.”

“Would that have been worse? They’re both hot countries, aren’t they?”

“Yes, but India is part of the British Empire, and Australia is a penal colony. I would imagine the facilities are pretty rough.”

She nodded and snuggled into his embrace. “Did I tell you today that I love you?” she asked.

“Yes, twice, no three times. Four if you count that one.” He smiled.

“Well, you have told me at least”—she counted off on her fingers—“six times!” she said, grinning at him.

“As it should be,” he said. “I love you, Emily Frances.” He scooped her up and rose.

“Deo, where are we going?”

“Bedroom. We have time before dinner.”

“Oh, Deo.” She flung her arms round his neck.