Destined for the Brooding Baron – Extended Epilogue

---

OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Delightful Dukes and Damsels", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!

---

“Dearest, do you truly believe the world is prepared for my insights?” Cassandra asked, her voice soft and laced with anticipation, as she delicately turned the pages of her manuscript.

Edward, seated across from her in the ornate observatory they had spent many an evening in, looked up from the very same manuscript he was reviewing. “Cassandra,” he began, a warm smile spreading across his face, “if there’s anything the world needs, it is the brilliant mind of my wife shared with all.”

The room was illuminated by a multitude of candles, their flickering flames reflecting in the vast array of polished brass instruments around them. The observatory, with its grand telescope and myriad of books, had become their sanctuary, a place where two souls merged in intellect and passion.

Cassandra’s hand instinctively settled on her swollen belly, feeling the tiny kicks from within. “I only hope our child inherits your confidence, my love,” she replied with a chuckle.

Edward rose and crossed the distance between them in mere seconds. He knelt before her, placing his own hand over hers on her belly. “And your genius,” he whispered, placing a tender kiss on her forehead. “With both our traits, our child will truly be someone to behold.”

The serene moment was disrupted by a soft knock on the door. The butler entered, holding an elegantly sealed envelope. “A letter from Aunt Pearl, ma’am,” he intoned.

“Thank you, Thomas,” Cassandra replied, extending her hand to receive it.

Edward leaned in with a teasing glint in his eyes. “Shall we discover what delightful tidbits Aunt Pearl has sent our way this time?”

Gently breaking the wax seal, Cassandra unfolded the crisp parchment. She cleared her throat and began to read aloud:

“My Dearest Cassandra,

I hope this letter finds you in good spirits and radiant health, especially in your delicate condition. I write to you with the most wonderful news. After many a conversation and a fair bit of persuasion, I have managed to strike a deal with a Publishing House in London. They are eager, nay, thrilled at the prospect of bringing your work to the masses. You, my dear, are to be a published author!

Kindly send your finalized manuscript posthaste. The world awaits your brilliance, and I am beside myself with pride.

With all my love, Aunt Pearl“

As Cassandra finished, she looked up to find Edward’s eyes shining with excitement. “That is wonderful news! My love, the world will soon bear witness to your brilliance.”

She folded the letter gently, placing it on the table beside her. “It’s all happening so fast. First our baby on the way and now this… I’m overwhelmed, Edward.”

He wrapped her in a comforting embrace. “We’ll navigate this journey together, as we always have.”

As they held onto each other, they were unaware that Ethan had slipped into the room, clutching his little wooden sword. “Papa,” he began, a hint of impatience in his voice, “when will we continue my sword-fighting lessons? I’ve been practicing.”

Edward pulled away from Cassandra slightly, casting a proud glance towards his son. “Tomorrow, young man. With every swing, you come closer to your dream of the navy.”

Ethan’s eyes sparkled with determination. “I will be the best swordsman in all of England!”

Cassandra chuckled, “And I’ve no doubt Margery will regale all of London with tales of her brave little brother, especially during her debut next spring.”

A playful sigh escaped Ethan’s lips. “Oh, Margery and her grand ball. She talks of nothing else!”

Edward ruffled his son’s hair. “Soon, you too will understand the allure of society gatherings, Ethan.”

The young boy wrinkled his nose, looking skeptical, then darted out of the observatory, his wooden sword raised high.

Cassandra and Edward exchanged amused glances. “Our family is growing, in so many ways,” she mused. “Yet with all these changes, some things remain the same. Like Lord Humledge’s ostentatious displays of wealth with Lady Serena.”

Edward smirked. “Ah yes, they do love to flaunt their misery, don’t they?”

Cassandra nodded. “Wealth can purchase many things, but not love or happiness.”

Edward took her hand, drawing her close once more. “We, however, have been blessed with both.”

Their lips met in a lingering kiss, sealing the truth of their words.

***

The observatory was bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, casting the room in a golden hue. Cassandra rested in a plush armchair, her hand absentmindedly tracing circles on her pronounced belly. Edward, seated beside her, attentively listened to her read excerpts from her work, occasionally nodding in appreciation.

There was a knock on the door, and the youngest of Edward’s sons, Ethan, peeked inside, a bright smile lighting up his youthful face. “Papa?”

Edward laughed softly. “Come in, my boy.”

Ethan entered, his enthusiasm evident. “Master Thornton told me today that I have made progress with my swordplay. He believes I might be ready to take on a real opponent soon.”

Edward raised an eyebrow, his tone teasing. “And who, pray tell, do you have in mind?”

With a chuckle, Ethan replied, “Oh, I was hoping for someone less formidable than Master Thornton. Perhaps you, Father?”

Cassandra laughed, delight evident in her eyes. “Edward, it seems our young squire here is challenging you.”

Edward pretended to ponder the challenge. “Hmm, I must admit, I am intrigued. But, dear Ethan, are you sure you want to challenge an old man like me?”

Ethan grinned, his youthful confidence shining through. “I believe I have a fighting chance.”

The room filled with laughter, the joyous moment shared amongst family.

Ethan, shifting from his playful demeanor, approached Cassandra with care. “Cassandra, how are you feeling?”

Cassandra smiled at him, touched by his thoughtfulness. “I am well, thank you, Ethan. Every day brings us closer to meeting the newest member of our family.”

Ethan beamed, his excitement palpable. “I cannot wait to be a big brother.”

Edward placed a reassuring hand on Ethan’s shoulder. “You will be an excellent one, I have no doubt.”

***

It was a rare sunny day, with the rays piercing through the canopy of trees, creating a picturesque scene in the estate’s gardens. Children’s laughter echoed, leading to a clearing where young Ethan practiced his sword-fighting techniques, his face set in determined concentration. He held a wooden sword, moving swiftly in his imaginary duel against an unseen opponent.

Behind a tall hedge, Cassandra and Edward watched with amusement. “He’s got the spirit of a warrior,” Edward mused, his eyes brimming with pride.

Cassandra chuckled softly, “And the heart of a hero. He’s so passionate about the navy.”

“Just like his grandfather,” Edward remarked, a hint of nostalgia evident in his voice. “I still remember the tales he would share of his naval escapades.”

Cassandra’s gaze lingered on Ethan. “Do you think it wise to let him enlist when he’s older?”

Edward pondered for a moment. “If it’s his true passion, who are we to stop him? Besides, by the time he’s of age, perhaps the world will be more peaceful.”

She nodded, understanding his sentiment but still consumed by the protective nature of a stepmother. “I just want him safe, Edward.”

He took her hand, squeezing it reassuringly. “I know, my love. We’ll guide him as best we can.”

Their attention was diverted by the approach of Margery, who looked radiant in a soft blue gown that accentuated her youthful beauty. She held a stack of letters in her hand, her face a mix of excitement and trepidation. She was quickly becoming a young lady.

“Good morning, dear. You seem to be popular with the postman,” Cassandra teased.

Margery blushed slightly. “Indeed. I have received numerous letters of introduction and invitations in preparation for my debut.”

Edward smiled, “That’s wonderful, Margery. The society is eager to welcome you.”

Margery’s eyes shimmered with unshed tears. “I just wish Mama was here to see this.”

Cassandra pulled her into a comforting embrace. “She would be so proud of you. Remember, she’s always with you in spirit.”

Pulling back, Margery managed a smile. “Thank you. That means a lot.” She took a deep breath, trying to shift the mood. “There’s also a letter from Henry. He’s attending a ball in Scotland next month and has invited me.”

Edward raised an eyebrow, a playful smirk forming on his lips. “An invitation from Henry, is it? I recall a certain young lady blushing every time his name was mentioned.”

Margery playfully swatted at Edward. “Stop teasing! He’s just a friend.”

“Of course,” Edward chuckled, holding up his hands in mock surrender. “Just a friend.”

Cassandra gave a knowing smile, “It’s alright to have friends, Margery. And if this friend happens to be fond of Scotland and sends you letters with corrections, all the better.”

Margery laughed, “Alright, you two have had your fun. Now, I need to draft my replies.”

She turned to leave, but Cassandra called after her, “Margery, remember to show your letters to your father.”

She nodded, “I will.”

As she left, Edward turned to Cassandra. “Our family is evolving, isn’t it? First your book, then Ethan’s dreams, and now Margery almost ready to step into society. It’s a time of change.”

Cassandra leaned into him, “As long as we face these changes together, everything will be perfect.”

Ethan, having finished his practice, ran over, his young face flushed from exertion. “Did you see? I perfected that move!”

She beamed at him, “You were fantastic! One day, the navy will be lucky to have you.”

He grinned, pride evident in his eyes. “Thanks, but now, I think it’s time for some lemonade. All that sword-fighting has made me thirsty.”

The family laughed, their bond stronger than ever.

The family laughed, their bond stronger than ever. As the evening began to settle in, the sky painted in hues of pink and orange, Edward suggested, “Why don’t we take a stroll through the gardens, just the two of us?”

Cassandra agreed with a soft smile, and they excused themselves, walking hand in hand towards the sprawling gardens of their estate. The air was filled with the sweet fragrance of blooming roses and jasmine, creating a serene and romantic atmosphere.

As they walked, Edward’s gaze lingered lovingly on Cassandra. “You know,” he began, his voice low and tender, “every moment with you feels like a blessing. From the day we met to this beautiful evening, every second has been a treasure.”

Cassandra’s eyes glowed with affection. “Edward, you’ve given me more than I ever dreamed of. Love, family, and now, a chance to share my thoughts with the world.”

They reached a secluded gazebo adorned with climbing ivy and white blossoms. The soft glow of lanterns hung around them, casting a warm light on their faces. Edward led Cassandra to a bench, where they sat close together, their hands entwined.

Looking up at the stars beginning to twinkle in the sky, Cassandra sighed contentedly. “Do you remember our first dance? How nervous I was, and how you guided me so gracefully?”

Edward chuckled. “How could I forget? You were the most enchanting woman in the room. You still are, in every room, every moment.”

Cassandra leaned her head on his shoulder, feeling the gentle rhythm of his heartbeat. “I used to dream of moments like this, but reality with you has been far more wonderful than any dream.”

In the quiet of the evening, with only the soft chirping of crickets and the rustle of leaves in the breeze, they sat in comfortable silence, savoring the peace and love that surrounded them.

After a while, Edward spoke up, his voice filled with emotion. “Cassandra, with you by my side, I feel like the richest man in the world. Not because of wealth or status, but because I have your love, your heart, and soon, a new life to cherish together.”

Cassandra turned to face him, her eyes shining with unshed tears of joy. “And I, the richest woman, for the same reasons.” She paused, her heart full of love and gratitude. Then, with a radiant smile, she whispered the words that perfectly captured the essence of their journey together:

“Forever and always, Edward, my heart is yours.”

Readers who read this book also liked

---

OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!

Grab my new series, "Delightful Dukes and Damsels", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!

---