Born Of Love

“The alternative,” he went on, “is that I can make you mine here and now and any child born of our union will be my legitimate heir replacing Sardos.”

“The only way I can save myself and also, what is more important, the family name and the estate, is to be married,” the Duc said.

“You look very lovely in the morning,” he smiled.

Marcia had no wish to talk with the other relatives in the salon as she was afraid that they would start trying to pump her as to what she felt about the Duc.

What is important to him and to his family is that he should marry and produce a son.”

He walked to the window.

“And you must be aware, Papa, that he is infatuated with the beautiful Marquise, even though he cannot marry her.”

But, surely, if at all, he will try to – murder the Duc before he is – married?”

“Of course I am and all I want is her future happiness.”

He glanced as he spoke at the Duc, who was sitting down at the table.

“Your daughter, my Lord, is one of the most beautiful young women I have ever seen!

She saw that her father looked a little pained at the way he did so.