Read In the Arms of Mr. Darcy for Free Online Page B

kitchen!"
    "Ah yes. Fun times," Richard said, his face radiating puckishness.
    George, however, was mournful. "I can't believe they knew! Rather spoils the whole purpose of being naughty and breaking the rules if the authority figure is aware of it. I am crushed."
    "Do not be dismayed, Dr. Darcy," Mrs. Gardiner offered placatingly. "I imagine there was a wealth of roguish misbehavior they never knew of." George brightened considerably.
    "How does one celebrate Christmas in India, Doctor?" Mary asked.
    "It varied depending on where I was at the time. The English compounds held lavish parties, upholding the traditions for the children. But quite often I was traveling about. I never heeded calendar dates, simply going where I was needed or as whimsy inspired me. Obviously, the indigenous peoples of India do not celebrate Christmas."
    "Did you not receive any gifts?" Kitty asked in shock, her young mind stunned at the idea.
    George laughed. "I had little need of additional trinkets or possessions, Miss Kitty. I traveled with the barest necessities and my quarters in Bombay were modest. James always sent me something special, although I rarely received it before Christmas. I had a few close friends, both Christian and not, who expressed their affection with a token. In later years I had a dear friend who set the day aside, furnished me with a gift, and insisted I honor the birth of my Savior, even while gently teasing me about it." His smile was soft, eyes dreamy for several seconds before he shrugged, the lopsided grin again in place as he met Kitty's eyes. "Of course, shaking the gift was always an imperative! Have you shaken and guessed your gifts yet, Georgie?"
    His gaze slid to Georgiana, the young woman startling and reddening instantly as her guilty eyes snapped briefly to Darcy even as she exclaimed, "Of course not!"
    Laughter rang out. Darcy pretended a stern scowl, his smile evident nonetheless. "Shaking presents is forbidden in the Darcy household. Is that not so, Georgiana?"
    "Yes, Brother."
    But she glanced at George from under her lashes, meeting his wink with twinkling eyes.
    It was early yet when Lizzy cornered her husband where he stood for a moment's solitary contemplation by a far window. She laid one hand gently on his arm, Darcy turning with a ready smile.
    "Penny for your thoughts, Mr. Darcy."
    "My thoughts are all of you and our family, my heart, and therefore priceless treasures."
    "So romantic you are my darling. Impressive."
    Unconsciously, he reached to stroke her cheek with a fingertip. "Must be the brandy, reminiscences, and excessive body heat pervading the room causing my mind to become all foggy and nonsensical."
    "Whatever the stimulus, do not cease as I am deeply affected by the sentiments." She ran one hand lightly down the lapels of his jacket, holding his tenderly piercing gaze. "It is time for Alexander's last meal. May I ask a favor? Can you form a polite reason to excuse yourself early and join us? I crave your undivided company and cuddling before the fire on our second Christmas Eve together."
    He smiled, that singular smile that lit his entire being and was only for her, touching even his vocal cords as evidenced by the huskiness in his voice. "Nothing could be simpler, beloved. I will be right behind you."
    And he was. Lizzy never knew the excuse he gave, although she would have been surprised to learn it was nothing more than the truth. Darcy declared that he wished to spend the evening alone with his wife and son, bowed gracefully if abruptly, and hastily exited the room. Having washed and divested himself of all clothing but his shirt and breeches, he entered the nursery as Lizzy was finishing the exhilarating task of nursing their son. He happily assumed the chore of final burping and rocking to sleep while Lizzy retreated to her dressing room.
    Lizzy returned, pausing on the threshold and smiling at the scene. Darcy held Alexander as he rocked, whispering silly phrases of love and