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“I think he looks just like you, Mama,” Sasha declared, her bright eyes wide with fascination as she peered into the crib.
Lady Olivia Hatfield, now the Countess of Hatfield, smiled warmly at her daughter. “Do you think so, my darling? I see a bit of your father in him as well.”
Marcus entered the nursery, his presence filling the room with a comforting warmth. He approached the crib, placing a gentle hand on Olivia’s shoulder. “Our little Henry is a perfect blend of both his parents,” he said, his voice filled with pride and tenderness.
Three years had passed since Marcus and Olivia’s wedding, and their lives had blossomed beautifully. Their daughter, Sasha, was now a lively and affectionate seven-year-old, always eager to help and doting on her newborn brother, Henry.
“Papa, can I hold Henry?” Sasha asked, her eyes gleaming with excitement.
Marcus chuckled softly. “Of course, but you must be very gentle.” He carefully lifted the infant from the crib and settled him into Sasha’s waiting arms. Olivia watched, her heart swelling with love as she observed her husband and children.
Sasha gazed at her brother with awe. “He’s so tiny,” she whispered. “I will take care of him, Mama, just like you and Papa take care of me.”
Olivia knelt beside her daughter, brushing a strand of hair from Sasha’s face. “I know you will, my love. You’re already the best big sister Henry could ever have.”
The morning sunlight streamed through the nursery windows, casting a golden glow over the room. It was a peaceful and contented scene, filled with the promise of a bright future for the Hatfield family.
Later that day, as they prepared for their customary Sunday promenade in Hyde Park, Olivia reflected on how much had changed since that tumultuous time of scandal and heartache. She had found her place, her happiness, and the love of a man who cherished her beyond measure.
“Are you ready, my dear?” Marcus asked, helping her into a light shawl.
“Indeed, I am,” she replied, adjusting the bonnet on her head. She wore a pale blue muslin dress with delicate lace trimmings, her bonnet adorned with matching ribbons and a single white rose. “Sasha, are you excited for our walk?”
“Yes, Mama!” Sasha exclaimed, holding her father’s hand as they descended the grand staircase of their London townhouse. Sasha was dressed in a charming pink frock with a sash that tied into a large bow at the back, her curls bouncing with every step.
Marcus, ever the picture of elegance, wore a dark blue tailcoat over a crisp white shirt, his cravat perfectly tied. Little Henry was nestled in a soft white blanket, his tiny face peeking out as he slept peacefully in his father’s arms.
The family of four made their way to the park, their carriage ride filled with laughter and playful banter. Once they arrived, Marcus carried Henry in his arms, while Olivia and Sasha strolled beside them.
Hyde Park was bustling with activity, the verdant landscape alive with the sights and sounds of summer. Families picnicked on the grass, children played with hoops and kites, and couples walked hand in hand along the shaded pathways. Olivia’s dress fluttered gently in the breeze, and Sasha’s laughter mingled with the songs of the birds.
As they meandered through the park, Olivia couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the life they had built together. Despite the challenges they had faced, love and perseverance had triumphed, creating a haven of joy and stability for their growing family.
Sasha skipped ahead, her laughter echoing through the park. “Look, Mama, there are swans on the lake!” she called out, her excitement contagious.
“Shall we go see them?” Marcus suggested, glancing at Olivia with a smile.
“Yes, let’s,” she agreed, taking his free hand in hers.
As they strolled toward the lake, the gentle hum of life in the park surrounded them. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the grass. Sasha skipped ahead, her curls bouncing with each step, and Marcus watched her with a fond smile, his hand firmly clasping Olivia’s.
Just as they reached the edge of the lake, a familiar figure appeared on the path ahead. Lady Caroline Ridlington, a woman known for her sharp tongue and even sharper glances, walked slowly beside an elderly gentleman. Her arm was looped through his, and her eyes were narrowed with disdain as they fell upon Olivia and her family.
“Well, well,” Lady Caroline sneered, her gaze lingering on Olivia. “If it isn’t the newly titled Countess of Hatfield. How…charming to see you.”
Olivia met Lady Caroline’s gaze with calm composure. “Good afternoon, Lady Caroline,” she said, her voice steady and polite. “I trust you are well.”
The elderly gentleman at Lady Caroline’s side shifted uncomfortably, clearly uneasy with the tension. “Caroline, perhaps we should continue our walk,” he suggested softly.
Lady Caroline’s lips curled into a cold smile. “Yes, perhaps we should,” she replied, but not before giving Olivia one last look of contempt. She turned away, guiding the old man along the path, her back rigid with disdain.
Marcus squeezed Olivia’s hand gently, his expression one of quiet support. “Pay her no mind, my love,” he murmured. “She’s not worth a moment of your thoughts.”
Olivia nodded, feeling a wave of relief as Lady Caroline disappeared from view. She glanced down at Henry, who had started to stir in his father’s arms. “Let’s find a quiet spot for our picnic,” she suggested, her voice lightening as she focused on the present moment.
They found a secluded area near the lake, shaded by a large oak tree. The dappled sunlight created a serene, almost magical atmosphere. Marcus spread out a blanket on the grass, and they all settled down, with Sasha eagerly helping to unpack the picnic basket.
“This looks delicious!” Sasha exclaimed, her eyes wide with delight as she uncovered sandwiches, fresh fruit, and pastries.
Olivia smiled at her daughter’s enthusiasm. “I’m glad you think so, darling. Let’s enjoy this lovely day together.”
As they began their meal, the mood was light and joyful. Marcus and Olivia shared knowing glances and quiet laughter, the bond between them stronger than ever. Sasha entertained them with stories of her adventures with her friends, while little Henry gurgled happily in Olivia’s lap.
The gentle breeze rustled the leaves above them, and the sound of the nearby lake added a soothing backdrop to their conversation. It was a moment of pure contentment, a reminder of how far they had come and how much they had to be grateful for.
After they had eaten, Marcus lay back on the blanket, propping himself up on one elbow. He watched his family with a look of deep satisfaction. “I don’t think I could ask for anything more,” he said softly.
Olivia leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. “Nor could I,” she replied, her voice filled with love.
Sasha, who had been chasing a butterfly, suddenly stopped and ran back to her parents. “Papa, can we feed the swans?”
Marcus sat up, a smile spreading across his face. “Of course, we can. Let’s see if they like our leftover bread.”
Together, they approached the edge of the lake, where a few swans had gathered. Sasha giggled as she tossed small pieces of bread into the water, watching with delight as the elegant birds glided over to eat.
Olivia stood beside Marcus, her arm linked through his. “This is perfect,” she murmured, resting her head against his shoulder.
“It is,” Marcus agreed, his voice tender. “And it’s only the beginning of our happiness.”
Marcus held young Sasha’s hand as he stopped his wife and embraced her and their baby in her arms. “Olivia, thank you for being the love of my life and for being nothing like Caroline Ridlington,” he said, his eyes filled with sincerity.
Olivia laughed softly, touched by his words. “And thank you, Marcus, for always standing by my side.”
They shared a kiss, a gentle meeting of lips that spoke volumes of their love and commitment to one another. Sasha giggled and tugged at her father’s hand, eager to continue their walk. “Come on, Papa! The swans are waiting.”
Marcus chuckled and ruffled her curls. “Alright, my little adventurer. Let’s see if we can find some more swans to feed.”
They walked leisurely along the path, the sun casting a warm glow over the landscape. The park was alive with the sounds of children playing, birds singing, and the occasional bark of a dog. It was a perfect day, one that seemed to capture the essence of their happiness.
As they approached a small clearing, they found a perfect spot for their picnic. The blanket was spread out again, and they all settled down, enjoying the serene beauty of their surroundings.
Olivia cradled Henry in her arms, gazing down at his tiny, peaceful face. “He’s going to be a wonderful addition to our family,” she said softly, brushing a finger over his delicate cheek.
Marcus nodded, his eyes filled with pride. “Indeed, he will be. And Sasha is already proving to be the best big sister.”
Sasha beamed, clearly delighted by the praise. “I love Henry, Papa. I’m going to teach him everything I know.”
Olivia and Marcus shared a smile, their hearts full. They watched as Sasha played nearby, her laughter a sweet melody that filled the air. It was in moments like these that they truly appreciated the life they had built together.
As the afternoon sun began to lower in the sky, casting long shadows across the park, they packed up their picnic and started to make their way home. The walk back was filled with lighthearted conversation and shared memories, a testament to the strong bond they had as a family.
“Do you remember our first walk in this park?” Olivia asked, glancing up at Marcus.
“How could I forget?” Marcus replied, a soft smile playing on his lips. “It was the day I realized I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you.”
Olivia’s heart swelled with love. “And here we are, with our beautiful children, more in love than ever.”
They reached their carriage, and Marcus helped Olivia inside, careful not to jostle Henry. Sasha climbed in eagerly, her energy seemingly boundless. As the carriage began to move, Olivia leaned against Marcus, feeling a deep sense of contentment.
“Thank you for today,” she whispered. “It was perfect.”
Marcus kissed the top of her head. “Every day with you is perfect, my love.”
They arrived home just as the first stars began to twinkle in the evening sky. The townhouse was warm and inviting, a sanctuary from the world outside. Inside, the servants had prepared a light supper, and the family gathered in the dining room to enjoy it.
After dinner, as they prepared for bed, Olivia paused by the window, looking out at the night sky. The moon was full, casting a silvery light over the city. Marcus joined her, wrapping his arms around her waist.
“What are you thinking about?” he asked, his breath warm against her ear.
“Just how blessed we are,” she replied. “Our life, our children, everything. It’s all more than I ever dreamed of.”
Marcus turned her gently to face him. “We are blessed, Olivia. And I promise to cherish every moment we have together.”
They shared another kiss, a promise of many more happy days to come. As they settled into bed, with Henry in his cradle nearby and Sasha tucked in her room, Olivia closed her eyes, feeling a profound sense of peace.
OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Secrets and Passions of High Society", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!
Hello there, my dearest readers! I hope you enjoyed the book and the Extended Epilogue! I will be waiting for your comments here. Thank you 😊
I loved this book Absolutely loved it! Like a fairy tale. Cinderella and Prince Charming❤️
I love your stories but I always notice that many of the characters from many of your stories have a described eye color and then later it becomes a different color making it confusing for the reader.
Thank you for your feedback and your support of my stories! I appreciate you bringing the issue with the eye color descriptions to my attention. I’ll make sure to pay extra attention to consistency in future works to ensure a smoother reading experience. Your input is invaluable, and I’m grateful for your understanding! ✨
Such a beautiful story I loved it!
Thank you so much Charity! ♥️ I am so glad you loved the story as much!
Such a heartwarming story, a fairy tale come true. Despite all of her obstacles she had to face in her life, I found Olivia’s strength and grace an inspiration. Well written book, much enjoyed!
Thank you so much for your kind words Jan! I’m thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the story and found Olivia’s journey inspiring. Your support and encouragement mean a lot to me! ♥️
Some flakes in the extended version; three years after their marriage their daughter is four?
Halfway through the narrative Marcus and Olivia turn into Jude and Audrey.
Thank you for pointing out these issues, Lyn! I apologize for the discrepancies and confusion in the extended epilogue. I’ll make sure to update it to correct the errors regarding the timeline and character names. I appreciate your patience and understanding, and I’m glad you enjoyed the rest of the story!