It had been a complicated pregnancy and, on two occasions, Braun had nearly miscarried, so Bormann had arranged for a local midwife to live at the house for the last three months, just in case the baby was premature but, in the end, Richard was born only two days early.

Such was Bormann’s deference towards the Führer, he let five hours pass before informing him of the overnight birth, waiting until the maid had taken him his breakfast tray. Hitler was sitting up in bed, scooping out some yolk from a boiled egg, when Bormann knocked and entered.

“Führer, I have excellent news. Eva has delivered you a healthy son and both are well. She has fulfilled her duty. When you are ready, I’ll ask the midwife to bring the baby to you.”

Hitler smiled and rested his spoon on the silver tray. “Martin, tell me, how should I feel? You’ve experienced this so many times. I feel absolutely nothing. Why do I have no desire to see the baby?”

Bormann was not surprised by Hitler’s indifference and had expected the low-key reaction.

“Yes, as a father of ten, I can tell you they only become interesting once they can converse. But, Führer, this baby is special as he will eventually take forward your legacy and continue your bloodline.”

Hitler rarely joked but he laughed out loud at what he was about to say.

“Martin, my sources tell me you have spread your genes far and wide and that you have fathered many more children than those you refer to with your wife, or should I say the ten you admit to.”

This was the first time in their entire working relationship that Hitler had ever shown any interest in Bormann’s personal life and he relished the moment.

“I’m proud to say I take every opportunity to extend my pure bloodline and to the best of my knowledge, I have fathered another ten at least.”

Bormann was known to be a serial womaniser and, in his previous existence, had made no secret of his relationship with a famous theatre actress, whom he openly referred to as his second wife. He also regularly engaged in other extramarital affairs and both his spouse and mistress had little choice but to accept the public humiliation.

Bormann was not a handsome man. He was short and stocky and possessed little charisma or charm. However, he was an unstoppable force of nature who was happy to exploit the power and influence of his position to seduce women.

Hitler downed his glass of orange juice and continued to smile at Bormann.

“Martin, it seems that, in the matter of paternity, I am no match for you. Inform the midwife to bring the baby to my room. I am ready to meet my son.”

“Yes, Führer.”