‘The captain is so good with the young ones,’ she said appreciatively. ‘I’ll never forget how he stayed by your side when Dolly was born. Not many men will do that, let alone someone who isn’t the baby’s father.’

Rosalind shot her a suspicious glance. ‘He likes children,’ she said casually.

‘He most certainly does. He crept into the nursery this morning to see Miss Dolly. I think he’s embarrassed to be seen making a fuss of her, but I told him he’s the child’s uncle, it’s perfectly natural for him to love her just as much as her real papa.’

‘Yes, indeed. Family attachment is very real.’ Rosalind kissed Dolly’s soft cheek. ‘And she is a beautiful baby.’

As if in answer Dolly opened her eyes, screwed up her face and began to cry.

‘I think she’s hungry, ma’am. Shall I take her to the nursery?’

‘Yes, of course.’ Somewhat reluctantly Rosalind allowed Eliza to take her daughter. ‘I’ll be up later to give her a cuddle. I don’t want her to forget me.’

Eliza chuckled. ‘No fear of that, ma’am. Babies are like little animals: they know their ma by her scent.’ She bustled off, carrying a baby in each arm.

‘Dolly is the most beautiful baby, isn’t she?’

Rosalind looked round to see Alexander standing too close to her for comfort. ‘You didn’t tell me that you visited the nursery.’

‘Do I have to report my every movement? I love my little niece, or isn’t that allowed either?’

‘Shh,’ Rosalind said in a low voice. ‘Don’t say things like that.’

‘I’m sorry, Rosie. I’d better go.’

‘No, wait. I’ve decided to celebrate Yuletide in the old way by throwing a party for the whole village as well as the servants. It’s as much to introduce you as the new steward as it is to honour Christmas. Everyone loves a party.’

‘You’d do all this for me?’

‘It’s for myself as well, Alex. I don’t want Rockwood to suffer for what Piers has done. The Carey family have survived worse scandals over the centuries. We’ll get through this together.’

‘You really are the most remarkable woman I’ve ever met,’ Alexander said in a voice that throbbed with suppressed emotion. ‘My brother should have loved and treasured you and your child. He should have protected you …’ He broke off as Jarvis entered the room.

‘I’m sorry to interrupt, ma’am, but Lady Pentelow’s carriage has just drawn up outside.’

Chapter Twenty-Five

‘Grandmama!’ Alexander met Rosalind’s startled gaze with a question in his eyes. ‘Did you invite her for Christmas?’

‘No, of course not. She went off in a fit of pique and I haven’t heard from her since.’