Chapter 18

“-We will consummate this marriage,” he concluded in a firm voice. 

“Do we have to?” It was barely a whisper.

“Yes. No question of a white wedding. It's for life after all. I'm doing my duty, Eden, so I ask you to do yours.”

He was right, of course. Duty was something she understood, and she would pay whatever price she had to pay.

 This man would save her from poverty and shame, she would give his name to the innocent child growing in her belly and save her from becoming an outcast.

“You are right,” she told him. “You still need to lead a normal life…”

 But would he know how to make sure that he is satisfied?

“I won't force you. I won't. But tomorrow night we'll share a room, and we'll see what happens…”

“I won't push you away,” she murmured, her fingers still clutching her reticule. 

“Of course, when you are... indisposed... you must tell me.”

He looked strangely calm, as if they were discussing the dinner m