An Unexpected Husband (The Colorado Brides Series) by Carré White Read Free Book Online Page A

luxury of a clean scalp was something I rarely experienced.
    “You’re about done now,” said Megan.
    “I know. Thank you. I’ll return the favor whenever you wish. I’ll speak to Allette tomorrow and arrange for your bath. You can share it with your children.”
    She held a towel, waiting for me to stand. “I might’ve underestimated you. I see what you’re up to now.”
    “Pardon?” I grasped the cloth, wrapping it around me.
    “Your aim is to entice that man into offering for you. If I were younger, I might do the same.” Her look was stark. “I wish you luck, honey. If you think you can compete with the Ruby Wallaces of the world, be my guest.” She had referred to the madam of the Tainted Rose. “That man’s set in his ways now. Why buy the cow when the milk’s readily available?”
    I gasped. “Megan!”
     

Chapter Six
     
     
    I dried quickly, tossing the nightgown over my head. Then I tied the robe around my midsection. Rosalind was on the floor, fighting with the towel, although the sounds that came from her were playful. Allette had returned with an army of servants to reduce the water in the tub, by withdrawing it in buckets. When it was mostly empty, they carried it away along with the screen. Rosalind and I were before the fire, while I worked to untangle my hair. The baby was in a pink gown, her bare feet poking out with darling little rounded toes.
    Movement caught my eye, as Mr. Carlyle approached. “I’ve sent for dinner now.”
    “Thank you.”
    “I’ll be joining you. I haven’t eaten yet.”
    “Did I keep you waiting?”
    “Yes.”
    “I’m sorry.” I scanned his face to ascertain how badly I had angered him, but his countenance wasn’t displeased.
    He’d approached, kneeling beside us, while reaching for the baby. “I think I shall borrow this for a moment.” He picked her up, taking her to the sofa. “You’re quite happy with Miss Hampton, aren’t you?”
    While I worked to untangle my hair, enjoying the heat of the fire, Mr. Carlyle sat with Rosalind, holding her over his shoulder while rubbing her back. My movements seemed to have his undivided attention.
    “Do you plan on doing this every night?”
    “Certainly not.” I smiled somewhat sheepishly. “Megan thinks I’ve taken advantage of you. I apologize, sir. I…maybe I have.”
    He looked as if he would say something, but whatever it was died on his lips, as a knock on the door disrupted the conversation. “That would be dinner.” He got to his feet, heading for the door, while I went to Megan’s room.
    “Are you hungry?” She was on her bed with Joshua, while Judy played with a cloth doll.
    “I think I’ll eat in my room tonight. If you could bring the plate to me, I’d be much obliged.”
    “Are you certain? Mr. Carlyle will be joining us.”
    Her mouth widened. “Well, that was faster than I thought. I doubt it’s my company he seeks.”
    “Oh, stop that! I won’t ever bathe here again, since it’s caused so much trouble. I’m an employee just as you are. I haven’t forgotten that.”
    Her look was doubtful. “I’ll just keep to myself tonight. I’ve some sherry left over.”
    “I’ll bring your food once it arrives.”
    Moments later, the servants brought in three plates, hidden under metal covers, and a smaller plate for Judy. “I’ll take her, sir.” We were in the hallway. “I can put her in the bassinette for a while, until she fusses. That way we can eat in peace.”
    “All right.”
    Rosalind was in my arms. “I’ll be right back.” Placing the baby in the bed, she kicked and squirmed, uttering gurgles that made little sense. “If you could be quiet for ten minutes, I’d be very happy.” I handed her a small stuffed animal. “Here’s a horse for you to play with.” When I returned to the parlor, Mr. Carlyle was already seated at the table with a napkin in his lap. I noted the third plate. “I should bring this to Megan and Judy. It smells delicious. What are we