Page 13 of A Lady by Chance

“But they were right. I am as blissfully happy as they are.”

“I pray that remains the case.”

Jessica released her hands. “What are you saying? Do you think Patrick isn’t a good man?”

“Nae, I am not saying that at all. I am saying, we do not know him.”

Jessica stiffened. “I can see he’s a good man.”

Chastity gave her a gentle smile. “Aye, he does seem to be a true gentleman.”

“I am glad he is the man Sir Stirling chose for me. I would have been miserable with anyone else.”

“I only want the best for you. For all three of you.” Chastity swiped at her cheek. “You are more than my sisters. You are—”

“We are like your own children, aren’t we?” Jessica spoke past the rising lump in her throat. “Papa was right. You have done enough for us. You know how much we love you.”

Chastity nodded. “Of course.”

“Then you will understand that we want the best for you, too. We want you to be happier than all three of us combined.”

“You are sweet, kitten.”

Jessica shook her head. “No, that is you. I am the wild one, remember?”

“Your new husband doesn’t seem to mind.”

“Do you think so?” Her heart pounded. “He is exciting, isn’t he?”

“He is a man, no more or less. Do not let him turn your head so much that you forget how special you are.”

“I will not.” Jessica smiled. “But only if you promise that you will not forget how wonderful you are.”

“I am a spinster and more a mother hen than a fresh young miss like you.”

Jessica threw her arms about Chastity “You are the dearest sister in all of Scotland. No, in all the world. Now you will be the bride of the Marriage Maker. And he will show you how special you are.” Jessica drew back. “Even I’m not such a green girl as to have missed how he looks at you. He is mad about you.”

Surprise flickered across Chastity’s face. “What? Getting married has clouded your judgment. He wants a title on which to hang his name, nothing more.”

“Hah!” Jessica stepped back. “Sir Stirling cannot wait to make you his wife.”

Jessica gave her sister no chance to reply, but spun and headed back to the dining room. She suddenly had a ferocious appetite.