Page 24 of Beneath the Harvest Moon

Gabriel’s hands skimmed over Jane’s enormous belly with efficient, purposeful sweeps, then pressed one hand into her pubic bone and the other at the top of the bump.

The movement of his long, dexterous fingers revived memories of how else Gabriel could use those digits, and her loins tingled. For goodness’ sake! Gabriel was a dedicated physician, and he was examining his patient. She buried the inappropriate sensations and asked, “How many babies have you delivered since Jane’s first?”

“About two or three every year. Not everyone will allow a man in the birthing room, despite my education, and prefer my mother to attend them.”

“Nothing against your mother, Doctor Sharpe, but you’ve attended all my births, and I don’t trust anyone else.”

Gabriel smiled, and Blythe’s chest warmed. Why did he have to be so handsome, intelligent and proficient? He had always been good at everything, and she had never doubted he would be an excellent physician.

“Please pass on your endorsement to others.”

Jane winced, and he pulled back a hand. “I don’t think she’s keen on whatever you’re doing, Doctor.”

Blythe said, “What makes you think it is a girl?”

“Just wishful thinking.” Jane released a wistful sigh.

Gabriel straightened. “The head is already low. May I perform an internal examination?”

Jane’s nose wrinkled, but she nodded.

Gabriel examined Jane and frowned. Was something wrong?

He removed his hand and said, “You may replace your clothing.”

While Blythe re-covered Jane’s belly and legs, Gabriel washed his hands again, then turned back to the bed. “The cervix is already stretching. The baby could come any day now.”

Jane nodded.

The dark hair covering Gabriel’s forearms mesmerised Blythe for a moment until he rolled down his sleeves and said, “I advise you to rest.”

“Your mam will have plenty to say about that.” Jane’s grumble drew Blythe’s attention.

“Do not worry; I will take on your duties.”

“You’re a lady now.”

“Stop sounding like Mama!” Blythe retorted. “I am not a lady, and you cannot clamber onto the cart and head out to the fields when the baby’s arrival is imminent.”

Gabriel nodded. “I suspect the birth will be quick.”

Blythe braced her hands on her hips. “You do not want to bring forth a child in the fields with the hired hands watching, do you?”

“Of course not.” Jane grumbled.

“Then it is settled.” Blythe plumped the pillows behind Jane. “You will rest until the baby is born.”

“But you shouldn’t have to work when you’re a guest.”

“I am not a guest, and I doubt I will return to York⁠—”

“You plan to stay?” Gabriel asked.

Embarrassment slid down her spine. She should not have let that slip. Fingering a wrinkle in the bedsheet, she said, “I have decided to remain here with Violet after Elijah returns to school.”

Jane muttered, “Your mam will not be pleased.”

Meeting Jane’s gaze, she said, “As I said before, we both place too much importance on Mama’s opinions. We are not children anymore; we are mothers ourselves.” She patted Jane’s stomach. “And I do not want my niece to believe her aunt is a lazy socialite with nothing more on her mind than gowns, tea and gossip.”