Part 12 (1/2)

”How convenient,” she said, smiling up at him.

”I thought so,” he said, lowering his mouth to hers. ”Now, where were we before my family overran our wedding bed?”

AND AS MILES made her his in that very chilly stable, Abby decided sev-eral things.

One, central heating just wasn't all it was cracked up to be.

Two, condemned heretics made mighty fine lovers.

And three, Sir Sweetums deserved a promotion!

Epilogue.

SIR MAXIMILLIAN SWEETUMS reclined on a most comfortable cloud, con-templating his well-deserved repast. He brought a particularly plump Tender Vittle to his aristocratic nose and sniffed critically. Ah, the bou-quet was excellent! He partook with relish.

”So, Boss, you finished up de job?”

Sir Sweetums was in such a fine mood, he didn't begrudge the bull-dog his interruption of afternoon tea. ”Yes, dear Bruno, my task is fin-ished. The Abigail is well settled.”

”Yeah, Boss, but dose kids she's gonna get.” The bulldog shuddered. ”Yikes!”

”Never fear, Bruno. I'll be there to aid her when she needs it. And I'll have a care for her little ones. All part of the job, you know.”

Bruno struggled to scratch behind his ear. Once he managed to get his foot within range, he scratched thoughtfully.

”Dese jobs, Boss. Uh, don't you need some help sometimes?”

”Indeed, Bruno, it is a most taxing venture,” Sir Sweetums agreed. ”Never a moment to sit idly by.”