When My Ex's Worst Enemy Became My Sanctuary novel Chapter 187

Latham lounged there with a lazy grin, his voice rough but teasing. “Say ‘husband’ for me. Just once.”

Dorothea’s ears burned, the heat creeping up before she could stop it. She tried to hype herself up inside. It wasn’t even the first time. “Husband. Happy now?”

Latham’s eyes crinkled with amusement as he watched her. The smile on his lips grew even more satisfied. “It’d sound better if you didn’t tack that last part on.”

***

Back at the Stephens house, Pauline was starting to think Ladd was a pretty great partner in crime.

“Pauline, let’s team up and make sure those two stay glued together. Sound good?”

“Yes, yes, absolutely. They’re married, after all. Best thing would be if they had a baby soon.”

Ladd slapped his thigh, totally on board. “Right. One this year, two next year!”

Pauline shook her head, playful but firm. “No way. Just one for now. At least wait three years before another. Dorothea needs to take care of herself.”

Ladd nodded, reconsidering. “Alright, then let’s hope for twins right away.”

The two of them were so pleased with their little conspiracy, they went to bed smiling.

***

The next day, Albert went to find Carola. “Carola, I lost something a while back. Have you seen that maid, Polly, around?”

“She probably found it.”

Albert actually wanted to ask the maid a few questions, but she was nowhere to be seen at the Brown house.

Carola’s heart skipped a beat, and she forced a casual smile. “Oh, Polly took an extended leave and went home.”

“What was it that you lost? Was it important? Did she steal it? I can call her and ask—”

Albert shook his head, not wanting to get her in trouble. “No, it’s fine. It’s not that important. Maybe it’s just in one of my suit pockets somewhere.”

“Really, don’t worry about it, Carola.”

After dinner, Albert left, still mulling things over. He’d only asked about the attic once, and the next day the maid vanished. Was he just being paranoid?

***

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