Aisling was filled with joy for the mistress. The ladiesmaid spoke of dressing Lilias minus the corset when her belly expanded. Neither the maid nor the lady could keep from smiling.
Lilias's happiness seemed to increase with each new day. Even Medlock seemed proud and smug in hopes of an heir-a Craven son to continue the legacy of the estate.
She had Cook whip up any and every entree or course the mistress desired catering to her every food whim.
Christmas seemed even more magical that year. The Master, the Mistress, and the staff sang of glad tidings and sacred tunes round the Christmas tree all with sparkling glee.
Lilias and Archie sat down to the piano.
"Everyone, I would now like to play something for my child." Archie announced and then with one gentle caress of Lilias's belly began to play a beautiful lullaby. Lilias was only 4 months along and not yet even truly showing.
Archie and Lilias did not see Lilias's condition as something to be kept hidden but to be honoured.
...
As weeks passed, Medlock revelled in her own knowledge of herbs treating Lilias to all she thought was healthy for Mother and child. She made Lilias drink mixtures-those that she explained would be rich in vitamins-of specific kitchen herbs, and soak and bathe in those that were both aromatic and therapeutic.
...Months later...
One day, Archie returned from town and his meeting with a basket of Roses for his wife.
It was only the end of April.
"Here you are, my dear. Early blooms."
Lilias smiled adoringly at him.
"Beautiful! Thank you, my love." She puckered her lips encouraging him to bend down to kiss her as she lay upon her chaise.
She giggled with her hand upon her belly.
"What is it?" Archie inquired sweetly.
"The baby's moving." She answered.
Archie placed his hand over her belly and laughed with surprise and love as he felt the motion.
Lilias was due to give birth in 7 weeks.
In their joy, Archie and Lilias thought it would be wonderful to take pictures in their garden once more. It would be their secret, for they knew that the traditionalist in Medlock and also a few of the men on staff would certainly scowl upon the idea of a pregnant wife posing for pictures in such a delicate condition with her husband. No one was to know their plans for that afternoon.