Married Life of Lady Whistledown

Chapter 16

Penelope's heart pounded as she looked nervously at Portia, who sat across from her with an expectant gaze. Colin, standing close by, gently caressed Penelope's arm in a comforting gesture. Taking a deep breath, Penelope gathered her courage.

"Mom," she began, her voice trembling slightly, "I have something to tell you."

Portia's eyes, previously clouded with worry, brightened immediately. "What is it, dear?"

"I'm pregnant," Penelope said, her voice barely above a whisper.

The transformation in Portia's expression was instantaneous. Her face lit up with a joy Penelope had rarely seen, a radiant smile spreading across her features. "Oh, Penelope, that is the most perfect news! Thank you! I really needed to hear that today."

Tears of happiness welled in Penelope's eyes as she choked out, "Is everything alright, Mom?"

Portia's smile softened, and she patted the seat beside her. "Penelope, please, sit down," she said gently. Penelope complied, her eyes filled with apprehension as she looked up at her mother. Colin seated himself next to her, his hand still resting on her arm.

Portia's mood shifted as she continued. "The doctors are running out of things to try," she said quietly. "I'm not sure how much longer I'll be here."

Penelope sat in stunned silence, her emotions overwhelming her as she began to cry softly. Colin and Portia reached out, wiping her tears away with tender care.

Colin looked at Portia, his expression filled with regret. "I'm so sorry," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "Can I tell you something? We were going to keep it a secret, but I think you should know."

Portia, sensing the gravity of the situation, nodded. "Of course, my dear."

Colin turned to Penelope, pressing a gentle kiss to her hand before continuing. "The midwife thinks we might be having twins or even triplets. She's quite certain. Mrs. Garrison believes that Penelope is advancing rather quickly and that there's more than one child."

Portia's eyes widened in delight. She embraced Penelope warmly. "Oh Colin, that is wonderful news! Please, don't worry about me. You've just given me a reason to keep fighting. I love you both."

Penelope and Colin both expressed their love in return, and Penelope gave Portia a heartfelt hug. Portia, though reluctant to leave, said, "I should be going now." Colin stood to escort her out, and as she departed, he turned back to Penelope.

He found her staring out the window, her eyes filled with tears. Colin approached her, his voice soothing. "Penelope, I'm so sorry. It will be okay. I'll speak with Anthony, and we'll find another doctor to help her."

Penelope turned to him, her voice cracking. "I know she can't live forever, but I didn't think it would happen this soon. I need her, Colin. I can't lose her."

Colin cupped her cheek gently. "I know, love. I assure you, we will figure something out. Do you want me to call over our mother? As much as I hate to admit it, she always knows the right thing to say."

Penelope nodded, her voice a whisper. "Can she come tomorrow? I just want to lay down."

"Of course," Colin replied. "Let me help you to our bedroom."

He guided her to their bedroom, where she sank onto the bed with a sigh of exhaustion. Penelope looked up at him. "Colin, do you mind if I read? I haven't read in a while and..."

Colin interrupted her gently. "You can do whatever you want, my love. You don't need to explain yourself. I love you."

Penelope's eyes filled with tears again as she looked at him. "I love you so much."

Colin could see that Penelope needed a confidence boost. He took her hands in his and looked at her with adoration. "Penelope, you are so beautiful. I love your hair, your blue eyes, and your sense of humor. I adore how your body is adjusting while you're pregnant. You're more radiant than ever."

Penelope blushed, feeling her heart swell with affection. She gave him a playful smile. "I'm not getting much reading done, am I?"

They both laughed softly, the warmth of their shared laughter easing the tension. Colin pulled her into a passionate kiss, their lips meeting in a fervent embrace. As the kiss deepened, the laughter faded, leaving only the warmth of their connection and the promise of their future together.