The Viscount's Christmas Miracle

by Erin Grace

  Heavens. She’d never seen her mother so riled and had to admit she admired her for it. But to anger Henrietta meant to risk being tossed out onto the street. ‘Mama? I’m all right. It wasn’t entirely Henrietta’s fault. The servant girl, Polly had schemed my kidnapping. But there is no chance of it happening again.’

  ‘I will never allow Lily to be harmed again, Mrs Bowden. You have my word.’ Gabriel rested his hand upon Lily’s shoulder and she reached up and clasped it tightly.

  Her mother crossed her arms, looked at Gabriel then looked back at her. ‘I cannot repay you for what you have done, sir. And I appreciate your pledge. However, we will be leaving Speckles Wood when the snows allow us to do so, and we will be returning to London.’ Her mama gave her a broad smile.

  She gasped. ‘London? How? Why?’

  ‘You see, I had decided to wait no longer for Henrietta to fix the attic and searched out some heavy paper and anything else I could use to line the roof and make my poor daughters’ room a little bit warmer.’ Her mama shot Henrietta a defiant glare. ‘My daughters, your nieces, were freezing. In any case, my brother gave me a large bundle of papers that I might ‘use as I please’. Honestly if it wasn’t for the fact the poor man is near deaf and blind, he might have been aware of your misdoings, Henrietta.’

  ‘Papers?’ Henrietta attempted to get up from her chair, but mama pushed her aunt’s shoulders down, forcing the woman to remain seated.

  Never had she thought to see such a sight in her life.

  ‘You see, Lily. It would appear a Mr Blackstone, from London, has been trying to contact me for some time now. In fact, according to his last letter, he intended to come here himself in the spring and seek me out.’

  She tried to recall the name, but, nothing came to mind. ‘Who is Mr Blackstone?’

  Gabriel squeezed her shoulder gently. ‘From Blackstone and Phillips?’

  Her mother inclined her head. ‘Yes. How did you know?’

  Gabriel released her and approached the hearth. ‘I have several investments with them. They are a most reputable firm.’

  ‘I am pleased to hear that, sir. It would seem, Lily, your father had made several investments with him. I knew your papa had put money somewhere, but he’d died before he could relay all the details to me. In short, it seems we are now quite comfortable and will be for some time.’

  She burst into tears. ‘Oh, Mama. I am so happy for you.’ She stood up and gave her mother a tender hug and smiled at Gabriel. ‘I couldn’t be happier.’ Her dear mama and Stephaney would be away from her wretched aunt at last.

  But what did it mean for her…for them?

  Gabriel’s expression had become solemn, his eyes unreadable. ‘That is indeed wonderful news, madam. I’m certain Miss Stephaney will feel the same.’

  Mama blushed then laughed. ‘Of course. We must fetch your sister immediately. She will be so pleased.’

  He stepped forward, hands resting behind his back. ‘If I may suggest something, madam? It would be my honor to have you and both Miss’s Bowden as my houseguests for Christmas Eve through to whenever you feel the need to move to London.’

  Her mother gasped. ‘That is most generous of you, Captain. But we couldn’t possibly impose on you for so long.’

  He glanced at her then smiled at her mother. ‘It is no imposition, I assure you. In fact, my father has been complaining about Miss Stephaney’s lack of attendance for their Faro games.’

  Her mother looked puzzled. ‘Faro?’

  She patted her mama’s arm. ‘It is rather a long story, Mama.’

  Her mother nodded thoughtfully, though still appeared confused.

  ‘If you would gather all your belongings madam, we will make for Etford Park at once.’

  Her mother seemed to consider Gabriel’s request then nodded. ‘We would be delighted, sir. I shall gather our things. We don’t have much. Come, Lily.’ And with that her mother dashed from the kitchen.

  ‘I’ll be right there.’

  Henrietta, still holding her head, stood up. ‘I shall just take a few changes of attire. After all, I don’t expect to stay at the manor indefinitely.’

  ‘I’m afraid, madam, the invitation only extended to the Bowden’s. Your attendance is not required.’ Gabriel inclined his head. ‘However, you will inform your husband that I wish to speak with him at the manor tonight. He is to be there at precisely eight o’clock, alone. Do you understand? I wish to discuss with him the opportunity of becoming a missionary, on behalf of his lordship, in Africa.’

  Henrietta’s chin trembled, and eyes glistened with unshed tears. Horrible as it may sound, she rather enjoyed seeing her aunt suffer this once.

  ‘Africa?’ Stunned, the woman appeared about to swoon. ‘Yes, Captain. I will ensure he is there.’

  Her aunt left the kitchen and within moments howling cries could be heard. Left alone with Gabriel, she turned to him unsure of what to say. ‘Looks like I shall be going to London after all.’

  He reached out and took her hands within his, rubbing his thumbs gently across the back of her fingers. ‘Lily, I need to ask you something.’

  She shook her head. ‘Me first.’

  ‘Very well.’

  ‘If you’re seeking an answer to your last proposal, then I have indeed made up my mind.’

  ‘You have?’

  ‘The answer is no…and yes.’

  ‘No and yes?’

  She nodded. ‘Now that Mama and Stephaney have a secure future, I needn’t worry about them being cast out by Henrietta. It’s more relief than you can imagine.’ She raised his hands to her lips then kissed them softly. ‘I am now prepared to be your lover, your confidante and your closest friend…I hope. But, as for being your mistress? I’m afraid I would never allow myself to accept money and gifts from you in return for my company and affection. I hope you will understand. Instead, I shall take up the post offered to me by Mrs Peel’s niece and I will work for my living.’

  He closed his eyes and let out a deep sigh. ‘Lily…’

  ‘Please, Gabriel, don’t interrupt. I must tell you what is in my heart. I accept you may never love me enough to marry me. But I love you enough for the both of us. And if just being with you whenever you can is all you can offer, then that’s what I will take. But those are my terms.’

  He shook his head slightly. ‘For God’s sake, Lily…’

  She raised her finger, pressed it to his lips and smiled. ‘Please think about it before you decide.’

  Eyes still heavy with sleep, Lily wandered from her bedroom and headed toward the Green Room. After arriving at Etford Park, Mrs Godfrey had seen to it that she and her family were made welcome at once.

  Each was shown to a beautifully decorated guestroom, complete with blazing fire in the hearth. Mama had burst into tears at the wonderful sight.

  Though Mrs Godfrey rarely smiled at her, according to Gabriel, the old housekeeper treated everyone with the same air of disapproval – even his late mother. So, what she’d mistaken for dislike hadn’t been the case at all.

  A bath was prepared for her whilst Gabriel informed her he had to leave on an urgent matter.

  Washed and exhausted, she’d slept. Only now, it was dark outside, and she didn’t know how long she’d been asleep. It had felt strange, waking up in a warm bed and for a brief moment she feared being at Etford Park was nothing but a wonderful dream.

  As she descended the main stairs, the heavenly scent of cinnamon, cloves and orange floated through the air. The grand hall was lit up with candle filled sconces, and little wreaths of holly hung from the walls. Side tables were adorned with Christmas statues and beautiful decorations. In fact, the entire place seemed to have a festive glow.

  She felt so small, so underdressed amongst such grandeur. Her clothes ruined, she’d used one of the maids’ dresses Mrs Godfrey had given her when she first arrived there. At least it was warm and clean.

  The grandfather clock in the hall struck eight times. She had slept so
long? Ten hours at least.

  She approached the Green Room, her heart soaring as the sound of joy and laughter echoed around her, pulling her toward the source. She paused, her heart almost fearful of what she may find inside.

  As she turned the handle, the door opened, and she found herself falling forward, her hand still clinging to the handle. ‘Good heavens.’

  A strong hand grabbed her under the arm and helped her to her feet. Thompson looked down at her, but instead of his usual frown, he smiled.

  ‘Beginning to become a bit of a habit, isn’t it, madam?’

  She smiled and straightened her skirts. ‘It would appear so. Thank you, Thompson.’

  ‘Not at all, madam. His lordship has been expecting you. Indeed, as you can see. All the guests have been expecting you.’

  She suddenly realized she was the focus of everyone’s attention. Oh dear.

  Lord Etford was sitting by the enormous hearth and appeared to be chatting to her mother. Mama? Mrs Jenkins was there, a glass of sherry in her hand as her Uncle Linus nodded in greeting. But where was Gabriel?

  ‘Good evening.’ Well. That was a start. She fumbled for her manners and turned towards his lordship and curtseyed. ‘My lord. I apologize for being late. If I was late. I really wasn’t certain when I should be here.’

  Her mama laughed and beckoned her to join them by the fire. ‘You look wonderful my dear. You must have slept well.’

  Lord Etford regarded her with an assessing glance. ‘You’re not old at all, my girl. Hardly a spinster.’

  Puzzled, she looked at her mama. ‘Spinster?’

  Mama patted her hand. ‘It would appear your sister has been visiting his lordship and as such has been talking a lot of about us.’

  She groaned. ‘Where is my lovely sister?’

  She surveyed the room and was taken aback by the sheer splendor. Candelabras were aglow with perfumed beeswax candles, wreaths of holly and ivy hung from every available surface, tables were laden with brightly wrapped boxes and packages of all description, but best of all, on a table near the wall, stood a potted Christmas tree at least six feet tall.

  And, next to it, beaming like an angel as she tasted all manner of treats was her sister.

  Tears welled in her eyes and she struggled not to let them fall. But how could she not? This was everything she had imagined Christmas could be. And Gabriel had made her family happy. She glanced around the room. He still wasn’t there.

  ‘Stephaney.’ At first, her little sister seemed too busy to notice her, as Lord Etford’s prize hunting dog began chasing her around and under the Christmas tree table.

  The girl looked up suddenly and grinned. ‘Merry Christmas, Lily.’

  ‘Merry Christmas, my love. Are you having a wonderful time?’

  ‘I am. Guess what? His lordship said Cleo is going to have puppies in the spring, and that I am allowed to have first pick from the litter.’

  ‘First pick? That is a very generous offer. But I’m not certain we’ll have room for such an energetic animal in London.’

  Her sister nodded thoughtfully. ‘Yes. Mama told me we are leaving. Perhaps I can keep the puppy here and visit it often?’

  ‘I’m certain his lordship would approve.’

  She glanced around the room, then at the shiny black clock on the mantel. It was eight-thirty. Where was Gabriel?

  ‘Merry Christmas, my love.’

  The sudden sound made her jump, but the warm, husky whisper against her ear sent tingles racing along her skin. ‘Merry Christmas, Captain.’

  She turned around and gasped, eyes wide open. He was never more so…so covered in slush and mud. ‘Good heavens, are you all right? What happened? Where have you been?’

  He handed Thompson his dirty coat and grinned. ‘Don’t fuss, my love. Everything is fine.’

  She reached out and brushed brown grass from his shoulder. His boots were filthy, and he was near wet through. But, through it all, she saw his beaming smile. And the raw desire that glittered within his eyes.

  Even if the man never admitted it, she knew he loved her.

  He reached into a bag and removed a small box. ‘A gift for you.’

  With trembling fingers, she accepted a beautifully wrapped box. ‘You need not give me anything, Gabriel. This, this happy Christmas with my family is everything I could ever want.’

  He raised an eyebrow. ‘Everything? Pity. I had hoped you’d want what was in that box.’

  She eyed him curiously then untied the gold and silver ribbons. Lifting the lid, she gasped. Inside was the most glorious pair of red kid gloves. ‘They are beautiful, Gabriel. I will treasure them always.’

  ‘I never want your hands to be cold again.’ He took one glove out, held her left hand. ‘Here, try it on.’

  She wiped a tear from her eye, held her left hand out and inserted it into the glove. Or, at least, she tried to. ‘Wait, sir. There’s something inside.”

  She withdrew her hand and found a glistening emerald ring had slid onto the tip of her finger.

  Mouth open, she looked up at him. ‘I cannot accept this.’

  He frowned, but his eyes were smiling. ‘Not big enough? It was my mother’s. No? Well, then I suppose you’ll have to wait until we get to London to choose something else.’

  Stunned, she gazed at the magnificent gem. ‘Yes. I suppose. I mean, no. You know I can’t accept such gifts from you.’

  He raised her hand to his lips and kissed it tenderly. ‘Unless, of course, you’d rather wait until we get to Paris?’

  ‘Paris?’

  He touched under her chin. ‘Where else would we go for our honeymoon?’

  ‘Ahem. Gabriel.’ Lord Etford touched him on shoulder. ‘Do you intend to keep us waiting all night? We have gifts to open, supper to eat and champagne to drink.’

  Stephaney grinned and handed her a lovely bouquet of winter greenery, tied with a gold ribbon.

  A curious smile curled her lips. ‘What is this for? Waiting for what?’

  Gabriel removed his jacket and replaced it with one Thompson was holding.

  ‘I believe your uncle will explain.’

  ‘Eh?’ The old preacher stepped up to her and gave her a warm smile. ‘Oh, yes. Congratulations, my dear child. I believe you are to be married, eh? By me, in fact. Your aunt never tells me anything, foolish old woman.’

  Stunned, she looked at Gabriel. ‘Married?’

  Gabriel fastened the buttons of his jacket ran a hand through his hair and kissed her on the cheek. ‘Merry Christmas, my love.’

  ‘I think I’m going to cry.’ Mrs Peel let out a deep sigh as she stood at the servants’ door then placed a small decorated cake next to the Christmas tree. ‘Can’t have a wedding without a wedding cake, now can we?’

  Her uncle placed a thick-rimmed set of spectacles on his nose then called them to stand before the Christmas tree. ‘Come along then, come along. I believe you have the special license, sir.’

  ‘I do.’ Gabriel reached into his coat then looked to Thompson who produced a folded piece of parchment and handed it to her uncle. ‘Thank heavens I hadn’t lost it.’

  She raised an eyebrow. ‘Special license?’

  He winked and gave her a wicked grin that caused a lump in her throat and sent shivers down to her toes. ‘Do you want me to explain?’

  She shook her head and smiled broadly. ‘No. All that matters is now.’

  Then, after what was possibly the shortest and most eventful service her uncle had ever produced, Gabriel kissed her as though there was no one in the room.

  ‘Oh my.’ She pulled back from Gabriel, her face flushed, her lips puffy.

  ‘A toast!’ Lord Etford stood and raised a glass of champagne. ‘To the magnificent, beautiful, exceedingly patient bride and my son, the very fortunate groom.’

  Gabriel shook his head and smiled then drank from his glass until empty.

  Her mama gave her a tender hug. ‘I didn’t have time to get you a proper wedding gift, b
ut I had made this for you for Christmas.’ She opened the soft piece of paper tissue and gasped at the dainty embroidered handkerchief inside.

  ‘Oh, Mama, it’s beautiful. Thank you.’

  ‘And, I made you this.’ Stephaney held out a wreath made from dried lavender and other fragrant plants.

  She hugged her sibling and kissed her head. ‘I shall adore it always.’

  Gabriel turned to her. ‘Now close your eyes. I have one more gift for you.’

  ‘Oh, please, no more, my love. I haven’t a wedding gift for you.’

  ‘But I insist. I wanted to get you something, something that is special to just us two.’ The light of mischief lit up his eyes.

  Her eyes narrowed. ‘What are you up to, sir?’

  ‘Close your eyes.’

  With some trepidation, she did as asked and held out both her hands as something hard was placed there. What on earth was it? She opened her eyes and found a large box, covered in dirt and grass.

  She glared at her new husband but couldn’t keep the laughter from her voice. ‘You didn’t.’

  He winked at her. ‘Never let it be said, madam, that I failed you in any way.’

  She opened the box lid and a mass of squawking reddish-brown feathers flapped its way out and landed on top of her head. ‘Blasted chicken!’

  Merry Christmas.

  Thank you so much for reading Lily and Gabriel’s story.

  I hope you enjoyed it!

  Like all authors, I’d appreciate your feedback, so why not leave a review at your place of purchase or favourite review site?

  Turn the page to read the first chapter of another of my novels, Fire of My Heart.

  Fire of My Heart

  Chapter One

  Banth Manor, Ireland, 1759

  Battle cries echoed along with the clash of steel throughout the green, mist filled valley of Shaughnessy. Barely past dawn, the early summer sun shed streaks of orange light upon the tragic scene unfolding below Lord Seamus Donegal, Fourth Viscount Banth.