Page 52 of A Sonata for the Fiery Lady

As the happy conversation continued around her, Melisa did her best to focus on the happy occasion. Sometimes she still felt the pain of losing a child but felt reassured that she and Oliver were trying again. It wouldn’t be long before she was expecting again based on the number of times a night they tried.

As breakfast was served in the drawing room, everyone settled to enjoy the special meal Cook had made. Sweet rolls, spiced cakes, savoury sausage, and boiled eggs adorned the buffet table, filling the room with pleasant aromas that mixed with the cinnamon and citrus. The room was filled with such wonderful chatter that Melisa wished there was a way to prolong this feeling for the rest of her life.

Melisa’s eyes roamed around the room as she quietly ate her breakfast, savouring every bite as she looked lovingly at everyone. She was beyond thankful for everyone in this room as she looked all around. As her eyes settled on Oliver, she could hardly believe that this wonderful musician was her husband. Her mother’s laughter brought her gaze to her parents, still surprised by the loving way in which they now treated her and that they were no longer worried about the opinion of society. Now, they only cared about the opinion of their family.

Melisa listened to the Italian being exchanged between Signore and Signora Davone as they discussed the wonderful foods they were trying for the first time. As Melisa listened to them, she was full of gratitude for the kindness they had shown her, becoming like second parents to her as they supported her through one of the most horrible experiences of her life. And even when they knew she had a tattered past, they still accepted her for who she was and her vast knowledge that she was so ready to share with the Signornias.

As Melisa looked to Gabrielle and Vivian, who were laughing together, she felt proud of the fact that soon she’d be debuting them into English society during the next Season. She was looking forward to continuing their lessons in preparation for the event, but she was most keen about teaching the young ladies about true love. Melisa felt that it was her duty to warn the two young ladies about the alternative intentions of gentlemen, that there would be other men like Lord Smithers who would be out to seek their innocence instead of their hearts.

Melisa took in all of the good cheer and holiday spirit that filled the room, thinking that there could never be a happier moment than now. It was even intensified as the breakfast plates were cleared from the room and everyone started to exchange gifts. Laughter, love, and surprise rang out through the room as loved ones showed each other their affection. It was clear that every gift that had been purchased had been done so out of love instead of simply picking the thing that cost the most to be showy. No, this morning was celebrated with intent and love, and could be no more splendid than it already was.

“Merry Christmas, my love,” Oliver said softly to Melisa, bringing her out of her deep reflection. He slid his hand in hers, their eyes locking as they simply looked at each other with more love in their heats than they ever thought possible.

“Merry Christmas, my dearest,” Melisa replied before she leaned in and placed a soft kiss on his lips, not fearing who watched them. To Melisa, it was the best kiss in her entire life.

THE END