Page 18 of How the Belle Stole Christmas

Boxing Day

“Now,” Balwyn pressed a kiss to her temple. “Isn’t this much better?” Maria’s back was pressed against his front, knees behind hers as they watched a gentle rain dot the windows. “Just listen.”

“I don’t hear anything.” She kissed the arm wrapped around her.

“Exactly. Not even the staff is about. I told Owen to take them all to The Painted Speck since they are away from their families. Handed him a bag of coins with an allotment for each member of your staff.”

“That was exceptionally kind.” Balwyn was one of the most generous men she’d ever known. Talbot had been the other. “What occurred after I went up last evening?”

Maria had gone upstairs, as Balwyn had asked, after he’d ordered all her guests to leave. Before she’d made it to her bedroom door, the loud, strident shriek of Lady Piedmont had echoed up the stairs. Balwyn’s sister had not been pleased to be told to leave.

“Let’s see,” Balwyn mused. “Uncle Leonard, always an opportunist, lit the cheroot he’d hidden behind your bookcase, despite my warnings. I escorted him outside and ignored his banging on the terrace doors while I enjoyed a brandy.”

“I did wonder about that noise. I thought perhaps the bats had returned.”

“You could hear him? Over the whining of my sister? Amazing. I bade Harriet goodbye and informed her I would not see her off. Wished her safe travels. Dr. Forester took his leave, which left Alicia in tears, though I was assured that he will call on me in London.”

“That is rather wonderful,” Maria mused. “I thought they might suit.”

“She could do far worse. You were right as usual, my love.

“And Wilma?”

“She wished us both the best. I suspect she has a string of suitors in London to choose from. Not that I give a fig. I’ve more important matters at hand.” He pulled her closer. “Such as making you Lady Balwyn as soon as is humanly possible.”

“I agree.” Maria pressed a kiss to his lips. “If this is your proposal.”

“I thought I made myself clear last evening. My gift to you was a lovely ring, sapphires as it happens, to celebrate. I did have something a bit more romantic planned but,” he chuckled. “The box is over there.” He nodded towards his coat. “And at present, I am far too comfortable to move.”

Maria pulled the blankets up over them both. “Agreed. Also, the fire has gone out, and I’m cold.”

“I can provide.” Balwyn rolled so that Maria was on her back. “Warmth as well as comfort. But you haven’t yet agreed to becoming Lady Balwyn.” There was a serious look in his dark eyes. “I want you as my wife, Maria. I am not trying to replace Talbot, and—”

Maria shook her head, placing her fingers over his mouth. “His last words to me were a hope that I find love and happiness once more. And I have. With you.”

She loved Balwyn so much.The entire holiday had been utter chaos, more terrible than she could have imagined.

But this, at least, was rather perfect.

If you haven’t guessed, this is my take on National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, complete with horrible relatives, terrible dogs and unwanted surprises.

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