Page 221 of Ten Lords for the Holidays

“Ah, the mysterious Count Nikolai,” a man called.

Sebastian looked up to see Eliana’s father, Viscount Blake, stepping into the foyer. His jovial expression transformed to concern as he looked from Sebastian to Eliana.

“What is going on here?” Lord Blake asked. “Prince Sebastian, I’m not certain black hair suits you. Eliana, endeavor not to look so fearsome. Please, come into my study and explain.”

Miss Eliana took a step back. “I have nothing to say to this man.”

Her father’s brows rose. “Even more reason I’d like you both to come. Now.”

Feeling more like a chastised child than a prince, Sebastian followed Eliana and her father down the hall, catching only the briefest impression of wood paneling and gold-framed landscapes before Lord Blake ushered them into his study.

“Now,” the viscount said, moving to stand before the hearth fire, “explain. Eliana, you may begin.”

“He deceived me.” She whirled and pointed at Sebastian. “How dare you attend the Midwinter Masque in disguise!”

Viscount Blake muffled something that sounded suspiciously like a laugh. “Isn’t that the point of the ball?”

Sebastian squared his shoulders. “I knew the Ice Prince would not be welcome. In truth, I am weary of my own company of late. I did not intend to upset you today, Miss Banning. It is only that I wanted to see you again, without any unfortunate history between us.”

“So you thought you’d just keep up the charade?” Her eyes flashed with anger. “That it was perfectly acceptable to continue to dupe me in order to enjoy my company? That, sir, will not stand.”

“You are correct. It was very poorly done of me. Although revealing myself to you was bound to end badly—as this meeting amply demonstrates. Do you blame me for wishing to postpone that unhappiness a bit longer?”

She drew in a breath, ready, no doubt, to heap more scorn upon him, but Lord Blake stepped forward.

“Do I understand correctly, that you wish to court my daughter?”

“I did, sir.”

“Well, I want nothing to do with you.” Eliana sent Sebastian a narrow-eyed look.

“Lord Blake.” Sebastian turned to the viscount. “May I beg a moment alone with Miss Eliana?”

“I don’t believe you may.” Lord Blake folded his arms, then looked from Sebastian to his daughter, then back, a thoughtful expression on his face. “But I think the two of you ought to gather up Eliana’s chaperone and take that sleigh ride.”

Eliana gave him a stricken look. “Father, how could you? I don’t want to be seen consorting with Prince Sebastian under any circumstance.”

“I’ll wear my hat and muffler,” Sebastian said. “Everyone believes Prince Sebastian is currently laid low by illness. As far as thetonis concerned, you’ll be riding with Count Nikolai.”

“But—”

“I wished to go out and enjoy the snow with a young lady whom I found to be both interesting and intelligent. Miss Eliana, even when you’re angry, I believe I will still enjoy your company.”

He gave her a deep look, trying to remind her that they’d shared more than just conversation the night before, but a kiss full of heat and passion.

She paused, and the color in her cheeks was not, perhaps, all due to anger.

“If I go sleighing with you, do you promise never to call upon me again?” she asked.

His heart clenched at the thought, but he made her a conciliatory bow. “Miss Eliana Banning and Prince Sebastian have never met. And after today, Count Nikolai will depart London forever.”

“Very well.” She swallowed. “I agree to ashortsleigh ride.”

“Then it’s settled,” Viscount Blake said. “Eliana, go fetch Hetty. I’ll just have a private word with the prince.”

She pressed her lips together and darted Sebastian a warning look. He responded with a small shrug. Whatever Lord Blake wished to speak to him about, he would not argue with the man, but of course he would not reveal their secret kiss, either.

As soon as Miss Eliana left the study, the viscount cleared his throat. “I can’t say that I want to know any of the particulars, but it’s clear my daughter has developed a fondness for you.”

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