Page 54 of A Christmas Miracle for the Frosty Marquess
The boy looked disappointed, but he nodded.
“All right,” he said.
After a round of “God Rest You, Merry Gentlemen,” Clara bid the children farewell. They were still enthralled with their treats and gifts, so they weren’t terribly sad. She closed the door to the orphanage behind her carefully, smiling to herself. Julian had been right. It certainly had been a wonderful day.
Walking away from the orphanage, her heart was a blend of emotions. The warmth of hope danced alongside the chill of trepidation. She looked forward to seeing Julian again that evening, not just as a companion in the festive celebrations but as the man she had unexpectedly come to love.
Chapter Twenty-four
The grand doors of the Thornmire mansion swung open, revealing Julian in a state of excitement that was palpably uncharacteristic. His boots echoed on the polished wood floor as he strode in, the memory of Clara’s gaze from earlier that day etched on his heart.
“Fernsby,” he said, out of breath. “I need your assistance with my green suit and do hurry.”
Fernsby appeared almost immediately. With a knowing smile, he fell into step beside his master.
“Well, aren’t you in fine spirits this afternoon,” he said.
Julian’s lips twitched into a grin.
“Indeed,” he said. “Tonight is a most important celebration, and I endeavour to look my best.”
The valet looked him over, raising his eyebrows.
“And would Lady Bennett have anything to do with this sudden caretaking of your appearance?” he teased.
Julian’s cheeks grew hot. But he did not deny the implication.
“She has a great deal to do with everything,” he said cryptically.
Fernsby looked at him once more.
“I believe she does,” he said.
When they reached Julian’s chambers, the valet set swiftly to work. He took great care adjusting the lapels and ensuring that every inch of Julian’s attire was flawless. Once dressed, Julian looked himself over in the tall, gilded mirror. The vibrant green complimented his eyes, and he felt an unfamiliar surge of confidence.
From the doorway, Elizabeth, Julian’s sister, leaned against the frame with a playful smirk.
“I’ve never seen you so eager to dress for an event,” she said with a laugh. “I wonder what could have influenced this change in demeanour.”
Julian’s face grew warm, the flush spreading from his cheeks to the tips of his ears.
“Your teasing knows no end, Sister,” he said.
Elizabeth’s laughter was light, her blue eyes twinkling with mischief.
“But truly, it’s delightful to see you so spirited,” she said.
Julian chuckled, shaking his head even as his smile grew.
“I am hearing that a great deal today,” he said, glancing at Fernsby.
The valet pretended to be interested in brushing some lint off the shoulders of Julian’s suit. But he, too, was smiling. Julian realized it had been some time since he had been happy. And he didn’t need to guess what had changed. It was Clara who was responsible. His Clara.
Evening descended upon Thornmire Manor, and the heart of the estate pulsed with festive anticipation. Servants scurried, preparing for the Yule Log celebration. The grand hall was decorated with sprigs of holly and ivy, the fragrance of pine filling the air.
Yet, amidst the bustle and merriment, Julian felt a singular pull. His eyes flitted from face to face, searching for the one that had consumed his thoughts all week. Then he spotted her.
Clara, standing by the grand hearth, her delicate profile illuminated by the warm glow of the fire. Her eyes, bright and earnest, met his, and for a moment, time seemed to halt. The undercurrent of emotions between them was palpable.
