The Rake’s Christmas Wager (Spinsters and their Suitors #2)

Chapter 7

CHAPTER SEVEN

L ily Ashworth had long since grown comfortable with her place in society. At five and twenty, she might not be the most sought-after lady in the room, but that hardly bothered her. She had found joy in the quieter pleasures of life—books, family, and the occasional house party where she could watch others dance and laugh without feeling any pressure to participate.

The previous night’s conversation with Lord Brinton still puzzled her throughout the entire day. At every turn he seemed to be situated nearby, offering his assistance, or a compliment. He was attentive to her. He asked her thoughtful questions. She had promised her cousin she would be kind to him, and she was being polite, if not overly kind.

Yet, why was he trying so hard to impress his charms upon her, despite all her best efforts at rejecting them? His steadfast statements about proving himself in order to change her opinion of him echoed vividly in her mind. Would he continue on with his direct attentions until she told him that she had in fact changed her mind? It had been a most vexing thought indeed all morning and afternoon that she could barely concentrate on any of the activities.

But tonight, something felt different. As she stood in the grand ballroom of Wintervale Manor, watching the glittering guests swirling about in fine silks and elegant gowns, she couldn’t help but feel a certain surge of anticipation.

Perhaps it was the festive cheer in the air, or the warmth of Christmas drawing near, but Lily found herself feeling hopeful. Maybe this evening would offer something unexpected, something beyond her usual well-ordered life.

She’d already danced with two gentlemen, Lord Camden and Mr. Rowley. It was Beatrice’s wish that everyone should be partnered with all the guests throughout the house party. That worked out to be nine different partners, which was hardly a grand feat. Still, after completing two sets of dancing, Lily sat out for a dance so that she could have some refreshment.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the familiar sight of Lord Brinton, cutting a path across the room with his easy, confident stride. His dark eyes locked on hers, his posture that of a man who knew precisely how to command attention. But there was more to him, Lily mused, than his polished exterior. There was a sharpness behind his charm, a hint of something deeper that intrigued her more than she cared to admit.

Before she could dwell on it too long, a voice at her side pulled her from her thoughts.

“Lily, my dear,” Beatrice called, her tone affectionate as she approached. “You look absolutely radiant this evening.”

Lily smiled, turning to greet her cousin. “Thank you, Beatrice. I must say, you’ve outdone yourself with these festivities. Everything is splendid.”

Beatrice beamed, pleased with the compliment. “I’m glad you think so. I wanted this Christmas to be special—something to remember. And speaking of memories, I noticed you’ve been more of an observer than a participant tonight,” Beatrice said with a teasing glint in her eyes.

Lily chuckled softly, glancing around the bustling room. “I’ve danced with two partners already,” she replied, her smile genuine. “I suppose I’ve found that I enjoy the evening more when I’m not feeling pressured to turn every dance into a potential match.”

Beatrice raised an eyebrow, her knowing look softening into something more affectionate. “I understand. But it’s Christmas, Lily—a time for joy and celebration. You deserve to enjoy yourself, and perhaps,” she added with a playful smile, “to allow for a bit of romance.”

Lily’s smile widened, but she shook her head. “I am enjoying myself. Truly. It’s refreshing to dance simply for the pleasure of it, without worrying about what others might be thinking or expecting. For once, I can just be present.”

Beatrice’s expression softened, her voice lowering with sincerity. “I know you’ve always been content with your quiet life, but sometimes the unexpected is what brings us the most joy. You’ve spent so much time looking after everyone else—your family, your household. You deserve to have something for yourself.”

Lily’s heart fluttered at the implications of her cousin’s words. Beatrice wasn’t entirely wrong—she had spent years in her familiar role, taking care of others and finding satisfaction in it. But tonight, with the music and laughter filling the air, she couldn’t deny that there was something exhilarating about simply being herself, without the weight of expectations.

“I appreciate your concern,” Lily said gently. “But I’m quite happy as I am. I’ve found joy in my independence, my books, my family. It’s freeing to enjoy this evening without the pressure of being swept up in matchmaking.”

Beatrice smiled, though her eyes held a mixture of affection and wisdom. “I know, dear. But sometimes, life has a way of surprising us. When we least expect it, something—or someone—comes along and changes everything.”

Lily glanced around the room, her gaze sweeping over the guests, the soft glow of candlelight illuminating their happy faces. She hesitated, unsure how to respond. A small part of her—one she rarely allowed herself to acknowledge—wondered if perhaps Beatrice had a point. Was there more to life than the structured contentment she had built for herself?

“I’ll keep that in mind,” Lily said at last, her tone thoughtful.

Beatrice smiled warmly, giving her hand a gentle squeeze. “That’s all I ask. Just keep your heart open. You never know what might happen.”

Lily nodded, her gaze drifting toward Lord Brinton once again. He was charming, no doubt, but there was something about him that felt different. He had sought her out more than once, engaging her with a wit that matched her own. It made her wonder what he truly thought of her, and if, perhaps, beneath his easy smiles, there was more to him than she had first assumed.

“Promise me one thing,” Beatrice added, her tone lightening as she followed Lily’s gaze. “Should Lord Brinton ask for a dance or strike up a conversation, be kind to him. He’s not as superficial as he appears, you know.”

Lily blinked, caught off guard by the sudden shift in conversation. “Lord Brinton? You think I’ve been unkind since I apologized to him?”

Beatrice chuckled. “No, not unkind. But perhaps a bit too quick to dismiss him. I’ve known him for years—he’s more than just a charming rake. And I think he’s taken an interest in you, Lily.”

“I promise I’ll be polite, but I doubt there’s much more to him than idle conversation.”

Beatrice smiled knowingly. “He may surprise you.”

With that, she gave Lily’s hand a final squeeze and moved off to greet another guest, leaving Lily with her thoughts. She watched as the room seemed to pulse with energy, the soft strains of music floating in the air. Perhaps Beatrice was right. Perhaps she had been too quick to judge Lord Brinton. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to lower her guard just a little.

As if on cue, Lord Brinton appeared at her side, his dark eyes glinting with mischief as he bowed slightly. “Miss Ashworth, may I request the honor of your company for a dance?”

Lily tilted her head, a small smile playing at her lips. “I see you are determined to charm me this evening, Lord Brinton. But I must warn you, I am not easily swayed by flattery.”

His smile widened, his voice warm with amusement. “I wouldn’t dream of relying on flattery alone, Miss Ashworth. I’ve found that it’s far more enjoyable to engage in a challenge of wits.”

Lily’s curiosity piqued, and she raised an eyebrow. “A challenge, you say? I had thought you’d grown tired of such games by now.”

“On the contrary,” he replied smoothly, his eyes gleaming with interest. “The game is what makes life exciting. And I suspect you have quite a bit to offer in that regard.”

Lily studied him for a moment, surprised by the sincerity in his tone. There was a suggestion of something deeper in his words, something that suggested he was not merely playing with her, but genuinely intrigued.

“You assume much, Lord Brinton,” she said, her voice measured. She remembered her cousin’s words, and she couldn’t outright dismiss him. “But tell me, do you seek to know me, or is this simply another one of your amusements?”

His expression softened, his voice lowering. “I assure you, Miss Ashworth, my interest is genuine. I find your wit and intelligence far more captivating than the usual pleasantries. Your demeanor is quite refreshing.”

Lily’s heart skipped a beat at his words, her usual defenses wavering. It was rare for her to feel truly seen, especially by someone like Lord Brinton, who could easily charm anyone in the room. But here he was, speaking to her as if she were the only person in the ballroom.

“Lord Brinton,” she began, her voice softer now, “I must admit, I find your approach rather surprising. You speak with a sincerity I did not expect.”

He smiled, his eyes holding hers with quiet intensity. “I believe that one should always look beyond the surface. There’s often more to someone than meets the eye, don’t you think?”

“And what is it that you see, Lord Brinton?” she asked quietly, her gaze steady.

His smile deepened, his voice low and sincere. “I see a woman of intelligence, strength, and independence. Someone who doesn’t bend easily to the will of others. In short, Miss Ashworth, I see someone worth knowing.”

Lily’s breath caught slightly at his words, her pulse quickening without permission. For the first time in a long while, she felt seen—truly seen. And it was both exhilarating and terrifying. Perhaps, just perhaps, there was more to Lord Brinton than she had first thought.

“You are a difficult man to understand, Lord Brinton,” she said at last, her voice half-teasing, half-serious. “One moment you are all charm and mischief, and the next, you speak with such sincerity.”

He laughed softly, his gaze never leaving hers. “I suppose that’s the nature of getting to know someone, Miss Ashworth. There are layers to uncover, and each one reveals something new.”

Lily smiled at that, a real, unguarded smile. “Perhaps you’re right. And perhaps I’ve been too quick to judge you.”

His expression softened, his voice warm and genuine. “I would very much like the chance to continue getting to know you better, if you’ll allow me.”

For a moment, Lily hesitated, her heart torn between caution and curiosity. But then she met his gaze once more and found herself nodding.

“Very well, Lord Brinton,” she said softly. “Let us see where this leads.”

A slow, genuine smile spread across his face, a smile that reached his eyes and seemed to hold a promise of more—something unspoken but undeniably compelling. “I look forward to it, Miss Ashworth. I look forward to it very much.”

As the strains of music from the ballroom swelled once again, Lord Brinton extended his hand, his movements smooth and confident. “Shall we make good on our conversation by taking to the dance floor?”

Lily hesitated for only a moment before accepting his outstretched hand, her pulse quickening at the unfamiliar sensation of allowing someone—especially Lord Brinton—into her carefully guarded heart. His hand was warm against hers, steady, and there was a comfort in the way he guided her toward the center of the ballroom, where the other guests were already moving in graceful formations.

As they took their places among the dancers, Lily was acutely aware of the curious glances they attracted. Whispers passed between a few of the ladies nearby, though she paid them little mind. Let them gossip, she thought. Tonight, she would allow herself to step beyond the boundaries she had set for herself.

The music swelled around them, and Lord Brinton led her into the first steps of the dance. He was a skilled dancer, his movements fluid and effortless, and Lily found herself relaxing into the rhythm, her earlier anxieties easing as they moved together across the dance floor.

“You surprise me, Miss Ashworth,” he said as they twirled amidst the dancers, his voice low enough that only she could hear.

“Do I?”

He nodded. “I had thought you might refuse the dance.”

Lily looked up at him, her expression soft but teasing. “And why would I refuse? I do not make a habit of declining what promises to be an interesting experience.”

Lord Brinton’s eyes gleamed with amusement. “I’m glad to hear it. I’ve a feeling that this evening will be full of interesting experiences.”

Lily smiled, though there was a part of her that remained cautious. She had been swept into the moment, yes, but she wasn’t ready to abandon her skepticism entirely. “You speak as though you have more surprises in store, Lord Brinton.”

“Perhaps I do,” he replied, his voice full of playful mystery. “But you’ll have to wait and see.”

They danced in silence for a moment, the only sound the soft glide of feet on the polished floor and the lilting music that filled the air. Lily found herself studying him as they moved—his strong profile, the way his expression softened when he looked at her, the quiet intensity in his eyes. He was undeniably charming, but there was more to him than charm. She could feel it in the way he spoke to her, the way he seemed to look beyond the surface.

“So, Miss Ashworth,” he said after a moment, his tone shifting slightly as if he wanted to delve deeper. “You mentioned earlier that you found the poetry last night lacking. Since I know words don’t impress you, I’d be curious to know what moves you. If not poetry, then what?”

Lily thought for a moment, her gaze drifting away from him as they continued to dance. “I’m moved by actions, I suppose. By sincerity. Words can be beautiful, but they can also turn out to be empty. It’s what someone does that truly reveals their character.”

He nodded, his expression thoughtful. “I see. So, you’re looking for something more genuine. Something real.”

Lily met his gaze, her heart softening slightly at the sincerity she saw there. “Yes. I suppose I am.”

His eyes lingered on hers for a moment longer, and there was something in his gaze that told her he understood. He wasn’t just playing a game—at least not anymore. There was a depth to his interest, a desire to prove himself beyond the flirtations and the charm.

He pulled her closer as they continued the steps of the dance, and her heart began an erratic rhythm that was far too fast for the sedate music that they danced to. His eyes drew her in, his gaze never leaving hers. Her throat felt dry at the piercing look he gave her, but she couldn’t look away. Stormy eyes? She could see it a little, the way the darker edges of his eyes melted into the lighter color of the center of his irises.

As the music slowed and the dance drew to a close, Lord Brinton guided her back to the edge of the ballroom, where they stood for a moment, the buzz of conversation and laughter swirling around them. Lily felt a strange sense of calm settle over her, as if something between them had shifted—something that felt more real than she had expected.

“I thank you for the dance, Miss Ashworth,” Lord Brinton said, his voice warm. “It’s been a most enlightening experience.”

Lily smiled softly, inclining her head. She wished he’d asked for a set, not merely a single dance. “The pleasure was mine, Lord Brinton.”

As he bowed and took his leave, Lily watched him go, her heart still fluttering without permission from the unexpected connection that had formed between them. She had not anticipated feeling this way—certainly not about him—but there was no denying the warmth that lingered in her center.

Perhaps Beatrice was right. Perhaps life had more surprises in store than she had allowed herself to imagine.

With a quiet sigh, Lily turned her attention back to the room, her mind still turning over the events of the evening. She had opened a door, just a little, and though she wasn’t entirely sure where it would lead, she was no longer as afraid to step through it.

Perhaps this Christmas would hold more surprises than she had anticipated. And perhaps, just perhaps, Lord Brinton would be at the center of them.

Lily’s conversation with Lord Brinton left her both intrigued and unsettled, his words echoing in her mind as she made her way across the ballroom. She had not expected him to be so perceptive, nor had she anticipated the strange lightness in her chest that followed their exchange. It was … most intriguing.