The Rake's Christmas Wager: A Clean Regency Holiday Romance (Spinsters and their Suitors Book 2) by Allie Kensington

Author:Allie Kensington [Kensington, Allie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Ardently Admired Press
Published: 2024-11-21T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

The morning sunlight spilled across the grounds of Wintervale Manor, reflecting off the blanket of fresh snow that had fallen overnight. The snow stretched out in all directions, soft and pristine, and the air carried the crisp bite of winter that was both invigorating and inviting. From her vantage point at the window, Lily watched as the guests gathered outdoors, their muffled laughter drifting through the stillness as they prepared for a day of winter fun.

Lily hesitated, torn between the warmth of the manor and the temptation to join the others outside. She had never been one for raucous outdoor games, but something about the glittering snow and the light-hearted energy tugged at her. Besides, she had spotted Lord Brinton amongst the group, already deep in conversation with Lord Camden, and a small part of her wondered what mischief he was planning.

“Lily, you must come outside!” Lady Beatrice’s voice cut through her thoughts as she entered the room. She was bundled up in a thick scarf and gloves, her cheeks already flushed from the cold. “We’re organizing a snowball fight, and I won’t hear of you missing it!”

Lily raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a faint smile. “A snowball fight? I hardly think I’m equipped for such an event.”

“Nonsense,” Beatrice replied, taking her arm and guiding her toward the door. “You’ll be marvelous. Besides, I believe Lord Brinton has already been boasting about his superior aim. It would be a shame if no one challenged him.”

Lily rolled her eyes, though a flicker of amusement tugged at her. “Is that so? Well, I suppose someone must humble him.”

Beatrice laughed, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “Precisely! And I think you’re just the person to do it.”

Moments later, Lily found herself stepping out into the cold, her boots sinking into the soft snow as the chill kissed her cheeks. The guests were already scattered across the field, gathering snow into compact balls and forming makeshift teams. Lord Brinton stood near the center, his gloved hands expertly packing snow into a neat sphere as he conversed with Lord Camden, who seemed equally enthusiastic about the impending battle.

Lily tightened her scarf and approached the group, her breath visible in the cold air. Lord Brinton’s gaze flicked to her as she neared, his smile widening in a way that suggested he had been waiting for her to join.

“Ah, Miss Ashworth,” Lord Brinton said, his voice filled with playful confidence. “I see you’ve decided to grace us with your presence. I do hope you’re prepared for the challenge ahead.”

Lily raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a cool smile. “I hardly think a snowball fight qualifies as a challenge, Lord Brinton. But I’m willing to indulge you.”

He chuckled, tossing the snowball lightly between his hands. “A bold statement, indeed. I suppose we shall see soon enough.”

The teams were quickly divided, and it wasn’t long before the snowballs began to fly. The guests darted between trees and bushes, ducking and dodging as they hurled snowballs at one another with varying degrees of accuracy.

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