Wishing Upon a Christmas Star by Lana Williams

Author:Lana Williams [Williams, Lana]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2018-11-06T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

Violet sighed as she tried to focus on the Christmas dinner menu that Mrs. Adley had asked her to review. The holiday was only a week away, so she was once again in their drawing room.

But Baxter was not. He’d been out each time she’d visited his parents since he’d overheard her cruel comment. His absence had stolen any opportunity to apologize.

Two days had passed since the ball when she’d declared she wouldn’t consider him as a suitor. Which had been a ridiculous thing to say since he hadn’t asked to be or called upon her or sent her a token or flowers or...

She shook her head at the long list that clearly proved he wasn’t interested in her.

Except for that kiss.

Oh, that kiss! The lilting sensation in her stomach had her drawing a long, slow breath at the memory.

If he hadn’t annoyed her with his quicksilver change in moods while they’d danced coupled with his interest in Lady Alice, she wouldn’t have said such a thing. She’d relived the terrible moment over and over. Though she didn’t think she’d actually hurt his feelings as that wasn’t within her power—was it?—she still regretted her words.

Sorely regretted them.

Wished she could take them back with every fiber of her being.

It was none of her business if he chose to renew his relationship with Alice. Never mind that kiss Violet and Baxter had shared. Did she think he deserved better? Yes. But some time in the middle of the night, she’d realized that if Alice was who he wanted, then maybe she would make him happy. He deserved to be happy. He was a good man who loved his mother and father and was doing all he could for them. That didn’t mean Violet had to like his choice.

Mrs. Adley had said he was seeing to some business affairs. Was it true or was he avoiding her?

She brought her attention back to the menu, trying to think of something helpful she could add. “Does Mr. Adley like roasted goose?”

“Yes, though we haven’t had it for an age.”

“Where is he?” Violet asked, realizing she hadn’t seen him for some time.

“He went on one of his rambles. He should be returning soon.” A frown marred her brow, suggesting she thought he was overdue as well.

“I hope he comes back before the weather worsens.” Violet rose to study the gray sky. A fine mist had started since her arrival at the Adleys’ nearly an hour ago. A sheen coated the street. She couldn’t help but shiver at the sight. “I wonder if it’s freezing.”

Mrs. Adley joined her at the window. “Oh dear.” She studied the area, her look of concern evident. “I would’ve thought he’d return before it grew too treacherous.”

Unease settled on Violet and refused to let go. “Should I go in search of him?”

The older woman paused for a long moment, as though considering her offer. “Let us give him a few more minutes before we worry. He hasn’t been gone that long.”

Violet reached out to gently squeeze her arm.

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