OFFER: A BRAND NEW SERIES AND 2 FREEBIES FOR YOU!
Grab my new series, "Noble Gentlemen of the Ton", and get 2 FREE novels as a gift! Have a look here!“Julian, if we are to hold the next gala at Lady Radcliffe’s estate, we must ensure the new school is funded first,” Claire said, her tone both practical and warm as she flipped through her papers. The light from the window cast a golden hue over the room, reflecting off the silver inkpot and illuminating her serene face.
Five years had passed since their marriage, and Claire had found a new sense of purpose. Though her early years had been filled with mischief and rivalry, those same traits were now used to benefit others. She and Julian had become known for their charitable works, building homes for the less fortunate and providing a safe haven for widows through a special fund they had established. Claire, in particular, had taken to organizing workshops that taught women new skills, ensuring they could find employment.
Julian leaned back in his chair, gazing at his wife with admiration. “I don’t know how you manage it all, Claire. Between our family, the charitable works, and—what was it Lady Pembroke said?—throwing the most spectacular parties in all of London?”
Claire chuckled, shaking her head. “It’s not that impressive when you think about it. Organizing events is just another kind of puzzle to solve.”
Julian stood and walked over to her, placing a hand on her shoulder. “You’re too modest, as always. You’ve made our home one of the most sought-after destinations in all of society. And look at the good we’ve done together.”
She glanced up at him with a smile, feeling a surge of warmth. Together, they had managed to create more than just a beautiful home—they had built a legacy. The homes they had helped construct, the widows they had supported, and the countless lives touched by their generosity gave Claire immense pride.
“Have you heard about the new workshop we’re opening for seamstresses?” she asked, a light of excitement in her eyes. “Mrs. Mitchell was so instrumental in its planning. I think it will be one of our finest yet.”
Julian nodded, his admiration deepening. Claire had become a force in society not just for her beauty or charm, but for her relentless drive to help others. It had begun slowly, with small projects here and there. But soon, word spread of her knack for organizing and her ability to throw balls that were both entertaining and meaningful, raising funds for various causes. Now, invitations to the Munster residence were highly coveted, and their influence was undeniable.
“We should invite Mrs. Mitchell and Emmeline to the Christmas dinner,” Claire said thoughtfully. “I can’t believe it’s been so long since we’ve had them over. They’ll be in England this year, and I would love to see how much their family has grown.”
Julian’s lips curled into a smile. “Emmeline will undoubtedly have another little one in tow. She and Roger have certainly been busy.”
Claire laughed, remembering how Emmeline had once hesitated about starting a family, and now she was blessed with three children. “I’ll send a note to them this afternoon.”
Julian moved closer, his hands now resting on the back of her chair as he leaned in to kiss her forehead.
“Claire, you’ve done more than I could have ever imagined. Not only have you helped change the lives of so many, but you’ve turned our household into something truly remarkable. Every day with you feels like a gift.”
Claire’s heart swelled as she reached up to hold his hand. “It’s because we do it together, Julian. I could never have done this alone.”
He kissed the top of her head and stood back, folding his arms. “So, what’s next on the agenda, Lady Munster?”
She sighed contentedly. “Next? Oh, nothing too daunting. Just a Christmas ball to prepare for, two fundraisers, and a workshop to oversee.”
Julian chuckled. “I don’t know how you do it.”
Claire’s eyes sparkled. “With you by my side, my love, everything is possible.”
“Everything except, perhaps, getting our children to sit still for dinner,” Julian teased as the sound of tiny footsteps echoed through the hallway. Moments later, their daughter, Emily, burst into the room, her curls bouncing as she twirled in her new Christmas dress.
“Look, Mama!” Emily beamed, her wide eyes sparkling with excitement. “I’m a fairy princess!”
Claire laughed softly, crouching down to fix Emily’s dress. “You look just like one, my darling. Now, where is your brother?”
As if on cue, their son, Henry, toddled into the room, slightly less graceful than his sister, dragging a wooden toy horse behind him. “I’m a knight!” he declared proudly, brandishing a small wooden sword that he had convinced the blacksmith to make him.
Julian ruffled his son’s hair. “A knight and a fairy princess—what a fine pair you two make.”
Claire smiled at the sight of them, her heart swelling with love. These two children had brought a new kind of joy into their lives, one she could never have imagined before their birth. She took Emily’s hand and looked up at Julian. “Shall we head to dinner, then? I think everyone’s waiting.”
As they made their way to the dining room, the warmth and coziness of Christmas filled the air. The long table was set elegantly, garlands of evergreen and holly gracing the edges, candles casting a soft glow over the room. Seated around the table were their families—both sets of parents, Emmeline and Roger with their three lively children, and several other close friends. The atmosphere was full of cheer and laughter, the perfect way to celebrate the season.
As they took their seats, Claire’s gaze fell upon Margaret, sitting a few places down the table. Though she was married now, there was a restlessness in her eyes that hadn’t faded over the years. Her husband, a well-off but indifferent baron, sat next to her, seemingly engrossed in conversation with Roger. Margaret glanced toward Julian more than once, her expression wistful.
Claire, noticing this, shared a quick look with Julian. They both knew that Margaret had never truly moved on from her infatuation with him, despite her marriage. It was a silent understanding between them, one that neither felt the need to discuss. Julian’s hand found hers under the table, squeezing gently, a reminder that the past was firmly behind them.
Not far from Margaret, Lord Florian sat in conversation with Claire’s father. Though still charming and handsome, he had remained unmarried, much to the gossip of society. Some said he had truly fallen in love with Claire, and that was why he hadn’t sought another match. But Claire doubted that. Florian had always been a flirt, and though he’d shown interest in her once, she believed he was more in love with his independence than any woman.
“Florian,” Julian called over, “you haven’t found a lady to steal your heart yet?”
Florian raised his glass with a smile. “Ah, Julian, you know me too well. I’ve yet to meet anyone who compares to your Claire.”
Claire smiled graciously but felt Julian’s hand tighten around hers, a silent message of solidarity. They were past old flirtations and misunderstandings, and nothing could touch the love they had built together.
Emmeline leaned over from her seat, a baby on her lap. “Can you believe we’ve three little ones now?” she whispered to Claire, her eyes twinkling. “And Roger wants more! I never imagined such a life.”
“I’m so happy for you, Emmeline,” Claire replied, glancing at the children gathered around the room, playing and giggling. “You deserve every happiness.”
The evening continued with joyful conversation, laughter filling the room as the children delighted in the festive spirit. The glow of Christmas surrounded them, wrapping them all in warmth. As they finished the meal, Claire looked around the table, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude. The challenges and uncertainties they had faced in their past seemed distant now. This was their life—full, happy, and shared with the people they loved most.
As the night drew to a close, Julian leaned in to whisper in Claire’s ear, “There’s one more surprise, my love. But you’ll have to wait until New Year’s morning.”
Claire raised an eyebrow, intrigued but content to wait. She had everything she could ever want right here, and whatever surprise Julian had planned, she knew it would be perfect.
*
The morning of New Year’s Day dawned crisp and cold, with a light dusting of snow covering the ground. Claire stood by the window, gazing out at the sparkling landscape. The house was quiet, the children still asleep after the excitement of the previous evening. She wrapped her shawl tightly around her shoulders and smiled to herself, remembering Julian’s whispered promise of a surprise.
As if summoned by her thoughts, the door to their chamber creaked open, and Julian entered, his eyes bright and his lips curled into a mischievous smile.
“Good morning, my love,” he said softly, walking over to her and placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. “Are you ready for your surprise?”
Claire turned to him with a playful glint in her eye. “I’ve been trying to guess what it could be all night, but I’m still in the dark.”
Julian chuckled, taking her hand and leading her toward the door. “Well then, let’s not keep you in suspense any longer. Come with me.”
They descended the grand staircase together, the warmth of the hearth below beckoning them closer. Claire couldn’t help but feel a sense of wonder, as though she were a young girl again, eagerly awaiting what the new year might bring. Julian led her outside to the garden, where a towering fir tree stood, adorned with ribbons, glass ornaments, and small twinkling lights. It was beautiful, and beneath the tree lay a small wooden box tied with a crimson ribbon.
Claire gasped, her breath clouding the air as she turned to Julian. “Julian, what is this?”
He smiled, his eyes softening as he bent down to retrieve the box. “Open it.”
With eager fingers, Claire tugged at the ribbon and carefully lifted the lid. Inside lay a delicate gold locket, its surface etched with intricate patterns that gleamed in the morning light. She lifted it from the box, her heart skipping a beat as she realized its significance.
Julian reached for her hand, his voice low and filled with emotion. “I had this locket made to represent our journey together. From our childhood rivalry, to the moment we first realized we loved each other, to this—our life, our family. Every step we’ve taken, every trial we’ve faced, it’s all led us here.”
Claire blinked back tears as she gazed at the locket. “It’s beautiful,” she whispered, her voice trembling. “But why didn’t you give it to me on Christmas?”
Julian chuckled softly. “It was meant to be your Christmas gift, but it arrived late from the jeweler. I didn’t want to wait until next year, so I thought New Year’s morning was the perfect moment.”
She laughed, her heart brimming with love. “It’s perfect, Julian. More than I could have ever imagined.”
He gently opened the locket, revealing two small portraits inside—one of Claire, and one of Julian, captured in delicate brushstrokes. It was a symbol of their bond, a reminder of the life they had built together. Tears welled in Claire’s eyes as she looked up at him, her throat tight with emotion.
“I don’t know what to say,” she murmured, reaching up to touch his face. “I love it, and I love you. More than words could ever express.”
Julian smiled, his own eyes shining with affection. “I love you too, Claire. You’ve made every part of my life better, richer. I couldn’t ask for anything more than what we have right now.”
He took her hand and placed the locket around her neck, the gold warm against her skin. Claire held it tightly in her palm for a moment, feeling the weight of their shared history and the promise of their future.
Julian’s voice broke the silence, soft and reverent. “You are my everything, Claire. My best friend, my love, the mother of our children. And I vow, once more, to spend the rest of my life showing you how much you mean to me.”
Claire’s heart swelled, and she took a step closer to him, resting her head against his chest. “I vow the same, Julian. Whatever challenges the future holds, we will face them together. Always.”
The snow continued to fall gently around them as they stood beneath the decorated tree, wrapped in each other’s arms, the world quiet and still. Claire smiled to herself, feeling the warmth of his embrace and the certainty of their love.
As the new year dawned, she knew without a doubt that their journey—one filled with laughter, love, and endless adventures—was just beginning. Together, they would face whatever life brought their way, their hearts forever intertwined.
And that, she knew, was the greatest gift of all.
Hello, my dear readers! I hope you loved Claire and Julian’s story! I am eagerly waiting to read your comments here. Thank you! 💖
Oh, Bridget, you have written the best book yet!! I loved Julian and Claire’s storyline, the way they had this love/hate relationship all their lives. How no matter what was happening, they would come back together again, stronger every time. The outside influences always trying to break them apart. This little book extends the story and answers some questions. It is so good!!!!
This is such a wonderful thing to say, Kay! I felt the same about Julian and Claire, that they could only end up together and be so very happy, despite everyone who tried to interfere. It took them a while to figure things out, but I enjoyed writing every single chapter of this book. I’m very glad you enjoyed it! I will try my hardest to make the next one just as good.
I loved the story-line. Two people who are sparing with each other growing up, end up falling in love. So captivating. I did note that chapter 8 and 17, there seemed to be a mixup in fords – he where she should be used, my lady where it should be my lord. In this extended epilogue, Julian and Claire are talking about inviting Emmiline to Christmas dinner, but go down to the meal and she is already there? Did I miss something. I found this confusing.
Thank you for reaching out, Terry! I am glad you enjoyed the book, and I will look into it right away! Thank you for your kind comment, I appreciate your feedback! Please take good care. 🥰
In the end Julian and Claire became very serious people doing all types of charitable works. I did think it a bit much to have Stape for dinner, maybe Margaret too. One little criticism. Why didn’t your proof readers notice that for the first quarter or more of book that everybody was saying My Lady to someone no matter their gender
Thank you for your comment, Shirley! I think we can see that Claire has her mind on doing good from early on in the book, as she can’t stand injustice. Besides, she finds it more of a challenge and a puzzle to solve that an actual serious job. I will check to see what is going on, thank you so much for pointing this out!
I liked this story very much. The lady that should be lord was a little weird. Also calling him Florian in the epilogue was unclear since Florian had hardly been mentioned in the book. The proof reading was the only problem in an enjoyable story