Prince for Yuletide: A Victorian Christmas Novella Page 6

  “I must go further,” Eliana called back to him in a voice thick with fear. She was still at least two yards from the boy, who was gasping and whimpering.

  “A moment.” Grimly, Sebastian stripped out of his greatcoat and tied one sleeve to the end of the muffler. “You’ve more length now. Lie flat.”

  He took his own advice, carefully levering himself down and stretching forward on the ice. It was bitterly cold through the layers of his waistcoat and shirt. His chilled fingers clenched the tail of his coat.

  Eliana scooted forward another yard, then lay down and slung Hetty’s cloak out in front of her. It reached the jagged edge of the pool but was too far away for the boy to grasp.

  Sebastian imagined he could feel the ice shivering with the strain of bearing their bodies. They did not have much time.

  “Hurry,” he said under his breath.

  “I can’t reach him,” Eliana cried, panic in her voice. She shook her foot, where it was tethered to him by his clothing. “You must let me go.”

  Never.

  If the ice broke, the water here was not impossibly deep. He’d have a few moments before the cold sapped his strength—enough time to haul Eliana back and throw her to safety. The boy too, fates willing.

  His heart pounding with fear—not for himself, but for her—he slid out further over the frozen lake. She was so very brave.

  “Here!” she cried, flinging the cloak forward again. “Yes, that’s it! Hold tightly, Theo.”

  She began edging back, and Sebastian tugged his coat, trying to help speed her progress. They’d been on the ice too long, and it creaked loudly in warning. The boy slid free of the water, gasping.

  Sebastian’s boots slipped over the frozen surface as he tried to find enough leverage to pull them all back. His heart pumped frantically. A widening crack had formed from the hole Theo had made. It raced after the boy, as if the water would not let him escape.

  Then someone caught his ankle and yanked, and he slid back far enough to get a toehold in the snow.

  “Pull,” Mistress Hetty said, yanking on his boot once more.

  He did, scrambling backward and hauling on his coat sleeve. He prayed the muffler knotted around Eliana’s ankle would hold.

  It did, and she came sliding toward him, her hands clenched in Hetty’s cloak. The boy clung to it, sodden and sobbing, but blessedly free.

  The place she’d lain cracked into pieces, ice floating in the dark water. Sebastian caught Eliana about the waist, yanking both her and the boy to shore. Arms around her, he let them fall backward into the snow and held her tightly against him, trying to catch his breath, to calm his speeding pulse.

  Mistress Hetty and the other woman grabbed Theo, and Hetty bundled him into her cloak. It was damp, but not as sodden as the boy himself.

  Another hunk of ice shuddered free, licked by the cold waves of the Serpentine, but they were, all of them, safe.

  Eliana shivered in Sebastian’s arms, her face buried against his chest, her breath coming in short gasps. His heart was stunned with admiration at the courage it must have taken to face her fear and go to the boy’s rescue.

  And he had thought her flighty and vain.

  “I’ve got you,” he said softly into her hair. “It’s all right.”

  “Oh, Master Theo,” the boy’s companion sobbed. “We nearly lost you. Whatever would your parents have said…”

  “Hush now.” Hetty patted the woman’s shoulder. “We must get everyone warm. Prince Sebastian?”

  He reluctantly let go of Eliana, whose breath was coming more easily now despite her shivers. Hetty helped her to her feet, and then he stood, brushing the snow from his sleeves and ignoring the murmurs from the crowd of bystanders who had gathered during the rescue.

  If they recognized him, he no longer much cared on his own account. But he did for Eliana. They should be off as soon as possible, and not just because the lot of them were half frozen.

  “Thank you.” Eliana turned to him. “I couldn’t have done it without you.”

  Tears glinted in her blue eyes, and he wanted to pull her close again. But now was not the time.

  “You deserve all the credit,” he said. “But we must get everyone inside. We could go to my mother’s—it’s closer than Banning House.”

  “My sister’s is closer still,” Eliana said. “Just off Hertford Street.”

  “We won’t all fit in the sleigh,” Hetty said. “I’ll walk.”

  “You don’t even have your cloak,” Eliana said. “I will follow on foot.”

  “Everyone, to the sleigh,” Sebastian said, glad to see that the mare had stood quietly through all the commotion. “No one is staying behind.”

  He caught up the cloak-wrapped boy, whose teeth were chattering so loudly that Sebastian could hear them clacking, and strode to the vehicle.

  “Mistress Hetty, Eliana must perch on your knees,” he said. “In you go. And then Theo’s governess. What is your name?”

  “Mrs. Pare,” she said, sniffling. “My lord, my lady, thank you so much for rescuing him.”

  “He’s not completely safe yet.” Eliana climbed up to sit with Hetty. “We must ensure he doesn’t catch a chill.”

  “All of us must take care,” Mistress Hetty said. “Why, the prince is coatless, you were lying on the ice, I don’t have my cloak, the poor boy is nearly frozen through… What a mess we’re in.”

  Sebastian handed Theo up to his governess, then leaped into the driver’s side and took the reins. He had no notion how the Duchess of Ashford would take their arrival, but that didn’t matter. Nothing did except getting the lot of them inside and next to a warm fire.

  9

  Eliana tried to control her shivering as the sleigh swept out of Hyde Park. The aftermath of the rescue, and the danger she’d put herself in, made her feel light headed.

  The entire time she’d been on the ice, fear had been a fist at her throat, choking her. But she’d made herself continue; one hand, then the next, one knee, then the other. She could not allow the boy to drown simply because she nearly had, years ago.

  Though the moment she’d realized that she must be the one to crawl out upon the frozen Serpentine had nearly paralyzed her with terror.

  Breathe, she’d told herself. Don’t think of the water waiting below.

  The only thing that had made it bearable was the solid, steady presence of Prince Sebastian. He’d stripped off his muffler and greatcoat without a second thought. If the ice had broken beneath her, she knew he would’ve immediately plunged in to save her.

  That knowledge had enabled her to move forward, gloved hands slipping on the ice, air burning her throat, until at last she’d been close enough to throw Hetty’s cloak to the boy.

  But the moment Sebastian had pulled her to safety, she could not stop imagining being trapped beneath the ice, with no air, and the dark water pulling her down…

  “Turn here,” Hetty said to the prince.

  Eliana shook herself. The ordeal was over, and it was foolish to tangle herself into a useless knot of fear. She made herself take a deep breath—in, then out—and pay attention to their surroundings.

  “It’s the town house ahead, on the right,” she told Sebastian. “That one, with the tree in the window.” The sight made her feel a tiny bit better.

  He pulled the sleigh to a stop, then jumped out and handed Eliana down. She wanted to cling to his strength. Instead, she turned and hurried up the walk, her boots slipping in the snow, and raised the lion’s-head knocker on the front door.

  It only took one rap before the butler opened the door.

  “I’m sorry, Lewis,” she said, “but it’s rather an emergency. We pulled a child out of the Serpentine and he’s chilled half to death.”

  Lewis, a staid old gentleman with a fringe of pure white hair, blinked at her a moment, then nodded.

  “Of course, Miss Eliana,” he said. “Come in. Take the boy to the front parlor. I’ll notify Lord and Lady Ashford of your ar
rival, and send a groom out for the sleigh immediately.”

  “Thank you,” she said, stepping into the house. The comforting smell of cinnamon and evergreens filled the air.

  The prince followed, carrying an unconscious Theo, with Mrs. Pare close behind. Hetty brought up the rear, pausing a moment to speak with the butler.

  “This way.” Eliana led them to the first door on the left and held it open while Prince Sebastian strode through.

  “Is he breathing?” Mrs. Pare hovered at the prince’s elbow, gaze fastened on her young charge. “Oh, how I rue this day!”

  Eliana followed them into the parlor and closed the door behind them. Thankfully, a fire burned warmly on the hearth. The tree in the window caught the afternoon sunlight. It sparkled with bead ornaments and strands of silver tinsel, almonds wrapped in gold foil, and thin, creamy candles in polished tin clips, waiting to be lit.

  The prince went to his knees before the fire and gently laid Theo on the rug. Eliana snatched a pillow from the nearby settee and tucked it beneath the boy’s head, then smoothed his wet hair back from a forehead that was appallingly cold.

  “Theo?” Mrs. Pare stripped off her gloves and took her charge’s hands, rubbing them briskly between her own. “Wake up, my dear boy.”

  Eliana glanced at the tree, a glimmering blur behind the sudden tears in her eyes, and sent up a silent prayer to all the angels. Please, let the boy live. Next to her, Sebastian caught her gaze, his expression strained. The artificial darkness of his hair made his skin look pale.

  “He’s barely breathing,” he said in a low voice.

  She had no idea what to do. “Perhaps some spirits?”

  “We must try.”

  She rose, then swayed as the room spun. Sebastian sprang to his feet, one arm going about her shoulders to steady her. Eliana let herself rest against him a moment, grateful of the support.

  Of course, her sister would pick that moment to step into the room.

  Her gaze went to Eliana, then moved to the prince, and her eyes widened. Eliana took a step away from Sebastian, but it was too late.

  To her credit, Selene said nothing about that improper embrace.

  “How is the boy?” she asked instead. “I’ve sent for the doctor. And his parents, thanks to Hetty discovering their direction from Mrs. Pare.”

  “He’s not well,” Prince Sebastian said. “Thank you for your hospitality, Lady Ashford. I know this was a bit sudden.”

  She waved one hand. “We’re happy to be of assistance, your highness. Please, tell me what happened.”

  As Sebastian told her sister about rescuing Theo, Eliana moved to the sideboard. Hands shaking only a little, she poured out a measure of brandy and carried it over to Mrs. Pare.

  “Come, love,” the governess said, lifting Theo’s head and coaxing him to take a sip. A bit of the liquid dribbled down from the corner of his mouth.

  Eliana held her breath, hoping.

  The boy swallowed, then coughed, his eyes flying open. He looked blearily around the parlor, then his gaze fixed on the sparkling tree.

  “Did I die?” he asked in a weak voice. “Is this heaven?”

  “No, my dear—you’re alive, and in the Duke of Ashford’s parlor,” Mrs. Pare said, gathering him close.

  Tears stung the corners of Eliana’s eyes. Thank heavens. The angels had heard her prayers.

  The doctor bustled in, followed by Hetty and the Duke of Ashford. After a brief commotion as their hosts took charge, Eliana found herself installed in an armchair by the tree, a cashmere lap robe draped over her knees.

  Prince Sebastian sat across from her, his sleeves and waistcoat mottled with moisture. She realized they’d left his greatcoat and muffler at the edge of Serpentine.

  Hetty joined Mrs. Pare on the settee, giving her comfort as the doctor knelt before Theo, making his diagnosis. The duke and duchess stood together, and Eliana noticed her sister’s gaze resting thoughtfully on the prince.

  “The boy will be all right,” the doctor pronounced at last. “He needs to rest, and be kept warm, but already his color is better. I believe he will make a full recovery.”

  His governess let out a cry of relief, and Eliana sagged back into her chair.

  Sebastian gave her a faint smile. “Well done, Eliana.”

  “We all did our part,” she said.

  “You risked the most,” he said seriously. “I admire you a great deal for your quick actions and bravery.”

  Flustered, she turned her head to look at the Christmas tree. Now that she’d gathered her wits, she did not want Sebastian’s admiration. And she most especially didn’t want the warmth that his words brought.

  “Prince Sebastian,” Selene said, coming to stand beside Eliana. “Forgive my curiosity, but why is your hair dyed black?”

  His mouth twisted. “A poor attempt at a disguise, I’m afraid.”

  Selene blinked at him. “In order to pay a call upon my sister?”

  “Oh, heavens.” Eliana grabbed her sister’s skirt and gave it a warning tug. “Prince Sebastian is not courting me, so banish that notion from your mind.”

  Selene’s eyebrows climbed.

  “Even if I were,” the prince said, “I fear Miss Eliana would not have me.”

  “That is correct,” Eliana said. For some reason, her throat was tight. “I have excellent reasons for it, and for insisting you never call upon me again.”

  Sebastian’s eyes darkened, and he gave a short nod.

  “But—” Selene began.

  “Shall we offer our guests some mulled wine?” the duke broke in.

  “Of course.” Selene shot Eliana a look that promised they would speak more on the subject. “Mulled wine is just the thing, and I had the kitchens prepare some right away. In fact, I think the footman is bringing it in now.”

  The air in the parlor filled with the scent of cloves and cinnamon as the man brought around a silver-chased tray bearing glasses of wine. Everyone took one, even the doctor, and Mrs. Pare shared hers with Theo, one arm wrapped about his shoulders.

  Prince Sebastian glanced down at his cup, his expression set.

  “Never fear, your highness,” Eliana said in a low voice. “This is a superior version of the beverage you tried before.”

  Despite her attempt to remain unheard, her sister responded.

  “Yes, it’s an old family recipe. We use only the best wine and brandy, I assure you.”

  Eliana wrapped her hands about the warm glass and took a sip. The taste of the spices warmed her mouth, then spread, and she let out a low sigh. What an afternoon it had been. She wanted nothing more than to return home and crawl beneath the covers.

  A doubtful cast to his expression, Prince Sebastian raised his glass and took a swallow. Eliana watched him closely. She had promised him it would not be dreadful, after all.

  “What do you think?” the duke asked. “I confess I’m not a fan of the beverage myself, but the Banning family recipe is fairly palatable.”

  “Fairly?” Selene nudged her husband. “You used to tell me you found it delicious.”

  “It’s the most delicious mulled wine I’ve ever had,” the duke said. “Even if we were not married, I would take a cup.”

  Selene laughed, and even the prince looked amused.

  “It is not unpleasant,” Sebastian said, taking another drink.

  “I like it very well,” Theo piped up, and everyone smiled at him.

  “The lad has a future as a diplomat,” Lord Ashford said.

  Near the edge of exhaustion, Eliana set aside her empty glass. Sebastian shot her a look, then rose.

  “I believe I ought to take Miss Eliana and her companion home,” he said. “Lord Ashford, if I might presume upon you to borrow a greatcoat? Mine seems to have been mislaid.”

  “Of course,” the duke said. “We’ll find something that fits.”

  “I should be going as well,” the doctor said. “I’ll call upon Master Theo tomorrow. At Plumley House, is that cor
rect?”

  “Yes,” Mrs. Pare said. “I’m certain his parents will be here soon to collect us. Thank you so much.”

  “Good day to you all.” The doctor bowed to the ladies.

  Lord Ashford, accompanied by Prince Sebastian, ushered the doctor out of the parlor. Theo, now wrapped in a cozy blanket, went to admire the tree, while Mrs. Pare and Hetty conversed quietly on the settee.

  “So, sister,” Selene said, taking the chair Sebastian had absented, “whatever is going on between you and the prince?”

  “Nothing.” Eliana ran her fingers back and forth over the soft edge of her lap robe.

  “It does not appear to be nothing. He looks at you like a man in love.”

  “That’s a ridiculous notion!” Eliana shook her head sharply. “The Ice Prince isn’t capable of such feelings. Remember what he did to Peony?”

  Selene’s eyes narrowed. “I know he appears to be in the wrong, but I thought the same thing of Jared. You must give the prince a chance to explain himself.”

  “There’s nothing to explain.”

  “Eliana, I’ve never seen you like this. Are you quite certain you know your own heart?”

  “Excuse the interruption,” the butler said from the doorway. “Prince Sebastian wishes to inform Miss Eliana and Mistress Hetty that he waits upon their convenience.”

  “We can’t leave him waiting in the cold.” Eliana pushed the lap robe aside and stood, glad to end her sister’s interrogation.

  “This conversation isn’t finished,” Selene said.

  Eliana ignored the warning note in her sister’s voice. As far as she was concerned, there was nothing more to discuss.

  “Thank you so much, Miss Banning!” Mrs. Pare rose and made her a low curtsey, tears still glinting in her eyes. “You saved Theo, and I’m certain his parents will call upon you to express their extreme gratitude. You certainly have mine, forever.”

  “I’m glad you were there to rescue me,” Theo piped up, running over to hug Eliana around the waist.

  She gave the boy a squeeze in return. “So am I—but it was a group effort. Prince Sebastian deserves equal thanks for pulling us to safety.”