The Duke's Reluctant Bride

Lingering Embers (Christmas Special)☃️❄️

Reminder: This is just a special chapter for Christmas; this is not involved in the main story line. ❄️☃️🎄🎄

In the early morning of Wintermere, snowflakes drifted gently past the arched window, their delicate descent visible against the pale light of dawn. The hallways of Lucien's manor were quiet, save for the soft echo of sandals on polished stone.

Adeline stood before the grand double doors of Lucien's study. The crisp chill of the winter morning seeped through the manor's halls, but she paid it a little mind, her thoughts occupied by the unexpected summon. Letting out a quiet sigh, she raised her hand and knocked softly, breaking the silence.

"Your Grace?" she called, her voice measured and composed.

From inside came a deep, authoritative reply, "Come in."

The door creaked open, revealing Lucien seated behind his polished oak desk. His sharp gaze lifted from the stack of documents before him, briefly assessing her. He wore a black waistcoat adorned with a silver embroidered pattern, paired with a blue long-sleeved shirt and a neatly knotted black tie.

Adeline hesitated for a heartbeat before stepping inside, her movements graceful yet tinged with a subtle uncertainty.

"I was informed that you wished to see me." she asked, her tone was polite but steady.

Lucien gestured toward one of the upholstered chairs near his desk. "Yes. Please, take a seat."

She complied, sitting with practiced poise. Her hands rested lightly on her lap, her eyes attentive as she waited for him to speak.

"I'll cut to the chase, have you ever heard of Everfrost Merriment?" Lucien asked, his voice even.

"I've heard about it in Veridonia; it's a festival in Wintermere during Yuletide Season, but I didn't really know its full detail," she replied.

"It is just a simple Festival held during this season. It is a time for the townsfolk to celebrate and for the nobility to reaffirm their connection to their people."

Adeline nodded. "I see."

"As a Duke and Duchess of Wintermere," he continued, his tone measured, "it is customary for us to attend together, to greet the townsfolk and show solidarity during the festivities. However..." He paused, his expression softening ever so slightly. "I understand this may be unfamiliar to you, given your recent transition into this role. I want you to know that your participation is entirely your choice. If you feel strongly against it, I will respect your decision."

Adeline was silent for a moment, considering his words. Then, to Lucien's mild surprise, she nodded. "I will join you, Your Grace. If this tradition holds meaning for Wintermere, it is only right that I do my part."

Lucien's brow lifted slightly, his surprise evident. "What?"

Adeline blinked at his reaction, a flicker of confusion crossing her features. "Is there something wrong?"

"No. I just... didn't expect that response."

A small, polite smile curved Adeline's lips. "I only wish to fulfill my duties, Your Grace."

Lucien hesitated for a moment, as though weighing whether to say more. In the end, he gave a curt nod. "I see. We'll leave this morning."

Adeline rose, her long skirts brushing softly against the polished floor as she inclined her head. "I shall be ready. If that is all, Your Grace?"

"That is all. Thank you."

She turned to leave but paused at the door, glancing back with a fleeting expression of curiosity. Her lips parted as though she meant to speak, but she thought better of it. Instead, she offered a graceful nod and stepped out, the door clicking shut behind her.