Page 12 of A Hellion's Christmas Kiss

“I know, poppet,” Rosella said, softening her tone. “But actions have consequences. You’ll remain in the nursery and not cause any more difficulties for nanny. Perhaps next time, you’ll think twice before leading your brother into mischief.”

A maid entered the room, and Rosella handed Holly to her. “Take her to the nanny,” she instructed. “She’s to stay in the nursery, and she will need a bath as well.”

After the maid and Holly had gone, Rosella turned back to Lucian, who looked both exasperated and amused. “It will only get worse once Asher and Noelle arrive,” he said. “Caspian, added to the mix, is a disaster waiting to happen.”

Rosella’s lips twitched with humor. “They are far more united than we ever were as children. We didn’t collude to drive our parents to distraction.”

“No,” Lucian agreed, shaking his head. “We chose sides and fought like rivals. You and Noelle against me and Asher. But these three—they’re inseparable, with Holly leading her two adoring minions into all manner of chaos. I dread the day she’s launched into society. She will be a far greater hellion than you ever were. We might need to hire a strict chaperone to keep an eye on her.”

Rosella laughed. “Even the strictest chaperone wouldn’t contain her,” she said, her tone filled with affection. “But that is a dilemma for another day.”

He closed his eyes and took a deep fortifying breath. Lucian opened his eyes before he stepped closer, cupping her cheek with one hand. “Indeed,” he murmured. “For now, I am grateful for my family and the love of my life. Everything else is just details—challenges we will face together, one at a time.”

Rosella leaned into his touch, her heart full. “I love you,” she said softly.

“And I love you, my darling,” he replied, his voice rich with emotion. He leaned down, brushing his lips against hers in a tender kiss.

Their life was far better than she had ever dreamed possible. Christmastide held a special place in her heart, marking the season when she had first been brave enough to confess her love. Thanks to a sprig of mistletoe and her mother’s gentle machinations, she had found her happiness with Lucian.

Each year, they honored the tradition her parents had started, though they would now take greater care to avoid mishaps with the holly berries. Even with the chaos their children brought, Rosella had no complaints. All in all—she had nothing to complain about. She had love. There was nothing more important than that.