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When she finished with the first song, everyone applauded her, and she gave a shallow curtsey. He knew she was still not used to being the centre of attention and would be somewhat glad when the parties and social events settled down. However, there was someone he had been waiting to introduce her to all evening, and he spotted the gentlemen weaving his way over to them.
An older gentleman approached them as the crowd began to disperse, and Simon reached out his hand in greeting. “Why hello, Maestro. I am so glad you could join us,” Simon said. Ellen frowned slightly but then smiled at the man.
“Maestro?” she asked.
“Yes, Ellen, this is the composer I was telling you about—the one who gave me the idea to have your songbook published. This is Herr Herman Von Schuster, Maestro for the London Opera House. I invited him here this evening so he could meet you. He had been very eager ever since I showed him your pieces.”
Herr Von Schuster turned his smiling gaze on her. “Yes, Lady Ellen, your husband is correct,” he said with a profound Austrian accent. “I have never heard anyone with a style quite like yours. Indeed, I would say that you are far beyond your time as a composer.”
“Composer?” she asked with a laugh. “I have always dreamed of being a composer but have never really seen myself as such.”
“Well, you give yourself too little credit, my dear Lady Ellen. I can assure you that your pieces are going to take London by storm. No—not just London,” he amended. “Theworld.”
Ellen looked up at Simon. “Well, I am not so sure about that. I would be contented to bring a little gladness into other people’s lives through my compositions. Nothing more.”
“She is so modest. I love her even more,” Herr Von Schuster said. Simon watched as a deep red blush began crawling up her throat and into her cheeks.
“You are too kind, sir.”
The Maestro cleared his throat, and his face turned serious. “Well, Lady Ellen, I must confess I came here this evening not only to meet the genius behind these beautiful works of art, but with a proposition for you.” He looked at Simon nervously. “Well, perhaps you had better explain. “My English is not always very good.”
Simon nodded and turned to her, lowering his voice. He took her hands, and she gave him a questioning raise of the brows.
“Ellen, Herr Von Schuster wants to ask you to work in partnership with him on musical compositions for the London Opera. He says he is willing to come to the country house every few months during the winter and spring. And he would love for you to come to the Opera House and work with him when we are in town for the Season.”
He licked his lips, glancing at the Maestro for a split second. “What do you think of that?”
Ellen looked between the gentlemen, looking dumbfounded. “I am speechless,” she said with a laugh. “Truly, Herr Von Schuster, I do not know what to say.”
He flashed her a brilliant, wide smile and clapped his hands together. “Say yes!”
She shook her head, still in shock by the excellent opportunity, no doubt. He hoped that she would not decline. She gave it a moment’s thought, but something seemed to hold her back.
“I would have no reservations if not for this one thing, Maestro. Someday, we would like to have a family. My duties as a wife and mother would come first and foremost.”
Herr Von Schuster stepped forward, taking her hand furtively. “Oh, fear not, Lady Ellen. I will not press you to take on more than you are willing or able. I welcome your help and creative expertise for as long or as short a time as possible.”
She looked at Simon as if to ask his permission. “Do whatever would make you happy, my love. I will support whatever it is you want.”
Ellen turned to Von Schuster and smiled brilliantly. “Well then, I heartily agree. Thank you, Maestro.”
The little man was thrilled at her answer and kissed her hand. “Thank you, Lady Ellen. I look forward to creating music that generations to come will listen to and admire.”
Simon placed a hand on her back, gently leading her away from the excitable man. He took her to a lonely corner, beaming with pride for her.
“Well, it seems that there is no end to your gift-giving, is there?” she said.
“It is a husband’s duty and privilege to shower his wife with gifts,” he replied.
The chimes of the clocks placed all around the house began to ring out in unison, and people took up the chorus ofAuld Lang Syne.Simon took up the chorus but stopped when she placed a hand on his arm.
“I have a present for you now,” she admitted.
“You do?” he asked. He looked around, wondering where the package was. Instead, she took his hand and placed it on her abdomen. At first, he was unsure what she was doing, but then understanding donned. He spread his fingers over her middle and flashed her a questioning glance.
“Yes, I do. But you shall have to wait for another eight months at least,” she said, her eyes glowing.
His heart leapt inside his chest. “Are you sure, my love?”
She nodded, tears springing to her eyes. “It is still a little early to herald the news to the family and friends. But I am certain. By this time next year, you will be a father.”
He hugged her close, resting his forehead against hers. “Well, you have outdone all of my presents with your one.”
She laughed softly, looking up into his eyes. “Are you happy?” she asked.
“I am the happiest man in the world,” he replied. He then leaned down and kissed her, drinking in the sensation of holding her in his arms. This Christmas season had taught him so many things about love and life, but most of all, it had taught him to cherish the little moments and always be open to love. Sometimes, it comes in unexpected, beautiful ways. He only had to pay attention for long enough to enjoy it. Looking down at his wife, he knew there would be many such moments to come.
THE END
