Butterfly Amongst the Thornes

Chapter 24 ~ A Wedding Affair

2009-06-10T18:58:00.001-07:00

Warnings: Heavy Romantic explanations (I just didnt think I did it properly before) LOL!

Note: I am stuck with this one, just not sure of where I want to go with it, in truth I have grown a bit bored with this poor story... I promise it will be continued but I need to write out some more, work out a few puzzling bits of info, as you will see it just did not want to flow properly and I don’t have the patience to force it right now 80)... As well my other story has me completely handcuffed and held hostage right now, Jay and Lyd are screaming at me... So I figured what better of a place to leave this off than the wedding! ENJOY!!!

Fresh flowers flanked him, their earthy perfume intermixing with the faintly musty scent of the old church. Guests amiably whispered with one another, each one of the small intimate group adding to the aura of the event. Alexander watched the door with a combination of excitement and pride, a joyous smile seeming to be permanently plastered across his face. His heart pounding fiercely against his rib cage as the door to the church opened and he caught his first glimpse the resplendent lady Ava. His eyes began to Fill with tears as he thought of how truly fortunate he was, today she would become his wife, the only woman in which he would ever love. Beatrice sat alone in the front pew to the right, her hands folded neatly in her lap as she regally awaited her husband to take his seat beside her. Alexander’s heart swelled with love as she stepped through, her grandfather to her left. His breath catching in his throat at the vision of her. Her fiery hair loosely piled atop her head in a mass of curls. The pearl encrusted silk gown, he longed to feel the silver threaded soft velvet of the sleeves beneath his fingertips. To hold her close to him. To his left he listened as Sophia quieted her conversation with their uncle; who much to his joy and excitement had arrived unexpectedly that morning. Gazing briefly towards her, Alexander smiled as her eyes traveled along the course of his, a low laugh rumbling within his chest as she squealed with excitement, hurriedly covering her mouth with her hand at the outburst as Roberto shot her a chastising glance. The pianist began to play, each stroke of her fingers across the ivory keys filling the small room with the haunting melody.
Ava smiled faintly, her heart leaping into her throat as she saw him standing there, the black silk of his dress suit complimenting his bronzed skin; tears of joy clustered upon her lashes as she gazed with admiration upon him, the broad, loving smile across his handsome face increasing her love. It was in that instant that she realized she was doing the right thing, she was in all aspect marrying for love.

The notes of the wedding march swirled through her being, just as the excited butterflies danced about within her soul. The guests all quieted, their inquisitive gazes turning upon her, each aspect adding a magical air to the quaint surroundings. Silently she admitted that she could not deny her joy, grateful then that she had asked of Gertie to burn the letter.

Briefly she glanced to her right, tears swimming her vision, her grandmother sat stoic, in the front pew, her beloved sister and Franklin just behind and Gertie along with the man in which Ava knew to not only be their steward but her beloved handmaids fiancé.

George swallowed down the onslaught of tears that welled in his eyes as the music floated through the church and they began their descent towards the young lord and the preacher; his granddaughter was radiant, confident despite her earlier upset. Her mother's unused wedding gown, now slightly yellowed with age, only seeming to compliment her porcelain skin, fiery hair. He smiled with a combination of sadness and joy, today Ava fulfilled everything that had been set in motion twenty years earlier and more important, today his granddaughter married for love. The bouquet of flowers Sophia had hand chosen resting within her elegant hand, their fragrance surrounding him.

Preacher Donovan McIntyre glanced between the glowing couple, their happiness reflected within their gaze, "And who gives this woman away?" he hardly whispered. Not desiring to break the obvious air of love within his presence. Yes this would certainly be a marriage of fortitude, which did his heart well.

He paused at the front of the church, knowing his arrival would not be well welcomed, yet he was dying inside. He needed with everything Alexander's assistance, his contacts to locate her. Briefly debating as he heard the music stop, the low tones of the preacher as he began his sermon. "It is the least I can do to allow the ceremony to complete," he sighed out painfully...

"Let us begin with a prayer," the preacher began clasping his hands together and lowering his head. "Dear Lord God, I ask of thee to bless this young couple with your glory throughout all the days of their happy union," Ava glanced briefly at the enigmatic man, inwardly groaning as he continued on and on.

Alexander saw the flash of agitation in her eyes and grinned, for he himself could not wait for this to be over and done with. So he could take her to their home, not temporarily as it had been for the last two days yet permanently, wanted to kiss her senseless in that moment.

"We are gathered here today to give witness to the union of his Grace Alexander Lorenza of the Royal House of Navarro and her Ladyship, Ava Carmichael of the house of Wilshire." Alexander and Ava could not contain the shared grin, as they thought in unison how well the preacher had handled the long title.

His voice soon fading into nothing but an inaudible buzz as their intense gazes locked. Love, desire and happiness encompassing their souls, flowing easily between them both.

Suddenly the preacher coughed, clearing his throat as he touched Alexander lightly upon the shoulder and whispered, "The ring your grace."

Blushing ever so faintly Alexander laughed quietly, "Oh yes," he murmured reaching for Ava's creamy silken hand.

"Mi Amore," he began quietly his words causing a small gasp of surprise to echo through the church at the difference of tradition. "I ask of thee to accept this ring as a sign of my devotion and heart felt love, for you to know that I shall never in my life spend a single day without you in my thoughts, my very heart." He knew that it was not common for one to state their own endearments during these events and yet he could not contain his ever growing love for her and wished for her to know this. The preachers stunned yet fortunate well hidden surprised gaze burning into the side of his face.

Her heart in her throat, tears in her voice Ava smiled upon him, a sudden welling of emotion threatening to choke her as she slid his ring onto his thick finger. With a contented sigh she gazed into his gold and green eyes, "Alexander..." she breathed out.

"Mi Corazon," she whispered, a broad smile erupting across his face as she correctly pronounced the endearment despite the thickness of her mouth. "I ask of you to accept this ring as a token of my unyielding and unwavering love and devotion to you. A symbol that reflects the circle we have made since our first meeting," she choked out, a few stray tears sliding over her cheeks as she shot him a playful yet teasing glance. The broad grin on his face telling her the meaning was not lost upon him. An equally challenging glint to his exotic eyes and something much, more.

"I now pronounce you man and wife," Donovan whispered trying his hardest to control the discomfort in his tone at the unexpected self stated vows, no matter how heartwarming they may have been.

"Ah, the best part," Alexander huskily murmured in his thickly accented voice as he pulled her tenderly into his arms, the long awaited touch sending fire through his veins as he gazed lovingly into her heavy lidded eyes. "We get to seal our vows with a kiss," he whispered.

Gently he brushed his lips against hers in a chaste kiss, one he wanted at that moment to deepen and yet he unwilling pulled away, knowing that it would be inappropriate to do so within the hallowed walls of the church. Still he held onto her, the fragrant scent of her flowers intermixing with her honeysuckle and soap. "I love you Ava," he whispered his voice hoarse and husky. Heat building rapidly within his core, as he inwardly groaned; for after this they would head to the Wilshire manor for an early dinner.

Ava fought desperately at the heat that enveloped her senses under his gaze, with his hands upon her shoulders; the warmth seeping through the thick velvet and burning into her skin. The sweet and tender kiss having shot straight through her being rendering images of that first night within his arms, "I love you too," she shyly and nervously whispered. Her cheeks darkening under the ministers pious gaze, as she uncomfortably giggled silently praying the minister did not suspect why she acted as such.

Turning he bent his arm, waiting for her to slide her small hand through the opening and rest it ever so gently upon the soft silk of his dress suit, “Let us be announced,” he whispered supportively. As his gaze proudly met the congratulatory glances of their small group of attendee’s.

I proudly present you with His and her Grace Alexander Lorenza," the minister boomed happily, the entire church rising and clapping their hands together in joyous abandon.

When suddenly the door to the church burst open, a loud gasp escaping from Ava's throat as she pulled her hand back. Alexander squeezed his eyes shut in an attempt to fight down the sudden fury that arose within him, and involuntarily balled his hands into fists at his side.

"Have you no sense of respect?" Alexander growled, opening his eyes once more his vision resting on the uncomfortable and beaten form of his once dear friend. His first priority that of his wife as she quietly whimpered beside him, undoubtedly remembering the horrid accusations he had so mistakenly laid upon her.

Franklin ran his hand through the crop of curls on his forehead, "Lord almighty, has my brother taken complete leave of his senses?" he whispered uncomfortably. Catherine's groan of displeasure hissing from her lips, concerning him as she bent down.

Beatrice buried her head into her hands a quiet sob slipping from her lips as George turned away from the scene before him. "All will be well my love," he whispered agitation thickly ensconcing his voice as he reached a quivering hand out to rest upon her shoulder.

Gabriel's vision hurriedly moved from the distraught man at the door of the church and landed on the obviously disgruntled Lord Alexander and the newest duchess of Lorenza, a small inquisitive smile stretching across his face.

Whatever had occurred the night of the ball most certainly had everything to do with this man, Lady Ava and the Lord. This he could not refute, especially at the tension in her stance, the aggravation in Alexander's voice. All the other guests, with the exception of himself and his children's discomfort with the entire arrival. "hmm..." he quietly whispered to himself.

"My love please go to your grandparents," Alexander lowly whispered as he took a terse step forward.

"Please Alexander, I do not come to inflict any ill regard towards this happy event," Henry pleaded his voice tense filled with the promise of tears. "I am in desperate need of your assistance, I cannot locate My wife Marianne anywhere." He pleaded his eyes and face reflecting his pain and torment over the fact.

Everyone watched in tense silence as Alexander stormed towards the viscount, barely daring to breath.
Alexander glared upon Henry, his fury barely masked as he desired to wrap his hands about the mans neck, choke the life from his body. "This you should have thought of before you attempted to drive a wedge between my wife and myself," he growled venomously, the audible gasp of the women making it evident he'd not been nearly as quiet as he would have wished.

Gabriel was stunned to say the least, the enchanting lady Marianne was married to this sniveling weasel of a man, and not just this but the viscount had in fact attempted to disturb the peace between the young Lords relationship. Sucking in a deep breath of air, he tried his hardest not to laugh. He had sensed it that night of the ball, the anger and heartbreak and with Marianne's tearful recount of the events he could scarcely understand how this idiot was deserving of her.

Henry could feel the fury wafting off Alexander’s tense form, knew he had made a poor decision. "Yes you are correct I should have realized the depth of my love for Marianne before I acted so brashly." The apology flew from his lips on a hiss of breath. "Not only have I lost your good opinion, yet hers as well," He sobbed out, the pain he felt obvious as he cracked under the pressure of the last two days. "I have not slept nor ate, all I wish is your assistance in locating her whereabouts so I may try to repair the damage I have incurred."

Henry's fervant plea did little to ease Alexander's rage towards his dearest friend a fact he made quite evident as he glowered upon him. "Your wife is certainly better off without your good opinion or presence," he snarled unsympathetically to where only Henry could over hear.

Gabriel Edwards felt for the man, he too would want Marianne to return to him and the viscount was truly making an ass of himself before the group.

Stepping from his seat he approached Lord Alexander, extended his hand. "Your Grace, this is a blessed day a time for rejoice and if you do not mind, I believe I can be of assistance to your poor friend." He whispered, "Please return to your beautiful wife and let this misfortunate event be forgotten," he stated with a warm smile.

Alexander did not know what to think of this strange guest yet he could do little to deny the man, as Ava's stricken glance met his. "Thank you sir," he tersely stated before heading to Ava's side.

Pulling her into his embrace Alexander held her quivering form close to his body until she quieted. Whispered soothingly in her ear, that he loved her and held no doubt that she loved him as well.

Gabriel gazed into the mans liquid blue eyes, swallowing down the hesitation in revealing his knowledge as he searched the viscount for any sign he was not sincere in his proclamation. Finding no such evidence he hesitantly began. "Your wife, is at her family estate." He murmured blandly, "Her mother and I were recently married and came upon her on our way back to my estate." He continued.

Henry could scarcely believe his good fortune and yet could not quite allow himself to believe the dark man. "What assurance do I have?" he waveringly questioned, hope filling him as the man chuckled.

"If you do not believe me, then I pray you come and speak with Lady Francis," he jovially laughed out...

After a painstaking several hours at her grandparents estate, they were finally home. quietly he stepped behind her, lacing his fingers through hers and deeply inhaling her scent. "Mi corazon," he murmured as he trailed his lips over the satiny warm skin of her neck, his entire body throbbing with need, unmistakable desire.

Ava's hand fluttered to her throat at the electric shock that his lips shot through her, a nervous and excited gasp slipping from her lips. "Yes," she whispered shakily as he pressed his proof of desire against her. The heat of his arousal burning through the thick silk of her bridal gown.

Suddenly he grabbed her, safely balancing her with his hand on the small of her back as his lips sought hers. His tongue sliding easily through her lips as he teased and taunted, tasted. His mouth not leaving hers until the moan vibrated her throat. "Shall I tame my wild cat?" he laughed, leaving her incapable of speech as he slowly undressed her. Taking her hand within his own he guided her, assisted her wordlessly to disrobe him as well.

Their clothing laying in a heap upon the floor he gently lifted her, carried her to the bed. She gazed lovingly and longingly upon him as Alexander, her husband covered her body with his own. "Alex," she whispered as his hand secured hers above her head.

"Yes..." he murmured, his eyes burning into hers as he rested his burning silken weight against her stomach. causing the dull ache of her desire to bloom into a raging fire.

"I..." she blushed as she skimmed her fingers over his muscular chest, his stomach until she reached that part of him. The sharp intake of air and the quiet growl that emanated from him exciting to her as she shyly ran her hand over his length, marveling at the feel of him.

"I am going to make love to you all night," he murmured huskily, his voice ripe with tension, desire and need, as he slowly and tenderly entered her.

"For the rest of our lives..." he murmured huskily, his eyes boring into hers as he lowered his lips to her own, capturing the cry of pleasure that slipped from her throat...

To be continued....

Chapter 23 ~ Home Again

2009-05-23T13:52:00.001-07:00

The fifth day of October dawned bright and warm as if blessing her marriage. Ava sat one final time in the orangery, deeply inhaling the exotic scents, letting the too warm room ease her tension. She could scarcely believe that just the night before she had been safe within his arms, his soft slumbering breath against her ear. There was no denying she loved him, relished the way he made her feel yet deep down she worried.

Her grandfather startling her as he spoke. “It does my heart poorly to see you so forlorn,” George had been carefully watching his beloved granddaughter for several minutes. Watching the expressions on her face as she mutely cogitated, he could tell she worried over something; saw her obvious struggle between the love and the nervousness she felt.

The vision though joyous, equally heartbreaking as he thought of Annette and the final time he had seen her in the very same spot. Allowed himself to feel the pain over the loss of his only daughter, a loss that had wrought years of scandalous whispers.

Seating himself beside Ava upon the bench, he focused his gaze on the soothing, glistening beads of water that rained down from the mouth of the fountain. Pushed away his sorrow as he struggled to come up with something that would ease her discontentment. “This was your mother’s favorite room as well,” he eventually murmured soothingly, his voice breaking the sedate sounds of the gurgling water.

“Twas heart breaking; just a week before she ran off I had found her just as you.” He fought to contain the choking of his voice, struggled to withhold the tears at the memory. Despite his knowledge that Ava would certainly pursue the statement, push for more information.

Her grandfather's comment stunned her; excited her, for it was a rare occasion that her grandmother nor any other dared speak of her mother. "Was she not happy?" she tentatively questioned. Hoping that George would continue, her interest and desire to know more of her mother at its peak.

Turning to face her George smiled, the gesture lighting his face and to Ava at least, making him seem years younger as he contemplated just how to answer.

“My dearest Ava,” he began softly. “I cannot say she was, but there is a difference between then and now.” He paused to pat her hand, “she was not in love with the man we had chosen for her, whereas you have been gifted with just such a blessing. Sadly your grandmother and I did not realize until after it was too late the depth of her sorrow." His voice cracked with emotion, his stomach churned as he falsified the truth.

Ava rested her hands upon her lap, as his statement sank, in mulled the words over. "Yet grandfather even had you been aware of her sadness there was little to be done," she murmured. "For as grandmother has made so evident, it is a rare case when a marriage is filled with love," her words though quiet were filled with bitterness.

George quietly laughed, his heart swelling with pride at how Ava always seemed to take even the most horrid of news and find a way to focus on the good. "Yes dearest, there was little to be done and sadly you are correct, there are few marriages that are so blessed." He added with gentle squeeze of her hand.

Rising he gently pulled her into a warm embrace, his heart aching as he thought that in a matter of hours she would be gone from the house. “Ava you will make a wonderful wife for him, you are strong, spirited, and intelligent. Tis no wonder he fell in love with you,” he whispered reassuringly, brushing a chaste kiss upon her cheek. Tears welling in his eyes as he silently thanked the lord that she would marry a man deserving of her.

His comment slammed against her, brought forth the feeling of inadequacy yet again. With tears in her eyes she forced a smile upon her face and glanced up at him, the gentle look in his eyes and the kind smile upon his lips tearing her apart. “Grandfather,” Ava whispered her voice thick with emotion and fear.

Her disheartened gaze fell upon the rough cream marble, “am I truly worthy of him? For he is to take the throne and I,” she paused and released a shuddering breath, swallowed down the sob that worked its way up her throat. “I am not full nobility,” the words fell from her lips on a pained sigh, caused her to once more think of the letter that sat upon her dresser it’s seal firmly tacked. The letter addressed to Alexander explaining why she could not marry him, why he should not want to marry her.

George heard the strain in her voice felt the pain wafting off her, tipping her chin up with his fingertip he gazed into her pale green eyes as he silently contemplated how to respond to her question. It weighing heavily upon him that he could not tell her the truth, more over knowing that the young Lord would soon be made aware of the circumstance, the need to protect her from the knowledge. “Ava my child, you are far more worthy than you assume and I assure you Lord Alexander would love you even if you were a chamber maid.” He shakily laughed, hoping it would lighten her spirit and mask his discomfort with the half-truth. “For a strong minded gentleman such as himself needs a wife who is more so.” He soothingly murmured hugging her tightly.

Much to his joy and chagrin, the sound of the door opening interrupting their conversation as she turned towards the entry. A mask of fury covering Ava’s face as she set eyes upon her grandmother. Alexander’s recital of the woman’s horrendous actions still fresh in her memory,

His vision falling upon his wife he could not contain the small smile, he had certainly lashed into her yet his words would be nothing in comparison to Ava's. “Please speak kindly,” George whispered knowingly as he hurriedly exited the orangery.

With narrowed eyes, Ava glared upon the forlorn form of her grandmother, swallowed at the lump that choked her. The smallest inkling of pleasure coursing through her as the duchess stood brokenly, her sad gaze intently focused upon the floor. She did not know if she could ever forgive Beatrice.

“I am truly apologetic for all that has occurred,” Beatrice finally spoke, her regal voice weak and pained, filled with tears.

Turning abruptly away from the Duchess Ava took a tentative step forward on quivering legs. “What you nearly incurred grandmother, is reprehensible to say the least,” she forced out through clenched teeth.

“Because of your meddlesome activities I nearly lost a much desired union, at your hand nearly lost my heart once more.” Now it was her voice that was filled with tears, sadness at the memory as she let loose her torment, her fury.

A chill crept up Beatrice's spine at the tone of her granddaughters voice, the anger and hatred so evident. “My sweet Ava, I know this, I have had the last three days to think of nothing else and am truly ashamed.” It was truth, she had taken an inventory of her actions searched through her heart and found her penance, the need to heal the pain she had wrought.

“I had not been aware of the invitation, nor the friendship between Lord Alexander and the viscount,” she whispered. Her hand falling listlessly to her side as Ava abruptly turned and penetrated her with her furious darkened eyes.

“You were not aware?” Ava screeched in disbelief, the question as incredulous as the understanding.

“Were you not the one too personally write out the invitations, seal them and send them for delivery?” She demanded folding her arms across her chest, her face contorted with rage.

Beatrice swallowed at the lump that formed in her throat at the accusation, “Not all, I had been so pre-occupied with your sister’s wedding and the arrival of Lord Alexander I handed a list of names and addresses to Rebecca…” She trailed off, it suddenly occurring to her that she must have handed her hand maid the wrong list. “Oh dear,” she mournfully murmured.

Ava penetrated her grandmother with her eyes, incapable of believing the statement. “So you conveniently forgot to ensure that his name was not on the list.” Ava snarled accusingly, believing whole heartedly that her grandmother had still done this purposefully. A sudden wave of dizziness overtaking her.

Beatrice watched in horror as Ava blanched and swayed for a moment, protectively she rushed forward and guided her granddaughter to the bench ensuring she was comfortably seated before she herself took place beside her. “Ava dear are you not well?” she carefully questioned when the color returned to Ava's face.

Ava bristled at the comment, yet was silently grateful her grandmother had been there to help her to the bench. “I am well grandmother,” She ground out weakly, her mind twisting in confusion as yet another spell overcame her.

“I have not eaten is all, so if you do not mind I would like to go rest for a bit.” She weakly murmured, attempting to stand yet falling to her seat once more.

Beatrice gazed upon Ava her thoughts quickly twisting towards the past few days occurrences. She herself had not come down with symptoms for several weeks, yet her own sister had been stricken ill shortly after conception. “I shall send Gertrude with a plate of pastries and fruit,” She whispered helping Ava to her feet and guiding her into the house.

Ava sat uncomfortably upon the small bench within her room, waiting for the promised plate to arrive. Something was not right, had not been since she had awakened that first morning. Her entire body seemed devoid of energy, she ached and the frequent dizzy spells whether or not she dined. “I must be coming down with an illness,” she mournfully whispered, her attention diverted by the sound of the door opening.

Expectantly she turned her surprised vision falling upon Catherine’s harried figure as her sister rushed into the room. “We have all been ill with worry!” Catherine cried out the moment her vision fell upon her. “Especially since I never would have expected this from you,” she continued her words though harsh filled with humor as she raked her vision over her sister.

A faint smile spread over Ava’s face as she gazed upon her sister, “I am truly sorry to have made you fret dearest Cat,” she whispered rising and enveloping her sister in a hug. An embrace she quickly pushed away from, falling back onto the bench in surprise as she felt the swell of her sisters abdomen. “Catherine!” the astonished whisper hardly seemed to slip from her lips.

Catherine gazed down upon her sister, her blue eyes twinkling with mischief and a devilish grin spreading over her face. “I am nearly three and a half months,” she giggled. “I had suspected when Franklin and I married, but did not wish to divulge my secret,” She conspiratorially whispered.

“Catherine please tell me that you are carrying Franklins child?” Ava stammered out breathlessly, fear quickly rising within her mind as she thought back to the late night ventures that she had been so foolish as to trust her sister upon.

Fear that continued to build as her sister turned away for the briefest of moments a flash of embarrassment across her face. “Of course silly, I could not resist!” She suddenly laughed out, the tinkling sound sinking heavily against Ava’s heart. “Something I am sure you well understand, for when you are in love there is nothing you would not do.” She finished with a knowing wink.

Ava stared upon her sister, all those months upon the ship when she had trusted, hoped and yet deep down she had known. “Catherine you fool, however will you explain the early birth?” She whispered venomously.

The statement seeming to further humor Catherine as the young women laughed, “I shall say that the child was early.” She explained, a broad grin spreading across her face, “Besides you cannot tell me that you spent three nights with the wickedly handsome Lord Alexander and did not share his bed…”

To Be Continued

Chapter 22

2009-03-23T19:27:00.000-07:00

Marianne walked on quivering legs towards the front of the house, worry, and fear encompassing her.

Why she had chosen to come here was beyond her, for the house held no happy memories, no sense of comfort.

Slowly she took a tentative step towards the large glass and wood door, her heartbeat rising inexplicably. Stopping she tightly squeezed her eye closed, a rush of emotions engulfing her.

It seemed the house with its unhappy memories did not want her to be here anymore than she herself had as a child.

After several minutes of quiet tears, Marianne had managed to swallow her discontent and made her way into the dust-filled house, a house that had sat unused for far too long.

Sneezing she walked further into the parlor and sat upon the used yet comfortable chaise, another sneeze escaping her as a cloud of dust swirled into the air about her.

It did not take long for her weary and worn body to relax, bring about a bout of drowsiness. A strange feeling for the normally active young woman, as she set there a realization slowly dawned upon her.

For the first time she actually felt a sense of peace within these walls, a feeling she attributed to her recent dispatch of naivety, no longer was she an innocent child, now she was in all aspect a woman.

The thought alone brought tears to her eyes as she thought back to the young stable hand she had loved, the young man whose attentions had been found by her mother and ended in her marriage to the nefarious Henry; laying upon the arm of the lounge she allowed her misery to come forth.

Allowed her thoughts to ramble, from Michael to Henry and settle upon the darkly handsome yet dangerous man from the ball.

“Milady,” Jonathon, the driver quietly stated as he entered, disrupting her thoughts.

Startled she hurriedly righted herself and focused her gaze upon him. For the first time noticing how handsome the young man was, as she quietly observed that he did a fine job of disguising any discomfort he may have felt at the meager surroundings.

“You will catch a chill; I shall set a fire for you.” He pointedly stated, unaffected by her intense and scrutinizing gaze.

Relaxing once again, she again settled against the arm of the chaise, a sense of comfort over coming her. “Thank you,” she whispered with a grimace as her back clenched. Her muscles and bones seemed forever bruised from the uncomfortable ride, jostling she could have avoided had she not insisted he travel at break neck speed. Through heavy lidded eyes, she watched as he made quick work of starting a blazing fire, the heat of it quickly chasing away the chill in the air.

“Milady, I shall go to town and gather some supplies,” he stated in concern, words she barely heard as the warmth caressed her body, lulling her to slumber.

The gentle crackle and snap of the blazing logs filling her thoughts, incapable of suppressing it, Marianne yawned broadly before succumbing to slumber, a deep dreamless sleep where she could escape from the reality of all that had happened.

Francis alerted immediately to the thick scent of wood smoke, in a fit of rage she purposefully made her way towards the front door, of the old manor.

The house that had once belonged to her and Charles, less than enthusiastically she threw the door open wide and stormed into the sitting room.

Her sharp-eyed gaze falling immediately upon the slumbering shadowed form of a woman, “Have you no sense of respect,” she snapped.

“Arise and face your future you trespassing wretch!” she screeched furiously, anger and a brief hint of fright in her tone.

Blinking rapidly Marianne’s eyes fluttered open at the distinct shrill tone of her mother’s voice, “Is that any way to refer to your daughter,” she quietly murmured. Glancing about in confusion at the darkened room the only light that of the dwindling fire; immediately it occurring to her that she had slept for several hours.

Francis took an unsteady step back, surprise, and shock coursing through her at the sound of Marianne’s voice. “Why are you here?” her question was unsteady, shaky just as she herself felt this moment. “You should be with your husband,” she added.

Five minutes later the two women stood warily facing the other the soft golden light illuminating the striking resemblance between the two. It occurring to Marianne that her mother had seemingly aged, thick dark circles that were prominent under her eyes and she noticed a few lines that seemed deeply etched at the creases of her mother’s mouth and eyes.

“Is the viscount here with you?” Francis finally stated her tone thick with tension.

Turning her gaze towards the fire, Marianne stared uncomfortably at the flickering blue and gold flames. The heat of it doing little to chase away the chill that had settled within her the moment her mother had arrived.

“No,” she finally managed the mere thought of him aching her. “It is in my opinion that he is most likely enjoying a tryst with his mistress.” She snapped, swallowing at the sting of the acidic bile in her throat.

Francis stared in disbelief upon her daughter, a very small part of her feeling for the heartache Marianne was experiencing. The wistful broken look that masked her face, pulled at Francis’s heart. “I am sorry that you must know of your husband’s indiscretions, yet your place is with him no matter what his choices are. Your duty is to provide an heir and maintain pretense of a happy union.” Her tone cool, uncaring and matter of fact.

Marianne turned her shocked and disgusted gaze upon her mother fury quickly encompassing her.

“You truly think so lowly of me!” she cried out in disbelief and heartache, cringing as her mother turned abruptly towards her, yet incapable of stopping herself.

“You would have me stay in this miserable situation while my husband beds that wretched Lady Ava and take his side?” The words flew from her mouth and she did not care they were improper, each infuriating comment pushing the tears from her eyes, shattering what little sense of composure she had left.

“What would you know of losing your husband to another, for you were spared the humiliation of scandal. For at least my father died, merely subjecting you to the pity of others!” She spat out in disgust, hatred evident in her tone.

“I will say this, Henry, his family and you had best pray that the child I carry is indeed the heir, for I shall not allow his filthy hands upon me again!” She screeched turning and fleeing from the room, her sobs trailing after her.

Francis crumpled into the chair, her mind spinning never before had her daughter spoken so harshly to her, and yet she could not deny it.

She understood her daughter had fallen in love with the man she had married and for the first time she actually felt remorse, “Marianne, I know far more than you realize.” She whispered sadly, remembering all too well the sorrow and despair she felt when Annette had stolen from her the love and devotion of Charles.

“What is with the Carmichael women?” she snarled under her breath, her eyes narrowing dangerously as she began to formulate a plan to rid herself and her daughter of the ill begotten child of her husband.

Marianne stumbled and fell to the ground before the old dilapidated well, a wry smile crossing her face as she glared angrily upon it.

“Oh how fitting I should fall here,” she cackled in despair, “Possibly I should wish for my husband to fall madly in love with I,” she sarcastically bit out, “then again it isn’t as if it should ever matter.” She breathed out a fresh wave of heartache surging through her as she thought back to her youth.

Memories flooding her thoughts of how for as long as she could remember she had wished, hoped and prayed at this very spot for happiness, for her mother’s love. For all that, she had been so denied in childhood. The breaking of a twig startling her as she hurriedly rose from the ground and turned fearfully around.

Gabriel had been surprised to say the least when he had come upon the young woman from the ball, her anger, and heartache pouring from her as she lashed out at her mother. “Good eve Marianne,” he murmured stepping from the shelter of the tree and setting the small candle he carried upon the ground…

To Be Continued

Chapter 21~Decisions

2009-03-08T21:33:00.001-07:00

“I do not believe I could ever love you again…”

The words resounded through Henry’s heart and soul, Marianne had loved him and he’d been to set in his own determination to see it. Fooled himself into believing he was only meant to love Ava, a cold laugh slid from him as he thought of how strange it was.

He had hated his parents decision, loathed the idea of being married to a woman in whom he had never met. Yet now after everything he realized, he loved Marianne completely.

How it had happened was unbeknown to himself, all he understood was from the moment he had entered the room that morn. Set eyes upon the forlorn figure of his wife he knew.

Stopping the bay, he scanned the path way, searching for any signs that the carriage had passed. Sighing heavily when he did not find it he pulled gently upon the leather reign to pull the horse around when he saw it. The wind that had picked up yet again fluttered the leaves wildly about, revealing fresh wheel marks in the moist dirt.

Filled afresh with determination, need and desire he pushed his heels into the powerful haunches of the horses hind quarters and with a wild laugh, whooped and hollered as the Bay shot forward…

Ava’s thoughts twisted back to the day he had informed her of his proposal, the guilt that had been in his eyes as he held her that day.

Her heart in her throat she pushed away from him and leveled her gaze upon Alexander, “My lord.” She tersely began, clasping her hands behind her back and lowering her gaze to the floor, afraid her assumptions were correct.

“What have you done?” she questioned biting back her concern.

Alexander’s heart sank at her question, yet a wry smile crossed his lips as he thought of how well she had come to know him.

Stepping forward and taking her hands into his own he gazed longingly upon her, “My lady, I have once again gone to your grandfather.” He whispered.

Grasping tighter to her tiny cool fingers as she attempted to jerk away, “before you grow ever angry I ask you to hear me,” he whispered forcing her gaze upon his.

His words stung, yet not more so than the fact he had once again behind her to her grandparents, “Very well yet I promise you if I am unhappy with the outcome I shall not see you again,” she murmured stiffly maintaining her steely gaze upon his own.

He couldn’t help the gentle laugh at her comment, he had known she would not be happy with his choice. “I cannot in good faith allow a single negative word to rest upon your lovely head,” he murmured ever so quietly watching intently as her eyes softened.

“Thus I have sent word to your grandfather that we shall be wed in two days time,” his heart swelled as she gazed upon him, her anger now replaced with a sense of confusion.

“Two days?” Ava whispered, “I…” she lowered her lashes over her eyes, the heated blush creeping into her cheeks at the comment.

“I do not wish to return to Wilshire Manor,” she hardly whispered.

In truth she did not, she had found that falling asleep within his arms was the most comforting experience of her life, he made her feel safe, protected and comfortable. Something she had not felt since childhood when she would fall asleep upon her father’s lap as he rocked her to and fro telling her a fanciful story.

Pulling her into his arms, Alexander stroked her softly a possessive look within his eyes, “I did not say you would be returning my love. In truth your abigail should be arriving shortly,” the stunned look she shot him rumbled laughter deep within his throat.

“Your abigail, Gertrude will be arriving shortly as your escort,” he smiled.

Ava did not comprehend just what Alexander was saying, the fact plainly written across her face. “My lord, I cannot stay here unmarried,” she whimpered, staring incredulously upon him.

“We leave for London, where I will apply for a special license this way we can explain our hasty nuptials as a matter of not being capable of waiting,” he grinned.

“In truth I cannot but I did not wish to give you time to re-consider,” he jokingly stated with a warm hug.

“Shouldn’t my grandmother escort me?” Ava questioned her voice thick with shock and confusion, laughter at the playful side she was seeing.

“Why ever would I do such a thing, with the dowager duchess about I could not persuade you to my quarters,” he grinned lavishing her with a long smoldering glance.

One that sent a shiver from the top of her head straight to her toes as she thought back to the night before and the wicked things he had shown her.

With a bright smile she pushed away from him, her eyes darting towards the as yet unmade bed, a glance that did not fail to escape his own.

“I do not have the time to properly love you,” he whispered seductively in her ear, his hot breath feathering through her hair, his deep baritone vibrating through her very being, coursing white heat through her veins.

“You are positively incorrigible,” Ava laughed out, swallowing hard and willing the heat away. .

“Besides until we are married I shall not be anywhere near your quarters,” she added weakly as he snaked his hand about her waist and pushed her against him, the warmth from his body a welcomed reprieve from the chilled room.

“Now if you will, my gown.” She whispered shakily, as his hand sought her breast, his fingers dancing lightly over the thin material, his touch eliciting a quivering breath.

Turning her deftly in his arms he embraced her, the dark lustful look in his eyes frightening and thrilling, “we shall see about that,” he growled seeking her mouth with his own.

Barely had their lips met when a quiet rap upon the door sounded through the room, with a curse under his breath he pushed her behind him. “What!” he snarled in frustration.

“Your Grace, her ladyships handmaid has arrived,” the timid voice of the young woman carried from beyond the door, although she did not open it.

Catherine nearly tripped over the hem of her gown as she rushed towards the parlor, anger fueling her every step.

Flinging the door wide she stepped in penetrating him with her icy blue gaze all her frustration and fury to be found in that one glance. “How dare you,” she snarled after a few moments of silence, quietly pleased that he looked so ragged.

Henry turned his dark circled eyes in her direction, a pain shooting through his heart at the vision of his brothers beautiful and sweet wife. Her elfin face was red tinged and contorted with rage, all evident in her calm steely tone.

Swallowing hard he just gazed at her, incapable of speech. He had truly made an ass of himself and highly doubted she would tell him if he asked.

Taking his silence as her cue to continue Catherine stepped closer, placing her small hands upon her hips. The placement tightening the fabric over the gentle swell of her abdomen.

“You have disgraced your family, ruined my sister,” she growled her entire body quivering with rage.

“Now I demand you tell me just where you have taken her!” she shrilly screeched, the demanding question temporarily throwing him off guard.

Uncomfortably he gazed into her darkened eyes, wishing at that moment he had not come.

“Catherine, I have not an idea in what you speak,” he finally managed. His mouth dry and his tone weakened.

“Although if I must venture a guess, she is most likely with Lord Alexander,” he calmly added.

She could scarcely believe his comment, her beloved sister acting so foolishly. “I am sure she is not, especially after the horrid way you acted, the things you have done to ensure her dissatisfaction with her life.” She spat, hoping that he would believe she did in fact know what had occurred and tell her more.

Turning away his shoulders drooping with exasperation and weariness, “dearest sister, Ava has most certainly ended any possibility of my initial intentions. She is in love with his grace and I…” he paused his voice thick with emotion.

“I realize that I am in truth in love with my wife and that is why I have come,” the words shot pain through his soul, self loathing for his actions.

Catherine’s temper softened, as she gazed upon him noticing for the first time the disheveled state of his dress and the lack of grooming. “Henry…” she coolly stated still angry with him, yet his mannerism showing his fragility. “Why are you here?” she finally questioned, torn between her anger and her concern for him.

Chapter 20 ~ Aftermath

2009-01-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

Marianne sat alone in her room, the pain in her heart unbearable as she feared the worse. Feared that her husband had strayed from her, leaving her in the same situation as her mother once had been. Pregnant and alone, the only difference; her father had passed away not abandoned her for another woman. Her heart burned with anger, fury towards not only her husband but Ava as well. The wretch that had stolen from her the love of Henry, stripped from her the dignity of a comfortable marriage.

“If only I had known,” she sighed out in agony, her stomach lurching with nausea as she remembered how truly excited she had been to receive the illustrious invitation to the one house that had never before invited her or her family.

His vision fell quickly upon his distressed wife as he entered the room, his body battered and worn from having ridden all night in an attempt to outrun his grief over Ava’s revelation. “Known of what my sweet?” Henry questioned, his gravelly voice echoing across the room.

Discomfort settling within him as she turned her excited gaze in his direction, a gaze that quickly darkened to anger. Rightfully placed anger, he silently acknowledged, knowing that she had undoubtedly found of his true reasoning behind attending the ball.

Marianne penetrated him with her blazing angry gaze, her heart thundering within her breast as she abandoned all civility and stormed towards him. “How dare you!” she raged, jabbing a quivering finger into his chest, uncaring that the servants may over hear what she had to say.

“Why did you not tell me before I accepted that Lady Ava was the one in whom your heart yearned for?” She continued her voice wavering with unshed tears.

“You have gone above our agreement milord!” she snarled her watery blue eyes glittering with unshed tears. The force of her voice obviously surprising him by the unsteady step back he took. “You are fortunate that as we speak I carry, for I never wish you to touch me again!” She finished, her torment evident and her heart shattering as she spoke the words. A deep sense of loathing growing for not only her husband yet the spawn in which she carried.

Henry was taken aback by Marianne’s anger, as her words slowly registered. “Mary, my love,” he quietly murmured in his most soothing tone, his mind reeling and a sense of dread settling deep within his heart at the prospect of losing her.

Incapable of looking upon Henry, she stormed away her shoulders visibly shaking as she stubbornly fought back the tears. “I am not your sweet Henry,” his name burned like acid as it rolled off her tongue. “Reserve such endearments for your mistress Lady Ava,” she spat, the woman’s name increasing her disgust. Absently she gazed through the drapery, unwilling to look upon him lest he see her heartbreak. A deep seeded heartache that only one in love could experience emotion he did not deserve to see.

Sadly Henry tentatively stepped forward, reaching his arms about his stiff wife’s form and pulling her close. “Mary, she is mine no longer,” he quietly whispered into her ear. Pain engulfing his heart, not only at the memory of Ava yet more so now, over the heartache he had subjected his beautiful wife to.

“She is soon to be married to Lord Alexander, a very dear friend of mine.” Hot tears stung his eyes and he gently swayed to and fro, pulling Marianne closer to his quivering body.

“I truly apologize for having deceived you my love. I acted unbecoming and selfishly in my need for closure, an ending that she whole heartedly gave.” His voice was quiet, laced with emotion. “Mary you are my wife and I swear to you I shall not stray. For it is within you that I now know my heart belongs.” He whispered truthfully, understanding that Marianne deserved his complete devotion and attention.

She heard the sincerity in his voice, yet with all that had occurred over the past two months she could not find trust in him. Could not find it within herself to forgive him, nor Lady Ava, despite the woman’s clearly pure intentions when she had refused him. “Henry I do not believe I can trust in you. You have broken my heart and purposefully deceived my innocence,” She snarled.

Breaking free of his grasp and moving closer to the window, the tears flowing over her cheeks.

Her words stung his heart, shattered his soul as he gazed upon her. Marianne’s words resounding within him, her cool dismissal and the blatant disapproval. There was absolutely nothing he could say, nothing he could do for he could deny her. She had been correct, he had deceived his wife and himself, committed the ultimate crime against their marriage. Suddenly her full statement struck him, gasping he threw his hands out, “Marianne you are w-with child?” he stammered. Fear surging through him as he realized he was soon to lose her, especially if it was in fact the heir, for he was sure she would enforce the barter she had originally placed.

Marianne didn’t bother to turn, she heard his astonishment and in truth she could care less to see the discomfort upon his face. “At least two months,” she breathed out, her voice cracking with emotion…

Ava awoke with a start, bright sunlight filtering over her. Disoriented she glanced about the strange surroundings, memories of the night before flooding her thoughts as she glanced at the empty side of the bed.

The sight leaving her oddly bereft. Hot tears sprung to her eyes, stinging her lids as she swung her legs over the side of the massive bed.

A grimace crossing her face and a small squeal escaping her throat; at the intimate soreness between her thighs.

Shamefully she rose on quivering legs and hurriedly clothed herself in her undergarments, not bothering to tighten the stays of her corset as an embarrassed blush crept into her cheeks.

Fretfully she glanced about the room in search of her gown, her heart aching, a sense of embarrassment and anger coursing through her. Alexander had left her, his actions seeming to her that he cared not for her to be there with him.

Shuddering she remembered the promise she had made the night before, a fretful sob working it’s way from her throat at the prospect of leaving for Gretna green.

Especially now as she highly doubted that he would, “I am a fallen woman,” she regretfully breathed into the chilly sex permeated air. A new realization striking her, the unavoidable guilt that she had acted far to hastily by committing the exact crime in which he’d accused her of.

Frustrated she glanced about yet again in search of her gown, desperately wanting to be gone from this house before he returned to confirm her belief that he cared not to see her again.

“Oh the insufferable pig,” she tearfully snarled, throwing her hands into the air as she realized that he must have hidden it. So lost in her thoughts she failed to hear the door open and close behind her, failed to hear the heavy footfalls upon the thick wool carpeting.

Alexander’s smile soon faded as his vision fell upon the obviously outraged form of his beloved. Silently he chastised himself, for having not been present when she awakened.

Knowing she must feel horrid that he was not there to greet her. “I had hoped you would still be abed,” he lightly stated, his tone apologetic.

Startling her as she jumped at the sound of his voice and turned her glittering tear filled eyes and furious face towards him.

His thickly accented baritone rumbled through her very being, catching her off guard and pulling her away from her thoughts. The mere sight of him pulling the tears from her eyes, “why ever would you?” she accusingly snarled. Her anger flared as she doubted he truly meant it.

“You’ve gotten what you wished, completed yet another conquest and now I shall leave. Just as soon as you give me my gown,” despite her attempts at ferocity, her voice came out weak, reflecting her anguish and sorrow.

Swallowing hard at the biting comment, he penetrated her with his hurt gaze and stepped closer.

Wrapping her shivering body in his strong grasp. “Mi amore,” he carefully began, weighing his words carefully so as not to further injure her and trying his hardest to keep his own frustration in check. “I may have been a scoundrel, yet I assure you I meant every word I said last eve.” He whispered against her throat.

“You are in not in any form a conquest. I could not bear to live with myself knowing you believe as such.” he continued trailing his lips over the silken skin of her jaw.

"Mi Corazon, understand that I most ardently love you; and until the minister pronounces you my wife.” He whispered gazing soulfully into her jeweled eyes, his heart thundering within his breast as he was struck afresh at the level and depth of his emotions for her. “I am not complete,” he sighed brushing his mouth over hers.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

George paced nervously about his study, fury and grief encompassing him as he ran the events from the night before through his mind.

Sorrow for he had never before spoken so harshly to his wife, the memory of her stricken look aching his heart. Anger because she had acted without thought of repercussion, allowed their granddaughter to go to him, without knowing it was in fact Lord Alexander she had chosen as her destination.

“Shades of the past,” he quietly growled the memories of his daughter and Viscount Talley’s sordid affair fresh in his mind. Absently he tapped his breast pocket wishing it would ease his discomfort yet knowing it would not.

Beatrice rushed towards her husband’s office. Fear, nervousness and shame intermixing within her. He had been correct; she had acted foolishly and may possibly have destroyed any chance of redemption for their families.

Hesitantly she turned the knob of the closed door and entered the darkened room. Her mind twisting with concern and worry over his reason for having requested her audience so urgently. “Milord,” she barely managed to whisper through the cotton dryness of her mouth and tight throat. Tears burning her eyelids for his hurtful words were still prominent in her memory.

Turning to focus upon her, a pain shot through his heart. Beatrice was pale and frightened, shame clearly written across her face. “As you well know I am greatly displeased with your actions,” he began. His voice though quiet, forceful and commanding.

Dropping her gaze to the floor Beatrice squeezed her eyes tightly closed in an effort to withhold the tears. “Yes milord, I have truly acted quite unbecoming for my position,” she choked out painfully as she braced herself for yet another scolding.

Sighing heavily he stepped forward, taking his wife into his arms in a soothing and comforting embrace. “I am pleased that you see the error of your decisions,” he murmured pitifully.

“Now I have called upon you this morn for I have received word from Lord Alexander.” He continued.

While he gently led her towards the overstuffed velvet chair and guided her to a sitting position as he knelt before his wife. Concern etched over his face as he soaked in the gentle silk of her hair that framed her pale face. He had initially been in debate over whether to inform her of the news, yet seeing how distressed she was, how she had not made her effort to complete her morning abolutions he made his decision.

His embrace soothed her nerves, the gentle tone of his voice relaxed her a bit until his words sank in. “Is…Is she not with him?” Beatrice tersely questioned, fear resonating within her tone.

George could not withhold the small smile at the fear and nervousness in her voice, “Ava is indeed with him.” He reassured standing and walking towards his desk.

Pausing until he had situated himself comfortably in the chair. A part of him enjoying keeping her on edge.

“Considering what has occurred I must agree wholly with his choice,” he whispered pulling forth the thick linen paper and smoothing it out before him on the desk.

Beatrice sucked in a deep breath, knowing in what her husband spoke of yet not wishing to believe Ava could have done such. “Milord, I had not yet explained…” She whispered fearfully, a part of her concerned over Ava’s welfare.

Her reaction warranted a hearty laugh from George, a laugh that caused her to gaze upon him quizzically.

“I do not believe she was in need of an explanation,” he quietly stated once he had regained his composure.

“If anything Lord Alexander was most pleased to explain for you,” he continued a wicked gleam in his eyes as he was transported back to his own youth.

A gasp escaped her at her husband’s rather inappropriate remark, “Milord, I do not think that is a proper subject,” she quietly scolded. Her cheeks reddening at her own memories, of her wedding night and how her mother’s words had little bearing on what actually occurred.

Clearing his throat he glanced back again upon his wife, “Apparently Ava is truly upset over the entire event. Thus she hastily agreed to leave for Gretna Green .” His tone was suddenly serious.

“She cannot, the scandal!” Beatrice cried out incapable of containing her astonishment.

“Alexander was of the same opinion,” George hurriedly interrupted. Raising his hand in signal that he required silence.

“They leave for London this morn where he will apply to the magistrate for a special license.” His blue eyes darkened with sadness as he dropped his gaze to the letter. “He has requested Gertie be sent as her companion.”

Before he could continue Beatrice flew from her seat, her eyes wild with anger. “Absolutely not, I must go with her!” she hollered her face twisting in confusion and disbelief.

“Beatrice, I have already dispatched the handmaid,” George calmly explained shooting her a wary glance. “Now if you would so kindly let me finish,” he continued.

“We have two days time to prepare for the nuptials." He finished wanting to take her in his arms and soothe away her discomfort, yet knowing that there was nothing he could do. For he himself was not happy with the entire event…

Frustrated and heartbroken Marianne rushed from the house. Ignoring Henry’s fervent and pleading cries, flinging the door open she bolted into the chilled morning air.

The Cold winds cutting through the thin linen of her house dress.

Still she did not stop until she reached the carriage house. Hurriedly she cried out to one of the stable hands, ordering him to drive her…

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To Be Continued...

Chapter 19 ~ The Ball Conclusion

2008-11-29T23:17:00.001-08:00

Her emotional statement hit him hard, made him think of all that occurred. For why if she were as he thought, would she come to him as such and aptly call him on his actions. His mind twisting in confusion and his heart in pain he gazed upon Ava.

Alexander’s speech stolen from him at her comment, and his sudden feeling of dread. For if, it were to be true, he had been purposefully mislead by his dearest friend. Worse, he had surely offended and wrongfully accused the object of his affection.

Incapable of spending another moment in the silent and tension-filled room Ava bolted for the door, the tears she attempted to withhold threatening to spill forth.

Nearly reaching the door to the parlor, he stopped her. His comforting embrace wrapping about her waist.

An embrace she could not accept for it was nothing more than another of his attempts to insult her. “Release me now,” she growled. Her voice thick with emotion and pain.

Alexander had seen her flight and immediately reached for her, knowing that if she made it through the doors he would most likely never see her again. “I’m afraid I cannot,” he lowly whispered. Her scent intoxicating him as he pulled her closer.

Her eyes grew wide with fear at his comment as her mind spun with the various meanings. “I have made my piece known my lord, and you will not take me.” She whimpered despite her attempts at ferocity, her heart thundering in her ears.

“Please Alexander…let me go…” Ava whispered pleadingly when he did not respond, fear encompassing her as his grasp about her tightened, and he began to pull her further from the door, towards the lounge.

His heart aching for the pain he caused, the accusations he had laid he pulled her away, a new need. A new desperation to know the truth encompassing him. “I cannot milady until I have spoken with you,” he murmured sadly, brokenly as he held her wriggling and writhing form within his arms.

She hitched her breath, fury surging through her at his words as she realized coming had been a mistake. “You would take me by force?” she cried out in disbelief, her heart leaping into her throat.

“Even Viscount Grant had been more gentlemanly when I refused him,” she spat, thrusting her leg back and making contact with his shin.

Alexander grimaced with the pain from not only the hard kick she had given him, yet the truth of her words as he remembered her comment that first day in the orangery.

The realization stealing his very breath, his words, and strength. Unwillingly he released his grasp at the temporary fury that engulfed him at Henry’s actions, his heart, and soul crying out in unison.

Quickly as a cat to prey, he rushed forward grabbing her once more as she saw her opportunity to flee.

This time ensuring he had a firm grasp as he turned Ava to face him, “What did you say?” he questioned in disbelief, his tone reflecting his hurt and anger at the fool he’d made himself to be.

Ava stared in disbelief upon him, her pulse racing from not only the fear but the unmistakable heat that coursed through her at his touch, the feel of his breath so close to her lips. Something deep within her heart telling her all had changed.

His eyes showed remorse, his tone reflected sorrow, the accusation gone. “Release me!” she re-iterated forcefully, stubbornly, her eyes blazing with the fury and fright of the whole ordeal. Needing to be away from him lest she act upon the undeniable need that coursed through her, to feel his mouth.

Alexander regarded her for a moment, his frown deepening as he quickly scanned his memories in search for anything that would have shown her to be a fraud. Yet what he found was quite the opposite. “Ava, I need for you to tell me…” he murmured brokenly, his heart and soul shattering.

Balefully Ava glared upon his heartbroken face, her heart reaching out to the man she loved while she herself was still furious at his hurtful words. “Tell you what?” she sharply inquired her body tensing as he sat and pulled her down onto his lap.

George stalked towards his wife, the evenings course having alerted him to the issue at hand. Especially in regards to the flight of not only Lord Alexander and the Viscount Henry Grant, but his granddaughter as well.

“My Lady I request your audience immediately,” he snarled under his breath so only she could hear.

Dropping her gaze in defeat to the ground Beatrice stared upon her husband’s boots, fear, and shame engulfing her. “Yes Milord,” she murmured humbly. The heart wrenching sorrow engulfing her once again as she thought of how she had failed as she watched him storm purposefully from the ballroom, headed towards his office.

Sadly, she made her way towards the middle of the room, “My Lords and Ladies, it is in my utmost sadness that I must declare Lady Ava has been stricken ill.” She croaked, silently praying none had seen Ava’s departure.

Sophia sat shyly in the corner of the ballroom, uninterested in the festivities as her heart and mind worried over all that occurred since her brother’s dear friend’s arrival. The duchess’s comment having struck her odd, her mind running rampant.

As she thought of the dark look upon Alexander’s face, his angry demeanor the likes in which she had never before experienced.

She knew in the depths of her heart something was not right especially judging by Ava’s sulking actions, the evident look of heartbreak in her eyes. Despite her feigned attempts at civility towards the many guests.

With a heavy sigh, she thought of how she had attempted to follow Ava. Yet by the time she reached the entry hall, she was gone.

She knew he would not have left her unless he required time to himself and most importantly understood that the sinking feeling, the dread that had cemented itself within her soul had something to do with Ava and his relationship.

Blinking hard at the sting of the tears Sophia whimpered quietly, unaware of the presence that had come to stand before her until his smooth accented voice echoed through her thoughts.

Startled she brought her gaze upon him, stifling a gasp as she met the most stunning blue and silver eyes.

“I apologize milady,” Andrew Edwards, hurriedly stated realizing he had startled the lovely young woman. Toeing the floor shyly, he gazed upon the angel that had caught his eye several minutes earlier.

“If you are not otherwise engaged, would you care to accompany me for a dance?” He barely whispered.

Andrew could not deny that this young woman had truly captured his attention with her silky black hair and haunting green and gold eyes, yet now, as he stood closer to her, the exotic scent of vanilla and cinnamon soap engulfing his senses. He found she was far lovelier than he initially presumed.

Sophia smiled shyly upon the handsome young man, unsure of how to respond, “I apologize sir, I do not know your name.” She whispered the furious heat of her blush creeping up her neck and into her cheeks as she lowered her gaze. Silently kicking herself for having said such a ludicrous thing.

Andrew grimaced at his lack of manners, wondering why this young woman seemed to muddle his mind so. He felt as if his could barely talk in her presence.

“I apologize milady,” he barely whispered, “I am Andrew Edwards,” he quickly introduced with an awkward bow and a silent prayer that she did not see the reddening in his cheeks.

Sophia gazed with interest upon him, a small smile creeping at the corner of her mouth as she realized he was as nervous and shy, as herself seemed to be. “Sophia Lorenza, Countess of Navarro,” she shyly whispered dropping her gaze to the floor as Andrew’s shocked expression flew to her. “I am truly honored…” she trailed off as she heard the hushed yet harried voice of Ava’s sister, Catherine’s voice.

“Franklin, what if she has run off with Henry?” Catherine whispered nervously suddenly feeling lightheaded, as her heart roared in her ears. For both she and Franklin had both found no sign of either her sister or him.

“Catherine my love, I fear I cannot say what has occurred. Yet I understand that Lord Alexander is rather angered with both my brother and your sister,” Franklin sighed, enveloping his wife in a comforting embrace.

“We shall just have to pray that your sister has gone to Alexander.” He sadly murmured in her ear, guiding her towards the lounge and tenderly taking her in his arms. His finger inconspicuously stroking the growing bulge of her abdomen, warmth seeping through him as he thought of how in a few months they would welcome their child.

Fearful that she would in turn confirm his suspicions, Alexander found it difficult to speak, ask of her the question he should in fact have asked before he accused her.

“Ava, please…” he barely whispered, “Please tell me of what has occurred with you and Henry,” he murmured sadly, brokenly. His heart pounding within his breast with nervousness.

Ava sat in silence for a moment, scarcely breathing as she debated whether to attempt an escape as his hands slid away from her. A small scowl crossing her face as he seemingly read her thoughts, and rested his large hand upon her knee applying a gentle pressure.

“Why ever should I, when you will not listen?” she questioned sharply, quietly, as she rapidly blinked at the tears that stung her eyes at the painful memory of his accusations.

He felt her body tense, as his gaze rested upon the elegant, graceful curve of her neck. His body reacting to the warmth of weight of her body against his, “I believe I have wrongfully accused you and desperately need to hear your side of this sordid ordeal.” He whispered his deep tone thickly enveloped with grief and heartache.

Ava could hear the pain in his tone, the sincerity of his words pulling at her heart giving her the push she needed. “Henry and I had intended to marry,” she tentatively began.

Unsure of how to tell him of the story, un-wanting to injure his opinion of Henry. As she carefully explained everything, recounting all the events up to tonight in the garden when Henry had asked of her to run off to America.

Anger and hatred coursed through him at Henry’s purposeful actions and the deceit. Sadness as he realized he had nearly lost her. Lost the only woman he had ever loved twisting her about in his arms, he gazed soulfully into her eyes.

His heart aching, as he silently prayed she would accept him. “Ava, I have truly acted an ass,” he murmured softly the soft honeysuckle scent of her filling his senses.

“Please can you find it in your heart to forgive me?” he questioned, bringing his lips to hers for a chaste kiss, his heart swelling as she opened up to him, wrapped her arms about his neck and pulled him closer.

Ava could not deny he’d hurt her with the accusations, yet she saw it in his eyes heard the sincerity and the grief in his voice. His sincere apology pulling at her heart yet when his lips brushed against hers all seemed to melt away from her.

Absently she reached her arms about his neck, pulling him closer relief washing over her as she abandoned herself to him. “Alexander,” she murmured against his mouth prompting him to pull away, penetrating her with intense gaze. “I love you,” she whispered shyly.

He regarded her for a moment, his heart swelling with untold emotion, the words he’d longed to hear echoing through his soul as a warm summer breeze.

“Mi amoré, I am utterly in love with you.” He murmured lowering his lips to hers once more, both of them falling back upon the soft velvet lounge.

Their tongues tangled together as he seductively explored her mouth, savoring the taste of her.

A low moan vibrated his throat as she skimmed her hand down the length of his back, a trail of fire in the wake of her gentle caress. Hungrily, he skimmed his mouth over the silky, soft scented skin of her throat.

A wave of heat washed over her and a low moan escaped her throat as Alexander lazily circled the peak of her breast with his finger. The ache his touch always aroused growing with each gentle movement, gooseflesh covering her as his mouth slowly tasted, teased and taunted.

Ava whimpered as he brought his mouth back to hers in a painstakingly slow decent, each flick of his tongue and every warm breath intensifying the feeling. As her mind drifted to thoughts of what lay beneath his cloths, the building desire more than she could bear. “Alexander,” she whispered over the roar of her heart.

The sound of her voice echoed through his mind bringing him back from the lustful haze he seemed lost in. “Mi amoré, I will take you home.” He whispered against his own desires as it occurred to him he had nearly gone too far, believing that was what she intended to say.

A nervous smile spread over her face, as she pulled him closer to her, “I do not wish to return home,” she whispered shyly a furious blush darkening her cheeks.

He closed his eyes fighting at the surge of desire, attempting to remind himself of the impropriety of her being here unescorted. Love and desire encompassing him, “Ava would you leave for Gretna Green in the morn with me?” he breathed out, every ounce of him needing the release only she could give.

Setting his mind to base his actions upon her answer, silently praying she would accept. He did not want to wait another month or longer to be married to her, he wanted her safe in his arms at all times. Wanted to fall asleep beside her, awaken to her every morning.

Ava briefly thought of what he was implying, a wicked laugh escaping her as she envisioned her grandmother’s reaction to the news. Uncaring that it would surely cause a ripple throughout society that a lord and lady had eloped.

“I do not wish to be separated from you ever,” she replied breathily, her entire soul filled with love for him as she pressed her mouth against his.

...

....

Everything seemed to be happening in a dream like state and before she knew it, they stood fully divested of their clothing in Alexander’s richly decorated suite.

A shiver of pleasure coursing through her body as his hot mouth sought every inch of her feverish flesh. Moisture pooled between her thighs as he ran his calloused fingertips over her arms, and shoulders.

Tenderly he lifted her into his arms and lay her onto the soft bed, covering her body with his own, as his mouth possessed her.

Excitement and fear intermixing with the desire as she felt the weight of him against her most intimate point.

Chapter 18~ The Ball Part 3

2008-11-22T21:55:00.001-08:00

Angry and heartbroken, Alexander sat in silence across the ball room.

Each laugh and every murmur increased the hollow ache in the depths of his soul. He had to ensure the first dance and keep up pretenses until tomorrow when the relationship would end. For, despite his loathing at all that had happened, he did not wish to disgrace her completely.

Horrified he heard the strain of the music. His heart sank as he rose and made his way towards Ava, the forlorn, pale fallen angel, for whom his heart ached. With longing and an ache that he could do little about, his fury was still evident as he gruffly took her in his arms and spun her about the floor. The warm room assaulted his senses with the over powering scent of roses and wine.

Marianne stood across the ball room, her heart shattered as she glared with utter hatred upon the wretched Lady Ava. Why had she not realized when the invitation had come that this lady, was the one in which her husband’s heart yearned for? She felt nauseous at the prospect of it all, while stinging tears formed in her eyes.

Oh how Marianne wanted to tell Ava just what was on her mind, the boiling rage within her almost more than she could bury as the first strains of the honorary waltz began.

She watched in disgust as the angry Lord Alexander rose, and stalked as a panther towards the object of her hatred.

Something about his mannerism telling her that more than she knew had occurred. For Catherine had been touting all week that her sister, this wretched female was soon to be united with him. Yet the look upon his face, ranging from sadness to loathing spoke volumes.

Fruitlessly she glanced once more about the ball room, searching for Henry.

A very small piece of her wanting him to be here, to have him guide her out onto the dance floor. In frustration and embarrassment she stalked out through the room towards the balcony doors.

Unable to spend another moment in the warm, rose and wine permeated air, incapable of spending another minute in the same room as her…

Gabriel Edwards stood on the balcony, bored out of his mind as he gazed about the Wilshire estates when he heard the door open. Deftly turning his gaze in it’s direction he came upon a vision, not just any vision but the lovely young woman in whom he had seen glaring upon the delectable Lady Ava.

A slow seductive grin spread over his face, as he turned casually placing his hand on his hip as he raked his gaze over her voluptuous curves. A deep yearning of lust pooling in his loins, as her image reminded him of Francis so many years before. A thought he hurriedly dismissed for the daughter of his obsession would not be within these walls.

“Good evening Milady,” he smoothly purred into the chilled night air, a predatory look glazing his eyes as she jumped, startled by his voice.

“Good evening,” Marianne whispered shyly, dropping her gaze as she turned and started for the door. Her velvety voice floating through the air like a feather.

The thought of her rushing off so quickly, oddly disturbing to him, “I can hardly stand these droll affairs,” he hurriedly stated in an attempt to engage her in conversation. Yet another strange reaction, to the man. For in general he could care less if the ladies stayed or left. Yet there was something about her, something that intrigued him made him yearn for her attention.

“I apologize sir,” Marianne murmured wanting to find a solitary place to settle her angry thoughts. “I s-shall leave you to your solitude,” she grimaced inwardly, unsure as to why she had even said such a thing.

A strange sensation tingling through her entire body as she brought her gaze up towards his handsome face. The mans, startling silvery blue eyes that gazed upon her lustfully, hungrily. A gaze, she thought with heartbreak that Henry had never before bestowed upon her.

“No, please do not go,” Gabriel urgently stated, startling himself at the abrupt and yet pleading statement. “I am terribly bored out here on my own, yet I cannot bear to enter the festivities.” He hurriedly added mostly in an attempt to explain his own unknown reaction to the young woman.

The lady, whose lilac and fresh soap smell wafted on the gentle breeze, engulfing his senses and intoxicating him. While he silently wondered if she would be as soft as her scent.

Marianne gazed curiously upon the man, his pleading statement despite propriety rather welcoming.

“I too am undesiring of this event,” she whispered ruefully as she tentatively stepped forward. Stifling a gasp as her eyes adjusted to the dim light and she made out his broad shoulders, quite the opposite of Henry’s thin wiry frame.

Nervously she gulped, she could feel the warmth radiating from him, the scent of sandlewood and shaving soap engulfing her.

Alexander shook uncontrollably as he held her in his arms. His body longed to be pressed against Ava’s body. Desperately, he needed to feel her lips and hear her speak of love. Alex closed his eyes to fight off the wave of emotion that overcame him as the piece ended.

He was thinking of how she had chosen tonight to speak of her love, a love he could never accept for it was, as everything else, a lie. Brusquely he released Ava from his grasp, turned on his heel and stormed from the room. Tonight he would allow Sophia her fun for tomorrow he would have to find a way to break her heart, tell her of the end.

Ava watched in dismay as Alexander exited the ballroom. She knew he was headed to the house he’d purchased for them. She knew he was hurting and somehow she would have to find a way to enlighten him on the truth behind his accusations. That was something that normally would have infuriated her, yet this was different.

Her heart was involved now and she was aching and fearful that she had, in truth, lost him. Silently she stood in the corner of the ballroom watching as smiling couples spun before her as they enjoyed the lively music. This was a party that she’d never been privy to and now her heart could not revel in the joy.

After an hour had passed Ava was certain he was not returning so she made up her mind, she would go to him. She needed an opportunity to explain his unjust accusation.

She was desperate to do whatever was necessary to return his beliefs to truth. Carefully and quickly Ava began her journey across the large ballroom, cringing as she came face to face with her grandmother who, for once, looked stricken.

The normally fierce, regal Duchess looked wan and beaten. Something told Ava it had not just been her words as she silently wondered if, perhaps, Alexander had spoken with the Duchess as well. “Ava, where do you go?” Beatrice softly questioned, her tone belying her masked emotions.

Ava regarded her grandmother speculatively, knowing she would have to deal with the woman eventually yet understanding now was not the time.

“Grandmother you have caused enough heartache tonight, so leave me to my own,” she hissed while brushing past the Duchess and continuing her journey.

She was uncaring that her grandmother had given her a knowing glance, grateful that the woman had not attempted to further delay her.

Several minutes later Ava stood in the parlor of the grand house. Her attentions were focused on a smiling portrait of Alex that hung over the fireplace. The laughter in his eyes and the gentle, crooked and charming smile caused her heart to ache as she silently wished to feel his smile upon her.

“I came here to, once and for all, put an end to this ridiculous accusation you have placed upon me,” Ava whispered. Her voice came out a heartwrenching croak as she heard the gentle footsteps and the swish of his breeches between his powerful thighs when Alexander entered the parlor.

She could feel his presence behind her, so very near that Ava could smell the comforting and familiar scents he exuded. The warmth of his powerful essence radiated over her.

Alexander took a few unsteady steps forward, his hand aching to reach out for her. The last few hours had been a torture to his soul and yet still he could not think of her having been with Henry nor could he control the anger at the loss.

“Ava you’ve no right to be here!” Alexander’s words were far more strained and gruff than he intended as his mind reeled with heartbreak at the loss of the only woman to whom he could give his heart… and the anger was engendered by the fact that she seemed so willing to draw him into her deceitful grasp.

Ava heard the hatred in his voice. The sheer force of his ill regard towards her brought the all too familiar sting of tears to her eyes.

“You have unjustly accused me,” she whimpered as she struggled to compose her emotions while fighting with everything in her to stop the tears from falling.

“I’ve no other option but to accept your lies then?” Alexander ground out. He fought against his own urges and desires for here stood a fallen angel.

She was his truly beloved and he was sick with himself, nauseous over the fact that his friend had taken the one thing he desired most, her heart and soul.

“I believe it is time for you to leave Lady Carmichael,” he stated using her family name in place of the more intimate given name while clenching his hands into fists to suppress the urge to draw her against him.

Alex knew if he were to touch her now he would be incapable of stopping and, unfortunately, the future king, a prince, could not be tied romantically to a less than pure woman.

His cold dismissal did what nothing prior had been able to do. The tears fell from her eyes as shuddering sobs wracked her body.

“My Lord, I do not understand what I have done to deserve this,” Ava cried out, desperate to understand. She needed to know just why he had changed his mind against her so suddenly when he fought so hard to force himself upon her.

“You are the one who requested this arrangement yet now you give up so easily on it without even hearing my truths.” Ava’s words issued from her in a meek and pained manner.

“Yes I requested six months as payment for your disservice, yet I have come to find it is necessary to release you,” Alexander snarled, incapable of believing her attempt to cling to innocence. “I, as the future King, cannot take a bride who is impure,” he finished coldly, unable to bring his eyes to her as she turned to face him.

His words slammed against Ava like a boulder. It took her breath and then, her speech for the briefest of moments.

“If I am as you say, why have you not taken me by now?” It was a question meant to infuriate, a question of challenge. Judging by the determined, angry glare in his eyes she knew it was taken as an invitation causing Ava to swallow against the building fear.

Alexander grinned devilishly. Under all her hellfire, she desired him. It was a prospect, an opportunity he was not willing to let go.

Ava stood in his house and he wanted her. He needed her with an all consuming fire that no other in the world could elicit. Casually he closed the distance, his aching hands soothed with the touch of her body.

His anger and frustration paled in comparison to this as he set his mind to take what he had wanted since first meeting the lady. “Shall I take you then…” Alexander challenged as he lowered his mouth to hers.

His entire body cried in joy as her flavor seeped through him. The feel of her soft mouth worked under his in equal hunger, igniting a passion within him. He knew it would never be simple between them. He knew they could never be more than what they were now, yet his hunger, his need was too much to bear.

Ava nearly melted as his mouth explored hers, each fiery and passionate kiss intoxicating her senses.

A sudden wave of fury overtaking her memory at all his hurtful accusations, in an instant she broke away from him. “You will not take me,” she stammered her voice wavering with rage and hurt. “I have not an idea as to who placed within you doubt of my virtue and at this moment I consider myself fortunate to be released from you affections.” Her eyes blazed, her voice was strong despite the quaking of her knees beneath her skirt.

The pain that coursed through her entire body as she glared upon him, “You state that you cannot take an impure bride.” She challenged her placing her hands on her hips in indingnation.

“In truth what brings you to believe that your bride would not want her husband to be pure, something I am sure you are not.” She huffed swallowing at the fear that rose as his dark angry gaze penetrated her.

Alexander was taken aback by her actions, her statement. “You dare to come to my house and insult me?” he breathed in anger, her words having struck him with a lethal blow.

“You are an arrogant and self centered pig Alexander Lorenza! A man who is so caught in his own misery that you fail to see and hear the truth.” Ava cried out, her heart pounding furiously within her breast as she gazed upon him.

“I came here tonight with every intention of proving my innocence to your accusations and you have once again insulted me. Hear me and hear me well my lord,” Ava threateningly challenged her eyes focused intently upon his.

“You can speak of love, yet when you are faced with doubt, you easily toss it aside out of hurt pride. Which leads me to the conclusion, you are not the man I believed you to be.” She stammered unable to bring her gaze to his face.

“I wish no further audience with you My Lord, nor do I care to see you again.” She finished her voice nothing more than a whisper as the tears threatened to spill forth.

Her anger subsided into pain and heartbreak as she accepted that Alexander and she were no more.

Chapter 17 ~ The Ball Part 2

2008-10-28T21:54:00.000-07:00

The Duchess’s whimpering did little to soften Alexander’s heart as he realized she had intended for Henry to find them as he had. “Do you not realize that Henry has been my dearest friend since we were boys?” Alex’s tone was fearsome despite the low pitch.

“What you have incited is revolting to say the least, for you may very well have not only ended a dear friendship but ended a much desired union as well. If I find that his actions were anything but honest I shall retract my offer.” He growled, narrowing his eyes upon the shaken woman.

Gasping, Beatrice stared with wide frightened, eyes upon Alexander. A feeling of dread sank to the depths of her stomach. “My Lord, Ava loves you and I assure you she is not of loose virtue,” Beatrice cried out in vexation and fear. “I-I truly had not known Henry was a friend, I-I was only trying to put an end to his infatuation… to help him to see that she had moved forward.” The Duchess was broken and feeling at her lowest ever. Lower now than she had felt the day she had sent Annette from the house.

“You admit it then? You purposefully sent him to seek her out, knowing that she was in my company?” Alexander accusingly breathed. His anger and heartache grew more with each passing moment and every word spoken from Beatrice’s lips.

“You play a dangerous game with hearts that do not belong to you, My Lady,” he snarled, lowering his gaze to the pale frightened woman.

“The announcement will not be made tonight, for I am sure that I do not desire to be united with this family,” Alex spat out before turning and storming from the room. He ignored the sobs Beatrice emitted as he headed towards the only other place he knew Ava would be…

Beatrice sank to the floor as he left. Her tears flowed freely as she knew she did not dare fault Alexander. She had truly committed a heinous act and, worse, it was she that had broken the engagement. It was her fault that her outraged, fragile granddaughter would once again be shattered and this time she doubted her ability to repair the situation. Every time she looked upon Ava, Beatrice knew the young woman was falling fast and hard into the throes of love. It was a powerful, emotional, heartfelt, soul consuming love that not even she had been privy to during the beginning of her own marriage thirty five years earlier. A heartwrenching thought released a fresh wave of guilt and grief and another episode of guttural sobs. “What have I done…?” Beatrice stuttered between body consuming cries. “What have I done…”

Henry’s entire body went numb. His heart shattered like a crystal goblet at Ava’s words. Each love soaked statement flooded his soul with grief and guilt at his ill thought statement and purposeful actions against Alexander not an hour before.

Gruffly he pushed himself away, his entire body shaking with rage and pain. “I am terribly sorry Milady,” he snarled. The ache of his soul manifested itself into a physical pain, especially as he thought of how he had wasted two months pining for and mourning over Ava. Fighting his own growing emotions for Marianne, he allowed himself to hope.

“I-I should have known, especially when I found that my dear friend had been invited for you two are quite similar.” The words Henry spoke, though they pained him terribly, were truth.

He had known in the depths of his heart it had ended. He had always known that the cunning and charming Lord Alexander would suit her just as she would suit him. Still, Henry could not let it go nor could he bear to face reality. “Alexander is good man and I would wish no other for I know him well and he will never stray,” Henry sighed.

His words were laced with tears despite his attempt to keep them hidden. His body went tense and rigid.

His stiff stance was unwavering as Ava hugged him warmly, placing a gentle and friendly kiss upon his cheek, a kiss that burned his soul and shattered his heart.

“I figured I would find you here,” Alexander’s angered voice cried through the darkness of the woods.

The vision of Ava and Henry embracing was stabbing his heart with lethal precision as he made his mind up that they were in fact lovers. The heartache and loss shattered his little remaining sense of civility.

“I never would have believed either of you to be so callous and blatant as to sneak away during such an important event,” he accusingly ground out as he imagined that they had just enjoyed a long awaited tryst.

His words were darkly edged as Alex glared upon Ava and Henry’s proximity. The silhouetted sight of their form, shattered what remained of his heart.

“I’ve not the slightest idea of what you speak,” Ava breathed out. She was taken aback by his disregard and his anger and confused by his accusations.

“Alexander it is not as you think. Lady Ava has enlightened me in regards to her true emotions,” Henry hurriedly added, knowing full well what was going through Alexander’s mind.

“She is innocent and unless you wish to make a fool of yourself, I dare say calm down, my man,” he added nervously. He hoped that Alexander understood what he was trying to say. A part of him wanted to protect the girl from the ferocious temperament of his dear friend.

Alexander’s gaze fell quickly to Henry’s outlined form. The sudden surge of jealous rage wreaked havoc as Alex fought to control the desire to choke the man. “Henry return to your wife,” he ground out. He clenched his hands into fists and closed his eyes in an attempt to dispel the bilious thoughts that ran rampant through his mind.

Silently, he cursed himself for, at the moment, the last place he desired to be was in her company. He needed to be away and yet his legs stubbornly refused to move.

Henry understood Alexander’s anger. A fresh surge of guilt washed over him as he thought of the way he had played Alex. “My dear friend, I assure you it is not what you think,” he haltingly attempted to assure him.

“Henry… NOW!” Alexander’s thick angry voice cut through the cool air, each syllable reverberating through the night. His shout startled not only Henry but Ava and several of the creatures as well. He let out a shuddering gasp at the dark man silhouetted in the shadows of the trees.

Taking a tentative step forward, Henry listened intently to all the sounds about him. He jumped slightly as a frog dove into the pond with a gentle plop in the water. A bird called into the dark, its slumber disrupted. Some unseen creature hurriedly scampered through the leaves in an attempt to distance itself from harm.

If there was one thing he knew above all, this was a side of Alexander that was not to be ignored. This was especially true when Henry had already made a fool of himself and had inflicted pain and anger upon the two who meant the most to him. Stiffly, he moved through the dark.

He stopped when he was sure there was a safe distance between himself and Alexander and he spoke: “Lady Ava is in love with you Alex. In such a manner I must beg your justice and plead with your sensibilities. I could not bear to know that her heart is aching at my hand once more,” Henry softly explained.

The words invoked the breaking of heart yet again before he disappeared into the dark grove of trees.

Ava could not help the fluttering in her heart and nerves as she took a tentative step towards Alexander. Her confusion grew with each passing moment.

Pain engulfed her as she reached for him only to be coldly refused. “My Lord whatever is wrong?” Ava timidly questioned as fresh tears formed in her eyes at the rebuff.

The sight of Alexander standing before the pond his stance telling her he was angry with her as well, and all the pieces fit together as she recalled Alexander and Henry’s brief conversation.

“Please Alexander, say something…anything…” She breathed nervously.

Alexander’s anger was too much to bear. His heartache and the feeling of deceit were overpowering. For the first time since he’d met Ava his whirlwind of emotions turned towards absolute loathing.

“You gave yourself to him.” Alexander’s words were far from kind and reflected his belief in the matter as he unjustly accused her. The pained and tormented statement continued before she had an opportunity to defend herself.

“Are you with child, is that why you were so willing to accept my proposal?” he shakily accused. The heartbreak was tearing through his body and soul. It weakened him as he stared out at the glimmering water, tears forming in his eyes.

His words caught her off guard. Unable to wrap her mind about his accusation, Ava stared in silent disbelief at his powerful stance.

“I am not with child, it is impossible,” she whimpered, suddenly realizing that he believed she had lain with Henry.

“I accepted your terms out of love,” she whispered as she suddenly felt nauseous from the pain and heartbreak that enveloped her. “Please Alexander…” Ava fell silent as he turned his penetrating heartbroken and furious eyes upon her…

“I do not know what or who has given you that impression for I have remained virtuous,” she whispered, her voice cracking as the tears began to fall.

“Your pitiful plea will not work with me Ava and I pray that you find another fool to take my place before your condition is found,” Alexander spit out. The comment stole her breath as sorrow engulfed her.

“Did you think I would not know? I am not by any means lacking intelligence,” he continued ranting. His hands quivered with fury as his heart ached for her. “There is no point in your ridiculous attempts to assure me that you are indeed enamored, for as of this moment I sever all ties to you.”

With that Alexander stormed off into the dark, not bothering to wait for her and unable to spend another moment within her sight lest she see his heartbreak, a weakness no one but his sister had ever been privy too.

Chapter 16 ~ The Ball Part 1 of 4

2008-10-20T21:24:00.001-07:00

Despite the warmth in the orangery, Ava could not shake the chill of the cool September night air. In less than two hours the ball would begin and her grandparents would make their announcement. She could not deny that she was nervous, tense and out of sorts. She felt as if she had lost complete and utter control of her life and actions, especially in reference to Alexander who had sent her spinning like a top with his emotional and kind attention. Although, she had to admit, things could be worse. At least he genuinely cared for her and she was developing an attachment to him as well.
Alex briefly debated entering the orangery as his vision fell upon the forlorn form of Ava lost in thought. “My lady,” Alexander murmured. The moment he had entered the orangery he had known that she was bothered by something or someone.

“Are you nervous, do you wish to wait?” he tenderly questioned as he placed a comforting hand upon her shoulder.

“Not in the least. It is inevitable and between you and my grandparents my choices have little bearing.” Ava did not make her statement harshly, but brokenly with each word thickly enveloped with the tears that threatened to spill yet refused to fall. “I would very much like to be alone my lord,” she whispered, shrugging off his warm hand and turning to face him.

“As you wish Mi Amor,” Alexander breathed sadly, leaning down to brush a chaste kiss over her quivering lips.

The simple yet sweet gesture was more than he could withstand as his arms encircled her, pulling the soft warmth of her body against his own. He felt terrible knowing he was partly the cause of her current state of mind.

He had never wanted to inflict a single iota of pain upon her and knew in the depths of his soul she was unhappy. “I promise I shall give you nothing but choices, my love,” Alex whispered in-between gentle breath stealing kisses.

His heart swelled as she reached her arms around his neck to pull him closer, nearly shattering his composure.

Henry purposefully walked through the entry of Wilshire Manor, his eyes darting from side to side as he looked for her, unseeing of Beatrice until she spoke.

“Viscount Grant,” her tone was cool and unwelcoming, “I pray that you and your wife had a comfortable trip.”

She spoke civilly with emphasis on the mention of his wife as she looked expectantly over his shoulder in search of the woman. Partly, she had to admit, in curiosity at what the child of Charles and Francis would look like.

Henry smiled warmly upon the Duchess who at one point had been his greatest ally. “Yes my lady, we had a very pleasant trip, she is currently occupied with Lady Catherine,” he murmured softly answering her inquisitive gaze and wondering if he should dare ask where he could find Ava. He changed his mind at the last minute. “I trust you and yours are well,” he finished penetrating her with his gaze.

Beatrice’s first reaction had been to tell him to speak directly, knowing full well he desired her granddaughter. Yet she welcomed his use of tact, for her and George’s insight.

“We have been well,” she added tersely, “Viscount Grant I must apologize for the oversight on our part, it was never intended…” she paused realizing how uncharacteristically rude she was acting. A wicked thought flashed through her mind as she realized the best way to put an end to his ridiculous affections.

“ I am sure that Ava would love to tell you her news,” she sweetly stated, changing direction. “As a fact, she is in the orangery as we speak, I do wish I could stay and chat more, but I’ve much to do for the ball.” Beatrice finished with a soft smile spreading over her face as she hurried away, her eyes gleaming wickedly.

He could hardly control his excitement at Beatrice’s kindness. “I apologize for keeping you my lady,” Henry hurriedly and ecstatically added.

He ignored the brief flash of concern at her hurried transformation of opinion and, waiting until she disappeared up the stairs, he all but ran towards the orangery. Henry could not deny his excitement at seeing Ava again.

All manner of thoughts ran through his mind as he turned the corner and peered through the glass… his heart sank at the sight… There was no denying the broad shoulders, the thick raven black hair. At first Henry attempted to dismiss it as his friend’s conquest of one of the many guests that were staying at the manor. It was a failing attempt as Alexander released the woman with whom he had been locked in a romantic embrace.

Henry’s eyes darkened with rage. A lightening quick flash of jealousy shot through his body. A bilious heart wrenching pain engulfed him as his vision fell upon Ava gazing lovingly upon Alex. It was a look, he thought, she had never bestowed upon him. It added further insult to his injured pride and his aching heart.

Alexander saw Henry through the doors. A brief flash of excitement at seeing his dear friend passed through him at the sight. “Mi corazõn, come. I wish to introduce you to my dearest friend,” he murmured happily. This feeling was soon replaced by confusion as he saw the blatant horror written on Ava’s face. “Mi Amor?” he tentatively questioned, concerned at her expression. He wondered what he had said or done to warrant such a reaction.

Ava blanched at the sight. After nearly two months of nothing, not even a word, he was here. Her heart was pounding forcefully in her ears as she saw the pained look in his eyes. She knew he had witnessed the entire scene and worst of all, he and Alexander were friends.

“M-my lord, I must decline,” she stammered brokenly, the thick air choking her. “I do not feel up to it just now,” she lamely excused herself before hurrying from the orangery, rushing past Henry without even a word.

Beatrice saw Ava’s harried figure as she ran to her room. The unmistakable sobs followed her, telling her the plan had worked.

Guiltily she followed after her granddaughter who stood in the corner of her suite with her shoulders violently shaking.

“Dear Ava, I am sorry that when we realized the error, it was too late,” Beatrice pitifully stated, knowing it would do little to ease the discomfort Ava suffered.

Ava turned with amazing quickness. The tears were flowing over her face as she glared angrily upon her grandmother. “You knew of this and did nothing to prepare me?” she snarled incredulously. “I begin to think you revel in my heartbreak,” Ava sobbed, breaking away from her grandmother’s grasp.

“You’ve got what you want, and my fate is sealed.” Ava could neither control the wavering in her voice, nor gain a grasp of her utter hatred for the woman before her.

Turning, she rushed from the room, unable to see her grandmother at this moment lest she commit murder.

“Henry I had not known you would be attending,” Alexander greeted his friend warmly as he hugged him in a brotherly way.

Henry found it hard to set his eyes upon Alex without relaying the contempt he felt at the moment. Displaced anger and hatred surged through him for he could never make an honest woman out of Ava.

“I had not expected it to be so,” Henry mumbled through the cotton thickness of his mouth. “When Duchess Beatrice told me I could find Lady Ava here, little had I known she would be so occupied.” His grin was far from the lecherous sight Alexander saw. It was an evil twist of his inner turmoil.

Possibly, if Alexander knew, he would not want any further experience with Ava, Henry cruelly considered. He was desperate to find a way to put an end to the madness.

Henry’s words did not fail to hit their target, as Alex swallowed at the bitter fear that rose in his throat. “So you and Lady Ava are friends?” he asked tersely, nervous over what Henry’s response may be.

“Yes you could say that,” Henry muttered, his heart feeling smashed. “More so she was the girl of whom I spoke,” he breathed bitterly, reveling in Alexander’s shocked and heartbroken expression.

“Why did you not tell me?” Alexander was stunned by Henry’s reply. His words hit him hard as he thought of the last time he had spent time with his friend.

“To think I went to her tonight…”

It played over and over in Alexander’s mind for Henry had never told him what had occurred.

Henry immediately felt guilty. He could see it in Alexander’s eyes, his dear friend was in love with her and judging by the way she had gazed upon Alex when Henry came upon them, her heart was not far from being his. “I could never make an honest woman of her,” Henry sighed sadly, the truth of his words sinking hard within him.

“Besides her heart is yours now and there is not a better man for her,” He finished coldly. He turned and began walking away, stopping as Alexander commanded him too.

“Henry, you never answered my question that night and I implore you to do so now. Is she innocent?” Alexander hollered. His voice was strong, commanding and determined despite the mixture of emotions that thickly coated his words. His need to know was unbearable, especially considering his future rested upon the answer Henry gave.

Henry could not withhold the small-satisfied smile that Alexander’s temporary weakness elicited. “I cannot answer that my friend, but I dare say Lady Ava will,” he responded without turning. He was unable to turn his gaze upon his terrified friend, lest the truth be told. Even now Henry was in conflict. He wanted her and if she were to become Alexander’s it could never be.

Yet he was guilt ridden for he was purposefully trying to place doubt and ruin anything that may have been forged in the short month Alexander and Ava had been in company. Finished with his statement he departed, ignoring the further calls.

A flash of color outside the door caught his attention and, immediately recognizing Ava, he followed after her…

Alexander felt as if his heart had been ripped from his breast by Henry’s cold, calculated answers. Still, he could not blame him, for he had overstepped his bounds in choosing the one woman to whom Henry’s heart had belonged. The constant replay within his mind infuriated him. Alex had always believed Henry to be nothing but honest with him. The thought crept into his mind that Henry had been trying to protect him and, not wanting to be the bearer of bad tidings, he had put it off on Ava. The mere mention of her name caused the bile to rise into his throat.

Had that been the reason she had reacted so horridly towards him because she had given herself to Henry and still held hope he would come for her? The memory of her stricken face was flashing before his eyes. Yes a stricken lover caught in the act of adultery… Why had he not understood it then? He wondered openly, each horrid thought infuriating him more and more until he could do nothing… see nothing. Angrily he rose from the couch and stormed towards her quarters. He wanted answers. He needed them with a desperation he had never known before. His heart was aching for truth and his loss.

Ava did not stop running until she reached the pond where, in a fit of rage she screamed as loud as her voice would allow her. She hurled insults into the thick woods, her anger melted away with each fitful sob and outcry, when she heard it, she heard him.

“My Lady, such language is not a desirable trait.” The smooth gravelly tone of Henry’s voice assaulted her ears igniting a new fury a new rage within her as Ava spun around nearly collided with him.

“Steady yourself my sweet,” he murmured seductively as he reached towards her only to be coldly rebuffed as Ava stepped away.

Her chest heaved as she caught her breath and narrowed her angry eyes on him, “Are you not intelligent enough to know that your coming is the most foolish of acts?” Ava spat out, “And I am not your sweet!” She snarled furiously. “Go back to your wife and let me to my own.” Ava’s tone, though still seething with anger and heartache, was pleading.

She could hardly bear to look upon him nor could she abide his scent or sound. The infuriating grin on his face, invoked a new surge of heartache especially, as she realized her love for him was never strong.

Her words hit Henry with the precision of a soldiers rapier aimed for the heart, invoking a sense of sadness and desperation as he gazed longingly upon her.

“Ava, I ache everyday for you. I love you with all my heart and soul. That is why I had to come,” Henry attempted to explain. His tone was soft and pleading as he stood there unsure of himself in her presence. His hands were aching to feel her soft skin. “I wanted to end this once more… to offer my escape. I shall take you to America , to your father.” He murmured sadly for the first time in the last weeks since the invitation had been accepted and his ludicrous plan began. He felt the unmistakable fear and lack of surety that Ava might turn him away.

With shaking hands he reached for her, took her into his arms and refused to let go. His need was evident and his hopes and dreams were prominent with every labored breath.

Ava sucked in a deep gulp of the chilled night air, her anger dissipated as she gazed upon his forlorn figure. Calmness overtook her mind and soul and she knew it had come to an end.

His touch did not ignite her as Alexander’s did. His words fell to the ground before them, failing to stir her heart.

“Once again Henry I cannot. In truth I felt very strong emotions for you that I believed were love. In believing so, I nearly missed my opportunity to be genuinely happy,” she whispered. She understood the truth for the first time as she attempted to explain. His stricken look hurt her terribly as Ava realized she was the cause.

Henry tightened his grasp, a surge of pain and heartache coursing through him. Disbelief fell before her words for he had been so sure that she loved him, needed him and desired him to the same capacity he loved her. “Ava you do not know what you say.

I know I have hurt you deeply this why I have come. I want to right my wrongs and give us the opportunity our families would not allow.” Henry’s voice quivered ever so slightly. Fear snaked through him at an alarming pace despite the forcefulness in his tone. He desperately needed to hear her heartfelt words about him, not Alexander. No not Alex…

Ava gazed in fright and concern upon Henry, her heart aching for the pain she had inflicted knowing that he would not take kindly to her next statement but she must continue, for this was their end. The time for closure had arrived. “Please Henry, you are frightening me,” Ava softly pleaded, her heart racing as he pulled her stiff uncomfortable form closer.

“Ava you are not serious,” Henry pleaded, the anger and frustration growing within his voice. The black curtain of doubt slowly veiled him. “Are you?” It was nothing more than a heart wrenching whisper.
Ava softly gazed upon the man she had once believed she was in love with…Henry… with his arrogance and sweetness. “I assure you Henry, I am utterly serious.” She maintained an even disposition despite the torment she saw in his deep blue eyes. “Your friend, Lord Alexander, suits me. Although my love for him is not strong as yet, I know it will someday be,” she softly explained. The mention of his name swelled her heart with emotion as she, for the first time, spoke the words that swirled through her mind.

She, for the first time, admitted her true heartfelt emotions toward him bringing forth an emotional outpouring of truth. “You will always be in my heart as a dear friend, yet I cannot allow you to ruin your own situation out of an infatuation with what can never be. I implore you, release me from your heart. Henry open it to your wife, and do not be bitter for I am in love with Alexander…” She finished her words with a breathy sigh as the hurried sound of angry footsteps broke through her thoughts.

Alexander had burst through Ava’s door not entirely sure how he would react if she told him that she had allowed Henry to take her innocence. The thought angered him even more. What he found was not Ava… Standing there weeping stood the Duchess…

The mask of fury written over Alexander’s face invoked a shuddering gasp from Beatrice, as her eyes went wide with fear and surprise. “My lord w-what brings you here?” she stammered, suddenly worried over what her granddaughter had done.

“Where is Ava?” Alexander growled, his composure lost. “Moreover, why did you not tell me that Henry had been the one that had broken her heart?” He needed to exorcize his anger and since part of it was induced by Beatrice who had sent Henry to the orangery he could not stop himself.

“I apologize for not having been forthright,” Beatrice whimpered, realizing she had made a far more grievous error than she had supposed in sending Henry to them.

Chapter 15 ~ Believe In Me

2008-10-13T10:16:00.000-07:00

Beatrice stared in disbelief upon her husband, her mind reeling with shock at not only Alexander’s intentions, yet his lack of knowledge in the matter, dropping her voice low when she was sure the young lord had made it safely away from hearing she spoke. “My Lord, he is unaware of the existing arrangement,” Beatrice questioned in concern, for she knew the young man was far more prideful and stubborn than Ava and if he were to find of this may very well put an end to the betrothal.

George smiled slightly, understanding his wife’s concerns for they were his and the Roberto’s as well, yet something deep within his heart told him otherwise, calmed him.

“Aye my love, he does not and it is as his majesty requests, for it is better to all parties involved that it does not come to be so, if their hearts are truly fond.” The duke weakly smiled gently kissing his wife, “Now love, tell me what has you so upset?” he continued signaling the end of that discussion.

Beatrice hurriedly snapped to attention, not wanting to re-visit the truly upsetting news yet knowing she must. “George, an insight of the most grievous kind has been made,” she breathed feeling her heart beat stop for a moment. “An invitation has been sent to Vis-count and Vis-countess Grant in which has been accepted…”

George need not say anything for Beatrice to know his thoughts, his face darkening immediately matching her own opinions on the matter. “Can we do nothing to end it?” he murmured fighting the anger.

“No, they have made arrangements at Lord Henry’s request to reside this week with Catherine and Franklin,” the duchess breathed in nervous upset. “George, I am truly worried for Ava and her heart, I know that she cares deeply for the young lord, Yet her attachment to Henry was so strong.” Beatrice dropped her gaze to the ground as she spoke her true heartfelt feelings, for she had seen him as he departed the Manor that night nearly two months earlier.

The tears poured from Sophia’s eyes, blurring her vision as she ran until she collided heavily against a warm solid body.

The familiar musk and sable scents along with the comforting embrace causing her to stiffen. “Mi amoré, whatever ails you?” Alexander questioned tersely.

Hurriedly wiping at the tears, Sophia sighed as she turned her gaze upon her distraught brother, “nothing,” she murmured avoiding his gaze.

Alexander gazed upon his young sister, knowing full well that Sophia was being less than truthful, “I do not believe you,” he quietly breathed keeping his penetrating gaze upon her. A sudden rush of anger coursing through him as it occurred to him that Sophia and Ava must have quarreled.

Frustration that quickly turned to fear, “Sophia are you and lady Carmichael no longer in eachother’s confidence?” he unsurely questioned, nervous for if that were the situation he would be torn in his plans.

Sophia knew it pained her brother to think of such, for she could hear the torment in his voice. Turning her gaze upwards she found the look that crossed his face was equal to his tone, aching her all the more.

“No brother, I…” Sophia began trailing off, “I eavesdropped on your discussion with the Duke this morn. I fear for your heart, so I called upon Lady Ava.” Sophia could not look upon her brother, out of embarrassment and knowledge that she had stepped into a situation she was not intended to be a part of.

Alexander’s face darkened with rage, it all made sense, why his sister had been crying. “Sophia you must tell me exactly what you said to her that she would speak so harshly to you,” he ground out angry that Ava had dared take her frustrations out on his sister. Furious for it was one thing for Ava to belittle and berate him when he attempted to make his intentions known, yet quite the opposite for her to treat Sophia with so little regard.

Her brother’s darkened mood did not go unnoticed by Sophia, despite his attempt to remain calm she could hear the tension in his voice, feel the anger that wafted in droves from Alexander’s body. “”Alexander…” Sophia breathed out, her small voice filling with tears once more, “Ava did not say anything untoward, It was I who explained my fears that she would hurt you, hurt my own heart and I begged upon her sensibilities to let herself enjoy love.” She sighed out swallowing hard at the lump that had lodged itself in her throat.

The tension dissipated immediately as Sophia’s words sunk in, “you have not spoken to her of my intentions?” he barely breathed in question, relief washing over him as he understood that she had given him her blessing.

“So you are happy with my choice,” he whispered enveloping his sister in a glee filled hug.

“Yes Alex, I dearly love Ava and would be most happy to have her as my sister,” Sophia whimpered holding tightly to her brother as she attempted to dispel the fears…

Alexander came upon Ava in the garden, his heart palpitating irregularly from nerves and fear as he gazed upon her, looking so frail and lost a look of heartache across her face. Despite being unsure of how she would react to his news, knowing that she would not respond well to his having gone to her grandfather before her, Alex rushed forward. The need to hold her, kiss her and ease Ava’s pain to strong for him to bear.

Ava jumped slightly as Alexander’s arms came around her, yet instantly relaxed as he turned her to face him his face filled with such emotion and pain pulling her closer to him. She did not want to hurt Sophia nor this gentle and frustratingly stubborn man, yet Ava was unsure of what her response would be, for she did not know that there could be anything more than a friendship, the comfort of family with him.

When Alexander lowered his mouth to hers and tenderly kissed her, she felt a pang of guilt wash over her, for certainly she enjoyed his caress, his kiss that seemed to ignite her entire body and soul yet her heart seemed devoid.

“My Lord?” her voice was a breathy whisper as she gently caressed his stubbled cheek, skimming her finger tip lightly over the course thickness of the mustache he had recently begun to grow. The sensation of the rough hair and the warmth of his breath on her hand causing an unfamiliar sensation to coil within the depths of her stomach, an ache Ava did not know how to control let alone understand.

“I find you much more appealing without the caterpillar upon your face,” she sighed out resting her head on his shoulder and inhaling the familiar scent of his soap and skin. Knowing it was improper and far to intimate of a comment than was proper yet something deep within her heart and soul forbidding her from not saying it.

Alexander shuddered as a wave of heat engulfed him at the simple yet intimate touch of her finger, his vision hazing with lust and love, “Then I shall happily remedy the situation,” Alex laughed out his heart easing a bit.

“Yet Ava, I must speak with you.” The seriousness of his tone causing her to drop her gaze, as she knew there was absolutely little time for her to make a decision.

“Come, I wish to show you something,” he breathed taking her hand in his and guiding her from the gardens towards the awaiting carriage before his urges took control.

Alexander’s heart pounded furiously within his chest as he gently guided Ava through the thick grove of trees that surrounded the property, he was unable to speak out of fear for not only himself yet Sophia as well.

Nervously he took her small hand within his own pulling her out onto the bridge, the simple touch sending an electric current through his veins she gripped him tightly her vision resting upon the gleaming house.

Ava breath caught in her throat as she gazed about the lush property, confusion and fear choking her as she wondered at what his intentions were.

“My lord, why have you brought me here?” she nervously questioned her heart beat elevating to a roar as Alexander turned his soulful gaze upon her.

She looked so lovely with the bright afternoon sun illuminating her skin and hair, unable to withhold Alexander reached for Ava’s waist his hands firmly grasping the gentle solid swell of her hips he pulled against him, her intoxicating scent of honeysuckle and sun, intermixing into with the earthy autumn air about them driving him mad with desire.

Sighing heavily he gazed into the fathomless jeweled eyes, that seemed to captivate him the warmth of her breath against his cheek rendering him speechless.

“Alexander?” Ava’s questioning tone broke through his thoughts as he stood silently contemplating the depth of his affections for the fiery and spirited young woman. “I do not believe the owners of the property would appreciate our trespassing,” she nervously continued, her voice a timid shy whisper. A flash of anger shooting through her eyes as Alexander heartily laughed at her comment.

Moving his hands he gently skimmed his finger over the delicate cheek bone and down until he reached her full lower lip, his eyes focused intently upon hers he applied a gentle pressure against it with his thumb as he lowered his mouth to hers.

“Mi amoré…Mi corazõn…” Alexander sighed against her mouth, the vibration seemingly enough as she opened to him, allowing him to explore every inch of her mouth in a slow, sensual seduction that seemed to engulf both of their souls.

Having learned what the meanings behind Alexander’s colorful endearments had softened Ava and surprising to herself she found she loved to hear them. The way he gazed upon her, how every syllable seemingly reverberated through her entire soul swelling her heart, calming her mind.

She sighed against him completely and utterly enchanted as his lips slowly seduced hers, gently guiding her until warmth spread through Ava, that undeniable need coiling tightly within her abdomen.

She knew he was sincere in his attentions towards her, understood he would always love her treat her with the utmost care… For the first time Ava abandoned herself to Alexander as she reached her hand up to toy with a silken lock of his raven black hair a low moan escaping her throat as he pulled her tighter against him. that part of his masculinity pressing hard against her hip, the feeling invoking yet another unexplained ache within her a desire to feel him, become his…

When Alexander pulled his quivering body away from her Ava fought to control herself fought against the need to pull him back, the realization causing a blush to rise into her cheeks.

“Ava I must speak with you,” Alexander shakily whispered, his tone surprisingly desperate something that did not bode well with the proud man, as he guided her on unsteady legs across the remainder of the bridge towards a bench beside the lake facing a small waterfall.

Ava sat in confusion, her heart pounding furiously within her breast at what Alexander had truly meant to say and the memory of his rather erotic kiss, closing her eyes briefly she realized she could still feel him there, feel his gentle ministrations the silken slide of his tongue and lips over hers.

“My lord, do you think it wise to be sitting here on another’s property,” she whispered a pang of fear shooting through her at their lack of sense, worried that if the landlord had seen they may very well tell her grandparents thus sealing her fate.

Alexander turned away from her his face clouded with worry, “Ava this is yours, I purchased it so you can be close to your family until we make the move to Spain…” he murmured sadly fear shattering his heart and mind as he worried over her response, slowly he turned penetrating the obviously nervous and questioning Ava with his eyes.

“I have gone to your grandfather to request your hand and it has been decided we will be united.” Alexander breathed out, nearly stumbling backwards at the look of pure and utter hatred that crossed her face as his words sunk in.

For the briefest of moments all in the world seemed to cease to exist, the sounds of the water fall bugs and birds dying away and leaving her with nothing but silence.

Ava stared in contempt upon him, all the bliss she’d felt a few moments earlier, in his embrace, Alexander’s company fading into a dark rage as the words sunk in, her anger propelling her forward as her hand shot out and collided against his cheek with such force her palm stung.

“How dare you!” She growled narrowing her eyes upon the handsome man, “First you force me into a much unwanted courtship with you because I bruised your pride and….and…” Ava was so angry she was sputtering her eyes darkening with rage as she glared upon him.

Alexander gazed upon Ava with surprise, he had expected her to react horribly to the news, yet he did not expect her be so violent in her disagreement. “If you will allow me the honor to explain,” he sighed his cheek smarting from her hand yet his mind worrying that she herself was hurting from the stinging slap, as he took a tentative step forward to try and take her hand in his, dropping his gaze as she stepped away from him.

“I will not!” Ava thundered her voice echoing over the lake and startling several ducks who flew from the chilly blue water their disgruntled quacks following behind them.

“Y-you are an insufferable spoiled ASS!” she stammered out in rage, “How could you go to them before coming to me?” she questioned her tone suddenly wavering and had Alexander not known better seemingly filled with tears.

“You knew I would disagree so you force my hand?” She accused the frightening pitch of her voice returning once more.

“Oh bother, Ava you are overreacting. I went in honor for your families approval to let my intentions known.” Alexander snarled his patience depleted, “if you did not react in such a manner every time I tried to speak with you then possibly it would have been understood that I was to do this.” He snapped stepping towards her quickly as she turned, his hand reaching for her before she could dart away and gruffly pulling her against him. “Ava I love you sincerely and will make good on my offer,” Alex murmured the feel of her in his arms softening his anger.

“Surely you jest,” Ava growled out as she wriggled and writhed in his arms in an unsuccessful attempt to be free of his grasp.

The comment stung, more so than the slap for Alexander was nothing but forthright and honest, “Very well I shall take a lesson from thee and follow your lead,” he conceded his hopes of saying his piece kindly thoroughly dashed.

“I feel horrid for having gone to your grandfather first, yet now as you act like a wild animal I am glad I did it.” Alex hollored gruffly turning her to face him his arms securely locked about hers.

“I love you and know that in the depths of your heart you love me although you stubbornly refuse to admit it. More over my sister adores you, that itself is a feat for if you thought her to be in jest with all the tales she has spoken, you are sorely mistaken.”

The force of his words and the tension that wafted from Alexander’s body crackled through the air, heightening Ava’s senses, weakening her regard until she went limp in his embrace. A realization dawning upon her as she stared at the only man that had ever made her feel like this, despite his enraged tone, his fury masked face Ava felt safe and comforted.

“Why if you knew I would act as this did you not approach me first?” she sighed out, her anger subsided into something else entirely, acceptance…

Chapter 14 ~ Hearts Desire

2008-10-10T22:53:00.000-07:00

Sophia furrowed her brow in concern as she patiently awaited Ava’s arrival. Her heart aching for her brother who was soon to open his heart to Ava, the woman whom, despite Sophia’s own fondness for, she had found she lacked confidence in. In truth Sophia feared that her dear friend would not accept him, a puzzling and heartbreaking cogitation.

The longer she sat in the quiet room with the warmth of the fire gently caressing the air the more her thoughts turned towards that morning, when she had come upon her brother as he entered the Duke’s office.

Although she had known it to be wrong, her curiosity had gotten the best of her, guiding Sophia to press her ear to the door and listen to the low rumbling voices, most prominently her brothers.

Ava gazed lovingly upon Sophia, a pang shooting through her as the young woman turned her melancholy gaze in her direction. Instantly Ava ran towards her friend, scooping the girl into her arms and motherly embracing her, cradling Sophia as the young woman’s tears began to fall.

“Dearest Sophia, what ails you?” Ava murmured in an attempt to comfort despite her own apprehensions, gently brushing the wispy strands of hair from the delicate face and gazing kindly upon her as she had always done with Catherine. A smile spreading gently over Ava’s face as it occurred to her that she did in fact find solace in Sophia’s companionship, a bond that she had thought would only ever be shared with her own beloved sister, while she gently swayed to and fro, whispering soothingly until Sophia’s tears ended.

Sophia felt so comforted in Ava’s kind and warm embrace, yet she knew what must be done for she herself had found that she had given her heart to the woman. Turning her serious gaze upon her friend Sophia swallowed, silently praying that the words she stated would not in turn frighten Ava away. “I dearly love you Ava,” she sighed, “yet my allegiance lies with my brother. A brother who is far more, for he is the only father I have ever truly known.” She continued, keeping her intense and serious gaze focused upon Ava.

Ava did could not quite comprehend what Sophia was saying, a startling thought rising to the forefront of her mind as she gazed upon the young woman, “Sophia have I done something to upset you?” She barely breathed out, Ava’s heart nearly shattering as she feared as such.

Sophia pulled in a long deep breath and closed her eyes, “no…” she whispered, “Although I fear that you soon will.” Her true desperation resounded within every word as she continued, fighting at the stinging tears that burned her eyes and choked her thoughts. “I have never had a mother, nor had any love me as my brother until now.” The tears began flowing freely again, yet this time Sophia rebuked Ava’s attempts to console her. “You have taken my heart as well Ava,” she whimpered dropping her watery gaze to her hands that desperately shook.

Ava stood there in complete shock, her heart swelling with love for the young woman, fear at what her next statement was to be and heartache for she had brought upon the child grief. “I am truly honored that you believe me to be so kind,” she whispered sadly, achingly.

“I do not believe you to be so kind as to not destroy my brother,” Sophia stammered out suddenly her tone serious. “I believe that you are fighting a losing battle with your own heart one in which will cause him grief.” The ferocity in her tone snapped Ava’s bewildered gaze upon her, prompting her to continue.

“My brother has fallen in love with you and comes soon to make his attentions known. I find it most befitting to inform you my dear friend that I cannot and will not stand idly by while you crush his soul, for he is all I have.” Sophia’s tone dropped changed with her emotions, going from demanding, angry to pleading all at once, tentatively she stepped forward taking Ava’s quivering hands within her own. “Ava I plead with you, do not hurt him, I beg of thee with everything within my heart,” she dropped her gaze to the ground as she said the words she feared would frighten Ava away.

“Allow your heart to accept the joys you fight so hard against, accept his love, and give yours freely.”

Sophia’s words were so strong, emotional and powerful, leaving Ava speechless as the young woman hurriedly dropped her grip and ran from the room, her legs unable to hold her weight any longer as she gratefully collapsed onto the lounge. She knew Alexander cared for her, yet would never in her wildest dreams believe that she held within her grasp the ability to crush him. Yet how could she deny Sophia’s judgments when the young woman had always read herself so aptly and this in just the short course of three weeks.

“In truth I don’t know what my heart wants dearest Sophia,” she mournfully sighed, the notion arising to her once more that she was never as happy as during her company with Alexander and Sophia, a warm comfort of family bond she had not experienced since childhood.

Roberto stared at the familiar script upon the letter he had received, a piece of him relieved while the rest worried at its contents. With a heavy sigh, he broke past the seal, and turned his eyes down towards it, a faint smile playing across his lips as he began to read Alexander’s neat hand.

Dearest Uncle,
Sophia and I have made it safely to our destination and I must whole heartedly concur with thee, the Wilshire Gardens are beautiful, yet not nearly so, as the enchanting yet infuriating Lady Ava Carmichael.

The comment brought a hearty smile to Roberto’s face, as he remembered just how stubborn Annette had herself been, the thought evoking a small memory at his first meeting with her.

Roberto stood gazing upon her, the lovely angel in her white gown with a sad expression upon her face, an expression that hurriedly changed to concern as she realized she was not alone. “My lady…” he barely breathed, his full attention drawn to her ethereal beauty, his heart seemingly stopping its beat as it struck him he had indeed come upon his future.

“Your Grace,” Annette sighed lowering her eyes to the grass and moss covered earth below her, the gentle lapping of the water against the shore the only reminder this was in truth a reality, while her mother’s words echoed through her mind…

“Annette today Prince Roberto arrives, I pray that you be receptive for our families wish a unity…”

“Do you not find it inappropriate to be staring in such a fashion upon I?” Annette snapped turning her attention away from him, fighting at the urge to run as fast and far as she could from him.

Roberto could not help the faint blush that arose as he realized his gaze let on more than he had intended, “I apologize for making you nervous Lady Annette,” he sighed utterly engulfed in enrapture. Everything from the chirp of the birds to the low buzz of a nearby bee hive adding to his personal opinion of the young women.

Turning blazing eyes upon him, Annette swayed, her will and force retreating as it occurred to her that she was acting quite out of sorts. “I will never be able to accept you,” she murmured almost mournfully, her thoughts retreating towards Charles in both guilt and love. “You could never make me happy,” she mumbled, turning away from him before the tears fell, anguish written across her face…

Hurriedly Roberto shook the vision away, as a small pang shot through him turning once more to the letter before him. Laughing aloud at what he read next…

When I first came upon this enticing young woman, I had not known it to be the one in whom I was intended to meet, nor did she find it fitting to inform me. My dearest uncle I fear I have made an utter fool of myself, in an attempt to gain a better vision of this loveliest of angels I startled her causing her to run directly into my path. I do not know how to say this without any thinking ill yet I shall, the moment my arms encircled her in a gentlemanly steady, I felt as if nothing in the world could ever compare.

Roberto paused his heart stammering at his nephews words, his knowledge of the matter rather unnerving his thoughts returning to that one brief embrace he had been compelled to give in the garden, where he himself had felt the same elation until he had noticed the other, the piece in which she had shied away from.

As I gazed upon her and she upon me, I could not bring myself to release her and when she, oh please dearest uncle do not be angry, when she asked for a kiss I obliged. A kiss that I shall never forget in all my years, for it was then she stole my heart.

Roberto’s hands shook violently at the personal revelation, his heart soaring with elation for he understood his nephew had indeed found the one of his future, grateful for such. For in truth he and the duke had already agreed to the match. A long ago made plan when they had written that they had received permission to take the child, the daughter of his friend and betrothed, an arrangement and agreement made to continue her protection from society, maintain the family name.

Although as with the fragile sensibilities of a lady she did grow rather furious, yet I dare say her spirited obscenities though intriguing to hear from such a creature did infuriate me. I literally had to drag her back to the Wilshire manor, where we were properly introduced, an introduction I must say that nearly decided me against her. A decision quickly rescinded as I realized her plight, in anger I have forced my will forced a courtship of no less duration than six months.

Roberto could not help but to laugh, envisioning his stubborn and spirited nephew doing just such a thing.

I believe in my heart you would adore Lady Ava, she is such the spirited angel yet so kind I can nary keep this to my own, for her kindness and attentiveness to our dear Sophia is unprecedented. A friendship that Sophia adores, a kinship I have never before witnessed between my sister and the one in which I fully intend to make my bride, despite my concerns she will not take me for apparently her heart has been broken by an unknown gentleman. I in truth do fear I shall never compare, nor could I live happily knowing that she did not desire me.

Roberto’s smile faded at the words, his heart ripping open again as it pulled towards his nephew a resurgence of emotion at his own learning. Silently he fell into prayer, so much rested upon this union. For he knew what it felt to have your heart torn to shreds, to find that all you had been hopeful towards had all been for naught. This daughter of Annette seemed far more wild than she herself had been, his eyes growing wide as a thought crossed his mind…

Sir Gabriel Edwards sat patiently in the receiving parlor of the Talley manor, his mind calm despite his reasons for being here this day. When the scent of cucumber and rose oil reached his senses announcing his dear friends arrival. “Gabriel,” Francis coolly murmured her velvety smooth caressing his ears, “I am so glad you have come.”

Standing to his full height, Gabriel turned his silvery blue gaze upon the much matured form of Francis, looking lovely as ever with her silken blond locks tied neatly alongside of her neck in a youthful style.

Briefly he took the time to skim his gaze over her body, a flash of heat shooting through his body as his memories fell to the night she’d given him her innocence, “how could I refuse?” he purred a slick smile spreading over his face.

Speculatively Francis gazed upon Gabriel licking her lips seductively as she took a confident step forward, “dearest Gabe,” she began using her pet name for him, “I know you entirely too well, thus said I must insist upon a few provisions.” Francis smiled, a cold, calculating grin that matched the woman herself…

Chapter 13 ~ Love and Memories

2008-10-05T13:57:00.000-07:00

Charles lay upon the soft bed, his body humming with excitement and the calm of release, while Margaret quietly slumbered beside him. Her angelic face peaceful, the faintest of smiles playing across her lips as she dreamed of something. Guiltily he rose from the bed, quietly exiting the room so as not to disturb her, for he desperately needed a moment to himself as the vision of his wife wrought a painful memory…

“I am betrothed to Prince Roberto,” Annette cried out in agony as she flung herself into his arms. “Oh sweet Charles, how can I marry another when I’ve given my heart to you…” she sobbed against his shoulder, the fat salty drops soaking the cloth of his coat.

“When?” he finally managed to stammer, frightened nervousness encompassing his words as they did his emotions at the prospect of losing her to the future seat of Spain.

“Mother told me this morn,” Annette whispered sadly her blue eyes reflecting the torment she felt. “Yet that is not all…” she sighed, shifting her weight in his arms. “I am with child…”

Charles hadn’t realized he was crying until he felt the cold chill of the shed tears against his bare chest, how would he ever get over his personal torment. Knowing that he had taken her without the ability to ever right his wrongs, mournfully he let out a shuddering sob. He worried over the fate of his daughters, and wondered of the child he had never met. Did he have a boy? Silently he wished it to be as such, for the sanctity of his families title, for the child's welfare. He of all knew if Francis had bore a girl all would be lost, his shame engulfing him deeply as he meandered into the room where his and Maggie’s children slept. Their angelic faces curled into the warm linen covered bedding; tenderly he tucked the covers in over Michelle…

“Annette, are you positive?” Charles was frantic at that moment, “it is not a false alarm,” he pleaded. Fear snaking through his body as he thought of how Francis herself was several months along with his child as well.

“Yes, I am swelling and have not had my cycle for four months,” Annette’s reply was mournful, heartbroken filled with grief and fear at the situation…

Charles broke away from her embrace, his love for Annette surging through him, “Well…” he excitedly yet tentatively began. “I shall let a house in the country next month and when you give birth we shall head for America.” He offered, uncaring that their life would be a harsh existence. Unknowing that sooner or later all would come crashing down upon them. “We shall make a fortune breeding horses…”

The memories engulfed Charles very soul, the guilt at his lack of having been able to care for his dearest love, his personal torment that would haunt him the rest of his days especially now as he continued his lechery, and still he could not deny he loved Maggie intensely. “Forgive me Annette for it is now that I realize your heart was never mine to have, I vow still that I shall always love you best yet Margaret is in my heart and I cannot let her down,” he sighed out mournfully, pitifully as he lowered his head into his hands and let the sobs come…

Francis read the letter twice, before her soul was seemingly ripped from her, the man her family had chosen for her was gone.

He'd chosen another, yet not just any other, Charles had chosen a women beyond even his own title...

Heart broken and angry Francis fell to the floor, her animal sobs echoing through the room; the baby as if experiencing her torment kicked, a child she immediately loathed for it's relation to Charles, the horrid man she had once called her husband.

How had she not known? Francis cried out in agony and anger, her very mind seemingly shattered while her torment manifested itself into a physical pain.

A pain that shot through her entire body, focusing in her abdomen, Francis's eyes went wide with agony as it occurred to her, the child was coming...

Marianne lay uncomfortably upon the bed, waiting for Henry to enter, tears began to fall as she thought of this past weeks events, the sickness her inability to eat much and most distressing the lack of her monthly cycle. She knew she was with child, her worst fears were coming to play for if this was indeed the heir, she would lose everything. Henry’s words coming to her once more.

“Once you get even the smallest taste, your body will forever crave release.”

Initially she had not believed him, yet Marianne found that as the three weeks, since that night had passed she did indeed crave his body, needed his touch, wanted his kind words and attentions, especially now as she found she was in love. The mere thought erupting a bitter laugh and a fresh surge of heartache for she had fallen in love with a man Marianne would never completely have. The sound of the door opening distracted her from her thoughts, causing her to reflexively cringe. “H-Henry,” she tersely called out hurriedly ending the tears.

Henry’s heart was torn, his mind confused how could he crave Marianne with every ounce of his being, yet still long for Ava with such force and desperate need that he would if she accepted him, leave? Henry silently contemplated, as he crawled onto the bed, noticing the tears that still clung to Marianne’s lower lashes. “Mary,” he sighed pulling her soft body against his and burying his head in her falls of hair inhaling deeply the scent of lilac. “Have I upset you?” Henry whispered a pang of guilt washing over his heart, as he feared he had.

Marianne snuggled closer to her husband gently kissing him, “no Henry I was just thinking,” she lied, deciding tonight would not be the time to tell him, she would wait until after the ball, wait for the doctor to confirm, for at least that would give her an extra few days…

Marianne’s words eased Henry a bit, despite his knowledge that she was being less than truthful, he knew she had fallen in love with him. Something that weighed heavily upon him for his plan was to convince Ava to leave with him, he could not keep these pretenses up for much longer, for despite his own growing affections for his wife, they paled in comparison to the searing aching all consuming love he felt for the one he could not have. “Henry what do you contemplate upon?” Marianne’s gentle voice broke through his thoughts bringing his attention to her full lips as he leaned down and possessed them. His entire body rejoicing as she opened to him, skimming her hands over his body, down his arms over his chest and when her hand found the part of him that ached his eyes went wide with surprise, he would not have expected her to be so blatant with her desires.

Marianne had been unsure of what his reaction would be and hurriedly pulled her hand back, blushing profusely at her outward approach. “No sweet, don’t stop,” Henry shakily growled against her ear, “I like that your taking an interest,” his words although embarrassing her swelling her heart as she let go of her inhibitions, gave herself over to Henry fully and completely…

Alexander purposefully strode towards Duke George’s office, his heart beating madly with nerves and fear, unwarranted fright for he knew that neither the Duke nor Duchess would ever deny him, Ava on the other hand, was a cause for concern. She was so sweet and calm one moment, chatting amiably with him and yet when he would bring up his intentions she immediately closed herself off generally ending the situation with a biting insult with the exception of the day at the pond.

Hesitating briefly he knocked and entered George’s office, wondering if he would ever possess her heart the way she did his. A slow smile crossing Alexander’s face as he thought of her, his love, his heart he knew Ava cared for him, it was evident in her mannerisms the way she would gaze upon him when she thought him unaware. “Alexander,” George greeted brightly as Alex closed the door behind him.

“Sir,” Alexander replied confidently, “I have come to make a request…”

Beatrice rushed into George’s office, concern written across her face hurriedly swallowing her concerns as her vision fell upon Lord Alexander. “I apologize, I had not known you were otherwise occupied My lord,” Beatrice breathlessly stammered to her husband unable to resist an interest in what the conversation pertained to, especially as she noted the ecstatic and strained look upon George’s face.

George knew that there was something upsetting Beatrice, could sense it in her tense posture and the tight line of her lips, “I swear the women in this household have all seemed to forget that when my door is closed I am in the midst of business.” George sighed out playfully, despite the growing urgency within him, a small laugh erupting from him as he noticed the faint inquisitive gaze in her eyes.

Alexander smiled, unaware of Beatrice’s upset assuming it probably had something to do with the ball as he turned his vision towards her. “I do not mind, in the least and I believe that her ladyship would in fact be rather interested in our discussion,” he laughed out.

George could not help but laugh himself, “I must whole heartedly agree,” he grinned standing and walking towards his wife. “My love, Lord Alexander has purchased Orville Manor, so that Ava may stay in close proximity to her family,” George grinned.

“What does that have to do with Ava?” Beatrice breathed out in confusion, suddenly clapping her hand over her mouth as the realization sank in. “She has accepted you then?” she cried out in elation suppressing the urge to dance about the room in glee, her previous upset temporarily forgotten.

Alexander grimaced inwardly at Beatrice’s comment, “Not as yet…” he sighed sadly.

Sensing Alexander’s discomfort George took control of the conversation, “lord Alexander is in a peculiar situation, for his uncle has given him six months to find a suitable wife.” George began rather nervously. “Yet until now he has not found a bride he wishes to be unified with, for as he explained to me his values of marriage are strictly reserved to love. Which he is most certainly lost in with our stubborn grandchild,” it felt odd to be talking to Beatrice of the young lords situation when Alexander sat in the very room, yet George continued. “I have decided the match would be of great benefit, she would have a husband who loves her deeply, he will have a wife that is sure to keep him entertained.” George smiled, as he thought of it, imagining that Alexander would surely be driven mad by Ava, yet knowing in the depths of his heart his granddaughter would blossom in the passions of the young lord, and eventually allow her love for him to grow.

Beatrice stared with a mixture of disbelief heartache and nervousness upon her husband, his words sinking hard against her heart. For even though she understood what her husband explained she did not think Ava would take it. “You will force the marriage,” she sighed out fear snaking into her mind as her thoughts once again returned to her upsetting news.

“Yes we will announce the nuptials at the ball, Lord Alexander will be going to speak with her privately as soon as we are finished.” George murmured sensing Beatrice’s discomfort. “His intention is to post the banns the following day,” he finished.

At the final comment Alexander stood facing his hosts, “Duke, Duchess, if you do not mind I shall take my leave now.” He murmured for he had one final stop to make before he went to Ava, Alex had to inform his sister of the coming changes. Changes he was positive Sophia would certainly take kindly to…

Chapter 12

2008-09-21T14:06:00.001-07:00

After a week of constant companionship, Ava and Sophia had grown as close as sisters, spending nearly every waking moment in each other’s company, laughing or talking, a welcomed change from her previous heart wrenching aloneness. Turning to gaze behind her, she laughed as she caught sight of Sophia hunched to the ground gazing with absolute interest at something. “What do you look so intently upon,” Ava smilingly questioned, her heart swelling as she gazed lovingly upon the thirteen year old young woman that in a short few days had come to mean so much to her.

“It is a bug of some sort,” Sophia quizzically murmured, tentatively reaching a finger out then changing her mind and pulling it back. “It looks so soft, I want to touch it yet am fearful,” she grinned.

Believing that she knew what type of bug it was, Ava headed back towards Sophia and peered down, a broad smile stretching across her face. “It is a caterpillar,” she laughingly answered, temporarily caught in the intrigue of the small larvae that was busy devouring a leaf. “Although some do sting you, that one is harmless so if you wish to touch it you may, without my fear that your brother will skin me alive for letting you get hurt.” Ava jokingly stated remembering her many lessons upon the farm in America with the fuzzy bugs before she turned and continued once again towards the lake.

Ava’s comment brought upon Sophia a joyful surge of excitement as she failingly attempted to withhold the smile, a grin of happiness for Ava had finally spoken of her brother in a kindly manner. Hurriedly Sophie turned her attention away from the bug and ran after her beloved friend, “Ava, my brother would never blame you for a single thing that I do unto myself,” she cried out breathlessly when they reached the pond and both sank to the soft damp earth.

Ava laughed aloud at the unbelievable statement as she thought of how truly amazed she had been that Alexander remotely let his sister out unescorted with her for their daily adventure. “Surely you jest, if one hair on your head were out of place he would find it befitting to tack on an additional six months to the courtship,” Ava breathed out in humor, her eyes twinkling brightly with happiness and secret desire.

“Would you terribly mind an extension of time?” Sophia questioned suddenly, gracing Ava with a sly yet determined smile. Sensing that Ava had eased in her opinion of Alexander, hoping that it was true for she herself had grown to desire a union between her brother and Ava.

Ava stared in disbelief, Sophia’s question having temporarily unhinged her thoughts sending her thoughts spiraling as she admitted to herself she would not terribly mind. “I-I do not wish to think of that,” Ava stammered against her own hearts answer, against her own opinions of Alexander, whom she had found to be a rather doting brother, fawning over Sophia as if she were made of glass and would shatter. Despite his dark moods and frightening effect on her Ava had come to find that she was in fact, rather taken by the handsome man, there was something about Alexander that drew her towards him, an inexplicable emotional interest in him.

Sophia grinned brightly at Ava, seeing the wistful thoughts that etched into her lovely face and knew that Ava was falling in love with Alexander, the mere thought filling her with giddy joy and hope. “In truth Ava, my brother would surely not place a single fault upon you, for I have earned a rather impetuous name within society; one that has cost Alexander many prospective courtships.” Sophia laughed out wickedly, the usually chipper sound darkly edged. “Tis part of the reason our Uncle has stated he must marry, he believes that my lack of female care and companionship will in turn end up ruining me.” Sophia’s eyes darkened with emotion and Ava knew it saddened the young woman to feel that she was the reason her beloved brother was being forced to marry, a sweet gesture that rested pitifully upon Ava’s heart and soul. “Our Uncle arranged a visit between the Lady Chesterfield and my brother, a proper stuffy young lady who certainly had eyes for him, yet I could hardly bear to stand her, so I filled her trunk with frogs and when that did not work, I pushed her into the lake.” Sophia explained proudly, her eyes gleaming wickedly.

Her eyes wide with surprise and humor Ava looked upon the young woman before her, “I certainly do not wish to be on your disagreeable side,” Ava murmured, stifling a laugh as she envisioned Sophia doing just as she stated, imagining that she had probably stood at the edge of the lake laughing joyfully at the fallen woman.

Alexander rested casually upon one of the trees, watching with intense interest at Sophia and Ava’s comfortable conversation, his heart swelling with untold emotion at the sight. Smiling he added the scene before him, along with Ava’s uncanny devotion to Sophia to his ever growing opinion of her. “Si… Lady Chesterfield could not escape our park fast enough,” Alexander’s deep baritone laughingly rumbled from the edge of the trees once Sophia completed her narrative, snapping Ava’s attention to him immediately. The current of electricity that flowed between them increasing his heartbeat, igniting a swell of pure soul felt emotion as he gazed upon the lovely woman he was determined to spend his life with. For a moment, Alexander was incapable of moving, part of him fearing that he was witnessing a mirage. A surreal dream like state, where the low buzzing of bugs and the twitter of the birds in the trees thrummed through the air in a euphonic melody, nature’s way of singing a love song. Fearing a single movement would cause the scene to melt before his eyes like a sugar cube in his tea.

Ava could not help the heated blush as her pulse quickened at the sight of Alexander, who looked handsome in his cream riding breeches and a deep blood red coat; blushing even deeper as she thought of how it would feel to have his arms around her, held tightly to the solid length of his body. “So you have been spying upon us my lord,” Ava barely whispered as she hurriedly dismissed the lurid daydream, her voice seemingly lost under his penetrating gaze. “I would think that you would have learnt your lesson the last time,” she mockingly scolded, hurriedly recovering as warmth spread through her at an alarming speed, for she could see it in his eyes, he wanted to kiss her as much as she wanted him too. Silently she breathed a sigh of relief that Sophia was present, for he surely would not dare touch her in front of his beloved sister; helping ease her nervousness a bit, for Ava knew without a doubt he would elicit from her what no other could and she would not be unwilling.

Alexander laughed heartily, breathing a sigh of relief at her civil greeting and silently praying that they had finally come to a truce of sorts, for he rather enjoyed the mild mannered woman who sat before him, glowing beneath the dappled sunlight. “Si… I have been as you say spying, it is not often that I can witness my sisters obvious enjoyment in the company of a lady,” he murmured easily, the sound of his accented voice intoxicating Ava’s senses and muddling her mind. “If you wish I shall resume my journey and allow dear Sophia to regale you with more of her heinous acts…” Alexander paused, his gaze unwavering. “Unless I may join into the festivities?” it was more of a desire than a question as he silently wished they were alone. Yet grateful they were not, for Alex did not trust himself to be alone in her company when she were so subdued, her biting sarcasm and forceful disregard though adding to her qualities did rather grate his nerves.

Sophia smiled excitedly upon Ava, shrugging her shoulders slightly as she wordlessly expressed her willingness to let him join. “Well I do not see the harm in a friendly conversation, considering I am apparently unified in a six month courtship with thee.” Ava murmured her breath catching in her throat as she watched Alexander purposefully stride towards them, his entire body moving with the grace and agility of a panther stalking its prey. “Perhaps my lord, you could tell me of Spain, for Sophia speaks so fondly of it and yet cannot tell me much,” she nervously questioned, her mind reeling from the onslaught of electricity that charged the air between them as Alex sank to the ground beside them. “Sophia has told me so little, being she is stuck away in studies in London, for most of her time.” Ava unwillingly chattered feeling that she needed to continue talking lest she faint as she caught scent of his clean masculine smell.

A gentle smile slowly spread over Alexander’s face as he realized that Ava was indeed nervous in his presence. A fanciful thought that made his heart soar in elation as Alexander focused his gaze upon Ava, incapable of taking his eyes from hers as he spoke. “Ah Spain, it is not much different from here, albeit much warmer.” He softly murmured, envisioning strolling along side of her upon the golden sand of the ocean that rested just below his Spanish residence, “After we are married we shall go to visit my uncle, so you may enjoy the splendor yourself. Then in the summer we shall stay in Sophia’s and My Spanish Manor,” He added warmly, bracing himself for a biting comment that to his relief did not come and laughing as he saw his sisters dreamy gaze floating between he and Ava. Quite the difference from Ava’s dark and bewildered expression, “Come Mi Corazõn, I do not wish to quarrel over this, for you just as I know the truth.” Alexander could not resist the playful jab, the mild possession of her mind and heart at the moment as he penetrated Ava with his gaze, his eyes filled with all the heartfelt emotion he felt for her.

Ava stared in disbelief upon him, waiting for her heart to steady its pace before she spoke, lest her tone belay her words. “I believe my lord you are counting your chickens before the eggs hatch,” she calmly stated, bursting into a fit of giggles at the perplexed and quizzical gaze Alexander and Sophia fixated upon her. “It means that you have over stepped your bounds,” she snickered, her eyes dancing with merriment.

Smiling queerly Sophia turned towards her brother, knowing he was lost to Ava, “Brother, you have never said that to anyone before,” she innocently pointed out, in hopes that Ava’s interest would be peaked, unable to withhold the sobbing laugh as her brother turned shocked and furious eyes upon her.

“I shudder to think of what Me Core a zone, means…” Ava laughed out, realizing whatever it was could not be nearly as horrid as it sounded if Alexander would dare mutter it in Sophia’s presence.

“Yes brother, I informed of the meaning behind Mi Amore, so I leave it in your judgment to tell her what this means,” Sophia bubbled with a joyful clap of her hands, mired in her joy at her brother’s obvious discomfort.

“Sophia, I did not mean,” Alexander ground out, his dark face turning pink as he blushed.

“Well to see a lord blush, I must know what it means and I shan’t let up until you properly inform me,” Ava laughed, rather comfortable in the intimate family setting. Laughing with her new friend and feeling for the first time since she had been ripped from her father’s farm as if she belonged. “Shall I sweetly beg?” She murmured angelically flashing a smile upon Alex that made him blush all the more. “Or is it something scandalous that you accidentally let slip in front of two innocent young ladies.” She probed…

“You know what Mi is,” Alexander grumbled lowly, his body suddenly engulfed in heat. “Corazon is heart,” he whispered unable to take his gaze from the ground despite the sharp intake of breath he heard Ava take…

Marianne sat in nervously in the quiet library, awaiting Henry’s arrival, lost in her thoughts over the course of the last week. He had eventually agreed to her terms, had in turn come to her every night, morning, and had nearly attacked her this afternoon. Not that she minded too terribly, for he had been a considerate lover, seducing her by slow degree’s until she felt she could not bear another moment without him each gentle touch and fiery kiss, nearly leading Marianne to believe Henry was in fact in love with her. Frowning slightly, Marianne attempted to dispel the brief flash of heartbreak as her own words came to her again. She was falling in love with her husband, a love that could never be, for once the heir came he would find another, or for that fact return to the one, his heart belonged to. Marianne swallowed hard at the lump in her throat and blinked away at the tears that burned her eyes. In all her life she had never felt complete, never felt as much love or comfort as this past week.

She let out a shuddering whimper as childhood heartache resurfaced again; she never knew what she had done to deserve her mother and grandparents hatred. Other than, the fact that her father had died before she was born died without providing them an heir. An unfortunate task that now lay upon her and if she failed, all would be lost.

Henry stood silently watching Marianne, he could see heartbreak written across her face and for the first time in a month felt an overwhelming urge to protect her, a brief fear shooting through his heart that it had been him to bring pain upon her. When she whimpered at a thought it had been enough, Henry hurried towards Marianne and took her in his arms, “hush my sweet,” he soothingly whispered, holding her tightly against him. Both afraid and wanting to know who or what had caused her tears.

Marianne had been taken quite off guard when Henry hurriedly pulled her into his arms, the scent of the horses on his jacket intermixing with sweat and hay a rather comforting smell; turning her gaze upwards, she forced a smile onto her face. “My lord…” Henry cut her off with a smoldering kiss…

When the kiss ended and her tears subsided, Henry released her, the stirring of desire resurfacing as he gazed upon her. “Well unless you wish me to take your being here as an invitation,” he playfully laughed out, envisioning her arms locked around him while she tossed her head back as she cried out to him.

“Henry, an invitation has come inviting us to the Wilshire Manor for a ball.” Marianne whispered excitedly, unseeing of the immediate change in her husband’s stance, failing to sense his change in demeanor.

Marianne’s words seemed to suck the air from the room causing Henry to tuck his thumbs into the waistband of his breeches to control the shaking. Surely, it had been a mistake, why would the Duke and Duchess have invited him and his wife when they knew of his and Ava’s history. Blindly he stared upon Marianne, his heart and mind crying out in unison, desperately wanting to accept yet knowing his acceptance would be of dire consequence. “If you care to attend we shall make arrangements to stay with my brother and his wife…” Henry quietly replied leaving the decision to his unaware wife, for although she knew Ava’s name she had not known in what family she belonged and this would present him the opportunity in which he needed to make his final offer, something deep inside telling him that this would not be a pleasant trip…