Monday's Escape Into Romance Is..."Surrendering"

Surrendering

Chapter 22

  

  Grams sat down at the breakfast table while Richards prepared her a plate. He did not prepare the plate for her because it was part of his job or that she most likely would have asked him too any way. Richards did it because he loved her.

   “There you go Darleen.” Richards then gave her a kiss on the forehead.

   Grams smiled up at Richards and said, “You spoil me, you know that?”

   “Oh yes my darling, I know. You make it impossible not too.” He leaned down and whispered in her ear, “You are worth spoiling and I will do it for as long as I live.”

   Richards made Darleen’s checks give off some deep color. She started to giggle at his flirtatious attempts to make her blush. She turned and gave him a soft kiss of thanks for the food and for making her feel like a young woman in love still after seven years.

   “I shall be escorting Sarah to Lady Wilcox’s later this morning. She confided in me last night that those were her wishes, although I do not want her to leave.” Grams then took a bite of her ham.

   “I am not comfortable with you traveling back alone Darleen. I will go with you and wait in the couch.” Richard’s tone was stern.

   “You know perfectly well I will want you to come in for a visit at Wilcox’s with you by my side.”

   She looked up at Richards and he looked away. Grams slammed her fork on her plate. “I am tired of you insisting we hide our feelings for each other from the world Richards. Lady Wilcox knows of us and so do most of the town’s folk as well as the surrounding towns. The only one who does not know is Devon. I do not like keeping secrets from him Richards, you know that and I want us to tell him together.”

   Richards turned from her and began setting out a few more plates. “I told you I am not ready to tell him.”

   “It has been seven years I have been sneaking around my own house with you. How much more time do you need Richards?”

   “I cannot give you an answer. We have been through this before Darleen.” Richards glanced at her. He knew his answer was going to fuel her already burning fire on the subject.

   “Are you embarrassed of me Richards? Is that why you insist I should not tell anyone of us?” Grams lip began to quiver from the thought of him answering yes. “It is my weight isn’t it?”

   Richards looked at her quickly. “You know nothing could be further from the true Darleen. That was hurtful and offensive that you would think such a thing of me.”

   “I am hurt and offended you insist on hiding your feelings for me Richards. That is not love. That is shame.” Grams rose from the table and ran out of the room.

   “Darleen,” Richards shouted to her.

   Sarah entered the dining room looking exhausted from lack of sleep. “What has happened? Is she alright?”

   “No she is not and it is my fault.” Richards face was clearly showing his emotions.

   “Perhaps I should go to her. Can you tell me what has made her this upset?” Sarah walked to Richards and placed her hand on his arm.

   Richards pinched his lips tightly together and frowned. “I assume she has told you of us.” Sarah smiled at him and answered yes. Richards then looked down at her hand on his arm. “I have never wanted Darleen to tell anyone about us, especially Devon.

   Sarah tilted her to the right slightly and asked, “Why not Richards? I think Devon would be rather pleased about it.”

   “Devon is very important to me Sarah and I do not want to risk him ever looking at me other than what he does now.”

   “Which is what?” Sarah asked.

   “A father of sorts. We have always been close since he was a baby and I cannot take losing that with him. I fear he would think it to be inappropriate. I am the butler Sarah.”

   “I think you are judging Devon before he has a chance to form his own opinion on the matter. Do not under estimate how strongly Devon cares for you Richards.” Sarah then asked him, “Are you then willing to risk losing Grams and worse off, breaking her heart?” Sarah gave his arm a slight squeeze.

   “No, I love her more than anything. I just do not understand why she feels the need to tell the world. I am her butler for bloody sake. It just does not look right.”

   Well I think she does not care what the rest of the world thinks. I believe she cares what you think Richards.” Sarah’s tone was soft.

   Richards gazed to Sarah with an understanding finally of what Darleen was upset about. “I had not thought of it in that manor before now.” Richards smiled and said, “Will you excuse me, I have to go apologize for being a bloody ass to the woman I love.”

   Sarah laughed and released his arm. Richards left to find Grams. Sarah looked around at all the food and started to remember the food fight that had taken place in there. She began to smile at the thought of Devon covered in food standing in front of her. Sarah then remembered it was at that same time she realized she was falling in love with him. She told herself she was a fool for believing in his eyes. They had told her he felt the same, although now she knows that was what she wanted to see in his eyes.

   Sarah turned and left the room. She walked right out the front door and onto the front steps. She gazed at the stable and headed for them at a fast pace.

   “Hello Lady Sarah. How are you this morning?” Billy asked her as his face held a smile for her ear to ear.

   “I am fine and how are you Billy?” Sarah said as she removed her bonnet and began smoothing back her hair. She continued walking towards Runner’s stall.

   “Quite well thank you. Are you planning on taking him out for a ride?”

   “Yes I will Billy. Would you mind getting him ready for me while I change into my riding attire?”

   “Not at all Lady Sarah, it would be my pleasure.” He was still smiling at her like a fool.

   Sarah smiled back at him and said, “You are very kind Billy, thank you.” She continued to smile at him warmly.

   As she left the stable, Sarah saw a carriage pull up and Devon was on a horse riding along the side of it. Sarah stopped and watched as Devon opened the door and gave out his hand to a woman inside. She could somewhat see he was smiling at her. The woman then wrapped her arm through Devon’s and he began to escort her into the estate.

   “Lady Sarah you forgot your hat.” Billy shouted to her from the stables.

   Devon and the woman turned towards Sarah’s direction. Sarah wanted to hide, but she was standing in the middle of the drive at the bottom of the hill.

   She watched as Devon saw her and then turned to the woman while pointing at Sarah. Devon then moved towards the front door and rushed inside. The woman starred at Sarah for a moment then chased after Devon.

   Sarah did not recognize the woman with her travel scarf and hat on. Who was she and why did Devon bring her here?

   Sarah could not believe what she was about to do. Her feet started moving towards the house and she had every intention of finding out whom this woman was and why she was on Devon’s arm.

   Devon made his way to his study. He began to feel dizzy again and he was having a hard time catching his breath. The woman chasing him entered the room and saw him. Devon was hunched over and turning pale again.

   “Are you alright Devon?”

   Devon shook his head no and then managed to say, “Sarah is wearing a white dress like in my dream. I…I cannot breath.” Devon’s breathing was becoming labored and he looked scared.

   The woman went to him and placed her hands on his cheeks. “Take deep breaths Devon, nice and slow.

   Devon placed his sweaty forehead to hers and closed his eyes.

   “Devon? What are you doing?” Sarah said as she was staring at them. Are you kissing her?”

   “Sarah?” the woman turned around to look at her.

   Devon grabbed the woman’s waist, placed his head on her back, and squeezed her tight. The woman let out a yelp in surprise to him squeezing her.

   “Brook?” Sarah felt a sudden fury well up from deep inside her. “What are you doing here?” Her voice was fierce.

   “I came here with Devon. I was hoping to see you,” Brook said.

   Devon had not really moved and he was not looking at Sarah. His head was still pushing heavy on Brook’s upper back. Devon said softly, “Brook.”

   Brook patted his leg and said to him, “Not now, in a minute.”

   “How do you know him Brook?” Sarah was trying to keep her composure but she was not doing a very good job of it.

   “My father had introduced us and I rode back with him from my house, where we were last night.” Brook watched as Sarah’s face fell. “Well, what I meant to say. You see we.”

   Sarah did not bother to listen and walked away.

   Brook suddenly heard a thud on the floor behind her. She turned to see Devon on the floor face down. “Again?” she said to him. Brook was staring down at him lying next to the sofa, trying to think what to do. After a few minutes, she decided she was going to need help because he was not waking up.

   “Hello,” Landon said to Brook.

   Brook turned and just gazed at him. He was so handsome and he was talking to her. He looked like a Greek god with golden skin. What had he just said to her? She could not think with the way he was staring at her. He said hello. Good God say it back. She said to herself.

   “Hello?” Landon repeated this time teasingly.

   “Oh, I do apologize. Hello.” Brook’s gaze did not move from Landon’s face.

   “My name is Landon and you are?” he said to her as he walked toward her.

   “Landon,” Brook whispered softly.

   “Well that is odd, you having the same name as I do and a male name at that.” He smiled at her.

   Brook smiled back and said, “Yes. No, I mean no!” She quickly gained half her wits about her back. She gave her head a quick shake and said, “I am Brook, that is my name, Brook, I am Brook.”

   “Are you a friend of Sarah’s” Landon smiled at her more devilishly to see if he could fumble her further.

“Yes I am. We are childhood friends. We also work at the library together. I met Devon and he escorted me here.”

   “I see, so you live close to town?”

   “No I live three towns to the north. My father had introduced me to Devon and-”

   Brook stopped and then gasped. With wide eyes she said, “Devon! Oh my I had forgotten about him.”

   “What about Devon?” Landon was concerned.

   Brook stepped to the side and revealed Devon lying face down on the floor behind her. “He has fainted, again.”

   “Fainted!” Landon knelt down to him. He could see he was sweating and pale. “What happened?” Landon looked to Brook.

   “I do believe your friend is in love with Sarah. Every time he dreams of her or as of now, sees her, he faints.

   “What?” Landon looked back at Devon.

   “Why is Sarah riding like a fox being chased and who are you?” Grams said not very nicely. “Oh dear God! What happened to my boy?”

Brook jumped out of Gram’s way as she was barreling towards Devon on the floor at her feet.

   “He is alright. He has just fainted is all. Not to worry my scrumptious cupcake.” Landon reassured her.

   Brook pinched her eyebrows together. She was not sure if she just heard him call her a scrumptious cupcake.

   Grams slapped Devon’s face lightly to awake him.

   “I had used a cold cloth last night when he had fainted.” Brook said.

   “Last night? He fainted last night also. Grams asked her.

   “Yes, he had had a dream of Sarah and turned pale and began to sweat and then fainted.”

   “Let me guess, he saw Sarah just now before he fainted?”

   Brook shook her yes confirming what Grams had asked. Grams looked to Landon who was already looking at her and they both started trying to refrain from laughter, given that is, of the serious nature of Devon’s situation.

   “Talk about falling head over heels in love.” Grams said.

   “Well in Devon’s case, heels to face and then to floor,” Landon said.”

   Brook watch the two of them crack jokes while leaning over Devon. She wondered if she was safe with the two of them. Brook slowly started to back up, to find hopefully someone sane. She was stopped by a tall firm body behind her.

   Brook slowly, without turning around looked up and over her shoulder to see Richards standing behind her.

   “I need help,” Brook said in a small voice.

   “With Devon or from the two bumbling hyenas over him?” Richards asked in his usual monotone voice.

   “Both I think.” She smiled at him wiry.

   “The two over there are for the most part harmless, that is if you do not become a target and as for Devon, I have no idea why he is lying like that.” Richards looked down towards her.

   She had not moved and her neck was kinked from looking so far up at him. “He fainted, again.” Brook told him.

   “Fainted?” Richards’s voice was full of surprise.

   Just then, Brook and Richards attentions were draw to the three on the floor by the sofa. Grams had let out a loud cackle that was bellowing throughout the room. She was laughing so hard, she lost her balance and her bottom bounced on the floor next to Devon’s head.

   “Yes well, I shall go and retrieve a cool cloth and will return shortly.” Richards said with a slight smirk on his face from watching Grams.

   Grams then decided since she was already down she was going to lay on her side next to Devon. Grams was lying with her arm bent to support her head.

   “My loving queen of giggles I dare say, are you attempting to tease me in that position?” Landon said in his most devilish voice.

   “Oh am I that obvious. Coy I am not but commanding I am my wild young stallion.”Grams said teasing him back.

   Landon began to laugh hard. “You may command me in whatever way you desire, my indulging sweet treat.

   Brook’s mouth fell open as she watched Grams laugh harder and slap poor unconscious Devon on the back. She turned to Richards but he had already left the room. Brook stood still and did not move.

   Mean while Sarah was riding away on Runner. She was heading towards Lady Wilcox, riding in here white dress. She was not crying nor did she feel like it. Sarah was mad and she was done with being hurt by Devon Price. How could Devon, knowing I was somewhere in the house? How could Brook do this my best friend?

   Richards returned with the cool cloth and a bucket. As Devon began to stir a little, Brook went over to his side but was unable to get near him with the two still laughing bodies over him.

   Richards said, “Would you two please excuse us, we need to get between you two so we may get to the body lying on the floor.”

   Landon helped Grams to her feet and they both took a seat on the sofa. Grams then thought of calling for some tea. She then decided she might try to make some.

   Brook began to remove her coat and hat. With all the fuss earlier, she had forgotten too. She knelt down next to Devon while Richards was rolling him over to his back.

   Brook said, “Perhaps he would be more comfortable on the sofa.”

   “Oh you mean instead of the floor where two others thought he might be better situated?” Richards looked over to Landon with a displeasing glare. “Shall the Lady lift his body or will you offer us any assistance today?” Richards said to Landon.

   “No of course.” Landon rose from the sofa. “I do apologize for being rude to both of you. You have to admit though, it is quite funny that Devon has fainted. I cannot recall ever hearing of a man fainting before.” He looks to Brook and said, “Have you ever heard of such a thing?”

   Brook shook her head no. “He fainted twice.” Brook’s lips began to curl at the corners slightly.

   “Yes well, I am glad you are amused Landon, now lift his feet up,” Richards said.

   “You have to agree it is unusual Richards. A man fainting over the sight of the woman he loves.” Landon said.

   Richards gently laid Devon’s head on top of a pillow then stood up straight to face Landon. “The boy has lost everyone in his life he has ever been close to and holds dear to his heart, other than Darleen. He has fallen in love and he is scared. The day you fall in love Landon, I would like to be there the moment you realize you are and see how well you handle it. Devon cannot love another person, only to lose them again. He has watched Darleen go through hell and you know that. Then he lost Benjamin. How do you think you would feel if you were him?” Richards looked to Brook and said, “My apologies.” Richards then left the room.

   Brook stood still next to Landon. After a moment of awkward silence, she bent down over Devon and started to loosen his collar. She dipped the cloth in the ceramic bowl of water then began to wipe his face and neck with the cloth.

   Landon walked to the bar to poured a drink. “Would you care for a drink Lady Brook?”

   “Scotch if you have some.” She answered him without breaking her concentration of her task with Devon.

   Landon chuckled to himself, Irish women. He watched Brook as she began trying to remove his coat.

   He walked over to her and helped without saying anything. They removed his coat and Brook unbuttoned his shirt. Landon watched as she was being very careful, but at the same time, she looked as though she had done it a hundred times before.

   The cloth had been rung out tight and Brook wiped his forehead as well as his neck again. She then began to lightly blow on the wet areas where she had wiped him. Landon saw Devon’s eyes start to flutter.

   Brook said, “Devon wake up.” She wiped his forehead and chest again. “Hey come on open your eyes. Can you hear my voice?”

   Landon at that moment wished he were Devon. She was whispering so softly to him as she leaned close to his face. Her voice sounded like the voice of an angle, soothing and gentle.

   Devon opened his eyes. He saw Brook and then Landon behind her. Brook told him to lye still for a few more minutes. She turned and told Landon she was going to get some tea for Devon and then she left the room.

   “Are you alright?” Landon asked Devon as he pulled up a club chair next to the sofa.

   Devon did not answer with words he just shook his head yes and placed his arm over his forehead, hiding his eyes from the world.

   “I was told you landed on the floor face first. It looks as though your bottom lip is swollen.” Landon waited but Devon did not reply. Landon shook his shoulder a little to make sure he had not fainted again.

   “I am fine,” Devon said his voice sounding flat. Devon drew his knee up and let it fall resting on the back of the sofa. He could not bring himself to look at Landon. He felt foolish, fainting like a woman. Devon knew he was never going to hear the end of this one.

   Landon stood up and said, “I will go find Richards.”

   Devon lay there alone. He wondered what was wrong with him. She was just a woman, the same as any other woman, except for her long blonde hair, big alluring green eyes and those soft sensual lips. Devon felt his chest begin to tighten. He placed his hand over his heart.

   “It would stop hurting if you just allow yourself to feel what you feel for her. How long do you plan to go on like this?” Grams began to nudge at him in the shoulder. “I can’t very well have you fainting in the middle of the street or worse off, while you are riding your horse. Your heart wants what it wants and it will never let you forget her Devon.”

   “Please stop talking,” Devon said. His arm was still over his forehead.

   “Oh my boy, you know me better than that. I will do no such thing. I want you to be happy Devon.” Grams patted his leg.

   “I would be if you were quiet for two seconds.”

   “Alright then. One, two. Well now, you had your peace and quiet. What do you plan to do about Sarah? She has left on her horse riding as if the wolves were chasing her.”

   “Why did she leave?” Devon asked.

   “She had walked in on you and that girl. She thought you were kissing her. Sarah ran past me in the hall without a word and went straight out the front door to the stables. I have to say, I do not think I have ever seen someone ride so fast.”

   “Her name is Brook and I was not kissing her. I felt dizzy and I believe I was leaning on her back.”

   “Why is Brook here Devon?” Grams asked him with a hint of an accusing area in her voice.

   “What is wrong with the people in this house? She is a friend of Sarah’s, and I had met her father and that is how I know her. I brought her here to see Sarah. Brook had not heard from her for two weeks and was worried sick about her.” Devon sounded irritated.

   “So you did not kiss her?” Grams asked.

   Devon lifted his arm off his forehead and sat up. “What kind of a man do you see me as?”

   “Your behavior lately has me confused and I am sorry for offending you.” Her tone had softened.

   “I feel as though I do not even know who I am anymore Grams. I don’t recognize my own behavior.” Devon sounded tried and fed up.

   Devon stood up and went to the bar. “Can I get you a drink?”

   “A small one perhaps.” Grams said. She watched her grandson quietly. “I need to tell you something Devon.”

   Devon did not look away from his task. “Alright then I’m listening.” He was looking for another bottle of brandy. “I have to go to the drawing room for a moment. I need a bottle of brandy.”

   Devon left and made his way down the hallway to the other room was. He heard voices as he approached the door. He nearly ran into Landon as he came out the doorway.

   “Pardon me.” Landon said as he left through the front door.

   Devon went into the drawing room and saw Richards and Brook. “What has happened?”

   “Nothing. Do you need help with anything?” Brook answered him.

   Devon looked to Richards. “Where was Landon going in such a hurry? He did not say more than two words to me.”

   “Please excuse me.” Brook said as she left the room.

   Devon’s eyes remained on Richards while Brook passed by him in the doorway. He could tell something was going on and he wanted to know what it was. “Richards,” he said again.

   “Sarah was supposed to be leaving this morning for Lady Wilcox, so when she left I sent her things over for her.” Richards paused. “Devon she never made it over to Lady Wilcox. Landon has just left to find her.”

   Devon turned and ran out the front door to the stables. He grabbed a saddle and fit a horse with it then took off down the drive.

   An hour later Landon came back to the estate. He found everyone in the drawing room. As he entered the room, everyone looked to him.

   Book stood up and was clearly growing worried.

   “I did not find her,” Landon said.

   “Devon left shortly after you,” Richards said to him. “He may have found her by now.”

   Landon walked to the bar and poured a drink. “I think he may know where to look for her better than I.”

Monday's Escape Into Romance Is..."Surrendering"

Surrendering

Chapter 21

  

   Sarah had not heard the knock at the door with her face buried into her pillow.

   “Oh you poor dear.” Grams said as she walked to Sarah’s bedside with her arms out to her. “Come here Sarah.” Grams wrapped her arms around Sarah and held her tight.

   “Is there anything I can fetch for you?” Richards said softly.

   Sarah shook her head no, as she wiped her tears away. She looked a mess with her hair falling out from the pins that had secured it and her eyes were red and swollen. She brushed back her hair off her face as she looked to Grams.

   Grams took Sarah’s face in her hands and looked to Sarah with such pity. Sarah’s face began to frown in Gram’s hands and then crumbled as tears streamed down from Sarah’s eyes and over Gram’s fingers. She pulled Sarah to her chest and Sarah let her cries begin again.

   She rubbed Sarah’s back and gazed at Richards. “Perhaps some tea may help.”

   Richards put his hand on Grams shoulder, gave it a little squeeze and nodded. “Where shall you like me to bring it Darleen?”

   “I will tidy her up and we will have it in the drawing room Fredrick, thank you my love.”

   “Very well then.” Richards then left to fetch some tea for the two women, quietly closing the door as he exited the room.

   Grams lifted Sarah away from her and said, “Shall we clean you up a bit and take some tea. We have all night to talk my dear. Come on let’s get you to the dressing table and I will fix your hair.”

   Gazing at herself in the mirror as she sat at the dressing table, Sarah did not recognize the young woman who was staring back at her. All she saw was a sad weak woman who has a dark lonely future in front of her.

   Who could love that kind of woman? Having no dowry to offer any suitor. Growing up without a proper education, only the experience of the travels with a father. Left without any connection to family and remains still removed from society. A woman who was left alone and penniless. What could I possibly have to offer anyone? Nothing is what I have and nothing is all I will ever have.

   Grams watched Sarah in the mirror. Her heart was breaking for her as she could see Sarah’s sad eyes. Sarah’s gaze into her own reflection was hollow. Grams remembered feeling that way with the loss of her husband and then tragically, with her son. The loneliness that covers you like a blanket, wrapping you tight as if trying to smother what little life is left in you out. She recalls what a threatening place that can be.

   “There we are my dear.” Grams said as she finished placing the last pin in Sarah’s hair. “You are so handsome Sarah. I never had a daughter or a niece of my own to do hair for my dear. I do hope you like it?” Grams smiled at Sarah’s refection.

   Sarah gazed down at a few pins that lay on top of the dressing table in front of her. That last thing she felt was pretty. She did not want to look at that woman in the mirror any more. Sarah does not know her and does not care too.

   As she stood up from the dressing table, she thanked Grams and walked towards the door. Her body felt heavy and sluggish. She felt numb.

   Grams came up beside her and looped her arm through Sarah’s arm. Together the two women proceeded to the drawing room for some hot tea.

   Devon watched as Bob made his way from the table to a bar stool at the end of the bar. Bob’s walk was anything but straight and steady. Devon was amused at Bob’s repeated attempts to set himself on top of the stool.

   “Poor Bob, if he had spent less time here and more at home, his wife wouldn’t have left him. He had always liked the drink a wee bit too much though,” John said.

   John turned towards Bob upon hearing a loud crash. Devon went to stand to offer aid to the man. Bob had finally made it on top of the bar stool and then fell over sideways as he passed out.

   “Aah Bob.” John said. He stood up and went to his friend lying on the floor. “Come on their Bob, time to go home. Let’s get ya up and will put ya to bed.” John helped Bob to his feet. Bob’s arm was hanging over John’s shoulder.

   Devon came up next to Bob, and took his other arm and put it about his shoulder. “How far does he live?”

   “Oh on the outskirts of town in the country, but we’ll bring him to me house for the night.” John said with labored breath from the weight of Bob on him.

   “How far do you live John?” Devon asked as he was trying to turn himself and Bob sideways to get through the door of the tavern to the street.

   “Ah on the out skirts of town, a wee bit in the country but closer.”

   Devon started to chuckle. “Closer you say?” He shook his head back and forth with amusement at John’s humor. “Alright then, which direction are we to go?”

   “To the right and down the road a bit.” John replied.

   John and Devon made their way down the road with Bob. It was a struggle for Devon to hold Bob, he was quite a bit taller than John was, and to add to that Bob was not walking. Bob’s feet were dragging behind him.

   After about fifteen minutes of walking, Devon threw Bob over his shoulder.

   “It is right around the corner up ahead.”

   Devon was thankful being that Bob was a heavyset man with a very round belly that did not balance well upon his shoulder.

   John opened his front door and Devon stumbled inside with Bob. John pointed to a room off the kitchen for Devon to place him. Devon bounced off the narrow doorway of the room hitting Bob’s head on the frame. Devon hurled Bob’s body on to the bed, nearly falling on top of him as his body lunged forward.

   Devon pointed to Bob’s head and with labored breath and said, “He may feel that in the morning.”

   John laughed at that. “Oh believe me lad. He has been in far worse shape. A little knock on the noggin won’t do much to him.”

   Devon smiled at him, placing his hands on his hips while trying to catch his breath.

   “Come on Devon. Let us see if we can find us a drink.” John patted him on the back.

   Devon sat down in a chair at John’s kitchen table. His breathing was still labored. It was a long walk from town with an encompassing man about his shoulder.

   “Ah Brook me girl,” John said as he looked past Devon’s shoulder behind him.

   Devon stood up and turned to greet the woman. He bowed to her and said, “Nice to meet your acquaintance Lady Brook. My name is Lord Devon Price.”

   Devon was surprised at how beautiful she was. Brook has big gray-blue eyes and long wavy deep red hair. Both features were stunning against her pale milky white skin.

   Brook curtsied to Devon and smiled. “How do you do Lord Price?”

   “Devon is a friend of Sarah’s,” John said as he sat back down.

   Brook moved quickly to Devon but still maintaining a respectable distance. “You have not seen Sarah recently have you?” Brook’s expression filled with worry for her friend.

   “Sarah is currently a guest at my estate with my family. I assure you she is sound.” Devon said to Brook with a reassuring tone in his voice.

   Brook smiled at him, looking relieved upon hearing the good news.

   Back at the estate Grams and Sarah had settled down for tea in the drawing room. Sarah was staring out the widow. She had not really taken her tea yet. Richards had Molly make a variety of quick sweets for Sarah but mostly for Grams.

   Sarah sat in the club chair next to the warm fire. She began to wonder if it would be best to go back to Lady Wilcox’s to stay for a while. It was not right that Devon was to leave every night because of her. Sarah felt she had caused this family enough problems.

   “A sweet treat for your thoughts my dear,” Grams said as she held out a sugar cookie in her hand.

   Sarah shook her head and said, “No thank you.” She then turned her gaze back out the window. “I think it would be best if I return to Lady Wilcox for a visit.”

   “Sarah I don’t want you to leave. I enjoy your company immensely my dear, you are as family to me Sarah.” Grams scooted closer to Sarah off the chair across from her. “Everything will work its self out.” Grams patted Sarah’s hand. “You will soon see.” She tried to smile at her.

   “I would feel more comfortable to be honest with you Grams. I am sorry.”

   Grams face fell. “Will you not still come to visit with me?”

   Sarah smiled weakly at her, “Of course I will. I do not think I would be able to stay away from you even if forced too.” Sarah took Grams hand in hers. “You are family to me as well Grams. My only family now.”

   “I will take you to Lady Wilcox’s myself, if you do not mind?” Grams then sat back and took a mini muffin off the silver platter from the side table next to her.

   Her gaze fell back upon the window once more as Richards entered the room and asked Grams for a private word with her. Sarah had not wondered why. Her mind was on Devon and the horrible night’s events.

   Brook and Devon began talking at the small kitchen table. She filled Devon in on what she knew of Sarah’s situation. It took Devon some time to convince her all the information was to help Sarah. Brook is a very loyal friend. She did not want to spread gossip or embarrass Sarah in any way with anything she was to tell him and Devon respected that.

   Given the late hour, Brook had offered for Devon to take the remaining spare room to sleep in for the night. Devon had agreed and Brook retired to bed. Devon remained in the kitchen sitting at an old small wooden table in front of the fire.

   Devon gazed into the flames as they shifted and moved wildly from the wind picking up outside. He suddenly felt exhausted. It had been a long day and an even longer night. He began to drift off into sleep at the table.

   Devon saw Sarah standing in the middle of a field, just beyond the forest. She was wearing a white wedding gown that blew around her in the wind. Her hair was down and whipped in every direction in the gusts. She was staring at him as he rode towards her on a black stallion. Devon could see her bright green eyes glisten in the moon light as he approached her.

   As he came up beside her on the horse, she turned from him and began to walk away. Devon dismounted and called to her. Sarah did not answer, she only gazed back and smiled. Devon followed her as she walked further into the field towards the other line of trees across from where they were.

   He slowly walked behind her a few yards back. He was confused. Where was she going? Why would she not answer him?

   Sarah drew closer to the tree line and gazed back at him again. She was breath taking in the wedding dress he though. Devon suddenly panicked at the thought of whom she was going to marry. Who had asked for her hand?

   He called to her again through the strong hollowing of the wind. Sarah turned away and entered into the forest, disappearing in front of his very eyes. Devon for some reason did not want to go in after her. He stood in the spot where she had left him, staring into black emptiness.

   Sarah called his name as she appeared in the line of trees in front of him. Devon asked where she was going. Sarah answered wherever her heart takes her. Devon asked her where that would be. Sarah walked toward him and told him to you.

   Devon was shaking in his dream. She was asking him to love her. Sarah with a tear in her eye turned from him and began to run away.

   He did not want her to leave. He was also scared to follow her. He watched her run away into the darkness. There was a frightful pain building up in his chest. Devon drew his hand up and placed it over his heart. He could feel it thumping rapidly. Sarah was gone and he screamed for her. It was a dreadful scream filled with desperation and regret.

   Sarah did not answer and never reappeared. Devon fell to his knees and let out everything he had been holding in for her, for Benjamin, his father and grandfather. He needed her. He wanted her and now he was too late, she was gone.

   “Devon, Devon wake up.”

   Devon awoke as Brook was gently shaking him in the chair. He looked up and saw Brook’s expression.

   “Are you alright Devon? You were screaming for Sarah.”

   Devon felt the tears rolling down his cheeks. Brook handed him a dry cloth for his face. Devon wiped his face and shook his head.

   Brook had poured him some water and handed it to him. Devon took it and sipped it.

   “You are sweating. What were you dreaming about?” Brook went to the pail of water and submerged the cloth in it. She then handed it to him and sat down. “You sounded as if you were in a great deal of pain.” Brook then poured herself a small drink of water.

   “I’m not sure. I was in a field and Sarah was there with me and I-” He stopped as it came rushing back to him. “I am not sure what it was about.

   “My goodness Devon, you are turning pale. You are as white as a ghost is. Come with me and I will help you to bed.”

   Brook did not wait for his response as she took his arm and nudged him to his feet. She led him to the spare room and pulled back the covers for him. His hands were shaking and he felt dizzy. Devon began to sway towards Brook.

   She stood up straight after turning down the bed and turned to face him. All she saw was his pale face falling into her. Brook jumped off to the side as she let out a little yelp.

   “Devon are you alright?” Brook asked.

   He did not answer her. He was face down on the bed and sweating. Brook rolled his body over and began removing his coat. She then moved onto his boots. Brook stopped as she took off everything other than his breeches. She went to the kitchen and grabbed the cloth and water pail. Brook wiped him down and took his clothes to wash them.

   As she left the room, she began to giggle to herself. Her bedchamber was right off the kitchen and she heard everything Devon was talking about in his sleep. She had not woken him until he had started to scream for Sarah. Brook heard enough of his dream to figure out he was heartbroken over Sarah. Whatever the dream was about, it had upset him enough to cause him to faint. Brook laughed again and thought who ever heard of a man fainting over loving a woman.

   Sarah had gone up to bed hours ago and was still lying awake, staring out the window. The blue curtains from the window were gently blowing in and out of the window. She felt her tears begin to fall again. They began to form a wet spot on her pillow. Sarah wiped her tears and turned the pillow over.

   She had decided to leave late morning after breakfast. She most likely would not eat but, if Grams was to escorting her, she could not deny Grams her appetite. Perhaps she would begin to feel better once she arrived at Lady Wilcox’s home. She did love spending time with her. Sarah felt for her as if she were an aunt. Lady Wilcox always made her feel welcome and at home.

   Sarah watch the sun start to rise as the sky turned all shades of pink and purple. She loved those two colors. The birds were chirping their morning greetings to the world and Sarah let a small smile out.

   Sarah whispered aloud, “Devon Price I deserve better.”

Monday's Escape Into Romance Is..."Surrendering"

Surrendering

Chapter 20

  

   Grams and Landon were walking towards Devon’s study. As they entered, Landon saw Sarah in Devon’s arms in the middle of the room possibly kissing. He immediately spun Grams around back in the direction they had just come from.

   “Landon did you just see what I think I just saw?” Grams asked him as she stopped in the center of the hallway.

   “If it was Devon and Sarah in a passionate embrace with their lips on each other, than no.” Landon looked to her and said, “We should give them a moment.”

   “Sarah’s back was to us, so I did not actually see their lips touch. Did you?” Grams asked him.

   “Odds are if they hadn’t, they were just about to.” Landon said as he guided her forward down the hallway.

   Grams and Landon headed to the drawing room to wait. She took a seat on the sofa and began to eat her sweets. She slowly bit into a mini muffin as she starred off at nothing in particular. Her mind was on Devon and Sarah.

   Landon stood looking out the window. He was hoping Devon had come to his senses concerning his feelings towards Sarah.

   Devon and Sarah entered the room together a moment later.

   “Why did the two of you leave?” Sarah asked.

   “I craved a snack my dear,” Grams said.

   Both Landon’s and Gram’s gazes were on Devon as he stood next to Sarah in the doorway. Devon reached up adjusting his collar as it had suddenly grew tight. He did not like the way the two of them were glaring at him.

   Devon walked over to the bar. Landon after a moment followed Devon. He saw Landon coming over and pulled out another glass for him.

   Landon came to Devon’s side and whispered, “What the hell are you doing?” Landon did not intend it but his voice had a hint of concern.

   Devon kept his eyes on the glasses he was filling. He calmly said, “What are you referring to?”

   Landon leaned in closer over Devon’s shoulder. His whisper was a little harsher this time. “Please tell me you intend to ask for her hand in marriage Devon.”

   Devon moved his gaze to Landon’s and held it there for only a moment. Devon looked away to the glasses again. He then grabbed a bottle of wine from under the bar.

   Landon understood what Devon’s eyes had just told him. “I do not even know who you are any more. The man I know to be Devon Price would never have considered doing what you have done to her. What are you thinking Devon?”

   Landon ran his hand threw his hair and let out a long sigh. He turned back over Devon’s shoulder and said, “Why don’t you admit to yourself you love this woman because it seems you are the only one in the room who cannot see that fact.”

   Devon was working on opening the new bottle of wine for Sarah. He paused for a moment, he then continued working on the cork in the bottle.

   Landon was growing angry with Devon’s cold demeanor. “Benjamin is turning in his grave for what you are doing to his daughter. She loves you and you are using that for your own amusement with her.”

   Devon slammed the bottle of wine he was holding on the bar top and shouted, “I do not have to explain myself to you or anyone else.”

   Sarah and Grams immediately whipped their heads around to Devon.

   Devon pushed past Landon and stormed out of the room. Landon stood behind the bar still starring at the doorway. A moment later, everyone heard the front door slam shut with great force.

   Grams turned her gaze to Landon. Her mouth was open with shock from Devon’s behavior. She had never seen him so angry, it worried her. “What happened?”

   “Landon, is Dev alright? Should we go to find him?” Sarah asked.

   Grams took Sarah’s hand. Sarah held Grams hand tight. Both the women were waiting for Landon to say something, anything to fill them in on what had just happened.

   “He is a fool! That man is pig headed and stubborn. He is his own worst enemy. Damn it!” Landon was frustrated and angry.

   Landon please explain to us what has happened between you two.” Sarah said her voice growing with worry.

   It is not what has happened between Devon and me. It is what has been taking place between Devon and you, Sarah.” Landon came out from behind the bar and walked towards her.

   Grams said to her, “We saw you and Devon in the study as he was kissing you.”

   “He did not kiss me,” Sarah said.

   Grams squeezed her hand. “You do not need to defend him Sarah. He knows what he is doing to you is wrong.”

   Landon sat down next to her. “Sarah, he is denying to himself what he clearly feels for you. Devon does not intend to ask for your hand in marriage.” Landon tried to tell her the truth as gently as he could.

   Sarah gazed down at her lap. She was fidgeting with a ribbon on her dress. Sarah could feel her bottom lip begin to quiver. “He did not kiss me. I stopped him. Well he had asked me to walk away from him and I did, but then he pulled me to him and asked me not to go. He stopped himself from kissing me” Sarah felt the sting of tears in her eyes. “I know he does not care for me the way I care for him. I wanted him to kiss me anyway.”

   “Oh Sarah, love is difficult at times,” Grams said to her.

   “Why is it Sarah you think he struggles with himself when he is around you?” Landon asked her.

   Sarah began to blush as she said, “He has not been with a woman since his return.” She whispered it as if she were telling a deep dark secret to someone.

   Landon and Grams looked at one another with amusement.

   Grams said to her, “Sarah he loves you. That is why he cannot think clearly around you. If Devon wanted to he could have been with a woman since his return, but it is you he wants, that is why he has not. Oh sweat child do you not see it?”

   Landon smiled at her and said, “She is telling you the truth Sarah.”

   “Did he tell you as much,” Sarah asked him.

   “No but I know Devon very well and I believe that he is in love with you.” Landon answered her.

   “He has not confided in either one of you as to his feeling for me. I will believe it to be true if Devon tells me from his own lips.” Sarah could taste the salt on her lips from her tears. “Will you please excuse me? She stood and left to go to bedchamber.

   Grams began to tear up herself. Landon handed her a handkerchief. As grams wiped her tears away she said, “What are we to do Landon?”

   Devon pushed Rear to run faster than he was. He wanted to hurt someone or punch something. He wanted to never go back. That was what he really wanted. Landon had no right to pry into my dealings with Sarah. What does Landon know any ways. Why does everyone insist on telling me what I feel? I know what my own feelings are and they do not include marriage or falling in love.

   He rode for hours passing two towns on the way. Devon finally stopped at a small town miles away from home. He took a room above a tavern and booked it for only the night.

   Devon took a seat in a corner set back from the small crowd of men in the pub. A young barmaid came up and asked him what he would like. She smiled flirtatiously at him. Devon ordered a bottle of scotch, ignoring her advances towards him. He was not in the mood for company.

   He began to think about how he saw Sarah’s face every time he had tried to kiss MaryAnn. He told himself it was his concern over Sarah’s situation that had cause it. He just need to do what Benjamin had asked him to get her out of his head and out of his home.

   Who did Landon think was to judge him? He does not have to stay under the same roof with Sarah tempting him. Landon has no clue how torturous it can be with her around all the time. Landon would not be able to resist her smile or the way her head tilts to the side, when she is thinking hard about something. He has seen the way she bits in her bottom lip and looks up gazing at you with her big hazel green eyes, so he should understand.

   Devon threw back his second shot, feeling it burn as it slid down his throat. He ran through his mind what Landon had said to him. They had never had words before in that manner. Landon had always been his closest friend and honestly more like a brother. It hurt him to know Landon saw him as a rake. The very thing Devon despised. How could he have let things get so out of hand with Sarah? Landon was right. He is not the man he once knew. Devon didn’t even know who he was any longer.

  

   Back at the estate. Sarah laid on her bed crying. She wanted so much to believe what Grams and Landon believed to be true. If it were true then Devon would have told me himself.

   Sarah began to cry harder into her pillow. She had been holding these feelings inside for so long and know that she was allowing them to the surface, they would not stop hurting her. She felt as though someone had died. How could she morn for something that was never truly real. It was merely her own hopes for his love that she longed for.

   She hugged the pillow tighter against her chest and face. Sarah wanted her father. She wanted him to draw her up into his arms and tell her everything will be all right. She wanted to hear his voice again, just one more time. To have another chance to hug him and smell his scent of books and tobacco pipe that had always lingered on him.

   Richards stood outside Sarah’s door. He could hear her deep gasping cries. Richards raised his hand to the door then he stopped dropping his hand back down to his side.

   Grams came up the stairs and saw Richards standing outside Sarah’s door. “Richards,” she whispered.

   He turned to her and said, “What is going on tonight in this bloody house? Why is she crying?”

   Grams explained the story with a few short cuts to get to the point and brought him up to the current moment.

   “I am going in there.” He lifted his hand to knock on Sarah’s door.

   Grams grabbed his arm and said, “She wants to be alone. The poor girl is a mess.”

   “That is why we must check on her Darleen.” Richards raised his voice.

   The two of them froze as they heard Sarah’s cries grow louder.

   Richards turned to Grams and said, “I stood outside your door in the same manner, do you not recall. You needed someone then as Sarah does now. What if I had left you alone and walked away, honoring your privacy Darleen?”

   Grams studied his face for a moment then said, “Knock on the door Richards.”

   Two men sat with Devon at his table in the corner. He does not know why or how they had come to sit with him but they were. Devon had ordered a good meal for the table and shared his bottle of scotch with them.

   The two men seemed to Devon to be an odd pair to be friends, seeing that they were complete opposites. The calm easygoing man was John O’Brien. The other man Bob was very loud and seemed angry, but also a man of very little words.

   “So what brings you here to drink alone?” John asked Devon.

   “It is a woman. It is always damn women!” Bob answered for Devon.

   Devon chuckled. “Well yes it is a woman but not in the sense you think it is”

   “Women don’t make no sense. They just make problems is all they do,” Bob said.

   Devon put his hand up to his chin and studied the angry man.

   “Ah.” John said as he waved his hand at Bob. “Pay him no attention lad. He is still angry for his wife up and leaven him.”

   “I am sorry to hear that.” Devon said.

   “You think he’d be over it by now, she left twenty years ago.” John said and started to chuckle.

   “Yours left you too.” Bob said to John.

   “Bob you damn well she did not.” John turned to Devon and said, “Me wife died a few months after given birth to me daughter. She caught a fever and died. It was a long time ago.”

   “You did not remarry?” Devon asked him.

   John smiled and shook his head no. “I wanted to but could not bring me self to. I loved her a wee bit too much and I looked to no other woman the way me did her. Oh, she was a beautiful woman. My daughter looks just like her.”

   “What do you do for work John?” Devon asked him as he saw the spotted burns on his hands.

   “I am a black smith and handyman I guessen you’d call it. My daughter Brook and I get by. She works at a library a few towns over in Clairfield.”

   “I know that library. I live not far from town. Sarah Mcmay is a friend of mine who works there as well,” Devon said.

   “Ah I know Sarah. She is such a sweet little lady. She always sends Brook home with sweets for me. It is sad about her situation.” John shook his head at the thought of Sarah. His gaze then rose to Devon. John sat up in his chair and said, “You are not friends with that Collins fella are ya?”

   “No I was Benjamin Mcmay’s business partner and friend. Sarah is staying with my family at Price estates. What do you know of this man Collins?”

   “Well I tell ya this, if he had done to me Brook what the little bastard had done to Sarah, I would have tied him up to the back of a horse and sent him running threw a garden of rocks I tell ya. A man has no business putting him hands were they aren’t wanted. After Brook had told me what had been done to Sarah, I told her Sarah should stay with us if she saw fit to. Brook was going to tell her the next day but she hasn’t seen or heard from Sarah since. She is worried of it too.

   “Please tell Brook she is safe with my family and she may visit any time she would like to,” Devon said.

   “Thank ya very much, I will.”

   The barmaid brought over their food. Devon went to go eat and John grabbed his hand.

   “Lad, when ya eat with me, ya gives thanks first.”

   Devon raised his brows at the little Irish man and said, “My apologizes John.”