Romantica Short Story~ post 4

One Night Of Passion

Chapter 4

    With her heart racing and her body thoroughly trembling now with shock, surprise, and excitement, Kate turned around.

    He chuckled softly. “I have never seen someone so disappointed to see me before.”

    Kate let her eyes fall to the flowers behind him. “I thought you to be someone else. It seems we have cross paths at another bad time,” she said.

    “What could be so bad? It is a splendid day out and you are here in the fresh air with good company,” He winked at her then added, “That would be me of course.” Bellford then smiled at her. “May I join you Lady Kate?”

    “If you wish to,” Kate said flatly. She sat back down on the bench slouching over with her head hanging in her hands.

    He took a seat within respectable distance next to her. After a short moment he said, “What is it that has you so troubled Lady Kate?”

    Kate let out a chuckle of sorts. “Where shall I start?”

    “From the beginning I suppose. That is quite often where people start a story, although we could go backwards,” Bellford said.

    Kate giggled and lifted her head out of her hands. “I do not even know where to begin. My family, my future fiancé which I loathe, the man whom I thought loved me or the fact that I wish I was someone else.”

    Bellford caught her eye and said, “Start with today and go back.”

    “As you know, I am to marry Beckum. I have just discovered he has already paid my brother Gary for the match more than two years ago. Because he has spent all the money on his mistress and gambling he has no way to pay the funds back to Beckum.”

    Bellford broke in, “Can you not borrow from a relative?”

    Kate shook her head no. “Gary and Susana, my cousin, are my only family that I know of who are living.”

    “I see. Was the sum large?” Bellford asked.

    “Too great for me to pay back. I had no idea this exchange had taken place. My brother is selling me to pay off his debits not to mention the company of his mistress,” Kate said.

    Bellford asked, “Is that all that bothers you Lady Kate?”

    Kate gazed up to the sky. “It is the smallest part of what troubles me.” She paused then said, “I was informed the man whom I had loved has d…died and is not returning for me.” Kate took a deep breath. “I never told him how I truly felt about him. Without him I feel empty. He is all I have ever known and the only one I will ever love.”

    “I am sad for you Lady Kate. Is there anything I can do for you?”

    Kate’s gaze fell to the ground in front of her. “I fear there is nothing left to do Bellford, but thank you.

    Bellford could not take his eyes from her. He felt a strong desire to cheer her up. “I need an escort for tomorrow, would you be interested in being my company for the day Lady Kate?”

    Kate looked to him. “Where would I be escorting you to Bellford?”

    He smiled a devilish smile then said, “That I cannot tell you.”

    Kate’s head fell back with a hard laugh. “How am I to escort you if I do not know where I am to escort you to Bellford?”

    The smile on Bellford’s face widened at the sight of her laugh. He chuckled as she glanced at him and laughed again. “I promise you will enjoy it…immensely Lady Kate.”

    Kate looked at him. “Immensely?” She giggled again. “How could a lady turn down immensely with such promise?”

    Bellford laughed. “I suppose a foolish one would.”

    “Kate! Whatever are you doing? I can hear you from all the way inside the shop. Your un lady like behavior is causing gossip,” Susana said in a harsh hushed tone as she approached them. “And who might you be?” Her glare fell to Bellford.

    He stood up towering over Susana and bowed before her. “I am Sir Bellford. It is a pleasure to meet your acquaintance.”

    Kate rose to her feet. “I met Bellford yesterday Susana. He was kind enough to keep me company while you were visiting with friends.” She flashed Susana a wary smile.

    Susana eyed him up and down. “Yes well it is time for us to return home.” She looped her arm thru Kate’s and began to walk away.

    Bellford reached out and took Kate’s free hand in his. She turned quickly towards him with surprise. He laid a gentle kiss on top of her hand.

    “Until tomorrow morning at ten, Katie,” Bellford whispered.

    Kate’s eyes widened and her heart leapt. She watched Bellford smile at her and then turn and walk away.

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.”