Romantica Short Story~ post 2

One Night Of Passion



Chapter 2

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s her eyes fluttered open she gazed up to see Jagger starring out the window of the carriage. His expression told her everything he had not yet spoken to her. He was gone. He was truly never coming back for her. She would never hear his voice again. Never experience again the way his neck smelled as she buried her noise in it. Feel his strong arms wrap around her pulling her close to him.

        Tears began to blur her vision and she closed them tight. She felt as though she was choking, suffocating, being buried alive inside a box of her own pain.

        Kate pushed her face into the soft red velvet cushion and let out the cries that she held in for two long years. The sudden outburst startled Jagger and he leaped forward to Kate's side.

        "Kate, I'm so very sorry."

        "I never told him how I truly feel and now I will never be able to Jagger," Kate said.

        "Kate look at me," Jagger said. "He was never going to let you marry Beckum. He was coming back for you."

        She wrapped her arms around Jagger's neck and thanked him. They spent the next three hours riding through the country talking. Jagger encouraged Kate to look towards the future. Kate had asked if Jagger would attend her party for moral support. She expressed he was the only other one who had cared for him as she does. Jagger accepted the invitation.

        Jagger dropped Kate off in front of her London townhouse. After waving her good-byes she stood facing the townhouse. She didn't want to go in and face her brother who would certainly demand answers for where she has been all afternoon. Within moments she found herself walking away down the street.

        She was positive she looked simply dreadful, but she didn't care. Her heart was breaking and if she had to at this moment step one foot inside her brother's house, she would lose it. Knowing how happy the news of his death would make her brother was too much to bear.

        Kate turned the corner as she was staring off across the street at a happy couple arm in arm and she ran into a tall solid man.

        "Oh!" She screamed right before her bottom found the ground.

        The tall man stood over her. "Foolish chit! Next time do watch where you are going and not in another direction." He stepped over her and proceeded across the street.

Kate began to giggle out loud when she realized it was Beckum. "Perfect." She said in between her laughter to herself. Then she suddenly stopped. Out of nowhere came the question in her mind. How was she going to get out of bed tomorrow knowing he is gone forever? What was the rest of her life going to be like?

        She remained sitting on the corner of Eastwood and summers, just starring down at her lap.

        "May I offer you some assistance my Lady?"

        Kate gazed up to see a man holding out his hand to her. With the sun now almost disappearing into the horizon for the day, Kate could not get a good look at him. She noted his long ungroomed beard and well fitting clothes, fit for a gentleman.

        She slowly raised her hand and slid it in his hand. The man carefully pulled Kate to her feet.

        "I was in fear you were seriously injured. On my way into the cigar shop I saw you bump into a man and I assumed he was going to aid you. I was in the shop for quite some time and when I emerge you were still in the same spot I had last saw you in," he said.

        Kate glance across the street to the cigar shop and said, "Well thank you for your concern and kindness."

        "I shall like to escort you home mam," he offered.

        Kate looked around her and then let out a sigh. She thought for a moment on how she would explain this to her brother and then said, "I accept your kind offer Sir..."

        "You can call me Bellford," he said.

        "I live down a few blocks this way." Kate pointed.

        He held out his arm for her and they began walking. The first half a block neither of them spoke.

        "I was surprised the man you bumped into did not offer you help. Any reasonable gentlemen would," Bellford said.

        Kate shook her head slightly in agreement. "That is to be my future husband if my brother has his way." Kate said then laughed at the thought of it and his actions.

        The man remain quiet for a second then said, "You could refuse him. I mean after all he did step over you and left you sitting on brick paves."

        Kate stopped and looked at the man. "I don't love him. I don't want him. I despise him." After a moment Kate continued walking. "I'm sorry. I-I am not myself today and should not be in the company of others."

        He chuckled softly. "I'm told that about myself often the last few years."

        Kate looked to him. "You seem to me to be a pleasant fellow."

        "Yes well people are not always who they seem to be at times. I did something dishonorable a few years back and have had to live with the regret of it." He said.

        "Is it something you can set right," Kate asked.

        "I fear it may be too late." He said.

        After a second Kate asked, "May I ask what it was that you did?"

        He remained quiet then said, "I ran away from the woman I love, the only woman I have ever loved. I nearly took her innocence and then left. I was scared and foolish in thinking she would always be waiting for me and now," he paused, "And now, she is to marry another man."

        Kate squeezed his arm as she stopped him. "Do not give up Bellford. I am nearly certain she awaits you somewhere. If she truly loves you then she waits for you."

        Bellford smiled at her. "Perhaps there is hope."

        "Kate! Where the devil have you been?" Gary shouted from a few houses down.

        "I'm sorry that is my brother," Kate said.

        Bellford looked at him then at Kate. "I shall escort you the remainder of the way and introduce myself."

        "Oh no that is not-"

        "Do not worry Katie, it will be ok," Bellford said.

        Kate starred at him. No one called her Katie but-

        "Kate, I have sent out men looking for you all over London," Gary shouted at her.

        "And her she is safe and sound at your door." Bellford said as he extended out his arm to shake hands with Gary. "I found your Kate on the ground a few blocks down. Apparently, her to be husband knocked her over and then proceeded to step right over her on the street with everyone watching. Quit a charming man was my first impression of him I have to say." Bellford looked to Kate. "Would you not agree Lady Kate?"

        Kate tried to stop herself from smiling.

        Gray took Kate's arm and said, "Thank you for seeing her home sir."

        Bellford bowed to Gary. "It was my pleasure sir." He then winked at Kate as Gary turned to go inside with Kate on his arm.

        Gary took Kate to the sitting room off to the left of the entrance. "Good God Kate! Why did you take off all day and then show up with that-that strange looking man?"

        Kate sat down on the sofa. "I had many things to do and ran around all day and then I happened upon an old friend and received some news. He is not strange looking Gary."

        Gary picked up the poker and jabbed it into the fire sending embers popping into the room. He took his shoe and pushed them back towards the fireplace. Gary turned to Kate and said, "You cannot run about London as you please. I will not allow it!"

        Kate pinched her lips together. Then after a moment said, "I am a grown woman Gary and refuse to be treated like a girl in finishing school. You-"

        "I, dear sister, am in charge of this house and everything in it, including...you! No more running about London with strange men." Gary shouted.

        Kate stood up. "I will not be held up in this house. I will not be used to pay your debit and I am not marring Beckum."

        Gary strode towards the sofa and slapped Kate across the cheek. Kate gasped and cupped her burning skin.

To Be Continued

  

   Start at the beginning Post 1

  

   

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

Surrendering

Chapter 19

  

   Sarah smiled and said to him, “You cause me to blush in a far different way Dev.”

   Devon questioned her no further on the subject.

   They continued to talk with one another sharing stories and telling jokes. Sarah gazes around the table feeling at home. Two months ago, she would have never thought she would have found such kind friendship so close to where her home was. That house was also filled with happiness once upon a time.

   “Sarah is something wrong?” Grams asked with her with a sweet round face full of concern.

   “I was thinking how blessed I am that Devon had come across me in the park last week. Your kind friendship has been one of the most important in my life Grams.”

   Grams reached out taking Sarah’s hand in hers. “As is yours to me my sweet Sarah.” She gave Sarah a loving smile and squeezed her hand.

   Afterwards everyone moved to Devon’s study. Grams and Sarah sat on the sofa. Landon and Devon took a seat across from the women in the club chairs.

   “Sarah and I have been discussing the ball Landon my boy. I was thinking if you could take the first dance with her, then we can see who else may be interested. After hearing my story earlier, she has confided in me that she is open to seeing who may be out there of interest.”

   “I believe that is a good plan.” Landon stood up and walked to Sarah and said, “Have you not taken me into consideration though?”

   Devon’s heart was racing. He watch as Sarah looked from Grams to Landon and then back to Grams.

   Landon reached down and touched her hand. He placed his other hand around her hand as well and fell to one knee before her. Landon waited for a moment then said, “I am sorry, I felt no warn rush consuming my very soul. Did you?” Landon then flashed her a smile.

   Devon was nearly ready to jump out of his chair. What he was going to do after that he had not thought of.

   Sarah started to laugh. She was fanning her red face. “Landon I thought you to be serious. I had no clue what to tell you. A little devil is what you are.”

   Grams laughed and slapped his bottom as he passed by her. “You had me going as well, you fiend”

   Landon turned and said, “Can you spank me again?”

   “Will you be bare bottom when I do?” Grams started laughing again.

   Sarah gasped at what they said. “I think I shall learn more tonight from you two then I care to know.” Sarah was shaking her head back and forth at how in proper they were speaking to one another. She secretly loved it though.

   “Shall we play a card game?” Grams asked.

   “Grams, must you insist on playing cards with every guest who comes over?” Devon teased her.”

   “Shall I just stare at you all night. Oh Devon you are right, that is much more fun.”

   “I will if you would like me to...Devon.” Landon said and then laughed. “Did you tell Grams of your new friend Eli?”

   “I had not planned on it.” Devon said through this teeth at him.

   “Perhaps that is a story for later.” Landon said with a wiry smile at Sarah and Grams.

   “Sarah my dear, with the upcoming ball we must freshen up on your dance steps,” Grams said as she had grabbed Sarah’s arm. “Landon, would you please help Sarah to freshen up my boy?”

   Landon shoved his drink at Devon and said, “It would be my pleasure. Hold this would you, I have been waiting for a reason to touch her.”

   Touch her and I think I may be forced to break your hands, old friend. Devon shot back Landon’s drink.

   Grams was standing next to both of them in the middle of the room. Devon watched as Grams was instructing Sarah on where to place her hands on Landon. Devon cringed the moment Sarah placed her hand on Landon’s shoulder. He saw Landon whisper something in Sarah’s ear, she laughed and turned to him, and Devon turned away. Bloody hell!

   As Sarah and Landon began to dance about the room, Landon drew Sarah closer to his body. He then stopped and dipped her.

   “Oh!” Sarah shouted with surprise. “What dance is this?”

   Landon smiled at her with his devilish smile and said loud enough for Devon to hear him. “I have a name for it and I believe it allows a man to gaze where he wishes to, at the woman he is holding.”

   Sarah shook her head and said, “Why was I foolish enough to ask you that”

   Landon threw his head back and laughed. “This one is called the devilish dip. It is a move and not a whole dance. You should travel to Spain Sarah. The type of dancing they do is not anything like we partake in here. The women dance with their entire bodies. Like in the story Devon was telling us about the young woman in Egypt.”

   “I still cannot picture what it may look like.” Sarah said to Landon as they continued to dance.

   “You have been to India, right?” Landon continued as she shook her head yes. “Have you not seen the women dance in India?”

   “I understand now. No we would never dance it that fashion here.” Sarah giggled.

   “Well, at least not in public view. Behind closed doors is another story.” Landon looked to her and moved his eyebrows up and down at her.

   Sarah slapped his arm and said, “You are supposed to be using this on Grams, not me. I am rooting for you remember.”

   “Ah yes, the contest. It will take a lot more than that to bring forth a blush on that dirty old woman.” Landon smiled.

   “I heard that.” Grams yelled from across the room.

   Landon and Sarah laughed louder.

   Devon took a seat in a club chair after pouring himself another drink. Grams sat back down on the sofa and was sipping her drink as she watched them dance about the room. Devon was watching also and was not comfortable with were Landon had been placing his hands on Sarah. He swore Landon was doing it to get a rise out of him.

   “My boy, why have you been so pouty the last few days?” Grams asked Devon.

   “I have been asked to leave my home every night. That could be reason number one perhaps.” He did not bother to look at her.

   “Well I do believe I told you too but, you may come back as soon as we find Sarah a special someone. We must consider her reputation Devon. This way no one will question her innocence in the future.” Grams gave Devon one of her, I am sorry smiles.

   All of the sudden Sarah was hanging in front of Devon’s face. Landon had dipped her nearly into Devon’s lap. Sarah started to giggle as she was nearly upside down, suspended in Landon’s arms over Devon’s lap.

   Landon held Sarah in front of Devon and turned to Grams who was laughing at Devon’s expression. Landon said to Grams, “Dance with me my impure woman of my deepest desire.”

   Grams got up from the sofa after letting out a loud burst of laughter.

   Landon looked back at Sarah and said, “I do apologize, my true love awaits me.” Then he glanced at Devon and said, “Hold this would you?” Landon dropped Sarah in Devon’s lap.

   Devon caught her. “Landon!” Devon shouted at him.

   Landon paid Devon no attention. He walked over to Grams and spins her up into a dance.

   Sarah lay in Devon’s lap still giggling. She started to push herself out of the chair but could not without pushing against Devon. He waited a moment then said, “Perhaps you truly do not wish to leave my lap, Lady Sarah.”

   Sarah felt bold and said, “Perhaps you are right. Perhaps I wish to sit on top of you for the remainder of the evening and into the next morning, Lord Price.”

   Devon had not expected that answer and he laughed. “Would you care to dance?”

   “Would you like to do it from the chair?” Sarah gave him smile.

   “Sarah Mcmay. You are as dirty as Grams. Wow.” Devon was shocked and amused at what came out of her mouth. She had no idea what she had just implied to him and why it was so funny.

   “What did I say? What did that mean?” Sarah was surprised at his laughing towards her. She began to hit his shoulder and demanding that he tell her.

   Devon grabbed her hand in his and held it for a moment. Devon began to lean into her. “Will you dance with me Sarah?”

   Sarah shook her head yes. She had noticed how his entire body language had just changed. He had looked at her with such intensity. Sarah could feel her hands begin to tremble.

   Devon asked Sarah if she knew the waltz. Sarah had told him no. Devon then asked Grams for some assistance in teaching her. Devon and Grams demonstrated the moves for her.

   Sarah watched with delight as she thought she would like this dance very much. Grams then handed Devon over to Sarah.

   Devon could feel Sarah’s hands trembling as he took them in his. As they started, Sarah continued to watch her own feet.

   “Sarah you will miss step if you keep starring at your feet. Look up to me and let me lead you.”

   Sarah started to become frustrated with herself. “I am not sure if I can do this dance Dev.”

   “You can and will, just look up at me. You cannot very well stare at you feet while dancing the waltz with someone you do not know.” Devon encouraged her to trust him.

   As they began, both of them moved through the room with ease, until Sarah looked down again. She missed a step and landed on Devon’s foot.

   “I am sorry Dev. Did I hurt you?” Sarah was blushing.

   Devon chuckled. “No, I have another foot I can use. Why did you look down?”

   “Because I had forgotten which direction we were to move next.” She smiled and shrugged her shoulders slightly.

   “That is why you follow my lead. I, meaning me, and you, meaning you. Who leads?”

   “You are to lead.” Sarah said while rolling her eyes.

   “Who follows?”

   “I follow you.” Sarah was annoyed at his teasing.

   “Alright are you ready to begin? You have to look at me Sarah.” Devon squeezed her hand. “You can learn this. Look me in my eyes and do not look away to your feet. Keep you gaze on me.” Devon said to her.

   As they both began, Sarah found it quite easy when she looked Devon in the eyes. She did not think, she just followed his direction. She started to think how very blue his eyes were.

   “Grams my tainted love, my I have a private word with you?” Landon asked her.

   “What about my dear sinful sweet?”

   “It is about Devon and his intentions towards Sarah or I dear say lack of. I have an idea but I will need your help.”

   “Shall we go look for a snack in the kitchen?” Grams asked with a giggle.

   “My dear love, who needs food when you have this to feast on.” Landon smiled at her as he waved his hand down the length of his body at her.

   Grams patted him on the arm while saying, “Landon my love, I would chew you up and spit you out.”

   Landon laughed as they left the room arm in arm.

   Devon and Sarah had not realized they were alone as they continued to dance beautifully. Devon was beginning to regret telling Sarah to look him in the eyes. All he could think about was kissing her. Kissing her lips, then moving down her neck, and pausing at the base where her long soft neck met her shoulder. Devon’s gaze was on that area.

   Sarah asked him, “What are you looking at?”

   “You.” It was all he said to her.

   Devon’s gaze flew to Sarah’s lips as she bit up her bottom lip.

   Sarah slowly let her lip slid out from between her teeth, as she was aware Devon was starring at it. She began to feel foolish.

   Devon thought about taking her bottom lip up between his teeth.

   Devon released her from his arms. He was still staring intensely at Sarah’s lips. “Sarah can you walk away for me, please?”

   Sarah stepped back from him and turned to the sofa. “Where did everyone go? Shall I go find them?” Sarah was still looking about the room.

   Sarah looked to Devon. His eyes were wild looking to her. She took another step back and turned to leave. The look in his eyes was making her uncomfortable. He looked odd to her.

   She started for the door. Devon reached out grabbed her arm and pulled her to him.

   “Devon.” Sarah was startled.

   Sarah pushed against his chest. Devon whispered, “Don’t go.”

   She felt weak. Her knees began to buckle. Devon caught her and held her in his arms. He gazed into her warm jade colored eyes.

   How am I to ever give you up to another man Sarah? Tell me how I let you go. I wish you could see that I am no good for you Sarah. That this is wrong…that we are wrong. Can you not see you are turning me towards madness!

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

Mondays New Chapter Of The Week

Surrendering

Chapter 18

 

    “What have you discovered Landon?” Grams face was full of concern.

  “That he is in love.” Landon turned to her with a smile.

   Sarah and Devon returned to the house. Grams began to give Sarah quite an earful. “And further more if you insist on lying in the middle of the field on top of a horse, I must be notified first. You scared me to death!” Grams was shouting with her arms flaring around in the air. Sarah stood before shaking her head in understanding. She glanced quickly over Grams shoulder at the two men at her back.

   Devon looked to Landon who was trying to keep a straight face. Devon said, “Theatrical is she not.”

   Landon shook his head in agreement and turned his back to her. “That is Grams though and I think she is amazing.” Landon said with a smile at Devon.

   Off in the background, Sarah was still being scolded. Richards entered the room bringing tea and snacks. He walked past Devon and Landon as he said, “This will shut her up.” The two men could not contain their laughter and burst out. Sarah began to smile as she had heard what Richards had said.

   Grams stopped talking when she saw some of Molly’s mini muffins go by. Richards began to pour some tea for everyone. Sarah turned to leave the room.

   “Will you not stay for tea Lady Sarah?” Richards asked.

   Sarah turned and said, “I think I shall bathe first. Save me a mini muffin for when I return.” Sarah then left the room.

   Devon over heard what she had said to Grams and wrapped a mini muffin in a handkerchief placing it in his pocket. He joined Grams, Landon, and Richards near the sofa.

   Sarah asked her maid Lisa, to draw her up a suds bath. It did not take long for Lisa to fill the tub. Before she left she asked Sarah if she needed her further. Sarah smiled kindly and told her no she may retire for the night.

   Sitting at her table she let down the rest of her hair. She then stood and began to remove her clothes. Gazing at her naked body in the mirror, she wondered what other women looked like compared to her. She realized she had never thought of that before now. She examined her body in the full-length mirror. Turning around she looked at her bottom. She wondered if it was too large compared to other women? It looked large to her or maybe just firm and full. Sarah turned back towards the mirror and gazed at her breasts. She knew they were large enough because men were always gawking at them. She lifted her arms up above her head to see what they looked like at that angle. She thought it odd she had never once done this in the past.

   Grams had noticed Landon looking at Devon with that smirk of his. As everyone talked with each other, Devon was starring out the window thinking of last night with Sarah. He wondered if she had removed her clothing yet. He could not picture her naked for some reason. He had never seen her naked, well not entirely naked but knew she would have to be beautiful. He thought about when he had grazed his finger across the top of her bottom and how soft she felt under his touch.

   Sarah let her arms fall to her sides. She then stepped into the bath and slid down under the water. It felt so good. She had not realized how sore she was from riding. Sarah had used muscles she had not used in over six months. She remained in the tub until the water grew colder.

   She braided her hair in a lose braid off to the side, seeing there was not much she was able to do with it being wet. Grabbing a light cotton soft blue dress, she to put on. Comfort is what she was looking for. The dress was similar to the one she wore the night before.

   Sarah rejoined the group downstairs. Devon was the first one to see her standing in the doorway. Their gazes locked. Devon loved her hair that way. He smiled at her softly.

   Landon noticed Devon smiling like a fool. He looked at the doorway and saw what was making him smiling that way. Landon chuckle to himself and thought that maybe Devon needed a reason to notice Sarah. Quite possibly if Landon was to began to adore Sarah a little, then Devon would have to speak up about the way he felt for her.

 Sarah saw Landon’s expression on his face. Sarah looked to Devon and saw why Landon was making that face. She quickly moved towards the sofa.

   “Oh look the dead is walking,” Grams said.

   Landon walked over to Sarah. “Would you like some tea Sarah?” He smiled at her with his charming features.

   “Yes thank you Landon.” Sarah returned the smile.

   Devon asked himself. Why did he just call her Sarah and not Lady Sarah? Devon moved in closer to the group. He took a seat in the club chair. Grams was sitting at one end of the sofa and Sarah at the other with Landon in between them. Richards sat opposite of Devon in a club chair next to the fireplace.

   “So Landon, do tell me who is new in the ton this season?” Grams said.

   “To be perfectly honest, I have no idea. I do not have any interest in getting involved with the young ladies of the ton.” Landon looked to Devon.

   “Grams you know as well as we do that a man can become easily trapped. It is best to stay away from the young ladies coming out and their mothers,” Devon said.

   “Ah, entrapment is the name of their game I see. I will admit, I have witnessed myself many a times men becoming trapped into marriages. Does it not seem that it has gotten to the point, that a family can merely suspect an inappropriate gesture and the poor chap is then forced into marriage?” Grams asked no one in particular.

   “The men always comprise an option though. He can simply departed from a scandal, were as a woman remains optionless.” Richards pointed out.

   “Yes, why is that do you think? It does not at all seem just,” Sarah said.

   “Because men can run about and chase skirts and proper ladies keep their skirts down. It is the way it is.” Grams said. “Being a woman is not easy to say the least. I personaly would not care to be a male. We females do have our advantages.” Grams smiled at the thought and looked to Sarah.

   Sarah began to giggle at Grams as she had winked at her.

   “Landon you have no plans to marry as Devon does not care too?” Grams asked him.

   “Not at this time, perhaps in the future. I have far too many things to complete before I consider taking a wife.” Landon said.

   “What if you fall in love?” Sarah asked him.

   “Simple, I do not plan too.” Landon chuckled and looked at Devon as if it were that simple.

   Grams started laughing, as did Richards. Devon, Sarah, and Landon were looking at each other.

   “Falling in love is never something one plans or does not plan on doing my dear boy Landon. Grams said.

   Richards was still chuckling. “If you have ever been in love you would surely not be saying that, Landon.”

   “It happens as easily as the sky releases rain or someone blinking.” Grams said to all of them.

   “Nor do you ever choose who to fall in love with.” Richards said as he looked to Grams and smiled at her.

   “Yes, that is true as well. One minute you are not than the next minute you are.” Grams said.

   “How would you know if you are then?” Sarah asked.

   “There is no mistaking being in love. It is the strongest feeling on earth. Love is a life force in its self.” Richards answered Sarah. “It is a feeling like no other feeling. Love consumes your every thought of the one you love and you cannot resist the feeling you have for that person when they are near to you.”

   “That is true. The feeling is so powerful it cannot be denied. When two people fall in love they feel it the instant they touch. A touch as simple as touching the others hand or arm. Having that person brush a hand across your knee” Grams said.

   Devon shifted uncomfortably in his chair. He felt as though everyone in the room was reading his mind. He had felt that when Sarah brushed his knee and he cannot control himself around her with every thought he has is of her. Devon wanted to leave, but he couldn’t.

   “What does it feel like?” Sarah asked them again.

   Grams and Richards looked to one another, then Grams looked to Sarah and said, “The moment they touch, it is if the world has fallen away and all you see is the one who stands before you. A warm sensation washes over your body as a wave washes over you in the ocean. You suddenly feel alive and alert. Imagine walking though life asleep and you are touched and suddenly awoken. Your heart begins to race, you may have a hard time catching your breath, or you simply cannot move as you are stunned by the rush of emotion. The sensation of the first touch is something that you have never felt before. It is like a static shock but over your entire body, your mind, and your very soul. The soul knows and will not allow you to deny the feeling it desires and needs.

   “It sounds painful.” Landon said with a light chuckled.

   “It can be for some. Have you never heard of dieing of a broken heart?” Grams said to Landon.

   “Can that really happen to people?” Sarah asked.

   “It most certainly can and does. My sister Maggie died of a broken heart. She was my younger sister and she was so very much in love.” Grams looked to Devon. “I have told you the story have I not Devon?”

   Devon cleared his throat. “I thought she had died from a fever.”

   “No no no.” Grams said.

   “I have heard your family talk of it in the past.” Richards said. He looked to Sarah and said, “Her portrait hangs in the hallway outside Lady Wilsbee’s sitting room.”

   “What happened to her? Why did he leave her? Did he not love her back?” Sarah asked Grams. Her eyes were wide with fascination, wanting to know the poor woman’s story.

   “Maggie was just merely a year older than you Sarah my dear. She was twenty-three years old. The whole family gathered for a family picnic at my cousin’s estate. It had been dreadfully hot that summer. Maggie was sitting under a large oak tree watching the younger children fly their kites in the summer's warm breeze.”

   “The way that Bruce liked to tell the story was that, he saw Maggie earlier that day running with the children in a field and her beauty caught his breath. He was nervous and not quite sure what to say to her or how to approach her. Bruce poured two glasses of lemonade and walked over to her. He said his heart was beating so fast he thought it my beat out of his chest. Bruce knelt down in front of Maggie, who was sitting on the ground, and offered her the glass of lemonade. Maggie’s gaze locked with his and she smiled at him. No words were ever exchanged between them. Maggie reached out and touched his hand that held out the glass in front of her.”

   “Now, Maggie and Bruce both say it was if they had known one another for life times. It was many life times of the past, present, and the future all in one single moment, in one touch. Bruce leaned forward and kissed her.

   “Bruce and Maggie were engaged within less than a week. Our parents insisted to a long engagement. The young couple in love did not care. They were not waiting for the honeymoon to share their love with one another. I know because I walked in on them. The position I had found them in, I still to this day do not believe to be physically possible.”

   Everyone started laughing. Sarah was smiling shyly. Devon looked to her and he knew she was confused but trying not to show it.

   “What happened to the young couple?” Landon asked after a few seconds had past.

   “Oh yes. Well they remained very much in love throughout their nearly six-month engagement. Bruce was over at our estate from the time the sun rose until long after it set. He wrote Maggie poetry, which I still have to this day. When you were in the room with these two, the room was alive. You could feel the love they had for one another in the air around them.”

   “Three days before the wedding Bruce told Maggie he had to go pick up the wedding gift he had made for her by a friend who was a jeweler. Maggie did not want him to leave. Bruce was to be gone for a day and a half. He had left early on a Thursday morning. Maggie sat in the big picture window awaiting his return, right here in this very room.” Grams pointed to the window seat at the big picture window.

   “Friday evening came and there was a caller for Maggie at the door.” Grams put her head down to compose herself. “I still remember the cries coming out of that room were the strange man was with Maggie. The whole house heard her and grew silent. The carriage Bruce was riding in flipped over and crashed. The driver had fallen asleep and Bruce was killed.”

   Devon heard Sarah gasp as she chocked back her tears. Devon leaned forword and handed her his handkerchief. Sarah looked to him as he smiled at her.

   “The stranger in the room with Maggie was Bruce’s old friend, the jeweler. He gave to Maggie her wedding ring that held in it three birthstones. Maggie’s, Bruce’s and in the middle of the ring, was the birth stone of their unborn child.”

   “Maggie slowly died six months later of a broken heart. She never wore the ring. She just held it in the palm of her hand.”

   Grams got up off the sofa and walked to Sarah who was trying to keep up with wiping her tears. Grams held out her hand to Sarah. As Sarah gazed at Grams's hand, she saw the ring.

   “It is beautiful.” Sarah said as she ran her fingers over the stones.

   “Upon her deathbed she told me she would do it all over again, even knowing she would only have six months with him. “Live your life with love in your heart,” was her last words to me. Then she handed me the ring and died in my arms.” Grams said.

    After a few moments Grams said, “I think we have had enough of love stories and tea. Devon would you like to pour us some drinks and we shall have a toast.”

   “What shall we toast to Grams?” Landon asked her.

   “We shall toast to good friends and the pursuit of love.” Grams let out a giggle.

   Sarah sat quietly and thought about the story and Grams description of being in love. She had decided she wanted that. She wanted to feel that feeling and share her heart with someone. She thought she had felt that with Devon but she couldn’t have because if it was love, then he would have felt it as well.

   Devon sat next to Sarah on the sofa as everyone else was by the bar. He handed her a glass of wine. Sarah smiled as she looked at the glass. She thanked him while not moving her eyes away from it.

   “Are you alright?” Devon asked her softly.

   “I am wonderful.” Sarah said as she was still smiling.

   “Wonderful? Most people would be saddened after a story like that one. You seem to have lifted spirits Lady Sarah.” Devon chuckled as he teased her.

   “I think I do. I think I may have changed my mind about marriage. I do not want to be scared any longer of becoming hurt. I believe Grams was right when she told us to live life without love, is not to live life at all. I want to fall in love.” Sarah said to him. Then she smiled again slowly at her glass of wine she was still starring at in her hand.

   “Shall we toast?” Sarah shouted happily. She then got up and knelt on the sofa, resting her arms over the back of it.

   Devon remained quiet. Everyone else clacked glasses in a cheer. Sarah looked down at Devon.

   “I cannot take a sip of my wine until you raise your glass with me Dev.”

   Devon raised his glass to her and gazed at her bright smile.

   “Cheers to you Dev, I hope you find the woman who will make you feel alive in love.” Sarah said to him sweetly.

   Devon said, “If it happens then it happens.” Devon shot back his whole drink in one gulp. He stood up and went to pour another.

   Grams moved over to where Sarah was and Devon could hear them discussing the upcoming ball. Landon walked over to him as Richards, who he was talking with left the room. Devon shot back another drink in one gulp.

   “I can get you the whole bottle if you like.” Landon said then laughed.

   Devon chuckled. “Why do women get so caught up in the idea of love do you think?”

   “You do not believe in love?” Landon asked him.

   “No, I didn’t say that. I just think people should not chase fairy tales their entire lives is all I am saying. If it is as Richards and Grams describes it to be, then hardly anyone would ever marry. It could take a lifetime to find that person. Could you imagine how much time one would spend looking for it,” Devon said.

   “Or avoiding it as well. I think if you fall in love, you cannot deny it to yourself. My parents are still madly in love after thirty years, so I have seen it myself. Believe me Devon, my father still looks at my mother like a fool in love.” Landon then smiled at the thought of his parents.

   Richards entered the room and announced supper was ready. Grams and Sarah strolled to the dining room arm in arm as Devon and Landon followed behind them.

   Grams had her usual place at the head of the table. Sarah was off to her left and Landon was at her right. Devon was sitting next to Sarah. They started the meal with clam chowder soup. As it is set down in front of Devon and Sarah, they look at each other and start to laugh.

   Richards gave them the eyebrow and said, “Do attempt to keep it in your own bowls this time. Otherwise, I do believe Molly will quit.”

   Grams looked at the two partners in crime laughing hysterically, which of course made her begin to laugh.

   “Is there something in the soup?” Landon asked.

   Sarah started to slap her hand on top of the table. She could not catch her breath.

   Grams shouted for everyone to stop laughing because she was in danger of wetting herself. A moment later, she then announced it was too late.

   Sarah had rolled off her chair holding her stomach and was snorting. Devon’s face was red. He watched Sarah roll off her chair and fall to the floor. Devon burst out in a harder laugh.

   Richards took it upon himself to explain the incident that took place in the room they were in and the explosion of food within it. He had explained that Devon insisted Sarah had dropped her plate but Richards added she must have had to drop it a thousand times over.

   Grams then began to describe what she had seen, as well as the way Sarah and Devon looked when she had opened the door on them. Sarah and Devon began to argue who had really started the fight. Sarah took everyone else’s opinion about the matter and of course, they all agreed Devon deserved it. Devon threw his napkin at Landon and announced he was a traitor.

  A while later, everyone had quieted down and began to eat the now cold soup. Landon looked at Devon who was watching Sarah as she was speaking with Grams about the ball. He gazed at Sarah at times the way his father looked at his mother. Landon had decided he would talk with Grams about it later. Devon needed a little encouragement concerning Sarah.

   “Have I told you this evening how breath taking you are?” Landon said to Grams.

   “I do believe you have not! And to think, I have had to wait patiently while you had not notice until this very minute.” Grams started to giggle at her own witty humor.

   “Please do forgive me my beauty.” Landon picked up her hand and kissed it gently. “Do not make me beg for an apology.” He flashed her a devilish wicked smile.

   “I like my men to beg my dear boy and beg you will my exquisite creature.”

   Laughter again began to fill the room. Sarah told Devon how she loved to watch Grams and Landon do this to one another.

  “It is a contest to see which one can stump the other.” Devon said to her.

   “Or whoever blushes first.” Sarah said.

   “It will end up being Landon, I’ll bet you. Grams tongue can become quite wicked at times. I would wager on it.” Devon said with a chuckle.

   “Alright then, what shall we wager?” Sarah said back with confidence.

   Devon looked at her and smiled. “I am not sure.”

   “Perhaps a dance at the ball. If I lose you get to pick my partner and if you lose I can pick yours.” Sarah suggested.

   Devon said. “For one dance or every dance?”

   “Oh, shall we do it for every dance. This will make it much more interesting. What if they have a tie?” She asked.

   “How are they going to have a tie at this Sarah?”

   “They could both very well blush at the same time. Could they not?” Sarah looked to them then back at Devon.

   “Then we will split the dance choices for each other evenly.” Devon stated.

   “Agreed then,” Sarah finalized it with a nod.

   Sarah stood and clanked her fork on her glass. “Devon and I have a wager going concerning you two. I have wagered Devon, that Landon can make Grams blush before Grams can make Landon blush.” She looked to Grams and said, “Sorry Grams, I have blushed with the things he has said to you.” Sarah then sat down.

   Devon looked to her and said, “He makes you blush?”

   “Have you not heard what comes out of the man’s mouth?” Sarah faced forward and smiled.

   “What do you purpose we will get out of this? Landon asked.

   Devon asked him, “What would you like?”

   Landon replied. “Nothing from you Devon.” Landon moved his gaze to Sarah “What will you offer to me Sarah?”

   Sarah instantly blushed. She looked to Devon and said, “Oh he is good. Look at my face. I believe I shall win.” Sarah began to giggle.

   “I am not being serious. I do appreciate your confidence in my ability though Sarah.” Landon laughed at Devon’s expression.

   “My boy, have no fear for you know my mouth. I shall not let you down.” Grams was shouting.

   “You may start at any time throughout the remainder of the evening but, everyone must be present.” Sarah said to all of them. “Our hope is that by night’s end we shall have a winner.”

   Sarah sipped her wine. Devon leaned into her and asked her softly in her ear, “Do I cause you to blush the way he does?”