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

Surrendering

Chapter 23

  

   Devon saw Sarah sitting on the bench where he had first saw her two weeks ago. His heart was racing and he felt dizzy again. Devon gave his head a quick shake then walked over to the back of the bench. He crouched down behind her, off to her side. He was unsure of how to start the conversation. What am I to say to her? Sorry I can’t love you, but I still want to kiss you.

   Devon finally said, “I remember this bench.”

   Sarah had not noticed him at first. She did not say anything.

   “It does not look like rain this day.” He let out a nervous chuckle. “We did not find you at Lady Wilcox’s house. Everyone is worried about you.”

   “Well you can see I am perfectly fine,” Sarah said.

   “I would like to escort you home.” Devon said and then cleared his throat.

   “What do you want Devon?” Sarah asked harshly.

   Her voice sounded cold and distant. He had never heard her sound that way before. “Well, I…I came to find you.”

   “I do not need to be found. I do not need to be rescued. I need to be left alone. Go away please. I do not care to see you.” She had not looked at him. Sarah just stared straight ahead with a lifeless expression on her face. A lock of her hair had come lose and was wrapping around her cheek and down across her lips.

   Devon watched it blow and caress her skin. He reached up pulling it back and tucked it behind her ear. He watched his own hand as it brushed against her cheek softly. Devon looked down and saw her hands were trembling folded together in her lap.

   “Sarah,” he said in an odd voice he did not recognize. “I want you to know how much you mean to me. I promised your father I would take care of you and I cannot do that if we are involved with each other. It is not right.”

   She jumped up and finally turned to him. “All of this was about you making a promise to my father why did you not tell me?”

   Devon stood up. “I did not see the need to tell you.”

   “You led me to think you wanted me to stay at your home for other reasons and you know that. You made me look like a fool.”

   “No I did not. No one thinks that of you,” Devon said.

   “You could have just told me and I would have understood what your true intentions towards me. Not only did you lie to me, I then find you kissing my best friend.”

   “Sarah I would never do that to you. I brought her to see you and that is the only reason.” Devon’s voice was low.

   “Yes well I saw her alright, in your arms. Thank you, you are quite thoughtful.” Sarah then turned and ran towards her horse.

   Devon went after her. “Sarah stop please listen,” He shouted to her.

   Sarah threw herself up on top of Runner and went to leave and Devon grabbed the harness around Runners face.

   “Let go of him Devon,” Sarah yelled at him.

   “No! Not until you listen to me,” He yelled back at her.

   Sarah jumped down from Runner and got up on Rear, Devon’s horse. She took off. Devon climbed Runner and began to chase her. Devon knew she was fast and he was most likely not going to be able to catch up to her, but he was doing it anyway.

   Grams and Brook sat on the window seat in front of the large picture window. Richards brought them some snacks. He could see Darleen was worried and he bent down and kissed her forehead. He whispered something in her ear that made her smile.

   Brook watched the older couple and was surprised. She then heard Grams tell him she loved him. This whole family was confusing to her. Landon and Grams flirt with one another, Richards kisses Grams and she tells him she loves him, Devon cannot bring himself to tell Sarah he loves her, and Sarah runs off. The whole situation was like something out of a romance novel.

   Grams stood up and said, “Look, is that Sarah?” She was pointing to the road at the end of the drive.

   “I believe that is and there goes Devon chasing after her,” Landon said and then chuckled. “Well I guess he found her.”

   Everyone stood and moved to the picture window watching Sarah as she went off the main road and jumped over the fence on the property. Devon followed her. Sarah rode to the far end of the fenced area and everyone inside the house pressed their faces up to the glass to see where she was going to go next. Sarah turned around and jumped over the other fence framing in the riding area. Devon was still following her. She rode back along the trail and around to the back of the stables. They watched Devon disappear behind the building after her. With everyone’s eyes fixed on the side of the building where Sarah should have reappeared. Shocking to everyone, Sarah came out through the big double doors at the front of the stables. Sarah had ridden right through the middle of the building.

   Grams let out a gasp and Landon chuckled.

   Sarah rode back up the path near the house. Devon was close behind her. Everyone could see they were yelling things to one another but no one could hear what they had said.

   Grams nudged Brook and told her to crack the window open so she could hear what they were saying to one another. “This is far too good not to listen to my dear.”

   Landon felt then need to start narrating their every move. “Sarah is riding looking like she knows what she is doing and possibly where she is going. Although unlikely. Devon is following close behind her screaming things repeatedly at her. Good God Sarah has suddenly changed direction and is now running straight for Devon. The woman is truly mad. Devon has now turned around and I have to say he looks scared.”

Landon gazed to Brook. “You would say that is fear on his face right?”

   Brook gave him an odd glare as if he were an idiot.

   “Sarah is now chasing him past the window and there they go, unbelievable. She is holding her shoe in her hand! They have disappeared.”

   A moment later, they rode back in front of the window. “Devon is now chasing her again. She must have thrown the shoe at him because I do not see it in her hand any longer. She has stopped and is racing towards him again. Devon is holding his line this time.”

Landon then looked at Grams, whose eyes were peeled on Devon and Sarah racing towards one another at a great speed. He said, “You may want to call for a doctor now rather than waiting.”

   He then turned back to the event outside the window. “She is sporting a wild look in her eyes. All we can see of Devon is the back of his head. I believe Sarah intends to do him harm from the way she is racing towards him. Sarah is drawing closer and she is very angry. I wonder what Devon has said to her because she looks just out of her mind with fury.”

   “Oh!” Brook exclaimed.

   “Well it appears Devon’s horse has stopped and threw him over it's head. Oh! Oh, it’s OK he is back up and getting back on the horse. Sarah is headed in our direction and I’m wondering if she plans to come through the windows.”

   Everyone stepped back as Sarah haulted in front of the large picture window and turned to face Devon. She reared the horse up.

   “That is…sexy,” Landon said aloud.

   All of them turned their heads towards him and glared at him, as he was standing off to everyone’s left.

   “I did not mean for everyone to hear that.” Landon then cleared his throat.

   “Do not follow me any longer you liar,” Sarah shouted.

   Rear was becoming spooked. “It appears Sarah’s horse is becoming scared as he is thrashing up and jumping around. I do not see this ending well,” Landon said.

   Brook shouted through the window, “Sarah be careful!”

   Sarah was trying to calm him but he was too worked up. Sarah suddenly went flying off the side of him and landed in the bushes in front of the window. Everyone pressed their foreheads to the glass trying to get a glimpse of Sarah in the bushes below them, under the window.

   Landon opened the window all the way and peered down into the bushes at her. “He is coming Sarah,” he warned her.

   Sarah stuck her arm up and Landon took a hold of it pulling her to her feet. Sarah took a hold of Landon’s face and kissed him hard.

Devon yelled, “Sarah don't you do it.”

   She looked back at Devon and shouted, “How do you feel about that?” Sarah turned and said to Landon as he was still leaning out the window, “Sorry and thanks.”She then jumped out of the bushes and ran for the stables.

   Devon could not believe she had done that. He was furious with her. Devon ran past the window at top speed on his horse and straight into the stables.

   Everyone in the house scrambled through the doorway and out the front door, gathering on the front steps.

   “Shall we go after them?” Brook asked.

   “I do not think that would be a wise idea. They have horse shoes and tools in there,” Landon said.

   Richards said, “He has her.”

   Devon came walking out of the stables with Sarah over his shoulder. She was screaming at him. Everyone watched as he walked closer to them with her kicking and hitting him as if she were a wild woman.

   All of them parted like the red sea to let him through. After Devon walked through the front door, everyone tried to move inside to the house at the same time and got wedged in the doorway. After squeezing through all of them began following him down the hallway.

   Devon stopped and turned around. He then walked over to everyone and took Brook’s hand in his. He turned without a word and began to walk down the hallway. Brook stopped and did not want to move.

Devon turned to her and said, “I do have another shoulder you know.”

   Brook’s eyes grew wide. She knew he meant it. She allowed him to walk her towards his study.

   Sarah continued to yell at him. She was crazy and out of her mind. “Oh I suppose you wish to have both of us at once.”

   Grams gasped and Landon started laughing hard. Devon dragged the two women into the room and slammed the door behind him shut.

   Landon, Grams, and Richards moved towards the door. Before they had reached it, the door opened and Brook was placed outside it by Devon’s hands. They froze in place watching and then he slammed the door shut again.

   Brook stood still and looked at everyone as they moved to her as a small group in unison.

   “What was said?” Grams asked.

   Brook shook her head. “He had asked me to tell Sarah that he had not kissed me then he shoved me out the door after I told her.”

   They could hear them yelling at one another behind the door. The doorknob began to jiggle, everyone quickly stepped back, and then it stopped. All of them drew closer again placing their ears to the door.

   “Is there a window in Devon’s study?” Landon asked.

   “No there is not, why?” Richards answered.

   “I need a visual,” Landon said.

   Once again, they all turned towards him, looking at him like he was a moron of some kind.

   “What, I am a visual person,” Landon told them. While shrugging his shoulders up.

   Inside the study, Sarah was standing in front of the door with her hands on her hips. “Let me out of this room Devon.”

   Devon was leaning into her with his hand against the door above her head. “No not until you start to listen to me. You need to calm down.”

   On the other side of the door, Richards and Landon both looked to one another and made a similar sound of “Mmm.” All the while shaking their heads at Devon's mistake of being foolish enough to tell an irate woman to calm down.

   Grams and Brook looked to the two men with a womanly glare, as if to say what does that mean.

   “I need to do no such thing. You need to go to hell!” Then Sarah slapped him hard across the face. She immediately drew both her hands up to her mouth. She had not expected to do that.

   Devon turned to face her. “Do you feel better now?”

   Sarah shook her head no and the tears began to fall, one after another. She turned her back to him and faced the door. “I am sorry. I did not know I was going to do that.”

   Devon put his hand on her back and he felt her shutter from his touch. With his other hand, he punched the door and said, “Bloody hell Sarah. It was not supposed to be this way between us.”

   Everyone on the other side of the door shouted from the pain to their ears as his hand slammed into the door with force.

   “I want to leave now Devon. Please let me out of this room,” Sarah said softly to him.

   “I can’t let you leave Sarah. Not until you let me explain myself to you.”

   “Nothing you say will change the way I feel about you.”

   “Sarah please just hear me out.” Devon’s tone was softer. “I do not want you to be angry with me anymore Sarah.

   She turned around to face him and said, “You hurt me Dev. I love you.”

   Devon did not look away from her, but he did take a couple of steps back.

   “Say something Dev.” Sarah gazed at him with pleading in her eyes.

   “I did not mean for this to happen. I am sorry Sarah.”

   “That’s it. That is all you have to say to me. I do not believe you do not love me Devon. Say it. Tell me you don’t. I want to hear it from your own lips.”

   Devon turned from her and felt his body begin to shake. He shook his head no. Devon turned around and opened the door. Grams, Landon, Richards and Brook jumped back.

   “Move!” he shouted.

   “Dev please don’t go,” Sarah pleaded to him.

   He turned to her and said, “You deserve better than I can give you Sarah.” Devon then walked away and left to his room.

   “Sarah come on dear” Grams took her arm and walked her to the drawing room.

   Landon poured everyone a drink. Richards started a fire. Brook Grams and Sarah sat on the sofa. Sarah sat in between the two women. Each one of the held one of her hands.

   “I am sorry for thinking you were kissing Devon, Brook.”

   “If I had walked in and saw the same thing, I might have drawn the same conclusion myself. I cannot get over the fact he fainted twice.”

   “Fainted, Devon?” Sarah was shocked.

   “He fell to the floor right after you left the room and then last night.”

   Sarah turned to Grams and said, “Have you called for a doctor yet? What is wrong with him?” Sarah felt panic whelming up inside her.

   Grams patted her hand. “Oh my dear he is just fine. He just needs to sort a few things out and he will feel much better.”

   Landon handed Grams and Sarah their drinks. He walked back to the bar and then returned giving Brook her drink. As she grazed her fingers over his he felt a surge run through his body that stunned him. Landon was staring at her.

   Brook smiled up at him. “Thank you.” She said softly, and then turned back to Sarah. She had felt a rush of butterflies in her stomach as her hand had touched Landon’s hand.

   Landon did not smile nor did he say anything to Brook, he just starred at her. What had happened just now? That did not feel right, the way her fingers felt on mine. It had to have been a static shock of some kind.

   “Were you able to find anything more out about the ball, Landon?” Grams asked him. “Landon,” she shouted.

   Landon had still been starring at Brook unknowingly. “I am sorry. What did you say?” Landon looked to Grams.

   “The ball, my handsome love, did you find out who was to be attending that may be new this year?” Grams asked him.

   “No, I have not found the time to do that. The only ones I can think of might be the Reed twins, of Sir Cole and Betty Reed.”

   “Oh those two girls are awful gossip spreaders, as is their mother Betty. Quite popular with the ton but, not very nice people.”

   “The twins are handsome, which is odd because their parents are not,” Landon said.

   “Mr. Reed comes into the library sometimes.” Brook said and then turned to Sarah. “Do you remember him? He looks somewhat like a troll, short and round with a large nose and beady little black eyes.”

   Sarah started to smile and said, “I do. He always stands with his hand tucked into the back of his pants.” Brook and Sarah began to giggle.

   “Oh dear lord, that is sickening.” Grams shouted with shock and disgust.

   “Mrs. Reed is not much better,” Landon said. “She is nearly as tall as I am and her voice is deep and sounds like a mans.”

   Brook said, “I have never seen Mrs. Reed. I have only had the unfortunate pleasure of Mr. Reed’s acquaintance.”

   “Yes and I am recalling correctly Brook, he quite fancies you.” Sarah turned her gaze back and forth between Grams and Landon and said, “Mr. Reed will search the library high and low to ask Brook questions about old books, atlases, old items we hold in archives. Brook is somewhat of an expert in those areas.” Sarah turned to Brook and smiled at her with pride.

   “Oh no I would not say that Sarah. I am merely interested in those subjects.” Brook was growing embarrass by Sarah’s praising of her.

   “Perhaps you are familiar with Landon’s books Brook?” Grams said.

   “What books would that be?” Brook asked her curiously.

   Landon interjected, “The books are not books Grams, they are atlases and I do have a few at the library.”

   “Landon Fields?” Brook looked to him as she said it.

   He smiled at her. “The very one.” He then gave her a little bow from his chair across from her.

   “Your atlases are the most beautiful atlases I have ever laid my eyes on. Every one of them is so colorful and detailed, like an exquisite painting.” Brook was beside herself with excitement.

   Landon smiled wide. “Thank you Brook. You are very kind to say that.”

   “Do you have others or are those the only three you have made?” Brook asked.

   “I do have more. Perhaps I can bring them by the library for you to add to the collection.”

   “Oh, that would be wonderful. I shall love to see all of them. I cannot believe you are the Landon Fields.”

   Sarah and Grams looked at one another as Sarah smiled at her. Grams gave her a quick wink back and they began to giggle.

   “Brook you will be attending the ball tomorrow night will you not?” Grams asked her.

   Brook turned to Grams and Sarah and said, “No.”

   “Well you must my dear. We will have so much fun dancing and talking. They always have the most delicious spread of food you have ever seen and tasted,” Grams said.

   “Yes Brook you can be our guest.” Sarah said and took Brook’s hand in hers.

   “I do not attend balls,” Brook said.

   Sarah had remembered Brook was a blacksmiths daughter and had never attended a ball before. Given her ranking and class, she would not have ever been invited to one before because of that fact. “I have not been to a ball before and would like you to come with me Brook,” Sarah said to her.

   “People will know I do not belong at the ball Sarah.” Brook felt embarrass. “I do not own a dress for that kind of occasion.”

   “Grams has just purchased many dresses for me in all sorts of colors. You can wear one of those.” Sarah said with excitement.

   “You two look to be about the same size and I will have my tailor come out in the morning to do some adjustments. You have to say yes my dear. We will not let you say no.” Grams said.

   “Alright then.” Brook said and was unsure of her decision on the matter. Although it was apparent, she was not given a choice.

   Landon smiled to himself.

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.”