How Much I Hate About You
Chapter One- Ten Things I Hate About You
(for the record, I changed my name to Expressohyper a very long time ago)
expressoncreamhotmail.com
Alright everyone, here is the deal. As of now, this submission is chapters one through five. They are completely revised and I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoyed writing and rewriting them. Please be kind, I haven't been in the writing mood for several months and this revision has taken some time. Originally I was just going to rewrite all of the fourteen chapters and then released the last remaining ones, but I haven't gotten around to finishing them yet, so this will have to do. Summer has been very busy for me. I stay up till about three a.m. writing and then I sleep till eleven when I have to go to work. It is a vicious cycle and whenever I don't work, I'm usually with my boyfriend when the computer is free. So my writing time is from midnight to three....if I'm lucky. But anyways, go on with this story. I hope you like it. Good reviews please! - well...bad ones are welcome as well...as long as I get plenty of reviews.
Standard Disclaimer applies : I do not own sailor moon, or the characters in it, but this story came from me!!! So hands off my brain people!
Dancing just truly was not her thing. She did not like it and almost everything about tonight. Of course her friends had dragged her here, and quickly ditched her, so she was left sitting at a table by herself, glaring at numerous men who dared to approach her, more glares for the ones who stood from a distance watching her with wistful expressions. She hated dancing, and that was it. It didn't help that she absolutely detested the men that asked her to dance. They were full of themselves, and she made sure that each ones' pride was wounded considerably and partially deflated before they left her presence and returned home. The shrew herself was in the building, and it wasn't hard to spot her. As breathtaking as an angel, but colder than an ice cube, Serenity
Patronal had everything that a man could dream of. She was beautiful beyond belief, intelligent as any man, richer than most. The only thing that kept her from being a bride was her idea of the word 'men'. She detested them; hating them to their very cores. All except her father, whom she loved dearly. It wasn't as though it was entirely her fault for her opinion of men. Her mind had been warped shortly after she had turned seventeen. She fancied herself in 'love' or so she thought before she discovered he had cheated on her. the betrayal broke her heart, and turned her into a man-hating monster. Her father had almost given up hope, until his wife had claimed she'd found the perfect man. Darien Franklin. Her best friend's son. He was known as somewhat of a womanizer, but all the better. He would settle down, and Serenity would be treated with some semblance of respect. The only problem was how to get them together. Serenity would not cooperate if she knew what was being planned, so they had to keep her in the dark.
Serenity opened her sparkling sapphire eyes to the morning as the sunlight kissed her flawless face. There was a knock on her door and her mother swayed into her room before she had a chance to bid anyone entrance.
"Serenity, get up. The Franklins are expecting us for lunch. Martha hasn't seen you in a long while. She always asks about you." as her mother talked, she flipped through Serenity's closet. The owner of the closet sat up in her bed and rubbed tiredly at her eyes.
"Oh mother, I know she doesn't care if I'm there or not. She does not exactly like that I despise her son." Serenity mumbled, and turned over, burying her face in her pillow. Her mother sighed and walked over to her. She grabbed her shoulders and pulled her into sitting position.
"Serenity, you will get up this instant, get dressed, and go with me and your father to the Franklins' house for lunch." her voice was commanding, leaving no room for arguments. Serenity nodded and did as she was told. After getting dressed, she grabbed her cloak, and they left for the Franklins' house. She wore a beautiful dress, despite that she didn't care much for her appearance.
Her mother on the other hand, did. She redid Serenity's hair and makeup on the way there. When they finally got to the Franklins' mansion, Serenity was very much annoyed. Last night had promised that the following day would be wonderful.
'But promises are meant to be broken.' she thought bitterly, as her father helped her out of the carriage. Her father smiled, oblivious to her thoughts, and led her into the house, her mother in front of them. The butler opened the doors, and took their coats.
"Mr. and Mrs. Franklin are waiting in the lounge. Follow me." he led them to the lounge. Mrs. Franklin rose to greet them.
She was a medium sized woman, at about 5'6", with dark green eyes, and long raven black hair with a touch of gray at her temples.
She hugged Serenity.
"I'm glad you could make it today. Darien is currently training, but he will be joining us for lunch." Mr. Franklin smiled at
Serenity. It unnerved her, but she smiled politely back.
'EEWW! Next thing you know, he'll try to-' she shuddered and decided to not finish that thought.
"It's nice to see you also Mrs. Franklin." She smiled warmly to her.
"You're becoming such a beautiful young woman Serenity. I'm surprised you haven't been snatched up yet. Why don't you all have a seat?" she rejoined her husband on the settee. Serenity's parents took one cream loveseat, and that left the other loveseat
to Serenity. She took it cautiously, not liking the way they were eyeing her. Something seems odd. They looked like they knew something she did not. Something was going to happen, and it drove her crazy that she had no clue as to what. A half hour passed, with small chitchat, and Serenity began to get bored.
"I've heard from Raye that you have wonderful gardens. Would it be alright if I paid them a visit?" Serenity asked.
"Of course dear. Just have the butler get your coat for you." Serenity nodded, and left the room. She released a breath when
She closed the door behind her. As she turned to walk away, she got no farther than a step, for she saw a man of about 22
standing in the corner, watching the doors intently. She narrowed her eyes and then proceeded to head toward the main entrance.
"My parents, they bore you?" he asked, stepping away from the corner and coming to pause two steps away from her. Her eyes narrowed, as she sensed him looking her over. Her back filled with steel, growing ramrod straight, and her eyes grew cold once more.
"Your parents are charming, but I find their chit-chat tiring." with that, she sent him a cold smile, and then began to walk away once again. He caught her by the arm, and pulled her back. This time, he gave her a good look, from her shoes to her eyes. She twisted her arm out of his. "Let go of me this instant!" He complied and released her. She pulled away quickly,
as if his touch was fire, and then swung at him. She found herself in his arms, being held tightly against him.
"Beautiful, blonde, intelligent, and a nasty temper. You must be Serenity Patronal." he remarked and grinned. She glared daggers at him, but suddenly, she smirked.
"You've heard of me, non?" she replied.
"I think you know how popular you are among the gossipers and young men." he said and began to walk. She was forced into the corner, still trapped in the arms of this obviously strong young man.
"Let go of me!" she bit through a locked jaw as she struggled. He only pushed her closer to the wall and She felt her feet lift slightly from the ground. His hands gripped her waist, as he supported her lithe form, his merciless fingers surely leaving bruises on her pale skin.
"You should learn to be nicer, or you'll end up an old unmarried hag." he remarked. She could detect the restraint of anger in his eyes.
"And you should learn to control your temper and lust, Darien." she replied, only to be lifted higher. Her feet no longer touched the ground. Her hands gripped his shoulders, fingernails tearing into the cloth. Her curls, which had been fastened on top of her head by only a few pins, came loose allowing the golden silk to fall and reach to well past her waist. He watched her lips with fascination. He ached to have them pressed against his own.
"Maybe so." he lowered her back to the ground and tangled a hand roughly in her hair. "But next time we meet, you will hold your tongue of any cruel remarks." with that, his hands released her and he went into the lounge. She regained her normal breathing then swept down the hallway, slightly in shock. After practically grabbing her coat from the butler, she stormed to the gardens. The more time she spent walking, the more she began to become intrigued by the handsome Darien.
'Handsome?! Since when do I have thoughts like that?' she almost screamed mentally. She released a frustrated sigh, and
began to circle a fountain, silently ranting. A twig snapped, and she paused, in mid-step. A rustle of branches, and she spun around, only to be shocked at what she saw. A young man, looking to be Darien's age, stepped out into the open. Red hair, the color of fire fell to almost his shoulders, and his emerald green eyes were a wonderful contrast.
"Good afternoon, milady." and with that, she fainted dead away. He caught her, just before she was to hit the ground.
Picking her up princess-style, he carried her into the house, and when heading for the den, he ran into Darien. He looked up to his friend of 15 years, and was confused when he smirked. "What should I do with her Dare? Do you know who she is?"
"Here, let me take her, you look like you're having some trouble Michael." with that, Darien scooped her into his arms, and started to carry her down the hall. "This way, we'll take her to the study."
Michael nodded and followed, albeit somewhat nervously, for he was quite confused at his friend. When they reached the study, Darien laid her on the plush leather chaise. He went to a cabinet and took out a little glass jar. After removing the stopper, he held it under her nose. Her eyes snapped open, revealing slightly blurry cerulean blue. She pushed the jar away from her. Darien kneeled next to her. "Well well well little Miss Patronal, what happened for you to go weak and faint?" he asked and his trademark smirk graced his face, earning a glare from her.
"Miss Patronal? Patronal? The Serenity Patronal?!" Michael almost cried, his eyes growing wide as he examined her form.
Immediately, she sat up, her spine filling with steel.
"Who are you?" she almost snapped, and fixed her glaring eyes on his emerald ones.
"I-I-I'm Michael Danatio."
"Well, I would say nice to meet you, but since you scared me and made me faint, I believe it wasn't not such a pleasant experience." with that, she stood.
"Miss Patronal, why don't you stay sitting down for a few minutes." Michael practically jumped over to her. She waved his hands away.
"I am fine. Besides, I must continue my tour of the gardens." and with that, she swept over to the door, and left.
"Turn right, and follow that hallway, it'll lead you to the main foyer." Darien called after to her.
3 months later
It was just her luck she had seen him more than ten times since that fateful day with Michael and the gardens. He seemed to be amused when he annoyed her, which only added to her annoyance. All in all, every time they met it was a clash of blue.
Serenity sighed as she stood next to Raye, her best friend. 'Oh why did father make me come tonight? He knows I hate these types of parties.' Suddenly, a waltz came on, and she practically ran to her seat. As she was walking by a group of men, someone caught her arm
"Dear Miss. Patronal, why don't you grant me the honor of sharing this dance with me?" she looked up at the sound of the deep and smooth voice. Cerulean met midnight.
"You!" she spat, her eyes shooting daggers.
"I'll take that as a yes." he remarked, and led her out to the dance floor. He paused in the middle.
"I said no such thing." she hissed, even as he placed his hand on her hip, and memories of when he had left bruises the last time flashed in her mind's eye. Oblivious to her thoughts he took one of her hands in his other. She placed her remaining hand on his shoulder.
"But you didn't say no either." he replied and grinned. She opened her mouth to say something, but found that no words would form on her tongue. He began to move to the music, forcing her to follow his lead. Suddenly, she found her voice.
"You ought to have learned that I'm not easily taken advantage of. I am also not frightened by your terrible temper." she said and looked out into the crowd, searching for Raye or Chad, in hopes that either could and would save her from this terrible man.
"I'm controlling my temper, but you are not keeping your end of the deal. Your tongue is still as sharp as ever." he replied. She glared, but his hand squeezed her side, and she couldn't restrain a giggle.
He smiled evilly. "Ah, I've found a weakness." he whispered, looking very much amused.
"Don't do that." she hissed into his ear, her voice like ice, sending cold shivers down his spine.
"Don't do what? This?" he asked innocently, squeezing her side again. The hand on his shoulder dug its nails into the cloth.
"Stop it. I swear I'll slap you in front of everyone!"
"Then go ahead. Try it." he replied, flashing another grin. And, then without warning, he swept her off the dance floor, and to the exit of the great room.
"Where do you think you're taking me?" she asked, struggling to get out of his hold.
"To the gardens. I'd like to find out, just how sharp that tongue of yours gets." and with that, he led her outside, and they walked into the garden entrance. They walked for a few minutes, trading insults, but he still did not release her. Finally, he let go, and she spun to face him, planning to tell him exactly what he thought of him. She didn't get the chance for his hands were on either side of her face and his lips claimed her own.
Her eyes nearly bugged out of her head, and she started to fight, until she realized that she liked the feeling and surrendered to the inevitable. Slowly, she responded to his coaxing as her arms wrapped around his neck after her hand traveled up his arm that had claimed her small waist, the other running up his clothed chest to snake around his neck as well. His other hand tangled in her hair, the silky golden curls falling once again, in a curtain.
When he finally pulled away, he smirked. Her eyes opened slowly, and for one second, he saw a dreamy look in her cerulean blue depths, but then she blinked and it was gone, only to be replaced with horror and disgust.
"How dare you do that?" she struggled to get away from him, but his hold on her was too strong.
"How dare I do what?" he asked, still a little fazed from the kiss.
"How dare you kiss me!" she nearly screeched. She began to pound on his chest with her fists, knowing that it did not hurt him, but it helped relieve the pain in her heart. Her body began to rack with sobs, and the power behind her fists slowly dissipated, until she had to weakly lean into him, just so she could stay standing. Tears fell freely and unchecked from her eyes and she buried her face in his shoulder. He held her gently yet firmly, and whispered soothing words in her ear as he stroked her hair. Her anger had drained her of her strength, and she cursed herself for crying openly in front of him. She had been determined not to let any man see her emotions, but why had he not been pushed away as well? She attempted to push him away once more and he held her at arms length.
"Serenity, are you alright?" he asked. He was extremely worried. In the past months he had known her, she had never expressed even an iota of emotion around him, other than annoyance. He didn't know what to do. He bent slightly so he could look her in the eyes. She covered her face with her hands quickly. He sighed helplessly. "Serenity, please, tell me what's wrong. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you this much. It was just a kiss. How could it have affected you to the point of tears?" Her response was her soft sobs before she screamed at him. .
"You're just like him!" Caught off-guard by her outburst, he released her arms and she took the chance and fled. He attempted to follow her, but soon lost her in the garden maze. He sighed and returned to the party, hoping that's where she had gone. But, when he entered, she was nowhere to be found. For the next half hour he talked with Andrew and Michael, about their futures. Finally, her father, who asked to speak with him privately for only a few minutes, approached him. He complied, and
left his two friends.
"Darien, what happened?" Mr. Franklin asked, somewhat uncomfortable.
"What do you mean sir?" Darien responded, confused.
"Why did Serenity request to leave so early? She looked as though she was enjoying your company, even if for a little while." Darien smiled slightly.
"I believe she said she was tired. Now, I think I'll follow her example, and leave as well. Good-night Mr. Patronal, and please
tell your daughter I look forward to seeing her again soon." with that, he left, making his exit quickly. Klyde Patronal watched him
walk away, with a thoughtful expression on his face.
'Maybe she'll like him. Maybe she's already fallen for him.' his thoughts sounded hopeful.
Serenity stormed through the doors and hurried up the grand staircase. She narrowly missed her mother in the hallway. Before her mother could stop her she ran to the safety of her room, locking the doors. Her mother knocked on the door, but no matter how many times she called to her, Serenity dared not unlock the door. Instead, she wiped off her light make-up, practically ripped off her dress, before she slipped into a clean nightgown. As she crawled into her bed and drew the curtains around her, she heard the front door's unmistakable creek, and realized her father had returned.
"Serenity, if you don't open this door I swear I'll have your father break it down!" her mother practically screeched, yet the high-pitched sound went ignored. She could feel only numbness. Despite the noise her eyes drifted shut, as if on lead weights, and she fell into a restless sleep.
"Serenity, I love you my darling. Marry me and become my wife." Her cerulean blue gaze flew from the flowers she was looking at, to a tall man with rich brown hair and the most astonishing dark green eyes she had ever seen.
"Oh Robert!" she gasped as her heart swelled. "Yes, yes I will!" His eyes seemed to light up.
"Serenity, you've just made the happiest man in the world." he laughed as he picked her up, and swung her around, before setting her down, and capturing her lips with his. She felt the absence of Robert's presence and turned to see Melissa Beryl in the passionate embrace of her fiancée. She stumbled back as a terrible pain seized her heart and she fell to the ground. When she looked up, Beryl was kissing him.
"Robert!" Serenity called, gaining their attention.
"Stay away from my man Serenity." she practically hissed, her voice filled with so much venom, she could have very well portrayed a snake.
"Y-your man?" she looked to Robert confused. He avoided her eyes.
"Yes, my man. You stay away from him you little brat, or I'll kill you myself!" and with that, Beryl pulled Robert down the garden path.
Serenity crawled over to the fountain, her face streaked with tears. Gazing into the water, she became angry and slapped her reflection.
'What are you crying about?! Don't you dare show any weakness. You're better off without him. That dirty rat was cheating on you all along.'
The little voice came, but was unheard. 'If he was cheating, then why did he ask you to marry him?' It was never to be heard from again.
She bolted upright in bed with a cry. Her eyes searched frantically around the room, her chest rising and falling with short breaths of panic.
The open balcony doors let the wind travel through, making her bed curtains flutter. It was morning. She slipped from under the covers, and went to get dressed. She felt like going for a short ride out into the woods, where she could relax at her favorite place and read a book under the protection of the great willow tree during her horse's rest. She went to her closet and pulled out a dress. It was one she used when she laid around the house. It was a simple one. Not at all like her ball gowns. It was white with a low neck, long sleeves, and a flowing blue skirt that reached to just a few inches passed her knees. She slipped on simple black flats and tied her hair into a ponytail and then braided it. After grabbing a small messenger-type bag and stuffing her book into it, she washed her face and sprayed her perfume. On her way out of her room, she picked up her everyday cloak. It was about noon so her mother would be at the Franklins for tea, while her father was at his office in town, going over papers and other documents that needed his attention. But, as routine, she quietly slipped down the stairs and out the front door, disturbing no one, not even the sleeping white cat that lay next to the front doors. They never squeaked for her. She fastened her cloak about her neck as she descended the stairs and then headed toward the stable. After saddling her horse she mounted without difficulty, and set it into a light canter as they rounded the house. She caught sight of something far off in the distance. It was a black stallion, beautiful and proud as it galloped down the dirt road towards her father's mansion. She had better than 20/20 vision, and knew instantly who it was. She also realized that he hadn't seen her yet. She pulled on the reins and turned the horse towards the woods. With a sharp kick, the powerful white horse with it's golden mane and tail, and quicker than lightning speed, was galloping into the woods.
'Why in the world would he be coming here at this time of day?' her mind panicked as Lightning, her horse, raced down the path. She arrived at her destination within minutes, and dismounted. She ushered Lightning to the small creek, so she could drink,
and she herself settled down in her usual spot, and opened her book. After about a half hour, she heard a rustling of branches,
and twigs snapped. She quickly and silently closed her book, and motioned Lightning over to her. Her movements were like liquid
as she mounted Lightning once again. Her breath caught in her throat. But, instead of who she had expected, Raye came down the
path, mounted on her black horse, with its blackish-purple mane and tail.
"Serenity, come on back to the house. Let's get something to eat. I've been looking for you forever. Mina and Lita are here,
and Amy will be arriving shortly." with that, she turned and they slowly started back to the house. "So, what have you been
doing lately?" Raye asked making light talk.
"Same since last night when I talked to you at the ball."
"What, you didn't have a good time?" Raye asked with a slight smile. She had detected a slight bitterness in Serenity's voice. "The shrew herself falling in love?" she asked.
"NO!" Serenity practically screamed, and without warning kicked Lightning and sped away.
"Serenity! Wait! I was only JOKING!" she yelled and went after her. Lightning was too quick, and Obsidian was no match
for her. She lost sight of Serenity within minutes. 'She's a little jumpy today. I wonder if Darien had anything to do
with it.' With that, she headed toward the house. Darien was in the study, getting some papers Serenity's father had
asked him to get, when Raye entered.
"Did Serenity come home yet?" she panted, trying to catch her breath, after she had practically ran to the house.
"No, I haven't heard a soul. This house it so quiet, not a single floor board creaks....well...except for the front door."
Darien replied, as he took a seat on a black high-backed leather chair.
"Where could she have gone?!" Raye almost cried.
"I'm right here Raye. I can't seem to find Lita or Mina anywhere. I wonder if they decided to go on a ride themselves."
Serenity said, as she 'magically' appeared at the door. She now wore a black dress with a form-fitting bodice and loose
black skirt that fell to the floor. Her feet were incased in heeled black boots, that Raye knew came up to her knees.
"I thought you said you'd never wear those." Raye remarked, and pointed to her shoes. Serenity pulled up her skirts slightly.
"My boots? I don't remember saying that. I love them. They are the best present I've ever gotten." she replied, with a slight
smile.
"Darien, will you please excuse us?" Raye asked, as she walked to the door and pushed Serenity into the hall.
She shut the door behind them. Darien was amused to say the least. He went over to the door to hear them.
"I thought you got rid of them!" Raye almost cried.
"I didn't and I won't!" Serenity hissed back, trying to keep her voice low.
"But Robert gave them to you. How could you not throw them out, along with everything else that he bought you?"
Darien wondered who this Robert was.
"I will not throw these away, or any of the other things I do not believe what he did was right, but I don't want to throw
away all the precious and wonderful gifts he's given me. That is something I will not do." with that, Serenity crossed her arms.
"Serenity, listen to yourself. You sound as if he has caught you again. It's been two years!" she gasped, realizing
something. "You had another dream didn't you?" Serenity looked away. "Sere, please tell me you only had another dream. Tell me you didn't actually see him."
"I didn't see him!" she nearly screamed, but choked it back, and instead replied with, "I don't care what you may think. Worry about yourself, and stay out of my love life. It's none of your business." with that, she swept down the hall toward the library. "Nice of you to drop by, but I'm terribly busy today. I hope you'll understand." she called over her shoulder, and disappeared around a corner.
"Serenity, come back!" Raye yelled and ran after her, but when she turned the corner, Serenity was nowhere to be found. She had disappeared. Darien went out into the hallway.
"Raye, I've found the papers. I'd stay, but-" Raye waved her hand and he stopped.
"No, don't bother. I know Mr. Patronal wanted those documents right away, so go on ahead. I'll talk to you tonight." with that, Raye too disappeared around the corner, only, Darien heard her footsteps grow softer and softer as she got farther and farther
away. Darien hurriedly left, and returned to the town office, all the while wondering whom Robert was.
He looked back at the house after he mounted his black stallion, and caught sight of gold in a window on the top floor, but it was gone in a blink of an eye, and a curtain covered the window quickly. He shrugged and rode off.
Raye searched the enormous dark house for Serenity, but did not find nor hear a trace of her. She concluded Serenity had taken a secret passage.
The house was full of them. Hidden doors, dead ends, traps, and a maze of locked doors and you had to be careful on your way even when going to the bathroom. Lord Charles Patronal, Serenity's great-great grandfather had built the house. Raye sprang back after she turned a doorknob and heard a loud snap. The door swung open and out came a swinging, solid lead, block. She sighed and turned back around, heading back the way she came.
"I just don't understand these people. They think their house is some sort of playhouse, when everyone else thinks it's a death trap." she muttered. Suddenly, Serenity stepped out from behind the corner in which Raye was heading towards.
"Is he gone?" she asked. Raye sighed.
"Yes, he's gone. He just had to come for some papers your father needed." she paused, uncertain whether or not to ask what had happened to her earlier. She decided to ask. "But Serenity, what's troubling you?" with that, Serenity threw herself into her arms and spilled the whole story of her terrible dream.
Chapter Two - Nine Things I Hate About You
Two girls wandered around in the big house, occasionally stopping and checking a door, only to find they were un-un able to be opened. The blonde finally screamed in frustration.
"Sere!!!!!! Raye!!! Where are you guys????"
"You don't have to yell Mina. They're right here." Lita replied, pointing. Serena and Raye were walking down the hall, arms linked.
"About time you guys. But where's Amy?" Raye asked.
"She couldn't make it. Her and Greg were in the middle of one of their long discussions about the philosophy life." the blonde, now known as Mina, replied with a disgusted and bored expression taking her face.
"Oh, it would be great to have someone to match wits with." Serenity sighed. Lita and Mina looked at her like she'd grown another head. "What?" she asked slightly confused.
"Sere, what's happened to you?" Lita asked after taking in her appearance.
"Not now guys. Lets go have a picnic on the front porch." Raye said and began to lead Serenity away. The other girls followed. After the instructions were given to the cook the girls went to change. They were not dressed properly for a picnic lunch. They changed into light dresses, having left clothes over here awhile back. Serenity changed into a light dress as well. It had a white top, with long sleeves and a low-neck line that showed her shoulders, and the long skirt was pink. A white sash was tied around her waist, the tails of the bow hanging down. Her long golden hair was pulled up into an unusual style, two buns with a tail streaming out of each. Lita had on a light green dress, Mina a soft yellow, and Raye a dark lavender.
They sat out on the porch eating and chatting quietly until Serenity's father and mother arrived, followed by another carriage. Serenity and Raye knew instinctively who it was. As they pulled up to the house, the drivers slowed the horses.
Raye's father, Mr. Franklin, and Darien stepped out of one carriage, and in the other, her mother and Mrs. Franklin. Mrs. Franklin was dressed as if she were going to a ball, much like Serenity's own mother, who was wearing a deep royal blue dress. Serenity and the girls rose respectfully and went down to greet them.
"Serenity darling!" Mrs. Franklin cried and went directly to Serenity, enveloping her in a hug. Serenity hugged her back uneasily, for she was uncertain the reason for their visit. She chanced a glance at Darien, but he was staring at the ground, his shoulders slumped. She knew something had happened for sure, after she looked at her mother, whose eyes were practically laughing at her. Oh how she wished her mother wasn't such a cruel creature. Lovely, yes, but a dark beauty. Her dark green eyes and hair so dark a purple it looked black, resembled nothing like Serenity. The only thing they shared were their figures. Serenity inherited her eyes and hair from her father, and her sweet disposition from her aunt on her father's side. But her aunt had gotten married and moved away, and she couldn't turn to her mother when the accident with Robert happened. She became withdrawn and very
impersonal with anyone she had not met before. Serenity managed a smile, but sent her mother a warning look. Her
mother only smiled back at her. Finally, Mrs. Franklin released her.
"I'm so happy." she gushed and hugged her quickly once more.
"Happy? Happy about what?" Serenity inquired innocently, glancing once more at Darien. He looked like a defeated puppy, something she had never seen in the few months that she'd known him.
"Why, that you agreed to marry my Darien!" Mrs. Franklin replied.
Serenity was stunned. Darien's head shot up, and their eyes met. He felt a pain in his heart, as he saw her pale face, blue eyes full of emotion, full of...full of confusion and hurt. He followed her eyes as they swung to her mother. A triumphant smile was plastered upon her artfully made up face. He then watched as Serenity managed a slight smile.
"Oh. Yes, I'm happy too." she said softly. Darien stared at her dumbfounded. He suddenly knew what she was doing. There was a look of defeat in her eyes, and he was sure only he could see it. He knew that she was trying to convince everyone when she had rejected men for so long, that she was truly in love with him. Her friends were shocked. Raye was speechless. Mina looked about ready to cry, and Lita had a look of protectiveness as she balled her hand into a fist and sent Darien a look that clearly stated "If you hurt her, I'll hurt you." He managed a weak smile.
"Come now, we must all go in and celebrate!" her father declared and the group began to move up the steps and into the
house.
"I'd like a word with Serenity if you wouldn't mind." Darien said as he gently took Serenity by the arm. The rest of the group continued on into the house. As soon as the door shut, Serenity ripped away from his grasp.
"How could you do that?!" she hissed.
"I didn't. It was that witch you call your mother that told my mother." he replied. Her hand went to her head, before clenching into a fist and going back to her side.
"Well...you!...." she struggled to find the right words, but she could come up with none. Suddenly, she sighed, her shoulders sagging, surrendering once again to the inevitable. She looked like she was going to faint. He quickly wrapped an arm around her waist. She leaned weakly on him. From the people watching at the window, it looked like the perfect romantic embrace, but for Serenity, it was a need. She knew she would have fallen if he hadn't held her up. "I can't stop it." she whispered as she rested her head on his chest. He tilted her chin up with his other hand.
"I know. Neither can I." he replied, and gave her a slight smile. Her lips twitched slightly. He bent his head down to hers as their eyes closed.
"Darien, Serenity, your food will get cold!" Darien's mother's voice interrupted them. Serenity gasped and pulled away, suddenly finding her strength.
"I-I don't k-know what you're up to. B-but stay th-the hell away fr-from me." Serenity choked out, then hurried up the steps, fleeing from his presence. He sighed and followed her into the house.
Chapter Three - Eight Things I Hate About You
Dinner was a disaster, yet she held her smile through it. Isabella looked amused, as if she would burst out laughing if Serenity tried to defy her doings. Many times she was elbowed by Mina, which soon became very annoying and resulted in Serenity moving her chair. After dinner, the men retired to Klyde's den, where she knew they would be discussing the wedding and her, though the latter did not bother her much; she knew that her name was almost always in a discussion. She did not, however, spare a glance toward Darien the entire night, fearing she burst into tears and be forced to flee the room. Any sign of emotion would signify that she had broken, and she would never allow her mother to gloat her victory too quickly. Serenity had always known that her mother was different. Isabella was far too materialistic, which Serenity cared nothing of riches and that sort. Before the sadness, she insisted on taking a deeper to search the soul, while her mother only glanced at the garments.
Throughout the duration of dinner, when she was not chewing or drinking, her face remained stoical, and the energy it took to restrain her desire to comment or fight the situation took a toll on her. To fight one's self is the hardest battle of all. Mina and Lita left shortly after dinner and she was left alone with the oblivious lions and lioness, and one particular scheming cat. It was her decision to see the girls off, hoping to sustain a little bit of her usual self through the time it took to walk to the carriages, wanting to savor their presences and protection they offered. Mina and Lita left together but Raye lingered behind, for it was dark and she had only ridden her horse unaccompanied. Her parents had requested she stay and they would return her to her husband's mansion at the end of the night.
"Serenity, I know this wasn't what you had planned." Raye finally sighed, swinging a comforting arm around the shoulders of her distressed friend. They continued their walk in the gardens, finding peace and tranquility with the sleeping flowers.
"It's all my mother's fault." Serenity muttered, her head bowed.
"Oh Serenity, if I had known, I would have tried to put a stop to it. You know I would have helped you in any way possible." Raye gasped, pulling her friend into a tight hug. Serenity remained unmoving in the embrace before she returned half-heartedly, a gentle hug. Inside, she felt defeated, but even though her heart had surrendered to the inevitable, her mind was still fighting, trying desperately to think of some way out.
"Raye," she allowed her fake mask to finally break, tears pouring over their damns unchecked. "what shall I do?" Bitter tears coursed down her face, reddening her nose and cheeks. Raye was there to comfort her.
"It will all be okay, Sere. He's not really that ad. You'll see." She tried her best to soothe her friend, yet she felt helpless at the same time. A noise pulled them from their comforting embrace and they broke apart quickly, Serenity swiping at her face like a madwoman to rid herself of the tear tracks, while Raye scoured the view for a trace of the maker of the sound.
"Serenity, Rachel, where are you?" Darien's voice echoed through the encased garden and Serenity bit her lip.
"It's my turncoat of a brother." Raye muttered. Just the night before, she had been discussing Serenity with him, and he had expressed his sympathy for her; the lack of love she possessed. Now he had forced her into a marriage neither of them had really wanted. Serenity stepped back, opposite of the direction Darien's voice was coming from.
"Tell him I'm not here. Meet me later somewhere in here after you lose him. You know where." Serenity whispered and pulled the hood of her cloak over her head before waving slightly and disappearing into the darkness of the garden. Raye pulled her shawl around her shoulders, the night air nipping at the exposed skin and threading through her light dress.
"Raye, I brought your cloak out for you. Where has Serenity gone?" he asked as he draped the warm red velvet cloak about her shoulders.
"Serenity? Oh, she's off somewhere." Raye replied, obviously giving him the cold shoulder.
"Well, then where?" Darien was not about to be snubbed; at least not by his little sister.
"Why do you care?" She would not help him in any way and so knelt down to pick a rose.
The Patronal roses were famous among their town. Everyone wanted them. Almost seventy five percent of their enormous gardens were of roses. They were an array of colors; white, pink, soft orange, deep purple, blood red. Any kind possible were grown here. Only she knew that Serenity was the one who took care of them. Several years ago, when it was still acceptable to wander the gardens as a child and get dirty, even if you were a girl, Serenity had caught the gardener pulling up a few roots and had literally chased him out of the garden, swearing he would be fired. So he was, and a new gardener took his place. Serenity had control over the garden then, and had set boundaries of where he could and couldn't touch the flowers. The red and white roses were left to the care of Serenity herself, while the rest of the flowerbeds were his job.
"Damnit, Raye. Just tell me where she is." Darien's response was frustrated. She returned to standing and turned to him.
"Hold out your hand." He did as asked and she placed the picked rose in his palm.
"What is this about?" Wondering briefly if his younger sister was sane, he decided that she would tell him in due time.
"This rose, is Serenity's. And in a way, it is just like her. Beautiful to look at, for Serenity possesses great beauty, yet the thorns, as I believe you related to her sharp tongue, are her defense." He winced at the remembrance.
"Raye, just please tell me where she is." Raye looked at him with sad eyes.
"I can't tell you." she replied and walked away, back toward the house. Darien sighed in frustration and took a seat on the bench, which was close by. He ran a hand through his hair, one of his habits when he was troubled, angry, or frustrated. A few minutes had passed with him in silence, mentally thrashing him for what he had allowed to happen. Footstep echoes fell upon his ears, and they pricked at the sound. There was the distinct click of a woman's heels on the cement pathway and not long after he had turned in the direction of the noise, did the woman, Isabella, appear. Thankfully, he was completely enveloped in the shadows and away from her prying eyes, because she had decided at this time, to speak aloud her thoughts.
"What a stupid girl she is, running off when her new husband is looking for her. I thought she had more strength than that. Of course she didn't cry over Robert, when I asked Beryl to separate them permanently," he heard Isabella Patronal let out a light laugh before she continued, "but maybe this man is different." Something in his mind told him to tumble her musings around. Robert and Beryl, the summer princess becoming an ice queen. This had been gossip the years before, when he had cared to listen to it, and was still young enough to care what others his age did and talked about. Thankfully, he had his circle and that had been all he needed and wanted after that. Everything fit into place. Serenity had been the raving beauty so talked about in that one summer, when she was introduced to the society, and Beryl had already marked Robert as hers when Robert had met Serenity. Serenity had no doubt fallen for Robert with his gentle ways and classic looks, and was heartbroken when everything had been revealed. He now understood why Andrew had wished him luck in loving her. She had vowed never to love a man again. Somehow, he hoped he was exaggerating, yet did not know just how close to the truth his reasoning had come. Isabella's cry pierced the air, tearing him from his thoughts once again.
"Serenity!"
A gentle "Coming." was Serenity's response and she appeared as if by magic, her head bowed obediently.
"That's more like it." Isabella mused, circling her.
"Mother, I wish to discuss this matter with you and father." Her head still bowed, Darien could detect the defiance in her tone.
"There is no discussion." Isabella's cold voice returned tartly before she latched onto Serenity's long locks and tugged her head back. A small cry of pain escaped Serenity's lips and Darien sharply drew a breath, fighting against himself for whether or not to step in.
"You are going to marry Darien, if it takes everything I've got." Isabella's harsh tone and cruel treatment were becoming more outrageous to him as he took in the scene before his eyes. She continued, mercilessly ranting. "How childish you were, when that stupid fool Robert didn't want you, and you swore off men. Froze that little heart of your did you?" she smirked, pulling sharply on the golden strands Darien was convinced were so soft, silk was put to shame.
"Mother, please-" Serenity was silenced with another tug of her hair.
"It's final. There's nothing you can do about it now, so don't even try. Darien's mother is quite happy. You're managed to work your way into Darien's life whether you intended to or not, and now you've made your marriage bed, so you'll lie in it, alive or dead. You will become his wife and finally learn your place in society!" with her speech having ended, Isabella pushed her and she fell to the ground, a small cry escaping her once more. Darien watched with disbelieving eyes as Isabella straightened her skirts and left, before he turned his attention back to Serenity. By then, she had pulled herself up and was sitting on the rim of the fountain, her head in her hands. His heart cried out to her and he silently rose from his bench and approached, careful not to be heard. Ever so gently, he placed a hand on her shoulder, hoping to comfort her somewhat. Surprised, she turned sharply and lost balance before falling backward, being pulled away from the icy waters at the last minute by Darien. Her body had escaped pneumonia.
"Serenity, I've been wanting to talk to you." she struggled out of his hold and finally succeeded until he had to throw a strong arm about her waist to keep her from flying off.
"Let me go!" she twisted and turned. He brought his other arm around her also, completely trapping her.
"Serenity, my hands are not fire. They won't burn you." he whispered in her ear. It was a few moments until she conceded and allowed herself to be held. The day's events had worn her out.
"What could you possibly want to talk about now? You've already managed to steal my life from my grasp." her words came as the voice of a broken spirit, trying desperately to hang on in the fight.
"Serenity, I want you to know that I would never have forced you into marriage or into a life you did not want." His words seemed true, but she was biased already; unable to take the chance he might be telling the truth.
"It is too hard to believe you, Darien." He allowed her to pull away from him and followed her to the front of the house, where Raye was waiting. Serenity noticed her friend's distress.
"I've been waiting for you because I wanted to say goodbye." Raye's voice held a twinge of regret. "I'm going to be gone for a little over a month, and I didn't think I'd see you before I left tomorrow."
"Why will you be gone for so long?" Serenity inquired, curious as to her friend's activities. Married friends acted much different.
"Chad and I are going on a small vacation. He has some business in Paris and I decided to tag along. We're extending the trip two weeks for the site seeing."
"But you will be back in time for the..." Serenity could not bring herself to finish the sentence because of the dreaded word.
"Of course, Serenity." Raye embraced her tearful friend and tried to be happy. "I would not miss it for the world."
With that, Serenity hugged her tighter before letting go. Raye climbed into the carriage where the Franklins were waiting and waved her goodbye. Serenity waved to them until their carriage disappeared passed her father's gate and then turned to retreat into the house. Padding softly on the hardwood floors, she climbed the stairs and closed the doors to her room silently behind her. After closing the curtains, she proceeded to dress for bed and released her hair from its style before running a brush through the soft tresses.
The pain of her scalp was mild yet she kept a blank face with only her eyes to reveal the pain and remorse burning in their blue depths. The brush slipped from her hands as her eyes widened.
'I'll play them all for the fools they are. He and I will be married and maybe he'll realize it was a mistake and we're get a divorce.' Serenity did not understand the ludicrous way of her thoughts and for her usually sharp mind, the thoughts would be surprising to anyone else. But her mind had been in a tumble since Darien Franklin had waltzed into her life and she had very unfortunate luck. 'I will show them." Her thought echoed through her mind as she drifted to sleep.
Franklins' Mansion
The scotch in his glass swished as he took a drink. He grinned as he looked at his friend, seeing the utter surprise and sheer jealousy etched upon Michael's face.
"There is no possible way you've managed to capture the Ice Queen's heart, Darien." Michael would not be easily swayed, Darien assessed. It was fine, he liked a good challenge.
"I can tell you I did. She does still have her fiery temper though."
"You'll find it quite difficult to get passed that, my friend." Andrew's voice came from the door. Michael and Darien looked over. Andrew Mitchelson, Serenity's cousin, stood leaning against the doorframe, his hat tucked underneath his arm.
"Andrew, we were not away you had arrived." Darien's grin turned immediately into a warm welcoming smile. He motioned for Andrew to sit and Andrew followed his will.
"What did you say, Andrew, about Serenity's fiery temper?" Michael asked before taking another drink from his glass.
"I say that my dearest Serenity will never lose her temper." It is almost akin to waiting for the sun to burn out." Andrew replied as he poured himself a drink.
"Maybe Darien can do it, seeing as he already has the Ice Queen's hand and heart." Michael laughed and Darien managed a grin before shaking his head.
"Take caution, Darien. I know my cousin, and if you think you've won and captured her heart, you'll be greatly mistaken." Andrew advised his dark haired friend before taking a drink.
"But that is just the start. I have yet to take her heart and it was not even us who decided to get married. Her nuisance mother-"
"Isabella set a trap, did she?" Andrew interrupted, a strange darkness in his eyes.
"She told my mother that Serenity had agreed to marry me after all the time I had been courting her. I had not asked her to marry me."
"But with time you more than likely would have?" Andrew baited.
"More than likely I would have asked, but all in due time. You should have seen the look on my mother's face. I could not bare to tell her the truth. When we arrived at the Patronal mansion and she had practically jumped out of the carriage to hug Serenity and tell her how happy she was, Serenity looked utterly confused. Her face went pale and I thought she might tell her the truth. It was odd that she decided against it."
"I see. Serenity did think of her then."
"She looked up at me, and I saw the pity in her eyes; I knew she felt sorry for my mother."
"So you do think she'll spill the beans?" Michael asked, lips poised and ready for another drink.
"I do not think Serenity would do such a thing." Andrew replied before Darien could. "She has too kind of a heart to hurt anyone really. Men are the ones she does not care about."
"Why is that, anyways? From what I hear, she used to be a real nice gal before the fire breathing curse." Michael asked. Andrew developed an uneasy look.
"There is more, and it will probably explain that." Darien answered. Andrew looked at him questioningly and he continued. "I was out looking for Serenity and Raye after dinner, because the had gone to walk in the gardens and talk, and I only found Raye. I gave her coat to her and inquired as to Serenity's whereabouts. She just handed me a rose and spoke a few meaningless things, then refused to tell me and walked away. I sat down on a nearby bench to rest a little bit and Isabella came walking by. She was unable to see me because of the darkness and I was hidden in the shadows. She started to talk to herself, little mumblings that then turned into a scream for Serenity. When she came, they had a small argument which resulted in violence."
"Isabella has always been cruel to her. I have never understood it myself." Andrew mused.
"Before she yelled for Serenity, she was muttering something about how Serenity didn't cry over Robert when she had Beryl separate them permanently."
Andrew inhaled sharply. "She said that?" he asked, eyes wide.
"Who's Robert?" Michael piped in, confusion marring his face.
"That is what I would like to know as well." Darien seconded.
Andrew sighed inwardly, knowing the tale would not be an easy one to tell. Every word felt as if he were betraying his dear cousin.
"Robert was Serenity's fiancée." he said after a few moments. "He'd proposed to her at a ball one night and shortly after Serenity had accepted, Beryl had flounced in and blown Robert's cover to bits. She'd informed Serenity of their affair and how he had never loved Serenity. Beryl even went so far as to threaten her if she should near him. Serenity was very naive and young then, always full of smiles and joy; the news hurt her, cutting deep into her now frozen heart. She knew the truth, of Robert's betrayal, and she vowed that there would never be a chance for another man to do what Robert had done to her." Darien and Michael remained quiet for a few moments after Andrew had finished. In truth, they were unsure whether he would continue or not.
"Beryl. Marissa Beryl was it?" Darien asked. Andrew nodded, feeling a knot form in his throat.
"Would there be any other?" his sarcastic tone was far too harsh than Andrew had intended, but he silenced himself with another drink.
"That's very unusual.," Michael shook his head before taking a seat. Both sets of eyes turned to Michael, waiting for further explanation.
"Why is that unusual?" Darien prodded more out of Michael, hoping to discover all the knowledge his friends had to offer.
"Marissa Beryl and Robert Roegun were married almost two years ago."
"And it was about the same time the ice queen made her presence known." Darien supplied the obvious connection.
"We must not let Serenity know that we have figured out the situation." Andrew suddenly burst forth.
"But, Andrew, I understand her better. Maybe it would be beneficial to our future relationship if she knew that I understood. She could warm up to me," he added as an afterthought, desperate for his friend to agree with his idea.
"Darien, it would humiliate her because she has yet to accept the fact that it was not her fault." Andrew cautioned and Darien quickly realized the argument was finished. "Robert hurt her very much, and I thought you should have the right to know what exactly happened. I never did tell you the entire story. I honestly did not think you would take an interest in her, but I was wrong."
"Well, I must be returning home. I'm afraid Mina will be quite upset if I do not join her before she retires for the night." Andrew stood as he talked.
"Speaking of wives, how is the little blonde?" Michael asked, raising one inquisitive eyebrow. Andrew sighed and shook his head, igniting a grin and earning himself a slap on the back by Darien.
"Ah, wearing you out I take it." Andrew chuckled at Darien's intentions.
"No, but I am afraid that I have met my match." he supplied, hoping it would be enough for them. It was. "Good night, I'll see you both later." With the final goodbye, Andrew exited the room.
"I suppose I should be leaving as well." Michael said as he glanced at the clock. While he was not married, his mistress had him on a tight leash, and most everyone knew it. Darien said his goodbyes before showing Michael to the door. He retired for the night shortly after and traveled to his room.
Chapter Four - Seven Things I Hate About You
Clear cerulean eyes gazed vacantly upon the canopy of the bed. The curtains were drawn, shading her from the morning light and she was grateful. A miserable sigh escaped from behind her pink lips and she ran a hand through her hair, which spread of her pillow and part of her bed in a gold curtain. The corners of her pouting lips dipped into a tiny frown and she rolled over onto her stomach, pushing her face into her pillow and pulling the covers up to her ears. She had no idea what time of day it had to be, and quite frankly she did not care. By refusing to get up, she was denying that this was reality. Without leaving the safety of her bed, last night had not happened and had been only been a dream.
'It was a nightmare', she reasoned with herself. A horrible nightmare indeed. She rolled over and pulled the covers completely over her head. A slight click entered her ears and she immediately stiffened at the sound. Her bedroom door had been opened, the top hinge betraying the intruder. She remained still as someone approached the bed. 'It is a man.' she deduced from the sound of the person's boots. The curtain was pulled back slowly and she instantly sprang from the bed, knocking whoever it was to the floor. She gasped at the sight of sparkling green eyes and pale blonde hair.
"Andy!" she cried as she threw her arms about him.
"Sere, you frightened me."
"And you, I." Serenity replied with a slight giggle. Andrew smiled and sat up.
"Sere, I came to wake you with the invitation of lunch."
"With you and Mina, no doubt?" Serenity's bright blue eyes bore innocently into his and he felt immensely guilty.
"Of course, Mina even suggested that I come to get you."
"What time is it?" Serenity leapt from their sitting position on the floor and bounced over to her vanity. Pulling a brush through her golden locks, she gallantly tried to hide her inner turmoil. Andrew checked his pocket watch.
"It is a little after ten now and we are expected at twelve, so you'd better hurry."
"It is not so easy for women to get ready, but I will hurry." she flashed him a brilliant smile before turning her thoughts to her attired. "Which dress should I wear?" Serenity asked, excited by reenacting old traditions, although her life had taken a drastic change not a day before.
Andrew strode over to the large closet and began to sift through various dresses, muttering of how women fussed over their appearances. He knew Serenity really did not care, not as much as his wife, Mina, did of course, but he wanted her to look beautiful today as it was beautiful outside. Mina and he had planned to invite the new couple out to dinner for he had told Mina of the entire ordeal after he had returned home. Mina had a strange notion, and Andrew decided to follow her instincts and aid her in the planning of love between Darien and Serenity. Mina knew it would not be easy, but Andrew vowed to do his absolute best.
He quickly selected a dress, which Serenity agreed on. It was white with ice blue at the collar, sleeve cuffs and also a striping at the hem of the long skirt. Matching blue lace was sewn around the skirt itself, but the top remained the only complete white section. She smiled slightly before heading to the dressing room to change. After finishing, she picked out the matching slippers, which tied up around her ankles. Hair was the next challenge and she had pulled it into several different styles before settling on pulling just the top section into a ponytail and secured it with a blue ribbon. Fastening the matching blue hat atop her head, and applying her minimal make up. she sprayed her perfume before grabbing a light-matching cloak. Andrew escorted her downstairs and into her father's den.
Guilt rose in his throat as he watched her smile brightly upon seeing her father.
Suspicions were not even thought of when it concerned her cousin. Serenity believed they were so close, almost as if brother and sister. She smiled slightly thinking of her little brother. He had been sent away to school and was on his way to becoming a lawyer. Jason, her darling little brother was now about half a foot taller than her and yet still three years younger at sixteen. His looks he took from his mother, with dark purple hair and lively green eyes. After informing her father of her plans, Andrew led her outside to his awaiting carriage. He attempted to make light conversation, talking of current affairs, which meant nothing to either of them. Conversation was light and cheery throughout the half hour journey.
"So, I hear the Ice Queen's heart has been melted." Andrew teased as they neared the gates of his home. Serenity's miserable sigh caused him to immediately regret he had even said anything.
"No." she replied rather dejectedly.
"Chin up Sere. Darien will make a wonderful husband. I'm positive you'll be very happy with him."
"How can anyone possibly be happy with a person as vile as he? He somewhat possesses intelligence, and he is rather pleasing to the eye, but he just is not anything that I..." her voice trailed off and eventually faded as they pulled into the courtyard. Serenity had always loved the house, having once been her mother's aunts. Although related to her through her mother, Cecile and Isabella Vanclover were quite different. 'Different indeed', Serenity mused as she sadly recounted the years of her childhood, before Cecile had died. The estate had been left to Andrew just a few years ago when Cecile had passed away. Markus Mitchelson, Andrew's father, had died two years previously to his mother's death. The house was large, somewhat smaller than Serenity's own mansion, but beautifully styled and built. She had often visited as a child and ran through the gardens, loving the smell of the flowers and the mixtures of ivy with lavender and soft pink lilies. Cecile was gifted with a green thumb when it came to her gardens. She had taught Serenity some, but most she learned on her own.
Carefully, Andrew helped her from the carriage and she stepped down into the slight fog. Fog was a common occurrence until noon in these parts of the country and the sun promised to dissipate it upon high noon. Fog never reached her own home, which puzzled Serenity. She jumped slightly when the large doors opened and Kurtis came rushing to greet her. Kurtis, who had been one of her father's best servants, and a gift to Cecile and her husband when they moved in there, smiled when he set eyes upon Serenity.
"My dear lady, how you've grown!" he remarked as he pulled her into a slight hug.
"You are much too kind, Kurtis. It has been so long since I've seen you. You must tell me how they are treating you." Serenity chatted politely to him as the three made their way into the house. The butler took Andrew's coat but Serenity refused to surrender her cloak, wanting to go out to the fields as soon as the fog had cleared. Andrew laughed and promised her she would have the chance to do so shortly. She reminded him of an anxious child, itching to be released outside for play.
"Come along, Sere. Mina is expecting our presence." Andrew said after he said his good byes to Kurtis and led Serenity away. She gazed at him curiously, causing nervousness to stir within his stomach.
"Why are you in such a hurry to get me into the tea room?" Serenity inquired as she continued to study his face. He said nothing and led her into the room, closing the door behind them. The voice reverberated through her bones sending chills down her spine. She turned suddenly, pivoting on her heels. There, sitting across from Mina on a chaise, was Darien Franklin. Her eyes were wide with shock before regaining control. Darien grinned at her wide eyes, which quickly narrowed.
"Good morning, Serenity. I was under the impression you would wallow in self pity until the wedding." he remarked, his easy tenor slicing through her hard exterior. She tossed her long hair over her shoulder and titled her head in amusement, determined not to let him see how she really felt.
"Do you really think I'd let something this trivial get my spirits down for even one day?" she replied. The ribbon came untied from her hair and she promptly removed her hat. The minimal sunlight that slipped through the shades captured her golden locks, bringing a golden glow about her as her hair reflected the light. Darien's eyes flashed with something, but she couldn't register is and instead shifted her attention. Unfastening her cloak, she set it with her hat before slowly taking a seat on the chair furthest from Darien.
"Here you are taking off your hat and coat, when we had to fight with you not two minutes ago." Andrew chuckled as he picked up the articles and handed them off to the butler. Serenity attempted a half smile.
"Sere, I could not believe that you did not tell us sooner." Mina gasped, feeling betrayed that she had heard of the news by accident, rather than from her own friend's lips.
"Tell you about what, Mina?" Serenity eyed Darien suspiciously. His dark eyes met hers and she shivered once again.
"Why, about the wedding of course. I could hardly believe my eyes when I saw you two dancing at the ball, but now yesterday I could not believe my ears. The two of you are finally together. After all these battles, anyone would have through you hated one another." Mina chattered, and Serenity stood to get a glass of tea, or so everyone thought. Three pairs of eyes watched as she passed the tea tray and went straight to the liquor cabinet. Darien watched, stunned for a few moments as she poured a glass of scotch. He was at her side immediately, however, when she started to lift it to her lips, swiftly removing it from her hand.
"Ladies should not drink." Darien chastised. Serenity glared refusing to give in.
"Gentlemen should not lie." she hissed as her reply before stealing the drink and downing it before he had the chance to snatch it again.
"Serenity," Darien towered over her small form, yet she didn't buckle.
Andrew chose this moment to interrupt.
"How does the dining room sound? I think lunch will be ready in a few short moments." Mina nodded and both she and Andrew stood to leave.
"Could you give us a few minutes, Andrew?" Darien asked. Andrew and Mina nodded before leaving the room. She began to follow the couple but her foot caught the edge of a rug and soon found herself nearly sprawled on the floor, if it had not been for Darien. He swept her into his arms, an action she protested with greatly. "Scotch is not a lady's drink." Darien almost laughed at her current unsettled expression, if he had not been so angry with her at her defiance.
"Be quiet." she grumbled.
"Spirits will not save either of us now." he informed her quietly. She looked like a child staring up at him with wide glassy eyes. Her hair was loose and she was wearing a cute outfit that resembled a sailor's suit. He took another look. After the second investigation, he realized she did not take the appearance of a child at all. Her dress outlined a perfect feminine physic and he noticed upon instinct how her chest rose and fell, as if she were trying to control something.
"Spirits? Is that what you call it?" she unsuccessfully tried to untangle herself from him.
"Serenity, will you listen to me?" he had the sudden urge to shake her until her head rattled, but as soon as she turned her blue eyes on him, the urge was gone. A soft sight escaped her lips.
"Yes, I suppose I should listen to you. You might Actually prove my thoughts incorrect. Unlikely, but I'll give you the benefit of the doubt." she mumbled the last of her words but he surprised her by catching them.
"And that thoughts are those?"
"That you have a brain and don't listen to what men listen to." she replied, ice in her voice. He winced. 'That was a little harsh.' she reproved herself. A look of guilt crossed her face as she bowed her head and he instantly felt sorry he had provoked such words out of her. Tilting her chin, he hoped a gentle smile and a wink would help. It did.
"I'm wiser now that I've grown out of the adolescent stage." with that, she allowed herself to smile slightly. It was odd, but she didn't feel like she could hate this man who held her so gently. "Okay, now that I had your full attention, I would much like to talk to you about something."
"Let me guess," she interrupted him. "We'll have a contract, no children, no love, and no happiness. I'm allowed to do as I please and you can go on living your life the same way you have been living it." she sighed and removed herself from his arms. Darien shook his head in an almost defeated manner but followed her.
"No, I was meaning to talk to you about why you did not tell my mother or both families for that matter, the truth about this sham of a proposal." he came up behind her. She turned slowly and cocked her head to the side.
"Your mother is a pleasant woman, Darien. Just because she had a bastard like you, does not condemn her to hatred." she replied in a soft voice, almost concealing her insult. Almost was not good enough and he caught it without effort. Roughly slipping an arm around her waist, he pulled her to him.
"And here I was going to say thank you." he shrugged and she glanced at the offending arm. Her expression was blank and she was completely unaware as how to deal with the situation she was currently faced with. Her eyes narrowed as her lips twisted into a frown.
"Keep your hands off me. I might be your future wife, but I'm not your property." she struggled to pull away, which caused him to use the other arm. The struggle only led to her back being pressed against the wall. "De ja vu?" she whispered, her eyes amused as she raised an eyebrow at his obvious battle to control his anger. His eyes flashed and he suddenly bent his head to hers. She inhaled sharply, and found herself unable to move. Her body was against her, and she watched in slow motion as his lips inched closer to hers. To her utter shock, she realized her eyes were closing and her head tilting toward the ceiling. Their lips met, and she forced the fireworks to be extinguished from her eyes. The door opened and she pulled away before looking over Darien's shoulder. She let out a cry of surprise when she recognized whom it was standing in the door. Beryl. Marissa Beryl. She knew it was not because of Beryl's hair that she saw red.
Chapter Five - Six Things I Hate About You
Three Days Later
Serenity sat back in the carriage, miserable after a day of constant traveling. Her mother had forced her to come with her and Darien's mother to cart her around, introducing her to new people as Darien's soon-to-be wife. She was polite to them for she really had not choice in the matter under her mother's watchful hawk eyes, and acted as though she indeed cared for such things. The truth was, she had to keep herself from releasing the bile that had risen from her stomach after every handshake or kiss. Seeing no point in keep the charade, as if was just her and Isabelle at the moment, she kicked the seat across from her. Isabella glared at her angrily.
"Stop that this instant, Serenity Patronal." she ordered.
Serenity ignored the demand.
"Do be quiet, mother dearest, or it will be you I kick next." she replied, once more kicked the seat. Her mother was startled; she had never before spoke to her in that way. Serenity had been a wonderfully obedient daughter that other people perceived her to be. Isabella had taken that for granted. It was hard not to, for Serenity had become quite the actress over the last few years. Isabella was jealous of her daughter, the fact was plain and simple. Her daughter excelled her in beauty, grace, whit and charm, but she was not jealous of the looks men gave them when they were at parties. She insisted Serenity not stray far from her side anywhere they went in public for that reason. She loved the compliments she received, when people told of how they looked like sisters, but most of all Isabella loved the attention. As a child, she had been her father's favorite and spoiled far too much, but she had never considered her vanity a problem.
She scowled at her daughter and turned her attention to the people they passed on the roads. They were having lunch today with the Franklins at their mansion. When they arrived, Serenity had unwillingly exited the carriage when Darien offered his arm. Isabella smiled slightly from the porch with Mrs. Franklin, where they stood watching the couple. Her daughter's appearance was impeccable and she patted herself on the back for that. The pink evening dress was stitched here and there with white lace accenting her figure perfectly. Her golden hair was pulled into a simple high ponytail, long curls flowing down her back. A matching pink scarf was tied around the base of the ponytail and the pink tails fell the same length as her hair. She had refused to wear makeup, for which Isabella was a little frustrated, for she looked slightly pale. The older women proceeded into the house, leaving Darien and Serenity to each other. As soon as the door closed, Serenity jerked away from him.
"Do not even think about it!" she snapped at him. He sighed and shook his head.
"Serenity, please-"
"Leave me alone. Can you not see that you have already ruined my life enough as it is?" she interrupted. He had taken all he would take. Anger flashed in his eyes as he grabbed her roughly by the upper arms and pulled her to him, lifting her up so he wouldn't have to look down so much.
"Listen, Serenity. I do not like that I have ruined your life, but I think that deep down inside, you know I have done nothing of the sort. Your marriage to me will only make things better. It will keep the other men away, who do not have a snowball's chance in hell with you, and your parents and friends will not try to set you up anymore. You will be looked after, tended to, and well taken care of, if not pampered. They know I'll make sure of it. And at any rate, the assume love comes later in a marriage, so it does not matter if you love me or not." He had not realized that he had shaken her slightly each time he counted the ways that the marriage would be beneficial. Her eyes were wide and fearful, unshed tears in those beautiful blue crystal orbs. Sadness, acknowledgment, and was that admiration he sensed?
'No, she would never admire me.' Darien reminded himself. Suddenly remembering he was holding her above the ground with a strong grip, he set her down and turned away. "I apologize for my behavior." he muttered and walked into the house.
"I apologize too." he heard her whisper and she followed. He stopped and turned. She had a small smile on her pink lips, though her eyes seemed unaware of anything that was happening. Tears had begun to make their way down her cheeks and he found himself at a loss of what to do. During all the time he had known her, she had cried only once before; when he had pushed her too far. He had rudely taken her into his arms and forced a kiss upon her. Carefully, he reached into his pocket and took out his handkerchief. Slowly, he walked back towards her. She stayed motionless, making no attempt to take the handkerchief he offered. Ever so gently, he lifted her chin so that her face was up, and he began to dry the tears. More threatened to come, but subsided at his gentle touch. He had been so rough just moments ago, but now seemed soft and cautious. Her heart fluttered but she smothered any thoughts of where his hands could go. As a result, her cheeks turned a healthy rosy pink with the very ideas. She was blushing, he noted. Returning his handkerchief to his pocket, he pulled her into a hug, hoping to comfort her to the best of his ability.
"Let us go inside before they wonder what is keeping us so long." he proposed and led her up the steps and through the front doors.
The two mothers were sitting in the study, discussing wedding arrangements when Darien and Serenity entered. Isabella looked at their faces, then her gaze traveled to where his hand rested on Serenity's back. She grinned inwardly but let a slight smile grace her lips. Serenity glared at her.
"Serenity, Darien! Glad you decided to come inside. Serenity, we must have your opinion on which color is best. Red or blue?"
"Which is best for what?" Serenity asked, missing Darien's side-glance.
"Your wedding dress of course!" Mrs. Franklin huffed. Serenity stiffened and Darien soothingly massaged her back.
"My wedding dress will be white."
"But-" Mrs. Franklin attempted before Serenity interrupted.
"My wedding dress will be white." Serenity sharply replied.
"Such a strong-headed woman, is she not?" Darien laughed before placing a kiss on her temple.
"That is how she was raised." Isabella said and smiled slightly.
Mrs. Franklin did not look pleased but smiled along. White was for purity.
'That brat is not pure. I've heard what she has done.' Mrs. Franklin mused as she smiled.
Three days before
"I trust your daughter is well off considering her inheritance." Mrs. Franklin drawled, hoping to obtain the knowledge from Isabella. The cold, money hungry Vanclover who had married Klyde Patronal stared back at her with blantantly obvious distaste.
'Another gold-digger waiting for her son to marry rich.' Isabella mused as she rested her teacup upon her knee.
"Of course Serenity will have quite a large dalry, but it will not be until after Klyde has made sure that she is already well provided for." Her angry scowl set her bad mood in stone. "I do not understand why Klyde covets that girl so much."
"Does Serenity love my son?"
"Unlikely, but you know how girls these days are. Robert wanted to marry her, and decided that he liked Melissa's more provative ways. I think Serenity often gave into him in her desperation, which was why she was such a mess when he persued Melissa." Mrs. Franklin gasped for modesty and inside she knew that although Darien had been through his wild stage, women should have higher standards.
So there you have it; Revision One of Chapters One through Five. I hope you like it. Leave a review and rate how wonderful or horrible you think my writing talent is, if you can consider it a talent. hehe. But as always you know the drill.
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