Chapter 1

D'Artagnan sighed deeply, shaking his head as he looked down at the bed in front of him and the two lovers that lay entwined together. He knew this was the reason he had volunteered himself to go looking for the missing Musketeer. If another had found them… well, he didn't want to think of the consequences.

Sighing again, he walked into the room, grateful that the covers were doing their job, and pulled open the curtains, causing the pair to wake with a start. "You know Athos would have your head if he caught you in bed with his sister, Aramis," D'Artagnan warned him, sending a disapproving look at the pair.

"That's a risk I am willing to take," Aramis replied simply, stretching out his body. D'Artagnan rolled his eyes, glancing at the girl at his side. She looked up at him, frowning slightly.

"You can't help who you fall in love with, D'Artagnan. You of all people know that! And anyway, I can handle my brother," she pointed out, causing D'Artagnan to glance sheepishly down at his feet and Aramis to chuckle slightly

"Marie has a point. What do you want anyway? I hope for your sake you have a good reason to disturb us. It's been a long time since I slept as well as that!"

"The captain wants to see us. I have no idea why but I suggest you hurry and get dressed. We don't want to keep them waiting," he replied.

Aramis shot him a look which D'Artagnan understood at once. Bowing self-consciously, he stepped out the door.

"Mademoiselle," he said inclining his head to Marie.

"I shall see you soon, no doubt, D'Artagnan," Marie smiled as the young Musketeer left.

"I am still not sure how you have managed to tame me," Aramis stated, wrapping his arms around his love while she stared silently out the window onto the streets of Paris. He was now fully dressed in his uniform while she was wrapped in a silk gown.

"Maybe it's the thrill of forbidden love?" Marie suggested, leaning into his embrace. Aramis chuckled.

"It's not really forbidden love. Athos just hasn't come round to the idea yet," he replied. When she remained silent he added quickly, "But I promise he will in time." Again she didn't reply, instead turning in his arms to face him.

"You should go. I don't want you getting into trouble for being late," Marie told him, planting a gentle kiss on his lips. "And please stay safe," she added quietly.

"That, my darling, you know I can't promise," he replied smiling slightly, but his smile faded upon seeing the worry and sadness that appeared in her eyes. He took her hands in his and looked her in the eyes.

"But with your prayers and love I think I have a good chance," he told her sincerely, bringing her hands to his lips. She smiled at him as he finally stepped away, inclining his head to her.

"Mademoiselle. Remember I will always carry your love with me."

"Always the charmer, Aramis," she smiled. He winked at her and sent her one of his smiles before leaving.

Marie turned back to the window to watch her lover's departing figure, his last words ringing in her ears as she sent out a prayer for him, her brother, and D'Artagnan and Porthos, her dear friends. She had done it every day since her brother joined the regiment all those years ago and she would continue in the hope it would keep them safe.