What if the circumstances of John's and Margaret's first encounter was less dramatic and they were more civil to each other? Would they come to an understanding sooner than in canon? This is my first attempt at writing a bit of smut about Gaskell's beloved characters just for fun. I am no writer. This is unedited. This version take lots of liberties and deviates from Gaskell's original work/characters.
Chapter 1
Margaret was leaning against the door watching Edith dance with Captain Lennox, her new husband. The past few weeks were a swirl of wedding planning activities. All the talk of lace, ribbons, and gowns were beginning to wear Margaret out. Margaret was relieved when the day of Edith's wedding finally came. Edith, true to form, was still fretting what gowns to pack, what hat to wear for her send off, what color ribbon...and so Edith prattled on and on. Margaret had had enough that morning. Her Aunt Shaw was by Edith's side and could handle any of her daughter's last minute whims. Margaret stepped outside for a breath of fresh air. Margaret clearly loved her cousin Edith, but even all the stuffy parlor calls from Aunt Shaw's acquaintances were tolerable compared to these last few weeks of wedding preparations.
As Margaret was standing there musing at the happy married couple, Henry Lennox approached her from behind. He leaned over to her right shoulder and greeted her. Henry's closeness was enough to startle Margaret out of her reverie. The feel of his breath on her shoulder as he drew out her name on his tongue made her skin cringe. Henry had taken advantage at every opportunity to be alone with Margaret, and had been making it quite clear that she was the object of his affections. Margaret had been subtly trying to steer his attentions away from her person.
Margaret quickly recovered, "Hello, Mr. Lennox."
"Come Margaret, will you not call me Henry? We are family now."
Margaret hesitated. "Of course. Are you enjoying the festivities?"
"It is delightful. They make a handsome pair (referring to Edith and the Captain, his brother). Would you care to dance?"
"I apologize, but I'm afraid I am too tired to dance. We stayed up quite late last night and woke up very early this morning to begin final wedding preparations."
Margaret was relieved that Henry did not force the request. However, he did remain by Margaret's side, albeit a little too close to her side. They stood in awkward silence. Henry finally broke the silence and asked Margaret if this was how she envisioned her wedding. Margaret replied, "When I get married, I want very little fuss and frippery. I simply want to put on my favorite dress and walk to the church."
"Will you be staying long in London?" Henry asked.
"No, I will be returning to Helstone tomorrow morning. I will be glad for the change of scenery." Margaret said with a smile and pointedly directed her last statement to Henry. She dearly hoped that Henry would take her meaning and that they could depart as friends.
Chapter 2
Margaret was walking back from visiting a neighbor when she heard the sun in all its glorious beauty call for her. She gave into the temptation and before she knew what she was about, she laid down in the wide open field to bathe in the sun's luxurious rays. How long she laid there basking in the light she knew not. Margaret laid there contemplating how different her life in Helstone was compared to her life in London. It was such a change from sitting in stuffy parlors paying obligatory calls and gossiping. In Helston, Margaret reveled in her freedom. She thought about life and how much she preferred the country and its fragrant rose blooms. As the parson's daughter, Margaret would often visit her neighbors and bring baskets of food. It gave her a sense of purpose.
Margaret heard someone call out her name. She recognized that voice. The hairs on her arm immediately stood up. It is not possible is it that he should be here in Helstone of all places? No, it cannot be him. She left him in London. It was too late to hide. As the footsteps became closer, a shadow casted out her sun. As Margaret's eyes adjusted,
"Henry!"
"Margaret, I did not mean to surprise you."
"What on earth are you doing here?" Margaret impertinently blurted out.
Henry studied Margaret for a few seconds and said, "After hearing you speak so fondly of Helstone, I just had to come and see it for myself. You're not disappointed that I came?"
Margaret gathered her wits, "I just wasn't expecting to see you here. Come, you must be tired from your trip. I will take you to the house."
If Henry noticed Margaret did not respond to his question, he did not say anything. The parsonage was on the other side of Helstone. As Margaret led Henry through Helstone, she pointed out all her favorite paths. They stopped in front of the church and Henry asked, "Is this the church you were referring to when you described your wedding day?" Margaret felt uncomfortable with this line of questioning and tried to diffuse it by saying, "I was speaking in generalities. I am not at a point in my life to even think about my own wedding."
Instead of backing down, Henry pressed forward and took both of Margaret's hands in his own. "Margaret, you must know that a London gentleman such as myself would not come all this way to Helstone if he was not interested. That is, what I'm trying to say is…"
Margaret interrupted him before he could finish. "Please don't." Margaret pulled her hands away and took one step back. "Henry, you are my friend. You are Edith's brother-in-law. I have never thought of you other than as a family member. Please don't say anything else."
But Henry was lost in his own thoughts and was not listening. For all the warnings Margaret was trying to convey to save them both from further embarrassment, Henry did not take heed. For surely women liked the thrill of the chase and would not want to come across as overly agreeable even if she was interested in the pursuer. It was in this vain of thought that Henry proceeded to make his sentiments known.
"We are friends. And I would like to think you consider me a close friend. My family has money and I have a good living. I can provide for us comfortably. Margaret Hale, I would be honored if you would consent to be my wife."
"Henry, listen to me. Please do not make this anymore awkward. Let me be clear. I do not want to marry you. I do not love you in that way. You are my friend, nothing more. Please stop with your thoughts about us."
It took a moment for Henry to digest what Margaret said. He was furious. Surely he thought that no proper lady would freely talk to a gentleman about how she envisioned her wedding day, unless she was hinting to her suitor. In Henry's mind, Margaret had done exactly that. She led him to believe she was no indifferent to him. And now she humiliated him by refusing his offer. How dare her! Henry was still seething when he promptly turned around and left Helstone.
Margaret was reeling from not only Henry's unexpected arrival in Helstone, but also his offer of marriage. She thought it odd that Henry, a man of education, did not understand her back in London. And he came to Helstone to propose when she directly told him she did not love him nor want to marry him. She did not know what more she could have said to prevent such an event. When she married, Margaret wanted to be passionately in love. Henry did not make her feel that way. Henry always agreed with her to avoid conflict. Henry was dull. Henry's behavior frustrated Margaret. She hoped that his anger would be short-lived.
By the time Margaret reached the parsonage, she put on a smile before she stepped inside to greet her father and mother. She had no intention of telling them about Henry's marriage proposal. It was too embarrassing and awkward, and she much rather no one knew about it.
"There you are Margaret," said her father. "I was hoping to speak to you privately in the sitting room." Margaret smiled sweetly at her father and said, "Of course Father. Let me take off my hat, and I'll be right there with some tea."
When Margaret arrived in the sitting room, she noticed her father was pacing and his hands were wringing his handkerchief. "Father, whatever is the matter? Is Mother okay? When is Mother? Has something happened?"
"Dear, your mother is fine. She is resting in her room." Her father resumed his pacing while Margaret prepared tea for the both of them. She handed her father's tea to him and he looked directly in her eyes. The look she saw in his eyes was of determination. Margaret took a seat and waited until her father was ready to converse. It was some minutes later when her father finally exclaimed, "We are moving to Milton." Margaret looked up at her father with wide eyes. Her father knew she had many questions. "Let me explain before you interrupt."
Mr. Hale took a deep breath and began again. "It has been some time now that my conscience will not allow me to continue as a parson. It has been slowly eating away at me. I cannot preach to others when I myself have lost faith. Several weeks ago, the Archbishop asked me to renew my faith." Here he paused and looked into his daughter's sad eyes. "Margaret, I cannot do it. I have told the Archbishop that I can no longer continue as a parson. He has asked that we remain until the end of the month while my replacement is found."
Margaret sat still and did not know what to say. On one hand she was sad to leave her beloved Helstone, but at the same time, her heart swelled with pride for her father for being just in his actions. She looked at her father. It looked like a heavy weight had been lifted from his heart and soul. In that moment, Margaret vowed to herself that she would do everything to ease her father's discomfort with having to relocate the family.
When Margaret did not speak, her father added, "Margaret, your mother does not know. I will need your help with explaining this to her. Lately, she has been feeling under the weather and I do not want to stress her, but she must be told."
"Father, let me help put your mind at ease. I'll admit that leaving Helstone is not ideal, but I understand. I am so very proud of you for standing by your principles. I will help you tell Mother. Surely, she will understand as I have."
Chapter 3
The train ride to Milton was painfully slow. Margaret had grown up with her cousin Edith in London, raised as a fine gentlewoman, and would spend her summers in Helstone with her father and mother. Going to an industrial town would be quite the change, but Margaret was looking forward to it. Every time she looked at her father, he seemed much happier, and the tone of his voice as he spoke about his job prospect as a tutor in Milton was animated with excitement for the upcoming adventure. Margaret would welcome this change if only for the sake of her father's mental being. She was determined to keep an open mind and give Milton a chance. Her mother, on the other hand, was quiet. It was not until the train got closer to Milton that Mrs. Hale started making comments about the smoky chimneys and the grey skies. These words were followed by how she did not understand why her husband simply could not renew his vows as a matter of formality. Mrs. Hales' maid, Dixon, would heartily agree.
Mr. Hale's longtime friend from Oxford, Mr. Bell, was unable to meet them in Milton. But he referred Mr. Hale to his favorite tenant, a Mr. John Thornton. Mr. Thornton, a young man in his early thirties, was a cotton manufacturer in Milton. John was a dedicated worker. After his father's death when he was but a boy, John worked tirelessly to support his mother and younger sister Fanny. They would eat nothing but porridge, and many days John went without food so that his mother and sister could have his share. He saved enough money to pay back all of his father's debts in Milton. John understood the hardships of life, having had to live it as a fatherless young boy. So when his landlord, Mr. Bell, came to him and explained the Hales situation, he was more than happy to assist in any way he could.
John spent the last day or so following-up on potential houses that might be suitable for the Hales. There was one house located in the Crampton neighborhood that Mr. Thornton thought would be satisfactory for the Hales. He made arrangements for the Hales to view the house on the day following their arrival to Milton. Along with the house in Crampton, John also provided Mr. Hale with a list of other available houses in the area.
The train finally arrived to Milton. "We are here ladies," said Mr. Hale. "Margaret, why don't you locate our luggage, and I will find a carriage to take us to our lodging for the night."
The short drive from the train station to the hotel was enough for Margaret to notice how busy the streets were. There were many street vendors. Everyone seemed to be in a hurry to be somewhere. There were several large cotton mills. She saw many poor people begging on the streets, to include small children. Her heart went out to them and it was in that moment she knew she wanted to be of service. Her mother was right. The skies indeed were grey and smoky from the mills. Despite the dreary smoke that made Milton look foggy and depressing, Margaret was determined to give her new home a chance.
The Hales arrived at their hotel in time for tea. Mrs. Hale opted to take tea in her room. She wanted to rest before dinner. Margaret and Mr. Hale took their tea in the hotel sitting room.
"Margaret dear, your mother seems to tire easily these days. I do worry for her. It was not my intention to make her unhappy."
"Father, I am sure all mother needs is some rest. She may see Milton in a different light once she gets use to the idea."
"I hope you are right. Thank you Margaret. You are a good girl. I dearly wish your brother could have been here with us if it weren't for that dreadful business with the navy. It pains me to think that I may never see him again…." Mr. Hale's thoughts wandered for a bit about the injustice of it all. His son who was right and honorable was wanted for mutiny. The only choice he had was to flee England. If he were ever to come back to England, he would be hanged if he were caught. The thought pained Mr. Hale, and brought him back to the present.
Mr. Hale pulled out a piece of paper from his pocket to show Margaret. "Look here dear. Mr. Thornton, one of your godfather's tenant, was kind enough to write me and gave me a list of potential houses for us to view. I would like to get started as soon as possible."
"We just need a house with enough bedrooms, a separate study area, and a sitting room for all of us. I think if we split up the list, we can cover twice as many houses. I am eager to get situated so I can spend the rest of my time exploring the area." Margaret said with a grin.
"I think that is an excellent idea. Let's set out first thing tomorrow morning. There is a house on here located in Crampton that Mr. Thornton strongly suggested we visit. I think we should visit that house together."
"How about we meet at the house in Crampton tomorrow afternoon then? I should be finished viewing the other houses on my list by then, and will be in a better position to make a decision."
The next day Margaret viewed all the houses on her list. Margaret did not think any of them would suit her mother. The rooms in all of them were too cramped to her liking or did not have enough rooms in general to suit her family. She dearly hoped that the Crampton house would work for them. She arrived at the house in Crampton before her father and noticed the door was left open. She decided to let herself in. She could at least walk through the house before her father got there. As Margaret walked through the rooms, she heard voices in the upstairs sitting room. One of the voices she recognized as belong to her father. The other voice was a deep baritone.
"Thank you sir for showing me this house," said Mr. Hale. "My daughter should be here soon. I believe you may be right. This house should suit nicely for us. I just want to make sure my daughter agrees."
Mr. Hale noticed that Mr. Thornton was looking at the doorway. "Ah, there you are Margaret. I was just telling Mr. Thornton here that I think this house may work for us. Mr. Thornton, let me introduce you to my daughter Margaret."
"Pleased to meet you Miss Hale." Mr. Thornton extended his hand to greet her. Margaret was taken aback. No gentleman had ever sought out her hand. Margaret just nodded in his direction and diverted her eyes directly to the floor. Mr. Thornton felt gravely offended that the daughter of a parson no less would snub him like that. He fisted up his hands to reign in his temper.
Mr. Hale noticed his daughter's reluctance and stepped in to explain. "You must excuse my daughter John. She is not familiar with the handshake as a form of greeting. Margaret, it is very common here in the North that people greet each other this way. Mr. Thornton meant no offense, but quite the opposite."
Margaret stared at her father, and slowly collected herself, "I apologize Mr. Thornton. I meant no offense. It seems I have a lot to learn of the Northern ways."
"I understand Miss Hale," said Mr. Thornton. His anger was quickly abating when he looked at Miss Hale. Her chestnut hair contrasted against her porcelain skin made her look like a goddess. Her eyes captivated him and took his breath away. "What is happening to me?" thought Mr. Thornton to himself. John Thornton never felt so nervous around a woman.
"So Margaret, have you had a chance to tour the house?" asked her father.
"Yes and I have to agree with you father. This house will suit nicely for us. It just needs some new paper to make it look a little more cheerful. I think this room would look nice with a light yellow paper. I believe Mother will approve." Margaret said with a wide smile as she walked forward to link her hands around Mr. Hale's arm.
Mr. Thornton watched the father and daughter interaction. Margaret clearly loved her father with the way she looked and smiled at Mr. Hale. "Well if you are both in agreement, I shall have the landlord deliver the rent agreement to your hotel. You should be able to move in tomorrow."
"John, I want to thank you again for finding this house for us," said Mr. Hale.
"No need to thank me. I'm just glad you found a house to your liking. I must be getting back to the mill. I still have several hours of work ahead of me. I will have some of my men come by and help you move." And with that, Mr. Thornton shook Mr. Hale's hand, tipped his hat and nodded towards Miss Hale, and left the house.
John was anxious to leave the house. He did not know what to make of his thoughts towards Margaret. Margaret had taken him by surprise. He was expecting Margaret to be a child. And so he was stunned by her beauty when he first saw her standing in the doorway. He needed time to sort through his thoughts, and he couldn't do that while in Miss Hale's presence.
Margaret hid her disappointment when Mr. Thornton did not make a second attempt to shake her hand. John Thornton was a tall, dark-haired gentleman. She could see the muscles in his arms and chest as his well-fitted suit outlined the contours of his body. His voice was deep and rich, and it made her heart flutter when she heard him speak. And his eyes, one could get lost in those blue eyes of his. Margaret admitted to herself that Mr. Thornton was a handsome man. She wondered if their paths would ever cross again. At least she hoped it did as she thought to herself.
Chapter 4
That evening, Margaret dreamt of a certain handsome cotton mill manufacturer.
"Margaret," John called out as he placed his hands on her slim waist and leaned over. Margaret felt the heat from John's breath on her neck and gazed into his deep blue eyes. His eyes were full of desire and she could feel herself succumbing to his fiery eyes. "Margaret." John gently brushed his cheek against Margaret's forehead and lifted up her chin with his finger. His lips lightly touched hers. Margaret did not resist his kiss. She wrapped her arms around John's neck. As John teased out the kiss, and gently nudged her mouth open, Margaret sunk her fingers into John's hair and pressed her body into his. This made John moan. John flicked his tongue in Margaret's mouth. Margaret gasped. Her gasp encouraged him to cup Margaret's face with both of his hands and deepen his kisses. His hands began to feather her exquisite body. His hands roamed and lingered on her perk breasts, along her side to her waist, and on her rear. He gently squeezed her bottom, grinding her against his manhood again and again.
John and Margaret were lost to each other. John's hands were on Margaret's thighs, pulling up her nightgown. Margaret was fumbling with John's shirt. Her hands freed his shirt over his head and she promptly splayed her fingers on his chest. The muscles she admired earlier that afternoon were bared before her without the encumbrance of clothing. She admired his muscular arms and abdominal muscles which made her womanly center moist with desire. She grinded her body against his to help relieve her itch. She couldn't get enough. She dipped her tongue in his ear, and sucked on his ear lobe. This sent John into a frenzy. He firmly grabbed her butt and pushed his body harder against hers. Margaret sucked on his neck and couldn't help herself from pulling down John's pants, exposing his manhood. In that instance, John lifted Margaret up with her gown pulled up to her breasts. Margaret instinctively wrapped her legs around John's waist. That movement almost made John come undone.
John carried Margaret over to the bed, and laid her down on her back. Her womanly center was drenched and it spurred John forward. John lifted Margaret's gown over her head, and admired her naked form. With one hand, John squeezed her right breast and twisted her nipple. He suckled her left breast with his mouth and flicked his tongue over her nipple, hardening it. Margaret groaned. He sucked on the skin in the valley of her breasts. Margaret pushed her womanhood harder against John's bulking manhood. John could not hold back anymore. He rubbed the tip of his manhood anointing Margaret's womanly opening. She was so slick and ready for him. With one thrust, John entered Margaret's core. Margaret bit into John's shoulder to suppress her groans. John slowly pulled out and plunged back in again and again.
The feel of John's manhood inside of her, stretching her core, made Margaret want more. She grabbed his bottom making John plunge into her harder and deeper with each thrust. John lifted one of Margaret's legs and placed it on his shoulder. This deepened John's thrusts even more and made Margaret shudder with delirium. The pleasure for Margaret was intense. The most unladylike grunts came out of her mouth. Seeing Margaret let go of all inhibitions and feeling her squeeze his manhood with her center made John thrust one final time into her core. His body shook as he pumped his seed in her. Margaret's core squeezed the last of his seed out of him. It was divine.
The sensations woke Margaret out of her slumber. One brief encounter with Mr. Thornton, had driven her to have improper thoughts about him. What would happen if she saw him again? Margaret blushed and got up to ready herself for the day that awaited.
Chapter 5
True to his word, Mr. Thornton sent over some of his men to help the Hales move. Margaret directed all the workers, and when they left, Margaret started unpacking the boxes for the sitting room. With her father's new profession as a tutor, she thought it would be best to focus on preparing the sitting room so that he could receive potential students and guests. Meanwhile, her father was in his study unpacking boxes. Margaret's mother confined herself to her room with Dixon serving her tea. Her health seemed to have worsen. If truth be told, Margaret had noticed her mother's declining health for months now before they left Helstone. She wished her mother would confide in her. Margaret had a sinking feeling that Mother was not well.
Margaret was standing on a stool to reach the top shelf of the bookcase when Mr. Thornton entered the room. John stood in the doorway admiring Margaret's form. She was standing on her toes to reach the top shelf from the stool. He recollected himself given the impropriety of him gawking unbeknownst to her. John reluctantly cough to make his presence known. Margaret's heart fluttered upon recognizing a deep cough. She almost lost her balance on the stool when John ran forward to steady her by her waist. Margaret looked up into John's eyes and thanked him. She could feel the blush on her cheeks and had to look away. Not knowing how long they stood there, John finally realized he still had his hands around her waist and abruptly released her and stepped back.
John awkwardly apologized, "I'm sorry Miss Hale. I did not mean to startle you and make you almost fall with my presence." He could not bring himself to apologize for steadying her fall or for keeping his hands around her waist for longer than was appropriately necessary.
"It's not your fault. I should have been more careful." Margaret replied, but could not keep her cheeks and neck from turning scarlet. John thought her blush was quite becoming and was encouraged by her reaction to him. "My father is in his study. I will let him know you are here."
Fifteen minutes later, Margaret brought tea and lemon biscuits up to the sitting area. She found John and her father discussing the merits of Plato's The Republic. She quietly served Mr. Thornton a cup of tea. John intentionally brushed his fingers with Margaret's when she handed him his tea. He could not help looking up at her, and soon lost track of his discussion with Mr. Hale.
"Margaret, Mr. Thornton here has agreed to be my first official student," Mr. Hale said gleefully.
"That's wonderful Father! Mr. Thornton, you will find that my father has a love for books, and loves discussing points that may not necessarily be his own for the sake of debate." Margaret smiled.
"Well, I look forward to it. It will be a welcome opportunity and a way for me to relax after the end of a long, arduous day at my mill." Mr. Thornton replied with a twinkle in his eye. Not like
"Miss Hale, how are you finding Milton society?"
"There are so many poor and hungry people in Milton. Everyone seems to be in a rush to be somewhere."
"You will find that not many people have the luxury to do nothing. Milton is an industrial town. People come here to work and make their fortune. There are many opportunities here for everyone," Mr. Thornton said as his heart swelled with pride for his town.
"You mistaken me Mr. Thornton. I only meant that Milton is so very different from Helstone and even so very different from London." Margaret paused for a minute and then added, "I look forward to finding my place in Milton. I'd like to be of some use, rather than sitting idly day after day in stuffy London parlors."
"May I have my mother and sister pay you a call next week? My mother is involved with several community causes that you may find of interest."
"That would be wonderful Mr. Thornton. I look forward to meeting your mother and sister." Margaret said with enthusiasm.
Seeing that Margaret and John were able to keep up the conversation, Mr. Hale excused himself to go check on his wife. Mrs. Hale had not been feeling quite like herself lately, and was spending more and more confined to her room with her lady's maid, Dixon. Mr. Hale dearly hoped that she was only upset with the move to Milton, and that it was not any serious health issue. Before Mr. Hale left the room, he turned around to Mr. Thornton, "Well John, I will see you for our first lesson next Tuesday. We will begin with Plato."
After Mr. Hale excused himself, John asked Margaret, "Will you be joining your father and me when I come for my lessons?"
"I have not thought about it sir."
"I believe I would enjoy hearing your opinions. Besides, I think you would be a worthy sparring partner against her father." John's statement made Margaret blush. No man had ever asked her for her opinion. He was actively seeking her company and wanted to get to know her mind.
Margaret raised her eyebrow and asked with a smirk, "And what makes you think that I would side with you?" This made John chuckle. Margaret noticed the dimples in his cheeks when he smiled. He really should smile more often Margaret thought. "Be careful what you ask for Mr. Thornton. I must warn you that I am quite stubborn when my mind is settled on an idea."
"In that case, I look forward to convincing you that I am right," John winked. John could not help himself. He was falling for Margaret. She was captivating. For the next half hour, John and Margaret enjoyed their playful banter.
It was getting late, and John did not want to leave Margaret's company. But he knew to stay any longer would be inappropriate especially now that her father retired for the night. John reluctantly excused himself and Margaret walked him to the front door. As she was handing him his hat, their eyes met. John hoped what he saw in her eyes was a sign of returned affection. John smiled and bid his adieu.
Chapter 6
After some encouragement from Mr. Thornton, Mrs. Thornton and Miss Fanny Thornton paid a call to Mrs. Hale and Miss Hale. Margaret and her mother were a bit nervous about welcoming them into their small, humble abode. Fanny's dress was colorfully grand and poofy. She had to walk through the entryway sideways in order to fit. Margaret internally found amusement at the sight of Fanny's dress. Fanny, on the other hand, found the Hales' home small and stuffy, not to her taste at all. The walls and rooms were decorated modestly. Mrs. Thornton was quite the contrast to her daughter. Like her son, Mrs. Thornton favored black. Mrs. Thornton had a grim facial expression that matched her dress ensemble.
"Welcome to our home Mrs. Thornton, Miss Thornton. Please have a sit. Tea will be brought up shortly," Mrs. Hale said. "This is my daughter, Margaret."
"It is a pleasure to meet you both," Margaret said with a slight bow.
The conversation was stilted. Mrs. Thornton made very little effort to carry a conversation. At one point, Mrs. Hale commented on the intricate details of the lace on Mrs. Thornton's dress, and the only response she got in return was a one-worded reply from Mrs. Thornton. Thus, the conversation was at a stale mate. While the Thornton's were considered the upper class of Milton, Mrs. Thornton found paying calls tedious and a waste of time, so made very little effort. She was only visiting because her son had asked her to call on them. John rarely asked anything of her, so she grudgingly obliged. Looking at Miss Hale, she could understand why John would find her attractive.
Margaret and Mrs. Thornton did eventually find a mutual topic of interest. Margaret commented that she noticed a lot of children who did not attend school. Mrs. Thornton said that in an industrial town such as Milton, many families could not afford to send their children to school when they could be working in the mills. Margaret was shocked to learn that the mills employed young children.
"Miss Hale, most mills employ children because they are the only ones small enough to crawl underneath the looms and sweep up the excess cotton. Now, while Marlboro Mills has its own share of young hands, we do abide by the law. No child under the age of nine is allowed to work in our mills. In addition, employing the child helps the parents too because it brings in more income to feed their families."
"What happens to those children not old enough to yet work in the mills? Is there a school for them to attend during the day while their parents are at work? Surely, they should learn how to read, write, and do math. Having those skills would be valuable once they are of an age to join the workforce."
Mrs. Thornton's eyes brightened, "Indeed, you are right Miss Hale. I have been thinking along those same lines myself. In fact, there is a building not currently being used at Marlboro Mills that I have been thinking about opening up as a school. The only problem are the resources. We would need to employ a teacher, and the building itself needs a little bit of work before we could occupy it."
"Mrs. Thornton, if you do not think me too forward, I would be more than willing to help. Back in Helstone, we would auction off donated goods, and use the proceeds to fund whatever project we were working on. We could do something similar here to get the funds to fix up the building and maybe even hire a teacher."
"Miss Hale, that sounds like a fine idea. I will leave it in your capable hands then." Margaret now noticed a slight smile creep on the corner of Mrs. Thornton's mouth and a twinkle in her eyes when she spoke. Mrs. Thornton was coming to understand why John found Miss Hale appealing.
Margaret was ecstatic she found some sort of kinship with Mr. Thornton's mother. Margaret found Mrs. Thornton's sense of service to others aligned with her own. While she did not like the fact that the mills hired young children, she could at least help the ones she could by providing them with educational opportunities. Mrs. Thornton was not such a stern beast after all.
Margaret tried to engage Fanny in conversation, but Fanny's thoughts went from one topic to the next without giving Margaret a chance to respond. In all honesty, Fanny could have carried the conversation on by herself and to some degree she did. Margaret quickly realized that all that was needed from her was the occasional nod in Fanny's direction whenever Fanny paused long enough for input. Margaret looked over at Mrs. Thornton and realized that Mrs. Thornton was quietly smirking at Fanny's behavior and Margaret's forbearance. Fanny continued on without notice and asked Margaret if she has ever been to London. Margaret nodded, and Fanny started wishing how she dearly wanted to visit London, but her mother had no desire to take her or leave Milton. Fanny asked if Margaret could play or sing. Margaret replied that she could, but very poorly. Fanny prattled on about how she was very fond of music, how the Milton concert hall brings in famous singers, and she droned on and on until visiting time was over.
Margaret wondered how Fanny could be so different in personality from her brother. While Mr. Thornton had to care for himself, his mother, and Fanny when he was but a young lass, Fanny was too young to remember the hardships. Margaret definitely preferred the company of the handsome Mr. Thornton. Philosophical debates with him and her father over the last several weeks were exciting. She found great amusement in learning about the way Mr. Thornton's brain worked. John also enjoyed his time at the Hale's home during his weekly lessons. He was beginning to understand the way Margaret viewed the world. She was always looking for the good in everyone and everything. John was a bit jealous of her innocence. John had lived a harsh life after the death of his father. He was too keenly aware how cruel the world could be when one had little money and food. But despite all that he suffered, John worked hard and raised his family from poverty to the current high social class they are in.
It took several weeks of making house calls with Mrs. Thornton for Margaret to be introduced and welcomed to the upper echelon of Milton society. Most of the wealthier class were content with simply donating money towards establishing a school for the workers' children, but could not be bothered with any physical participation. This worked out just fine for Margaret because the amount of funds she received was more than enough to renovate the building and hire a teacher for at least the first 6 months of operation. Proving herself to be a shrewd business woman, Mrs. Thornton even convinced some of the families to commit to an annual contribution in exchange for an engraved plaque made in their honor to be hung in the school's hallway.
Chapter 7
Margaret was sitting in her room when she heard someone knock on the door. It seemed Dixon was at the market, so Margaret went down to open the door. As this was not Mr. Thornton's normal lesson time, she was surprised, but not displeased to see John at the door. The sight of John took Margaret's breath away. His tall, muscular body framed the doorway as his piercing eyes looked directly into hers. Margaret blushed furiously, and stood aside to give him entrance.
"Good afternoon Joh…Mr. Thornton. It's so nice to see you. Was my father expecting you?" The slip of almost calling Mr. Thornton by his first name brought on another onslaught of rosy cheeks which did not go unnoticed by John.
John smiled widely, "Actually, I came to see you. My mother mentioned that you may need help with finding workers to make repairs to the building that will become a school. I was in the neighborhood this afternoon, and thought I would see if you were home."
"Please, do come into the sitting room and I'll bring us some tea."
While John was waiting for Margaret to come back with the tea, he looked around the room and noticed several sketches hung about the room. There was one sketch of a young man and a little girl who resembled Margaret. They were sitting in a field, holding hands and laughing about something. The scene looked like true happiness, and brought on a twinge of jealousy. John's thoughts were interrupted when Margaret entered the room with the tea.
"Miss Hale, is this you as a young girl in this sketch?"
Leaving the door open, Margaret set the tea tray on the side table and stood next to John in front of the sketch he was admiring. "Indeed, I must have been no more than eight in that sketch. I remember sitting in the field on numerous occasions, just enjoying the company and sunlight." Margaret beamed.
"And who is the young man sitting next to you?"
Margaret hesitated and turned to look at John. "He is a family friend," was all Margaret was willing to say. John made a mental note to ask Mr. Hale about the sketch later. Margaret did not seem to want to discuss the matter any further, and John could sense her discomfort. John accepted her response and changed the subject.
"I understand from my mother that you have been quite busy the last several weeks."
Grateful for the change in subject, Margaret grinned and said, "Well, I have also kept your mother quite busy too. She has been more than gracious with tolerating me and making sure I have everything I need to get the school started. I'm so grateful to your mother. Please do tell her so for me. I will also tell her myself when I next see her."
Margaret poured them both a cup of tea. She did not even have to ask John how he wanted his tea. She simply knew and made it. As she was handing John his cup of tea, John's fingers lingered on hers. Their eyes met, and Margaret's cheeks colored a pinkish hue. John was pleased with himself.
"You are a miracle worker. I heard you even convinced Mr. Granger to make a contribution. Mr. Granger is one who does not lightly part from his money."
Margaret chuckled, "Stop. Mr. Granger is a kind gentleman who simply needed a little bit of encouragement. Mr. Thornton, now that I have enough funds to begin repairs to the building, might I ask you to help me find some workers?"
"Leave that to me Miss Hale. I looked over the building before coming here, and it just needs some minor repairs. The structure itself is in decent shape. What needs to be done should be completed within the week."
"I'm delighted to hear you say that! I better start my search for a teacher."
Margaret was giddy. Her happiness was contagious. John could not help himself and found himself grinning like a schoolboy. Oh how he wished he could see Margaret like this every day.
John had stayed longer than he intended and needed to get back to the mill. He regretted having to say good-bye to Margaret. "As much as I have enjoyed your company, I must be getting back to my mill." Margaret was sad to see John go. "I understand sir. Thank you for coming by. I will walk you to the door."
Chapter 8
True to his word, the repairs to the school building were completed in record time. John had sent over some of his own mill workers to do the repairs. During this time, Margaret was able to hire a suitable teacher, a Mrs. Wright.
Margaret was wandering through Milton when a whistle blew, bringing on an onslaught of mill workers who almost trampled over Margaret if it had not been for the assistance of a Mr. Nicholas Higgins. Higgins safely led Margaret through the crowd.
"Sir, thank you for your assistance back there. I was not expecting such a rush of people. My name is Margaret Hale."
"Pleased to know you. I am Nicholas Higgins. I work at one of the mills. You must pay heed Miss Hale. The whistle signals break time for the hands. Weeze only get a few minutes for a break, so everyone rushes."
"I'll be sure to remember that."
"Do you need help going somewhere?"
"I was just about to go to the Marlboro Mills to inquire from Mrs. Thornton where I might begin to solicit for a schoolteacher."
"Oh you are the Miss Hale who is establishing the school at Marlboro Mills for the children! Mighty fine thing you are doing. Everyone has been talking about it for weeks. We are all very excited." Margaret blushed.
"I suggest you go to the hospital. Ask for Mrs. Wright. I knew her husband, good fellow." Just then another whistle blew. "I must be going back. I wish you luck and look forward to the opening of the school." And with that, Nicholas blended into the crowd.
Margaret decided to take Nicholas' suggestion and headed over to the hospital. Turns out Mrs. Wright was an elderly woman who volunteered her time at the hospital. Her husband passed away five years ago. Needing to feel useful, she filled her days in the children's ward. Mrs. Wright and Margaret got along immediately being of like mind and heart. Mrs. Wright was a former schoolteacher in London prior to her marriage. She readily agreed to teach at Margaret's school.
The day before the school was planned to open its doors, Margaret was walking around inside the building admiring all the progress. Had it not been for the contribution, pride, and support of the Milton community, none of this would have been possible. Margaret's heart swelled up with pride and her eyes were beginning to water. It was in this state that John found her.
"Is everything all right Margaret?" John asked in concern.
"Yes. Everything is as it should be. I was just thinking of all the progress we've all made."
"It is all because of you."
"No, it is because of all of us. If it had not been for you donating the building, none of this would have even been possible. If it had not been for the generous donations of Milton society, we would not have the funds to make the repairs, buy desks, buy books, and hire a teacher. We, the people of Milton, made this possible." Margaret's eyes began to water up again as she said this.
John grinned at her. He noticed that in Margaret's choice of words, she considered herself a Miltonian as well. As he handed her his handkerchief, he asked, "I hope then those are tears of joy you are shedding?"
"Indeed they are. You must think I'm an emotional wreck."
"Not at all. It makes me lo…think even better of you if that's possible." John almost declared his love to her. The thought of Margaret was always on his mind. He needed to discover whether or not she felt the same way about him.
"It's getting late, Father and Mother will start to worry if I'm not back for supper. And tomorrow is a big day! I shall see you tomorrow?"
"I look forward to seeing you again." Margaret beamed at him and slowly left Marlboro Mills, but not before she turned her head back and saw John still staring at her. Her heart skipped a beat and her breathe hitched seeing the look in his eyes.
Chapter 9
That night John could not get the way Margaret turned to look back at him out of his mind. Was it possible that she wanted him as much as he wanted her? He laid in bed thinking of the way her hips moved and the look in her eyes when she turned her head and stared right into his eyes, his very soul. Could she see his desire for her? It took every ounce of self-control for John not to run to her and grab her by her waist and press her up against the wall.
Oh how he longed to feel her body pressed up against his. His male appendage was becoming increasingly hard thinking about it. He tried to think of other things, like what machines needed to be fixed at the mill, new orders…until finally his body calmed down so that he could fall asleep.
While he was asleep that night, he dreamt of soft, luscious lips belonging to that of Margaret, and could not help himself. He slowly kissed her on her pink lips. Margaret returned the kiss and slowly opened her mouth so that he could gain better access. Their kiss deepened, and John lost all control. He urgently pulled down Margaret's dress, ripping it in the process. He firmly grabbed her by the waist and pushed her up against the door frame. His hands were everywhere. He squeezed her breasts and was determinedly pushing his core on her stomach. His hands moved lower past her waist. He urgently clutched and massaged rear increasing the intensity of her body against his. He could feel her wetness through his clothes. She was just aroused as he was and she was not resisting his attentions. This spurred John on.
John's mouth sucked on her breasts. She whimpered when he squeezed both breasts and sucked hard in the valley between both breasts. Her body was exquisite. John felt her hands instantly tug at his shirt trying to get it loose. He helped her take his shirt off. Her hands then aggressively helped John remove his pants. They were both naked exploring each other's body with their hands and mouth. John resumed his grip on kneading Margaret's rear. No longer having a barrier of clothing between them, Margaret instinctively raised one of her legs so that she could better scratch her itch against John's thigh. She rubbed her body up and down against John. John could feel her wetness, driving him to madness. He lifted her up slightly and Margaret wrapped both legs around his waist, and cloaked both of her arms securely around his neck. He rubbed the tip of his manly appendage at her entrance. Oh she was so wet and ready for him!
Margaret was squirming in his arms, begging for him to enter her. Breathlessly she begged, "John please. John please. I need to feel you. Please." "Oh Margaret. I need to slow down or this will not last long." But Margaret was not going to let him slow down. She lifted her body slightly and brought her hand down to touch his erection. She guided his erection to the center of her core and pounded her body down on him. John let out a loud groan. "Goodness you feel so tight and wet." Margaret used the door frame to help hold her in place as John hammered her core with his rock hard appendage over and over. Their bodies were in rhythm making swishing noises as they pounded each other. Margaret was the first to growl her satisfaction. John could feel her core throbbing and gripping his appendage. John quickly followed with his own ecstasy.
When they were both able to gain their senses, John carried Margaret and laid her on his bed. John could not get enough of Margaret. His body was ready to take her again. By her body's reactions, Margaret was ready too.
Margaret brought her body up and laid on top of John. She put one leg on each side of John's waist. She then sat up and straddled him like a horse. Margaret looked into John's eyes with a mischievous smirk. John was more than happy to return the smirk. "As you desire my lady. Do as you wish to me." John gallantly said. This made Margaret smile. "Be careful what you ask for my Lord." As she said this, Margaret guided John's weapon into her vaginal canal. John enjoyed watching Margaret ride him slowly. He rocked her waist to help her, and when one of his hands went to massage her nub, she went wild. "John, that feels good. Don't stop." Margaret's hand reached behind her back and felt for John's balls. This added a new sensation for John, and almost made him spill his seed into her. Seeing John's reaction made Margaret climax. John rubbed her nub fiercely upon seeing and feeling her let loose. John pumped her a few more times and rolled her over onto her back without losing contact. He then proceeded to thrash her with his attentions. He pushed into her core aggressively a few more times. John looked down and seeing his appendage moving in and out of Margaret made John quickly reach his climax.
That morning John woke up to find his bed sheets spoiled from his amorous dreams. He quickly wiped the sheets down as best he could, and got dressed for the morning. He decided he was going to talk to Margaret before the school opened.
Chapter 10
"My you look very handsome this morning son. Why are you all dressed up?"
"I figured today is a big day with the school opening. Marlboro Mills should be in its finest. You and Miss Hale have worked hard to ensure its success, and I want to be there to support you."
"Thank you son. I believe Miss Hale deserves most of the credit. She is a head-strong girl."
"Yes, she can be. Mother, I've been thinking a lot about Miss Hale."
Knowing her son, Mrs. Thornton asked, "John, are you considering Miss Hale as your wife? If you are, I think she would do well by you. What woman would not want a successful, rich and handsome man such as you? She would be a fool to turn you down."
"Mother, I want her to love me for me, not for my money or the things I could buy her. I do not want to possess her."
"John, you are a sweet man. I hope she sees you for who you are. From my time spent in her company, Margaret has a kind and gentle heart. I am sure she would not accept a marriage offer if she did not feel affection."
"Thank you Mother."
John left the house early after breaking his fast with his Mother. He headed over to the school to make sure everything was still in order. He found Margaret there doing the same thing.
"Good morning Margaret." John said brightly, licking his lips. The memory of his amorous dreams last night still tingled his mind. "I had not expected to see you here until later today for the grand opening ceremony."
"I wanted to take one last look around to make sure everything was in order." Margaret noticed his mouth as he spoke and tried to draw her eyes away. John perceived where her eyes were staring and smiled warmly. John was encouraged to continue and walked up closer to her.
"Margaret, there is something I'd like to speak to you about. Please have a seat." Instead of sitting down next to her, John began pacing.
"Is there something wrong John?" His pacing was making Margaret nervous.
Hearing Margaret call him by his given name calmed his nerves. He sat down next to her and held her hands.
"Margaret, I have enjoyed her company immensely. You are a fine and beautiful woman. Any man would be lucky to have you as his wife. Would you consent to be my wife?"
Margaret's mind swirled and her heart was beating rapidly. She could not believe her ears that the most eligible and handsome man in Milton was asking for her hand in marriage. She was speechless. All she do in reply was raise John's hands to her lips. She then turned his hands around and caressed her cheek against his palm. John leant down to kiss her soft lips. When their lips parted, John could see Margaret's happiness.
"Is that a yes?"
"Yes."
John kissed her more fervently at her reply. He held her for a long time in his arms before they both had to depart. "I will speak to your father today." Margaret nodded her head and gave him a brilliant smile. "You have made me the happiest of man Margaret."
After the grand opening ceremony, John walked back with Mr. Hale. He asked Mr. Hale for his permission to wed Margaret.
"John, I'm delighted to soon call you son. But there are some things we need to discuss."
"Sir, there is nothing you can say to deter me from marrying Margaret. She is a gem, and I love her."
Mr. Hale chuckled, "I have no doubt that you love my daughter sir. But before you tie yourself to our family, you should know that I have a son. His name is Fredric and he is wanted for mutiny." John looked shock. Mr. Hale pressed on. "He joined the Navy when he was young. The captain was abusive to his crew and Fredric and a few others decided to throw the captain off the ship. They put the captain and his men on a small raft. Anyone who speaks out against the captain's actions to his crew in court has been hanged. So you see, Fredric is wanted by the Navy. If he should ever step foot on English soil again and is caught, he will be hanged. We do not talk about him for fear of his safety. He has also changed his name."
"Is that the young man in the painting sitting in the field with Margaret?"
"Yes, Margaret and Fredric were close as children. She misses him dearly. Now that you know the Hale's deep, dark secret, do you still want to marry my daughter?"
"Thank you for telling me. This does not change how I feel towards Margaret. She is everything lovely, and I would be proud to be associated and welcomed into your family."
"One more thing – Mrs. Hale has not been well. I would like for you and Margaret to marry as soon as possible. I am not sure how much longer my wife will be here with us, and I know it would mean the world to see her daughter happily married before she passes this world." Mr. Hale's voice cracked as he said this.
"I would be more than thrilled to marry Margaret sooner rather than later. We can marry by special license in two weeks time if that is acceptable?"
"Excellent. Margaret could not have found a better man as a husband. Please take care of her John."
"With my life sir," John replied.
Chapter 11
Mrs. Hale's health was quickly deteriorating. By the wedding day, Mrs. Hale had to be carried to the church. John and Margaret exchanged vows in a small ceremony with just a few friends and family present.
John and Margaret decided to stay in Milton after the wedding. They were both busy. Margaret wanted to be around to see to the school and John had more orders than he could fulfill at the mill. They did seclude themselves from everyone for a week in their bedroom.
"Margaret I have waited for so long to be with you. You know, I've dreamt about us being together." John admitted to Margaret that first night. Margaret grinned up at him and said, "I'm so relieved to hear you say that John. You know, I felt an attraction to you when we first met. I too also dreamt of you."
"And pray dear wife, what did you dream about us doing?"
"I would like to show if you don't mind."
"I do not mind at all."
John slowly kissed her lips, nibbled her ear, and sucked on her neck. This gave Margaret goosebumps. He helped Margaret undress, as Margaret was undressing him. The vision of Margaret's naked form was enchanting. It was better than he could have ever imagined in his dreams. His eyes wandered down her shoulders, to the nicely formed mounds of her breasts, to the curve of your waist, to the dark patch at her center, and down her slim legs. His eyes then roamed slowly back up. His body was responding to the vision in front of him. He could feel his cock harden as his eyes lingered on her body. He wanted to touch all of her with his hands and mouth.
Margaret allowed John to gawk at her form. She was doing the exact same thing to him. She noticed how muscular his arms were, his chest, his rock hard abs, his growing erection, and her eyes wandered back up to his eyes and saw his desire for her.
John picked her up and carried her to their bed. He softly ran his fingers from her face to her neck, down the side of her torso, over her hips, to her center brushing her core ever so slightly, down her inner thighs, to her toes, and slowly back up again. He did this several times, and each time Margaret could feel her body getting wetter and her desire for more building.
Margaret wanted John to feel the same. So she too let her fingers wander the length of John's body and when it got to his erection, she wrapped her hand around his shaft. This made John squirm. She continued to hold his shaft and started to move her hand up and down. John groaned at her caress. Margaret found John's reaction fascinating and wondered what he would do should she increase her attentions with her mouth. With all the boldness and courage she could muster, Margaret pushed John down on his back and swiftly pinned him down with her body. She passionately kissed his mouth. She then nibbled his ear like he did hers. She moved her mouth down his chest to his stomach. She stopped at his stomach and nibbled and sucked on his skin there. She then slowly trailed kisses down to his erection. With one hand she wrapped her fingers around his shaft, giving it a few short tugs, and put her mouth on his tip. She sucked on his tip feverishly. John was groaning loudly now. This encouraged her to put more of his erection in her mouth. She moved her head up and down to mimic what her hand was doing to his shaft. She could feel his erection pulsing. All of a sudden Margaret felt a hot liquid rush into her mouth. She swallowed hard. John's erection pulsed a few more times into her mouth. This excited Margaret even further. Once John's body settled down, Margaret looked up at him and grinned. She rested her chin on his chest.
"Margaret, I didn't mean to do that. But what you were doing to me made me so excited."
"Shh. I always wondered how you would react to my ministrations. Now I know. I enjoyed your reactions to me very much, and would not mind doing that often to you again. Does that make me wanton? I am new at this and I wasn't sure if it was proper or if you would even enjoy it."
"I want you to do what pleases you when we are alone together. I enjoyed your attentions very much and would not be opposed from it happening again…and again."
And with that, John rolled Margaret on her back. He promptly went for her core with his tongue. He licked the outside of her luscious entrance, and used his hand to rub her nub. He slowly took one finger and gently probed her while he continued sucking and licking her core. She tasted divine. She was drenching his face down there. John then removed his mouth. He gently pushed two fingers into her while his other hand massaged her nub. This gave Margaret shivers and she moaned loudly. John could feel Margaret's core pulsating around his fingers. His body was responding in return. He could feel himself becoming extremely hard again. Margaret spread her legs and John moved to hover over Margaret's body with the tip of his erection at her entrance.
"This may hurt a little my love."
Margaret nodded, "Please make me yours John."
John plunged into her and paused as her body stretched to accommodate him. She was so tight and wet for him. He dearly wanted to move within in. He looked at Margaret to make sure she was all right. "Margaret, may I move? Are you all right?" "There was just a little bit of pain, but I'm okay. John I want you so much. I can feel something building inside of me again." John slowly moved his shaft in and out of Margaret. As the feelings within Margaret built back up, she begged for John to go faster. She grabbed his rear telling him to go faster and harder. "Faster….oh John you feel so good." She grunted. "Harder…" By now Margaret was biting into John's shoulder to control her spasms. This also accelerated John's ecstasy. With a final push, John spilled his seed into her. "Margaret I love you." "I love you John."
John woke up in the middle of the night and found his wife caressing his body. His body quickly responded to her touches. He was once again hard for her. He rolled her over to her side and gently gnawed her neck with his mouth and teeth. His hands massaged her breasts making her nipples hard. His hand moved down to rub her nub, and noticed her body was ready. She was drenched down there, it made his mouth water. She tasted so delicious the night before. He guided his erection into her core and resumed his attentions on her nub. She extended her rear to give his erection deeper access. Margaret started mimicking her movements with his as his erection glided in and out of her core. John knew he couldn't hold out for much longer and was thankful that he felt Margaret's core vibrating his shaft. Having ensured Margaret's ecstasy, he allowed himself to go down that blissful road and pushed into her core one last time as his seed spilt into her over and over again. They were both sated and fell back to sleep with John still inside of her.
After a week of not seeing anyone but each other, John and Margaret knew they must face the world. Both knew that they could face anything as long as they did it together.
EPILOGUE
Shortly after their marriage, Margaret's mother passed away. They buried her on a hill in the Milton cemetery. Her father followed her mother six months later.
Margaret's school was a huge success with the Marlboro Mills workers. While other mills suffered from strikes, Marlboro Mills remained in operation. Marlboro Mills over the years had not only opened a school for their worker's children, but they also established a dining house providing the workers a meal during the workday. Doing the little things for their workers had kept Marlboro Mills safe from union strikes and riots.
In addition, Nicholas Higgins whom Margaret met long ago came to work for John. He proved to be a faithful and conscientious worker whom John later promoted to floor manager. That action alone gave all of the other workers hope that they too could climb the job ladder, and make a better living for themselves.
Margaret beared two boys and one girl for John. Despite the hustle and bustle of their lives, John and Margaret always found time to sneak away alone to a small corner of their house during the day for some quality time together. It was during one of these midday rendezvous that Margaret told John she was with child again. John was thrilled and looked at Margaret with all the love and admiration he felt. He passionately kissed her again and said with a mischievous wink, "Mrs. Thornton, I hope you have the energy to enjoy my attentions upon your body once more." And with that, he positioned Margaret's legs around his waist and they entered the land of bliss.
