Chapter 9
The journey to London taxed everyone. The summer heat had pushed tempers and strained even the best of friendships. As the carriages pulled alongside the town home, Rose practically threw herself from the cabin. Her unruly hair pulled free from her pins as she breathed the cool nighttime air. The rest of the group exited their conveyance with slightly more decorum.
"What has you shooting such daggered looks at Charles?" Jacob sauntered over to stand next to her. Unbeknownst to Rose, Charles had already told Jacob of their previous conversation.
"He asked me about my father." Came the clipped reply. Vivian suddenly appeared on the other side of Jacob. She was waving her delicate lace fan frantically in an effort to cool her heated face as Jacob smiled down at her.
"How was the trip my darling? Did your sister and Rose talk you to death?" He discreetly clasped his fiance's hand in his own, giving it a gentle squeeze. She responded by rolling her eyes sarcastically and sighing.
"Yes I'm afraid they about near killed me between her silence," she gestured to Rose, "and her hateful looks at the both of us!" She finished by looking towards Elaine, who was clinging to Charles' arm as usual, simpering and sighing at everything he said.
"Well let's put the two love birds behind us and retire to a sitting room. I am in need of a brandy, and I would like to discuss something with the two of you." Jacob led them into the house, leaving Charles and Elaine to catch up. Charles was the first to notice that the rest of the party had disappeared, so presented his arm to escort Elaine inside.
The house was warm and smelled faintly of shortbread. Charles thought to himself that it was a fine home, but needed a woman's touch. It was a home much like his own in that sense. He then turned his eyes to Elaine. A soft flowery scent invaded his senses as she gently shook her blonde curls. His heart almost stopped when she turned and smiled coyly up at him from under her lashes. He felt his own lips return the smile as they entered the sitting room. He almost immediately dropped her arm when he saw Rose sobbing on one of the sofas. He flung an angry gaze towards Jacob, even as he stomped to him, grasping his arm and flinging him around to afford them some privacy.
"What did you do?" Charles growled; all the muscles in his back tensing as a loud sob was emitted from the woman. Jacob just smiled at him, raising his eyebrow in amusement.
"Just wait a moment old boy," It was only then that Charles realized that laughter was mixed between the tears, a light and lifting laugh that spoke of a great burden being raised from her heart.
"Thank you!" She stood and rushed to Charles, embracing him as tears still fell on her cheeks. He froze, unsure of what to do. Before he could truly react she stepped away from him. A rare and beautiful smile had spread itself across her face, the grief and darkness that normally clouded her countenance gone. She raised her hands to her lips, whispering a fervent thank you. She vanished into the hall, humming a French folk song, before Charles could even respond.
He stood scowling at the door, confusion etched into every feature. Jacob and Vivian exchanged tepid glances before seating themselves on a sofa. Charles turned to them, an eyebrow shot up in a look of incredulity. Elaine looked on with distain as the door to the sitting room still swung slowly to a close.
"We are in England, not France. I cannot believe her lack of decorum! And then a French song? I would almost think she was one of those…those imbeciles!" Elaine practically wailed. Charles turned a doting smile, more like that of an older brother acknowledging the silliness of a younger sister than a suitor, in her direction. Only Jacob noticed the severe pallor of his fiancé as the words were spoken.
"I've never seen her so….transparent with her feelings. What on earth was it about and how can I make it happen more often?" Charles chuckled. Jacob waited a moment, looking hesitant to answer. Charles leaned back, falling into an armchair, patiently waiting for an answer.
Rose floated down the hallway, humming a song her mother used to sing to her. Upon entering the room that had been assigned to her, she laughed out loud. She knew very well it was silly to act so over a new dress, but it was the generosity of her employer which had her giddy. No one had ever cared enough to notice that she disliked the simple garments she was forced to wear because of her station.
Glancing around her room, being keenly pleased with the crème draping and bed spread, large cherry wardrobe, and expansive window, she noticed a small silver tray with an envelope resting on the table by her dressing room door. Upon picking up the letter, she noticed the slightly messy handwriting, finding that she did not recognize it. Her name was on the front, so she proceeded with opening it.
The wax seal popped off with ease and she unfolded the parchment, the lack of crinkling told her it was written quite recently.
Dear Miss Silksome
I suppose I should have waited longer to write to you, and yet I found that I could not. It has been but a few days, and writing to you constantly invaded my normally organized thoughts.
I had dinner with Mama Maggie, as you instructed. She is exactly as you described her. She even threatened to box MY ears if I did not send you her love.
As to the estate, your records are impeccable and I have had no issues relating to that matter. The weather has turned slightly and I find that rain loves to find its way into the boots I left outside, much to my surprise and chagrin.
I look forward to reading your reply, if you stoop so low as to send one. You are after all, the guest of very rich people, and I am a humble attorney.
Good Luck
Oliver Greye
She could not help but smile. She knew he spoke truth about Mama Maggie, and she found herself laughing at the image of Oliver putting on boots, only to find them full of rain water. She imagined that he yelped, perhaps even stumbling over one of the dogs. Still chuckling, she pulled out a paper from the desk, and proceeded to reply.
My Clumsy Mr. Greye,
Yes, rain does have a terrible tendency to find its way into anything left outside. I am glad you have written as soon as you have, for I find being the guest of "rich people" is somewhat taxing.
Tell Mama Maggie that I will be very cross if she boxes your ears. Those exact words mind you, or she won't believe you. I am glad you liked her though. You didn't say you did, but I'm just going to assume the fact.
I am glad that my records are sufficient for such a prominent attorney. Oh yes, did I mention that several of Vivian's friends are complaining because they are without their excellent employee? It seems you are quite in demand in London.
I look forward to your next letter, as I was immensely pleased to have received the first.
P.S. Don't leave your boots out again.
Regards
Rose Silksome
She finished writing the letter with a flurry of her signature. She folded it carefully and addressed it hurriedly before rushing out of the room to find a footman. She was still smiling at the letter when she ran straight into Charles' chest as she rounded a corner. She was momentarily dazed by the solid nature of aforementioned chest.
"My apologies. I was somewhat lost in my own head sir." Rose offered as she stepped around him, but a lock of her hair had become wedged around one of his jacket buttons, and it jerked her back. She was close enough to feel his deep laughter resonate through her.
"I am sorry sir. I can never fully tame this unruly mess," She laughed as she tried to untangle the offending lock. She found that she had no idea how it was attached, and only succeeded in tangling it further. She sighed in frustration and dropped her arms to her side. Again, Charles laughed.
"Allow me," He said, taking to the task. Rose braced herself for the pulling and possible breaking of her hair. Men never had any clue how to handle long hair. To her surprise, she only felt a light pulling as he gently unwound her hair, his fingers deftly untangling it. She soon found herself free, and she tucked the hair back into her simple coiffure.
"Thank you, I must admit I am surprised that you did not just pull it off,"
"I do know how to handle fragile objects Rose," She looked up into his face, seeing much more than what he said. His eyes were gleaming with something she did not understand, and his lowered voice sent shivers through her.
"I uh," She cleared her throat, which had suddenly gone dry, "I must find a footman. I have a letter to send," She offered a shy smile as she explained her hurry.
"Allow me, I have a few of my own to send," He held his hand out, and she set the letter in his palm lightly. She smiled and curtsied a little, realizing after that it had been the first time she had done so to her employer. She then returned to her room.
Charles smiled as he watched her go. He saw that he had affected her, and surprised her with his natural gentleness. He then glanced down at the letter.
Mr. Oliver Greye, Lorebury Estate –shire
His smile faded, and he resisted the urge to crumple the letter in his hand. He found he had a strong dislike for Mr. Greye. Especially when his name was scrawled so carefully in Rose's distinct handwriting.
"You have been in a state all afternoon Charles, I do hope you lighten up by the time we go to the ball." Jacob slapped him on the shoulder before picking up a random book and beginning to read.
"It's nothing. Just my typical foul temper obviously." Charles muttered. In truth, he was supremely annoyed at the familiarity already occurring between Mr. Greye and Rose. He told himself that whatever he was feeling was silly and that he should focusing on Elaine, but every time she was in view, he found himself searching for Rose. Elaine was caked in a fake flowery scent and bright, audacious colors and the very sight of her was beginning to wear on his senses. Rose, on the other hand, had a light leather scent, and was almost always dressed in flattering, dark colors. They were two very different ends of the spectrum.
"Share your thoughts Charles. If you don't I worry that your face will be stuck in a perpetual scowl." Jacob laughed without looking up from his book. Charles became suddenly aware at the depth of which he was scowling.
"It is the usual as of late, Jacob. I do like Elaine, I want to feel more than I do for her, but Rose is..." he paused as the memory of her thanking him for heavens know what filled his mind, "Everything and yet nothing that I want!"
"I am not sure I understand old boy,"
"She is stubborn and never seems to do what I ask her too, or at least not HOW I ask her to. And I find that admirable and irritating all at once. I want a vibrant partner, and Rose is very severe, yet I have seen a side of her that is mischeivious and slightly rambunctious. She isn't immediately beautiful, but the longer I look at her, the more radiant she is to me. I don't understand it at all. I wish she were gone, but when she is, I constantly await her return!" Charles had taken to pacing as he explained the tangled ball of twine that was his tender emotions. He had yet to find out what Rose was hiding, but this passed from his mind quickly as the women in their party entered the room.
"Jacob! We found Rose the perfect dress," Vivian gushed ,"She will definitely steal the spotlight from me simply by wearing it," Rose blushed fiercely and took to examining the floor. Elaine brushed passed them, a cloud of perfume following her into the room.
"My dress is simply divine Charles, simply divine," She smiled demurely as she took a seat next to Jacob, but kept her eyes locked on Charles. He attempted a smile, but it resulted in a mere crinkling of one side of his mouth.
"How lovely. Uh, Vivian what did you find?" He attempted to put the attention elsewhere.
"Oh I didn't get one. I received a gem of a gown from a Marchioness." Vivian shared a quick glance with Rose.
"Since when have you known a Marchioness dear?" Jacob had never heard of his fiancé knowing such a person.
"Oh it's felt like ages dear, she is a wonderful person. Maybe you can meet her soon." Vivian smiled slyly. Jacob was still confused, but shook it off, as he found it was easier to just go along with her.
"We should get ready Viv," Elaine stood abruptly and almost flounced out into the hallway.
"I'll help you first Rose, I want to personally insure that you look perfect," Vivian clapped her hands together before pushing Rose out the door, even as she attempted a small wave that only Charles saw. He felt his lips spread in a wide grin. It was then that it hit him.
"Merciful heavens, she's shy!" He blurted out loud. Jacob raised an eyebrow and stood, clapping him on the shoulder.
"You are slow my friend. I knew that the instant I met her." Jacob shook his head.
"You look beautiful," Vivian smiled affectionately at her friend as she spun slowly, looking at her reflection in the mirror.
"I thought this was a black and white ball Viv!" Rose cried as she examined herself in the silky red gown, complete with black pearls strung in intricate patterns across her bosom and down the long sleeves.
"Oh, it is." Vivian laughed as Rose fretted.
"I'll stand out like a cow among rabbits!" She said aghast. Silently she appreciated the gorgeous gown, and loved the feeling of the silk against her skin again.
"That was the whole point! How could Charles resist you in that?" She raised an eyebrow when Rose swung around to glare at her. She saw that her friend was going through the same thought process however. Rose had to admit that she felt beautiful, not just looked the part. It had been so long since she had worn a dress of this quality and she felt a little piece of herself, the proud and confident Marchioness, fall back into place.
"Everyone will think I'm some sort of harlot Viv!"
"Nonsense, I will just explain that I demanded you wear that very dress. See? Problem solved, as no one will argue with the bride." Vivian looked out the window, a longing overtaking her features, softening her grin to a delicate whisper of a smile, "I'm getting married tomorrow Rose. I'll finally be Vivian Eames. Oh Rose, if only your first love had been like this."
"What does it feel like Viv?" Rose sat on the edge of the bed, her leg tucked up under her hip, "To be so unconditionally loved?" Vivian felt the desire to feel such emanate from the woman. Profound sadness had tainted any feeling of love she had felt.
"Oh Rose, there is no other feeling like it. I know he would still love me if I were hideously deformed, or completely insane. It feels…..warm. Like a blossom of heat in my heart and I feel so safe." She felt there was no other way to explain it. Rose scowled in confusion, but said no more on the subject.
"I hear you received a letter from a certain attorney," Vivian poked Rose's arm, silently urging her to tell all. A small ghost of a smile tugged at her lips before it burst into a full out grin.
"I did. He dined with Mama Maggie, which I know it interesting, but he likes her. He said he left his boots out in the rain. I think he might be more clumsy than I," A soft laugh escaped as she shook her head. Vivian gently squeezed her friends hand before turning her back around.
"Now then, let me attack this unruly mop of curls," She laughed, before taking a brush and several pins and slowly molding Rose's hair into a tidy braid. Then she really went to work.
"This is ridiculous Jacob. Why are you making me wait with you?" Charles fidgeted and shifted his weight back and forth. They now stood a steady vigil at the bottom of the curved staircase in the ballroom, waiting for Vivian to make her entrance, along with her brides maids.
"Because you are my best man! It is your honor to escort the maid of honor, and you will do so happily."
"Don't you mean it's my duty," He rolled his eyes. Town was really starting to wear on him. He missed the quiet tranquility of Lorebury. The thought of Lorebury, and Mr. Oliver Greye occupying it, made Charles clench his fists, and take on a brooding countenance. The sooner he and Rose….His thoughts were interrupted as everyone hushed and Vivian appeared at the top of the stairs.
Her gown was a silky cream color, with miniscule gems sewn into the skirt, making each step glitter. The bodice had a delicate lace overlay, with a black ribbon accentuating her waist. Her hair was swept to the side, large ringlets cascading down her left shoulder.
"She is a goddess…" Jacob breathed out, even as his breath was stolen from his body. She gliding down the stairs and took Jacob's hand. She turned a strange smile to Charles. Charles turned his attention back to the stairs, awaiting Elaine, as Jacob whisked Vivian to the middle of the ballroom floor. Charles felt his knees go weak, and he resorted to grasping onto the railing to keep himself standing, as Rose shyly drifted to the top of the stairs.
The dark red gown seemingly reflected the light, drawing each eye to her. The black pearls directed ones eyes to take in the whole dress, with its black ribbons and lace overlaying the rich red of the silk. Her hair was braided and pinned up, three or four braids each intersecting one another to hold it all in place, with one or two small ringlets at the base of her neck. One stray curl graced her paling cheek. She seemed to Charles an ethereal being as she made her way down the stairs towards him.
"I thought this was supposed to be a black and white event," Charles managed to say in a hushed tone, even though he was surprised he could make a sound, as she lightly took his extended hand. She blushed deeply in embarrassment.
"So did I. The dress I tried on was white. Vivian took the liberty of ordering it in red. Everyone must think I am either deluded or a harlot." She looked around the room at the multitude of eyes staring at her. She took to her usual habit of inspecting the floor.
"I can assure you that no one is thinking either of those things." He managed to say as he turned her, gently putting his hand on her waist. She responded by immediately placing her free hand on his shoulder, so lightly that Charles barely felt it. Almost as if she was repulsed to even be touching him. The thought sent a bolt of pain to where he thought his heart must be.
"It has been a long time since I have done anything like this." He heard her whisper, her breath just barely tickling his ear. He glanced out of the corner of his eyes to see that she was staring holes into his shoulder. Turning his head to look directly at her, he hoped to draw her eyes from his jacket seams.
"Well you dance very well for not having done so for a while. I am sure you would do even better if you weren't completely entranced with my sleeve," It had the desired effect as she blushed and turned her eyes to meet his.
"I feel like everyone is staring."
"That's because they are," Was all he said as they continued to sweep elegant curves around the ballroom. Charles noticed that Elaine had been paired with one of Jacobs many cousins, and she appeared none to happy at the fact either, often shooting daggers at Rose's back. Charles admitted to himself that one of the main reasons he had been dreading the night was her.
"If you wish to dance with Miss Haewood, I would not hold it against you." The dejected tone in her words almost caused him to trip. In truth, Elaine had begun to get on his nerves. She never seemed to leave him alone, and she came off as so false when she spoke with anyone. And it irked him that her poisoned words were sugar coated when directed to the woman he now held in his arms.
"I am perfectly content where I am." He smiled when she shot him a surprised look. They spent the evening together, drifting between groups of people, Charles being the only one to converse, but he insisted that Rose stay on his arm. She wore a confused expression most of the night.
As the night drew to a close, they stood next to Jacob and Vivian as they bid their guests farewell. A long line had formed, and Charles took notice that every now and then Rose would glance nervously down its length.
"I can hardly imagine you would know anyon-" His reassuring words were cut short as she tore herself from him and flew in a billow of red up the stairs. She kept her face turned from the room as she disappeared into a side hallway. Vivian shot him a questioning look, to which he could only respond with a confused shrug.
Charles followed Vivian to find Rose once everyone was gone, and they eventually found her in the library. She was staring out a window overlooking the street. Her shoulders quivered with suppressed tears. Vivian instantly went to her side, while Charles hung back. He couldn't hear their conversation, but he grew concerned enough to draw closer as Vivian suddenly stiffened and grew uncharacteristically pale.
"Tell her that she is safe here Charles." Charles was confused but obliged.
"Vivian is right. You are safe here Rose, nothing will happen to you while you're here. I-we would never let something happen to you," He rested a reassuring hand on her shoulder, which shivered under it.
"Th-thank you. I think I will retire though," She slipped away and down to her room before Charles could think of words to make her stay.
Rose quaked as she entered her room, and the maid provided for her helped her to undress. As she slipped on her nightgown, she saw another letter resting on a tray by the door. Rose smiled, as she enjoyed the thought of reading another of Oliver's letters. When she got closer though, she saw that there was no writing on the envelope.
"Hmm." She hummed as she tore open the wax seal. Her maid screamed as her mistress collapsed to her knees, a hand braced against the wall. The letter fluttered to the ground, its swirling script facing upwards.
Hello My Darling Marchioness.
