Chapter 21-Good Day Sunshine

Demelza stretched and twisted in bed when she realized there was nothing encumbering her. Sliding a hand down her body, she noticed that the arm that held her through the night was missing. Turning her head to the side she saw that she was alone. Rising up on her elbows Demelza looked around the room and found no sign of Ross. Slipping out from beneath the comfort of the quilt, she walked naked into the bathroom for her robe looking for some indication of Ross along the way. She saw a towel on the rack, his robe on the hook next to hers and the shower was still damp.

Grabbing her own robe, she slid into it feeling a little anxious being alone for the first time as she made her way through the suite to the living area. Still, nothing of Ross until she caught sight of a note left on the table along with some money. Demelza picked up both and muttered to herself.

"Way to make a girl feel loved, Poldark," she said as she fanned herself with the pounds and read the note.

Dem,

Early meeting and didn't want to wake you. You looked too lovely. Left you some money to go shopping. Head for Portobello Road. I think you'll like it. I've made arrangements for Michael to go with you because I want you back safe and sound. Will return as soon as my business is over. I'll call.

Love,

R

PS—Thanks for last night. ;)

Demelza knew he was joking with the note and money but was grateful he left both. She wasn't sure she had enough of her own cash to exchange and definitely wanted to get gifts for the Rockaway crew. Maybe I should pick up something for Lizzie, she thought. Wonder if they have catnip at Portobello Road. She started to count the money when there was a knock on the door. Pulling her robe tight and knotting the sash, she opened the door to find Michael there with a breakfast tray.

"No cart this morning, Michael?" she asked

"No Miss Carne. I hope you don't mind but Mr. Poldark ordered breakfast for you before he left," Michael said as he followed her into the room, placing the tray on the table.

"Of course he did. I imagine he thought I couldn't call for a cup of coffee and some toast," she replied a tinge of sarcasm in her voice.

"Miss?"

Demelza saw that the young man was confused.

"I'm sorry Michael. I'm a little cranky before I've had my coffee," she said as she picked up a cup.

"That's fine Miss. I understand."

"Thank you, Michael."

She sat down on the sofa and curled her legs under her, making sure to securely tuck the robe around her. Demelza kept sipping her coffee as Michael place a scone on the table next to her.

"Thanks again, Michael."

"You're welcome Miss Carne. Mr. Poldark also asked if I would go with you today so that you had an escort. I hope you don't mind," he said awkwardly.

Demelza smiled at his shyness. She found it flattering that she got that kind of reaction from a relative stranger. She picked up the scone and ripped it open so that she could spread some strawberry preserves on it. Reaching over the table she got the pot of crimson red jam and proceeded to coat the scone with it. She hadn't realized how hungry she was until she took that first bite and then her stomach reminded her that she hadn't had any food since early the previous night. She continued to chew and sip her coffee forgetting that Michael was still in the room.

"Excuse me, Miss?" he finally said.

Hearing her name, Demelza almost dropped the scone on her lap but was able to save it from a pastry disaster.

"Oh good lord, Michael, I'm so sorry. I forgot you were still here. Is there something else?" she asked.

"Actually, I just wanted to know what time you wanted to get started. Mr. Poldark mentioned that you wanted to go shopping," Michael said.

"Yes. And Ross—I mean, Mr. Poldark-suggested Portobello Road. Can you take me there?" she said between bites.

"Most definitely," the young man replied.

"Good," Demelza said just as her cell phone rang.

There was only one person who would be calling her but if she was unsure, the ringtone identified the caller for her; she had just programmed it to play the theme song to James Bond because of Verity's nickname for Ross.

"Hey there," she answered.

"Hi Babe," the voice on the other end said. "Just checking in to make sure you're alright. Has Michael brought breakfast yet?"

Demelza looked up at the person being discussed and smiling at him, responded to Ross.

"Yes, Ross he did. And he told me that you asked him to be my chaperone today," she teased.

"Not chaperone, Dem, just an escort so you don't get too lost. Plus I thought you would like the company," Ross defended.

"Sure you did Poldark," she answered.

"I did. Do you doubt my intentions?"

"Well considering you left me money and a note in an envelope like I was a hook…"

Demelza didn't finish that statement because she remembered that Michael was still in the room.

"Yes Demelza?" he said.

"Never mind. I'll deal with you later. Right now Michael and I have to get ready for our date."

Michael heard what she said and was about to chime in a denial when he saw her wink at him. He realized she was teasing Mr. Poldark, so he relaxed.

"Demelza, please don't make the poor boy squirm anymore than he already is," Ross said.

Demelza discreetly glanced at him and saw Ross was right. The young footman was blushing and becoming exceedingly uncomfortable, rocking from foot to foot. Wanting to put him out of his misery, Demelza pulled the phone away from her ear to speak to Michael.

"Why don't you go get ready and I'll meet you downstairs in about forty-five minutes?"

Nodding his head, Michael turned to leave, the breakfast tray forgotten for the moment.

"Yes, Miss Carne. I'll be waiting for you. Shall I send someone up to remove the tray?"

She smiled, realizing that he was trying to stay as professional as possible.

"I'm good Michael. You can leave it for now if that's alright?"

"Yes. I'll have it taken away when you're ready."

"Thank you, Michael. I'll see you in a bit," Demelza said.

With that, Michael left allowing Demelza to continue her call with Ross.

"So this money in the envelope thing? Were you trying to tell me something? And considering the amount I have to ask is that all you think I'm worth?"

Her voice was light and happy.

"That was all the cash I had on me, love. But I will make it up to you once we get to Cornwall. Have no worries."

"Oh believe me I don't. And you will make it up to me, you can count on it," she said as she rose and walked into the bedroom, looking for an outfit.

"I'm sure. Listen, I don't know how long this business of mine will take but I hope to back by tea. Can we plan on meeting back at the hotel then? Say around four? "he said.

"I think I can manage that. Since I'll have an escort, I should stay out of trouble. That is why you hired him, right Ross?"

Demelza opened a dresser drawer and pulled out a pair of jeans and a set of matching underwear, part of her shopping spree from the day before. Instead of choosing a new shirt, she went into Ross's things and pulled out one of his worn t-shirts. She wanted to feel him close to her today because she already missed him. Not that she would ever tell him that; his ego was big enough as it was.

"Demelza, stop looking for clothes and finish talking to me."

She dropped the shirt she was holding to look at the phone.

"How do you do that Ross? You don't have cameras in here do you?"

"No Demelza, I don't. I just know you. And you're paranoid," Ross said.

"Oh, so if I took off my robe and started to get dressed, you couldn't see it, right?"

Demelza started to slip the robe off her shoulders as she put the phone on speaker mode and set it down on the bed.

"Again, no Demelza. I might not be able to see you but other hotel guests might. So if you're currently parading around the room naked, you might want to make sure the blinds are closed," he said.

She stopped doing exactly what he accused her of, struggled back into the robe and drew the curtains shut. Peeking through the edge of the drape she took a quick survey of the surrounding area and saw that no other room faced theirs in which case, no one could see in. Now Demelza was mad at him for teasing her like that. She picked up the phone and holding it to her mouth simply said, "Idiot!"

There was no response except that she heard Ross on the other end, apparently laughing.

"Stop it!" she cried. "This isn't funny Ross. Do you gain some perverse pleasure in making me crazy? You know how nervous I am about fitting in and you do this? I could kill you," she said her voice cracking.

Demelza sat on the bed, sniffling loudly so that Ross could hear it on the other end.

"Demelza? Demelza? Stop. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you crazy. I was just having some fun. Please don't cry," Ross said softly.

Satisfied that she had made him feel guilty, Demelza lifted the phone slowly to her face and said brightly, "Ok. I won't."

There was silence which Demelza knew meant that Ross just realized he'd been had.

"You were faking?" Ross said.

"Yup," Demelza replied. "Pretty good huh?"

"Wait until I see you later Carne," he threatened.

"We'll see about that," Demelza said.

"I was really worried that I upset you," Ross responded.

"Good. Now we're even," she said.

"Yes. We're even," he said.

There was another break of silence which had Demelza wondering what he was plotting now.

"Ross? Is something else wrong?" she asked.

"Well, I was just wondering. If you were faking that what else have you faked Demelza?"

"What are you talking about?"

There was confusion in her voice until she heard him snickering again and she knew what he was referencing.

"Wouldn't you like to know?"

"I'm sure you'll prove me wrong Demelza," Ross said as he motioned to the salesperson at Asprey to give him another minute. "Listen, love, I have to get back to my meeting. Have a good time today and I'll see you later. Love you."

Ross hung up and turned his attention back to the glass case in front of him. There were so many choices that he was overwhelmed. He didn't think that picking out a piece of jewelry would be this time consuming or this stressful. It was just a ring. A simple, circular piece of metal with a stone in the center. How hard could it be to find something he liked that Demelza would love? Pretty hard as it turned out. Each one he looked at was either too big, too small, too plain or too gaudy. Ross knew that whatever he chose for Demelza had to be perfect for her. It also had to reflect his love which Ross knew would be impossible because nothing could represent that. The feeling he had was unique and impossible to define, just like Demelza. And that made his decision easier. Why would he try and get something that would compete with her? He just needed something that complimented her and her personality. Once he realized that the choice was easy. He pointed to the one he wanted and the salesperson brought it out for him to analyze. A simple solitaire in a plain band. He knew that anything more than that would throw Demelza. She was unpretentious and pure and this ring represented all of that.

Decision made, Ross paid for it and waited for the box to be wrapped. While he walked around the store he thought about Demelza and how they got to this place. He also thought about how he was going to ask her this question that would change both their lives. He knew the moment had to be right, unpredictable and romantic. She deserved nothing less. He knew when he teased her earlier that he roused those insecurities about their relationship that she kept hidden. Ross also knew that his reassurance only partly worked; Demelza would not feel comfortable until they got to Cornwall and he showed her that she was not an alien in this world. What Ross realized was that Demelza was just another version of him. Perhaps less worldly or well off but inside, where it counted, they had the same soul. It was because of this that anyone who spoke against Demelza was essentially going against him and that was not going to be tolerated.

There was a tap on his shoulder and the salesperson reappeared with this package. He offered his thanks and walked out, dialing his phone at the same time. Ross had wanted to leave for Cornwall today and had hoped to catch a train that evening. But since he sent Demelza shopping that would delay an early departure so Ross had to plan "b" it. After a quick Google search, he found the ideal way for them to travel home. He made the reservations and headed back to the hotel to actually work. Demelza should be gone by now so the room would be empty and free from distractions. Ross smiled at the thought of that distraction traipsing through London with a smitten, young footman. He was sure Michael would never be the same after a day with Demelza Carne. Speaking from experience, he knew that to be true.

Demelza and Michael had hopped on the bus at Wilton Street and rode until they hit Notting Hill Gate. From there Michael led the way to Portobello Road. Demelza was not expecting anything like this. She thought she'd be popping in and out of shops; not meandering down a bustling street with a variety of vendors and stalls. It was reminiscent of the festivals and markets in the city during the summer. Demelza was captivated by the sights, sounds and smells that surrounded her as she weaved her way through the road.

"What do you think, Miss. Carne?" Michael started to say. He paused as he saw the look on Demelza's face and realized what he'd done.

"I've told you, haven't I, that while you're "escorting" me around London, I'm considering you my friend, not some hired assistant. So please call me Demelza," she said as she made air quotes to emphasize her meaning.

Michael looked at her shyly, not quite sure how to respond. He had to admit that Miss Carne was the first American who hadn't treated him like a cast member from "Downton Abbey". It was refreshing to have a guest who was so unpretentious with the added bonus of being close to his age.

"Yes, ma'am. I mean Demelza. It's just that we've been trained to be a certain way with guests and I wouldn't want Mr. Poldark to get upset that I'm becoming too familiar with you."

"Michael, I would never let that happen. Besides Mr. Poldark is not as stodgy as he seems and I think he would be fine with your using my first name."

They continued to walk, stopping every so often so that Demelza could get a closer look at what the vendors were selling.

"We picked a perfect day to come here," Michael said. "All the vendors are out and you should have no problems finding gifts for your friends."

"I can see that. This reminds of the street fairs back in New York. I could spend hours just wandering around, looking. Good thing Ross gave me cash because I think I'm going to be using most of it. Come on let's see what I can find."

Looping her arm through Michael's, Demelza pulled him along the street to start shopping. As they walked, she found something at almost every stall that interested her. She really wanted to find gifts for Verity, Dwight, and the bar crew because of all they were doing for her back home so that she could be here. Demelza knew they wouldn't accept anything too pricey so she went with standard souvenir type things. Right off the bat, she found a cute little Union Jack t-shirt for Verity and Jinny in the trendy fashion section of the market. Both were perfect for her friends and she knew they'd like them. She also picked up a bandana for Garrick so that he didn't feel left out.

Once her purchases there were done, they kept walking, stopping every so often to look at goods from the vendors lining the path. They headed down Portobello Road to Golbourne Road, as this area seemed to be really buzzing now. They kept walking until they reached Ladbroke Grove station under the Westway. She wanted to get something for Ross but wasn't quite sure what. He'd gifted her with some amazing things and she knew she couldn't match that in expense so the hunt was on for an item that would show him how much she cared. She realized, much to her disappointment that she didn't know a lot about Ross's interests. She knew he liked music and a few times she caught him tooling around on one of Andrew's guitars. Of course, surfing was a new hobby thanks to her and shooting pool was something they'd shared but other than that she didn't know if he liked to read, or if he collected anything and that made her sad. For all the months they'd been together, sharing secrets and falling in love, it was this simple thing that she didn't know and that bothered her. Keeping that thought in her mind, she felt her stomach growl and knew that she had to address that situation.

"Are you hungry Michael? Because let me tell you, something smells really good and my stomach is telling me it's time to look for sustenance."

"There are hot food and takeaway places just around the road if you want. Is there anything, in particular, you're in the mood for?" Michael asked.

"You won't laugh?" Demelza said.

"No. What is it?"

"I'm really dying for some fish and chips. Ross has taken me to fancy restaurants and ordered me English breakfasts but I still haven't had a good taste of fish and chips," she replied.

"Then fish and chips it is," Michael said. "Follow me."

They walked down the street until they found a vendor selling exactly what Demelza craved. Michael placed an order for two and when he was handed the paper-wrapped food, walked to where Demelza waited. She proceeded to hold the packet up to her nose and took in the aroma of the fried fish and potatoes.

"Oh my god this smells amazing," she said as she swung her bags on shoulders so that she had free hands to eat.

"I'm afraid we're going to have to walk and eat at the same time, Miss, I mean Demelza."

"There, was saying that so hard?" she said as she broke a piece of fish off and popped it in her mouth.

"No. But I've been trained to behave a certain way so I can't just break the habit," he said as he copied her movements but with a chip instead.

"I've been curious about that Michael. How does someone get into the line of work you do? Back home, most people your age take jobs like this to put them through school or because they can't find anything else. Is it the same here?"

Demelza kept walking and eating, stopping every so often to glance at another stall hoping to find something for Ross. She was getting discouraged but refused to give up. As for Michael, he could see that Demelza was genuinely interested in him and again, he was unsure how to handle this. He was still an employee and she a guest. Yet something about Miss Carne made her easy to talk to and he saw no reason not to engage in conversation that was more friend than business.

"Yes I'm sure that many young people do get positions like this because it's something to do to pay for school or something else," he said.

Demelza could sense that Michael had another reason for working at The Goring. She kept walking and eating, finally finishing her food and proceeded to look for a bin to deposit her trash. Eyeing one at the end of the row of stalls, she walked quickly to reach it, with Michael at her heels. Crumpling the paper, she brushed her hands against each other and then searching her purse for a stray tissue. Finding a packet of Kleenex, she took one and wiped her fingers on it and then offered one to her companion.

"So, I'm guessing that you have a different reason for working as a footman at The Goring, Michael? What is it?"

Demelza's curiosity got the better of her and now she really did want to know more about this young man, who was becoming a friend.

"Honestly, I want to open my own hotel or B&B someday. I thought the best way to learn the business was to be on the inside. My dad is friends with the manager and got me this position."

"And how do you like it so far?"

Michael smiled as he answered.

"I like it a lot. Don't get me wrong. It's hard work and sometimes guests can be overly demanding but then I meet people like you and Mr. Poldark and …."

"And you wonder how a pair like us would be together at a hotel like The Goring," she quipped.

He was not expecting her to answer in such a self-deprecating manner so he waited before replying.

"Actually, having heard of Mr. Poldark and knowing a bit about his family and life, I think you and he are quite perfect for each other."

Demelza was flattered by the young man's compliment even though she was still pinching herself that it was real.

"Thank you, Michael. That's a lovely thing to say," she said quietly.

"I mean it, Miss Carne," he said not correcting himself this time. "I have seen many couples during my time at the hotel but none like you and Mr. Poldark."

She tilted her head and smiled. Demelza took in his features and saw a sincere, honest young man with no ulterior agenda in complimenting her. Back in New York, her cynical side would assume that he was making such flowery statements because he was hoping for a big tip when they checked out. Instead, she felt Michael just wanted to share his ideas with someone who would listen and perhaps, not make fun of him.

"Well, we are a unique pair, I'll give you that. For instance, I never imagined six months ago I would be here in London, shopping in street markets, with a hotel footman while my entrepreneur boyfriend was making deals on our way to Cornwall," she said. It was quite a mouthful to get out and she gasped for air when she was done.

"Cornwall? Is that where you and Mr. Poldark are headed when you leave London?"

Michael's curiosity was now piqued and Demelza wondered why.

"Yes. Mr. Poldark is from Cornwall and he wants to me to see his home. Why?"

Michael bowed his head, embarrassed to make the next admission for fear it would be taken the wrong way. He didn't want her to think he was saying things just to impress or get in her good graces.

"Someday, when I open my establishment, I'd like it to be on the coast. I think it would be an ideal place for something like that. Besides, I'm not much for the city. I love the ocean."

Demelza burst out laughing and Michael, not knowing her background, took it as a sign that she was ridiculing him. She saw the hurt on his face and quickly spoke to remedy that.

"Oh Michael, I'm sorry. I wasn't laughing at you. I was laughing because you've pretty much described my life now," she said.

Demelza saw he was confused again and went on to explain.

"Not here. Back in New York. You see, I live in a coastal town and run a small bar and restaurant. Pub if you must. So you see, we are more similar than we thought."

Michael understood and nodded.

"It seems we might be," he agreed.

They walked some more as Demelza kept her eyes peeled for something to get Ross. She raised her hand to brush the hair out of her eyes and the sunlight reflected off her Claddagh ring.

"Miss Carne, I mean Demelza, is that a Claddagh ring?" he asked.

Demelza brought her hand down so that she could hold it out to him and replied.

"Yes, it is. Mr. Poldark gave it to me," she said, a touch of sentimentality in her voice as she remembered that day.

"Well then I think I have an idea for what you can get Mr. Poldark," Michael said.

"If you're thinking that I should get a ring for Mr. Poldark, that's a bad idea. Ross is not a jewelry kind of guy," she said as they kept strolling.

"I kind of thought that might be the case but I have something else in mind," Michael said as they passed the stalls to find a vendor who sold trinkets and other less than popular items. Demelza watched as Michael spoke to the owner who then pulled out a box and produced a small silver disc that looked like a coin. He called Demelza over to take a look.

"Here," he said holding it out to her. "I think this might be just what you're looking for."

Michael handed it to Demelza who turned it over in her palm and grazed her fingers over the surface.

"It's perfect. Ross always has his hand in his pocket-some kind of security thing or something-and with this, he will always have a reminder of me.

"I thought you might like it," Michael said. He was clearly pleased with his find and was glad that Demelza seemed to be as well.

She paid for the token with her own money and slipped it into her purse. Satisfied that she accomplished everything, she checked the time.

"Crikey, we need to get going. I'm sure Ross is already back at the hotel wondering where I've disappeared to. Can you lead me back, Michael?"

"Right this way, Demelza," he said as they backtracked their path to return to the hotel.

"Thank you, Michael. This has been an awesome day," Demelza said as she reached up and gave him a kiss on his cheek.

He was taken aback as that was not proper etiquette for a hotel employee and guest.

"Miss Carne, you shouldn't have done that," he said as a blush came over his face.

"It will out little secret. Besides, even if I tell Ross, he won't care. I think."

Ross checked the time again and shook his head. The one thing Demelza Carne can be sure to do is run late. It was her one flaw but even that couldn't make Ross mad at her because it usually meant she was having a good time. He knew she was probably on her way so he went about pulling their cases out of the closet and sorting his clothes at least. Before she appeared he checked the box he had already packed in his toiletry case for the umpteenth time. He opened it slowly and looked down at the shimmering, flawless stone, hoping he'd made the right choice. Ross was second guessing himself, nervous for the first time in a long time but didn't know why. He knew in his heart that Demelza Carne was the only woman he wanted to marry. Ever. Taking one more look at the ring, he heard the door open and so hastily put it away.

"Ross! Hey, where are you?"

He zipped up the small case and placed it on the side of his larger bag. Shaking the nerves, he looked up as he saw Demelza walk into the room, bags on her arm and a huge smile on her face. Ross couldn't help but smile back as she was glowing.

"I was wondering when you were coming back. I thought for a moment you ran off with Michael," he said as she walked into his arms.

She reached up and kissed him, her hand caressing his cheek. They stood like that for a few minutes getting reacquainted as if they'd been parted for years. When the need for air became apparent, they parted, Demelza giving Ross her warmest grin.

"Michael's a great guy, but he doesn't kiss like you," she teased.

"I'm hoping you're joking and don't actually have a point of reference," he replied.

"Of course I am. I just gave him a peck on the cheek to thank him for putting up with me today," she said.

"I see. Fraternizing with the staff again. I think I actually am going to hire a chaperone from now on, Dem. You clearly cannot be trusted."

"You're just jealous because I got to roam the streets of London and enjoy some fresh air while you were cooped up in boring meetings."

He let the comment pass and watched as Demelza went to the bed and put down her packages, where she noticed the suitcases for the first time.

"I was only kidding about Michael. You don't have to leave me," she said.

"You can't get rid of me that easy, Carne. Have you forgotten that we leave for Cornwall tonight?" Ross said.

"No I haven't forgotten," she said.

"Good. Now start packing so that we can grab tea and relax before leaving tonight. The train departs at 11:45," he said.

"That's almost midnight. Why so late? I thought we were just taking a commuter rail later this afternoon," Demelza questioned.

"I've planned a surprise for you so just get yourself together and don't ask any more questions."

Demelza saw a strange look on his face but didn't know what it meant. She did know that whatever he was planning had to be something she wouldn't expect so instead of pushing the subject, she decided to move to the closet to sort through her clothes. She didn't realize how much more she had now that Ross had bought her half a department store. Flipping the hangers she had no idea how she was going make room for all these.

"Ross, I don't think my suitcase is going to fit all these new clothes," she said.

"I thought of that, my love. Pack what you need for the next day or so and the rest will be sent by the hotel to Nampara separately."

"You seem to have planned for everything, Poldark," she said, pulling items out and sorting them by category.

"I try," he said turning back to his own suitcase, attempting to stay calm.

Out of the corner of her eye, Demelza watched him, determined to figure out exactly what he was up to. Something was making him jittery. She just hoped he wasn't having second thoughts about bringing her home. Demelza was still concerned that no matter how much Ross loved her that if she didn't fit into his world, there could be no way to fix it. Physically shaking herself to put that idea out of her mind she focused on packing so that they could get to Cornwall and she could finally see if this whole relationship thing was going to work out. Or blow up in both their faces.

They reached Paddington Station in plenty of time to make their train. After packing and having tea, Ross made final arrangements with the desk to get the items they couldn't carry on board sent to Cornwall. He gave them the location of Nampara, thanked the staff and most importantly, Michael for all he'd done for them, especially for Demelza.

"Michael, I can't tell you how much I appreciate your taking Demelza around today," he said as he shook the younger man's hand.

"It was my pleasure to do it, Mr. Poldark. She picked up quite a few things. I hope you like the gift she purchased for you," Michael said and then realized he might have just revealed a bit too much information when he saw Ross's look of surprise.

"Me? No, she hasn't shown me anything yet," he replied.

"Oh no," Michael said. "I hope it wasn't a surprise."

"Don't worry about it, Michael. Whatever it is, I'm sure I'll love it. And I will act surprised."

"Thank you, sir. Have a pleasant and safe journey. And may I say, that Demelza, I mean, Miss Carne is one of the loveliest people I have ever met."

Michael tried to contain his admiration but it was no use and Ross found it amusing.

"I agree. I hope we will meet again sometime, Michael."

"I hope so too."

With that, they shook hands just as Demelza appeared in the lobby, ready to depart. Giving Michael a hug she joined Ross in the waiting car, waving as they drove away.

Now as she stood on the platform in the station, waiting to the take an overnighter from Paddington to Penzance, Demelza was once again awestruck by the lengths Ross went to for her and this trip. The station wasn't like Grand Central Terminal but something more out of 'Harry Potter'. Ross took her hand as they followed the porter to the waiting train. They climbed up into a car and walked down the narrow passageway towards their accommodations. Opening the door, Demelza saw a small but seemingly very comfortable room with two bunks. She turned to Ross in amusement.

"So I guess this is to test our ability to sleep separately, hey, Poldark?"

"You could look at it that way. Or, you could take the positive route and see it as a way for us to get extremely close. Glass half empty or half full, Carne? You call it," he said.

She turned towards him, slipping her arms around his waist and whispered in his ear.

"That might depend on how the rest of the night goes."

Kissing her nose, they moved aside so their bags could be brought into the cabin. Once that was done and the porter was gone, Ross took a seat on the lower bunk and held his hand out for Demelza to join him. She smiled but did not move towards him immediately. Instead, she rummaged through her purse for the gift she got him earlier that day. Turning back towards him, she took his hand and placed the token in his palm. Ross looked down and saw a silver Claddagh coin. Turning it over, he saw it inscribed with the meaning of the symbol: Friendship, Loyalty, and Love. He surmised this was the gift Michael was talking about and it was perfect. He grasped her arm and pulled her into his lap.

"Is this what you bought today?"

"One of a few things," she said. "Do you like it?"

"I love it. It's perfect Dem," he said, tugging her down so he could reach up and kiss her.

As usual, what started out gently quickly turned needy and Demelza was soon moaning into his mouth. She weaved her fingers into his hair as his hands slid up her back. It amazed Demelza how strong their physical connection was considering she was not a sexual being before she met Ross Poldark. He had turned her into a woman who, when in his presence, could not be trusted to keep her hands to herself.

"Ross," she murmured as his mouth slid down her neck. "Ross, oh god, what are you doing to me?"

"I think I'm kissing you. But if I'm getting it wrong, just tell me," he teased.

"That's just it. You're getting it very right. I don't know what kind of magic spell you've put me under but since I met you, I've become…."

"What?"

"I don't' know. I never had thoughts like this before," she said.

"Like what?"

"This, Ross! Wanting you. Needing you. Feeling like I'm incomplete when you're not around. It's scary," she said.

Ross stopped what he was doing to see the concern on her face.

"Why is it scary? Is this a bad thing?" he asked.

"No, but…" she halted, unsure of starting this conversation again, knowing he'd be his usual loving and reassuring self.

"Demelza, what is it?"

"Sometimes I feel I love you too much. That if anything went wrong on this trip or if you realized that you've made some huge mistake bringing me here, I'm not sure I could handle that kind of disappointment. You've become so much a part of me, that a break between us would be...Well, let's just say it wouldn't be fun."

Ross moved her off his lap and shifted their bodies on the small bunk to a spooning position. He wrapped his arms around her and gave her a tender kiss behind her ear, as their knees bent into each other.

"Ross, I don't think this conversation should be continued in this position," she said softly.

"Demelza, I don't want to continue this conversation at all. What I want is to lay here quietly with you and tell you that you're wrong my love. You are so very wrong. I'm not saying you shouldn't feel as you do, for that is your prerogative. But you're wrong to worry that I've made a mistake. And you're wrong if you think that I'm putting so much importance on how this trip plays out. I've brought you here to show you where I come from and what my life was like before you."

He rose up a little and kissed her cheek, as his hand caressed her belly.

"The other reason you're here with me is that I want to make new memories with you in a place that means so much to me. You see Dem, we are alike in so many ways. You just can't understand it yet. But I believe once you're on my home ground, as you call it, you'll see that the only thing different about us is that you're a woman and I'm a man. And frankly, I think that's a perfect difference to have, don't you?"

Ross said nothing else. He continued to kiss her lightly on the back of her neck, while his hands stayed wrapped around her body, clasped at her chest, holding her hands. He made no move to take this any further and Demelza appreciated it. The past few days had been so intense that right now all she wanted was some quiet loving.

As if reading her thoughts, Ross pulled her closer to him, and said, "Tonight I just want to love you Demelza. Just lay in my arms and feel my love for you."

She didn't reply. The only sign that she had heard him was the tear that fell down her cheek onto his arm. Ross said nothing but held her tighter until she fell asleep.