CHAPTER 6

Aaron sat in the headmaster's office, his eyes roaming from Mr. Donat to his uncle and back again as the educator gave a detailed account of the events that took place earlier between the young man and Edith Harper. Finally, when he'd finish with his narrative, Beau exhaled sharply before addressing his nephew, his voice holding neither anger nor accusation as he asked;

"Aaron, do you have any idea as to what you've just done? No...never mind that what I really want to know is WHY did you do this? You're sixteen years old and about to graduate, you're on your way to university for God's sake! Just explain to me how you made the jump from THAT to asking a young lady, one who you've never mentioned before I might add, to marry you?"

Taking a deep breath to steady himself, Aaron launched into explaining the motivation behind his earlier actions. When he'd finished, both men looked at each other before

Beau faced his nephew to demand;

"Do you have any idea what you're saying, Aaron?"

Shaking his head, as if he could hardly comprehend the idea, Beau remarked;

"If what you're saying is true, then that would mean that Adrienne Baptiste's intentions in taking that girl for a wife are based solely on revenge and greed."

Turning to Mr. Donat, Beau questioned;

"My familiarity with that family only goes as far as my knowledge of the father, but what do you know of the boy?"

Resting his elbow on the armrest of his desk chair, Mr. Donat stroked his chin before sighing heavily;

"If you're asking do I believe Adrienne Baptiste could be capable of cruelty of that magnitude? The answer is yes...yes I do believe he is capable of that. And, quite frankly, Mr. Alexander, given your experiences with the senior Mr. Baptiste when it comes to business matters and his legendary penchant for greed. I don't think it's that far of a stretch of your imagination to think of the father's willing participation; especially when you consider the amount of wealth the young lady will come into when she turns eighteen. A wealth, I might add, that will, since she'll be married, be placed into her husband's more than eager...and greedy hands."

Facing his nephew, Beau worriedly asked;

"Is that why you did what you did, Aaron; were you trying to help her get out of this engagement?"

Nodding, Aaron gave his uncle the details of his idea;

"Look, Uncle Beau...Mr. Donat, I know that my behavior was less than gentlemanly, but this is our last social before graduation and I didn't know when I'd have another opportunity. Believe me, if I could have thought of any other way, I would have done it.

I like Edith...a lot, but just as a friend. I tried convincing Baptiste of that, but he refuses to believe it and as much as told me that he's marrying her to pay me back for never learning my place."

Aaron, shaking his head, stated his position firmly;

"Uncle Beau, I can't let Edith be used as a pawn and pay the price at the hands of Baptiste, not for just being my friend; I've got to do something to help her."

His head leaned to the side a bit, Beau asked softly;

"Even if that means going into a marriage with someone you're not in love with?"

Seeing his nephew's hesitation, Beau shook his head before sighing heavily as he turned to the headmaster;

"Mr. Donat, do you think it might be possible to have a word with Miss Robilard and Miss Harper before they leave?"

Nodding, he rose from his desk chair and hurried into the hallway to see about catching the headmistress and Edith. While he was gone, Beau took the opportunity to discuss the situation between himself and his nephew;

"Aaron, not that I don't sympathize with what you're trying to do to help this young lady, but do you have any idea of just what it is that you have done. You may very well have created a scandal, and I have the feeling that the Baptiste boy would love nothing better than to demand satisfaction for his perceived insult."

Seeing the repentance in his nephew's face, not for trying to help his friend, but for his worry that he'd brought shame to his aunt and uncle, Beau relented;

"Look, let me talk to Miss Robilard and Edith, and let's see if we can figure something out...alright?"

Aaron simply nodded, choosing to remain quiet, especially given that Mr. Donat had returned with Miss Robilard and Edith as his uncle had requested. He could tell the headmistress was none too pleased with him when she turned a cold glare in his direction., but as he'd learned over the past five years, his uncle had a charm that could soothe even the most savage of the old guard matronly dragons to be found in New Orleans. Watching as his uncle rose from his chair and held one for the headmistress, Aaron absently found himself wishing he could take notes on the man's technique as he took charge of the situation by asking;

"Miss Robilard, I know that you're rather vexed with my nephew's behavior towards your student tonight...and as well you should be. But, would you mind if I asked you a few questions?"

Seeing the slight hint of mistrust in her expression, Beau offered her his most charming smile before assuring her;

"Oh, it's no reflection on you or the way you care for your students, Miss Robilard. It's simply that I want to make certain that Aaron is made to answer for his behavior in the way that's most appropriate and I thought that, if I might ask you a few questions about Miss Harper, I'd have a better understanding of just how much punishment is warranted for my nephew."

Although she'd never had dealings with the Alexander family herself, Dorothea Robilard was well-schooled in the family's history...and their good standing in the social and business circles of New Orleans. In fact, up until tonight's episode, she had been pleased with Edith Harper's association with their nephew, Aaron, because of that knowledge, and because, after observing them for the past three years, she could see that Aaron was nothing if not respectful. So, given those considerations, Miss Robilard nodded;

"Of course, Mr. Alexander, I understand. You may ask me anything that you'd like."

Turning towards Edith, Beau forewarned;

"Miss Harper, first and foremost, I want to apologize for my nephew's brash behavior tonight; I know that it put you in a rather 'difficult' position."

Lifting her shoulders, Edith remarked;

"Considering the position my grandmother's trying to put me in, Mr. Alexander, I can promise you that what Aaron did wasn't that difficult."

Offering her friend a sympathetic look, Edith pinned the three adults with her eyes before shaking her head to defend;

"Aaron wasn't trying to embarrass me or put me in a compromising position. He was trying to help me out of a marriage that my grandmother has agreed to that I want absolutely no part of. But I'm not being given a choice in the matter either."

Suddenly finding herself frustrated with the entire matter, Edith leaned back in her chair, her arms crossed over her chest as Miss Robilard, her face a mask of shock, demanded;

"EDITH! Why in heaven's name didn't you tell me what was going on?"

In her tenure as headmistress of the girl's school, Dorothea Robilard had seen quite many young ladies pass through the doors of her school. Some she saw great potential in, some she gained a deep respect for, and some she hoped would learn to develop an appreciation for what she and her teachers tried to teach their students. But, every once in a while, she would come across a student such as Edith Harper; a young lady that reminded her a great deal of a younger version of herself. While she tried not to show undue favoritism, she couldn't deny that Edith was one of those students that she put into a different class from the others. Edith was a young lady who fully appreciated the value of a good education and hoped to put what she was working so hard to acquire to good use. Having grown as fond of the headmistress as Miss Robilard had of her, Edith had even confessed her hopes to avoid the usual trap of an arranged marriage, especially given that her grandmother's only concern for her granddaughter's future, where matrimony was concerned, was a financial one. Knowing what the young woman hoped, wished, and prayed for, Miss Robilard found herself lamenting for her student's fate;

"Oh, my dear, I am so sorry. Did your grandmother say who you're to be married to?"

Before Edith could speak, Aaron, his elbow on the armrest of his chair and his chin resting in the palm of his hand supplied in a monotone voice filled with frustration;

"Adrienne Baptiste."

Her eyes growing wide as she clutched her chest, the headmistress cried out;

"MON DIEU! What is your grandmother thinking of to agree to let you marry that...that."

Raising his head from his hand, Aaron ventured;

"I believe 'jackass' would be the word you're looking for, Miss Robilard."

Giving his nephew a look filled with censure over his shoulder, Beau gave a slight shake of his head;

"Not exactly helpful, Aaron."

Looking from Mr. Donat to Beau, Miss Robilard reached across to grasp Edith's hand in hers before declaring in a tone that left no doubts as to how seriously she took the situation;

"We must find a way to help this poor child out of this predicament, gentleman."

Turning the full force of her probing stare on Aaron, she demanded;

"Is that why you did what you did tonight, Mr. Stempel...to try and help Edith escape her situation?"

Lifting his shoulders in a helpless shrug, Aaron apologized;

"I'm sorry, Miss Robilard, but it was the only thing I could think of at the spur of the moment. Considering the conversation I'd had with Adrienne just before, I knew that I had to do something...anything I could to try and stop what he was planning."

Seeing he had their rapt attention, Aaron went into detail concerning the conversation he'd had with his adversary earlier and what Adrienne had admitted to being his, and his father's, motivation behind the arrangement with Edith's grandmother. When he'd finished, Beau took a deep breath before looking to each member of the group assembled in turn to question;

"Miss Harper, do you think your grandmother will learn of what took place quickly?"

Shaking her head, Edith explained;

"Grandma likes to attend the later mass, but she'll hear of it there, I'm sure of that."

Nodding, Beau theorized;

"Mr. Donat...Miss Robilard, there are some details that I shall need to iron out, but would you be so inclined as to meet me here first thing in the morning? I think I may have a way to get Edith out of this...hopefully without risking her reputation...or my nephew's life."

Both, relieved to learn that someone who possessed a financial and social standing such as what Beauregard Alexander did was eager and willing to help, nodded and promised to be present in Mr. Donat's office at the appropriate time. Once the group disbanded and Beau and Aaron were on their way home, Aaron, his curiosity piqued over his uncle's earlier statement couldn't refrain from asking;

"Uncle Beau, what did you mean about risking my life? I know you're mad at me for what I did, but how is that risking my life?"

Leaning forward so his nephew could see the serious glint in his eyes, Beau shook his head as he corrected;

"First of all, Aaron, let me set you straight on something; considering why you did what you did, I'm not angry with you. In fact, I'm damn proud of you! You could have turned a blind eye, but you didn't, you tried helping a friend...just like a true gentleman would. But I am worried for you because, in doing what you did, you've left yourself open for Adrienne Baptiste to demand satisfaction. After all, technically, this could be considered an insult of some magnitude."

Reminded of the stories he'd heard from his uncle, Charles, and even his father, Aaron's mouth became set in a firm line as he quietly asked;

"You mean Adrienne could..."

Nodding, Beau finished his nephew's question;

"Challenge you to a duel; yes, Aaron, he very well could. And the problem is that, either you accept and defend your honor, as well as Edith's, or you refuse and find yourself branded a coward...at least in New Orleans."

His dark eyes narrowing to slits, Aaron hastened to decree;

"I'm no coward, Uncle Beau!"

Sighing heavily at the thought of the predicament, Beau admitted;

"I know that Aaron, but you're no murderer either. And with someone of Adrienne Baptiste's nature, you're either going to have to walk away and find yourself branded one, or accept the challenge and find yourself turning into the other to keep from losing your life."

Seeing the worry in the young man's face, despite the dark confines of the carriage, Beau shook his head before reaching over to clasp his nephew's shoulder;

"Let's wait and cross that bridge when, and if, we get to it. I'm hoping I might be able to come up with a solution to see everyone in the situation satisfied and Edith able to avoid being trapped with that scoundrel."

Seeing the hint of relief in Aaron's eyes, Beau leaned back against the carriage seat, hoping that he could manage to pull a rabbit from his hat; or more specifically, a miracle out of thin air.

Beau sat waiting patiently in Eleanor Armand's extremely formal parlor for his hostess to appear. He had known that when she'd agreed to meet with him that, given her tendencies towards the dramatic, she would milk the occasion for all that she felt it was worth. While he waited, Beau couldn't help but recall the discussions he'd had with his sister, nephew, Mr. Donat, and Miss Robilard, before sending a request asking to call on Edith Harper's grandmother. He'd begun by discussing the matter with Clarissa first, and once she understood the full scope of the problem and had assured their nephew that she was far from disappointed by his display of chivalry, she'd eagerly volunteered;

"Beau, use whatever resources we have at our disposal to resolve the situation and to help that poor girl."

It was to that end that Beau Alexander found himself waiting for his hostess to appear, an event he realized was quickly forthcoming as he heard Eleanor Armand's approach. Rising as the sliding pocket doors opened to reveal the matron in all her glory. Beau bowed as she approached, placing a chaste kiss on the back of the hand she offered before greeting:

"Madame Armand, I'm honored that you agreed to meet with me."

Waving her hand towards the chair he had just risen from, Eleanor Armand suggested;

"Please have a seat, Monsieur Alexander."

Reclaiming his chair, Beau couldn't help but notice the show his hostess made of settling herself in her chair...as if she were a queen taking to her throne. Reluctantly, he had to concede the point that, despite her age, Elanor Armand was still a handsome woman with her wealth of silver-blonde hair and fair complexion that showed fewer wrinkles than most women her age possessed. He was hardly surprised by this, given the wealth of praises he'd heard regarding the legendary beauty she'd possessed in her youth. His own father had confirmed the stories and had even admitted to considering the woman as his potential wife. However, the Alexander patriarch had confided in his son;

"Although she would have been a jewel in any man's crown for her beauty, Elanor possessed something that most men simply cannot abide in a woman; ambition and an overbearing nature."

Beau could certainly see his father's point of view given his own knowledge of the woman's reputation when it came to business dealings. Even now as he considered the exhibition he'd been witness to in the simple act of sitting in her chair, he could only speculate as to the level of performance he could expect from the matron as they began their discussion. Beau found his dilemma of trying to figure out how to broach the matter at hand solved as his hostess snidely observed;

"Yes, well I do wish that it was under more pleasant circumstances. I'm afraid that this entire matter has my granddaughter most distressed, Monsieur Alexander. Why, the poor girl, she's simply prostrate with fear and worry over the idea that Adrienne Baptiste might refuse their engagement...especially in light of your nephew's public faux pas."

Much to his amazement, Beau discovered that he owned a keen acting ability. Never in his life had he wanted to bust out in laughter at someone as much as he did the moment he heard Elanor's statement regarding her granddaughter's feelings on the matter of her proposed marriage. However, he knew that the last thing that would help in this case was tipping his hand to the knowledge he possessed when it came to Edith's feelings on the subject of marriage to Adrienne Baptiste. If anything, given what he knew of Elanor Armand and her determined and controlling nature, he had no doubts that if were to tip his hat to the woman the only thing that would be accomplished was insuring that the girl ended up trapped in a marriage she didn't want just to satisfy the woman's domineering nature. Clearing his throat, as if trying to hide his embarrassment over his nephew's behavior, Beau made certain his expression reflected a proper amount of remorse as he spoke;

"You have my deepest sympathies for what, both, you and your granddaughter are suffering Madam Armand, I can assure you that my sister and I are seeing to it that Aaron receives the proper punishment for his rash and unseemly behavior."

Leaning forward a little, as if about to offer a confidence, Beau began laying the groundwork for his proposal;

"Madam Armand, I realize that this entire escapade might well be one that could see quite a scandal...for both your family and mine. I, for one, would like to avoid such a blemish on the good name of Armand and Alexander; and I think that I might well have a solution...if you're amiable to hearing me out."

Noticing the gleam of curiosity that seemed to light her pale blue eyes, Beau knew that 'amiable' was a vast understatement as to just how prepared...and curious she was to hear his proposal. Lifting her head a bit, much as an empress might when asked to hear out one of her subjects, Elanor nodded as she encouraged;

"By all means, Monsieur Alexander, I'd be most interested in hearing your suggestion."

Motioning to the edge of the settee, which was in much closer proximity to her chair, Beau suggested, "May I?"

Although he had to refrain a bit from shuddering, Beau managed to reciprocate the smile that Elanor bestowed upon him. Although his was lacking the hint of a provocative suggestion that seemed to fill hers at that moment as she motioned towards the place he'd indicated to invite;

"By all means; I want to make sure I have a firm grasp of your proposal."

Relocating to closer proximity, Beau began outlining his idea;

"My sister and I discussed the matter in great detail last night; and given the awkward position that Aaron has placed your granddaughter and family in, as well as our own, I'd like to propose that perhaps we can turn the talk of New Orleans from that of scandal to that of a romance."

Tilting her head to the side a bit, Elanor demanded;

"And pray how do you suggest we accomplish such a task?"

Leaning back a bit, his face possessing a smile filled with cajoling, Beau clasped his hands together before venturing;

"Given that their engagement has yet to be announced, I would suggest that we arrange a marriage between your granddaughter and my nephew."

Seeing the mask of wide-eyed shock that filled her features, Beau smoothly added;

"Of course I would insist on compensating you for the, shall we say, discomfort you've experienced as a result of my nephew's rash behavior."

Although he knew a moment's worry as she remained silent, Beau slowly exhaled the breath he'd been holding in carefully measured intervals as Elanor lifted one eyebrow to demand;

"Might I inquire as to just what it is you would consider adequate compensation?"

Knowing that, for him to secure his objective, he had to play his part in the game that they were engaged in with just as much enthusiasm as his opponent, Beau leaned back in his seat to leisurely cross legs before making a waving gesture with his hand as he casually suggested, "Given your fondness for your granddaughter, and the embarrassment you must have suffered, I should think that, oh say, ten thousand dollars would be a fair amount. That would be aside from my decision to sell you that piece of property that you've expressed interest in for quite some time...at half the price you offered. And I'm also prepared to settle the issue with Monsieur Baptiste to save you the distress of doing so yourself. Of course, there are some 'conditions' that shall go along with my proposal, should you agree."

Just as he'd hoped, Beau could see the glimmer of greed shining in Elanor's eyes as, her curiosity piqued, she posed the question;

"And, should I agree to this...proposal of yours, just what might those 'conditions' be?"

Turning his hand, as if inspecting his nails, Beau presented the list he and Clarissa had agreed were non-negotiable, where Edith was concerned, as nonchalantly as possible;

"Well, although we're prepared to settle our nephew's marital future at this time, given that he's already been accepted, and in light of the promise he made his mother on her deathbed, as well as his own determination in the matter, we think a long engagement is in order. Considering that he's already completed his first year's studies, I'm quite confident that he'll have completed his education within two years."

While she was certainly eager for the small fortune Beauregard Alexander was willing to settle in her possession, not to mention the property she had anxiously hoped to covet, especially considering just how much that simple piece of land would increase in its value over the next year, if not sooner, Elanor continued playing her role as if she were a consummate actress. Folding her hands primly in her lap, she prodded;

"I can certainly respect your nephew's determination to fulfill his promise...and of course to take advantage of the opportunity presented to him to expand his education as much as possible. However, my primary concern is what shall my granddaughter do to occupy those two years while she waits for your nephew to finish his education at the university?"

Waving her hands wide with a flourish, Elanor, as Beau knew she would, addressed the issue of Edith's upkeep for the proposed time;

"After all, you can hardly expect Edith to simply languish here with me for that time; especially if her future is secured...as you're indicating."

Understanding the woman's unspoken meaning, Beau, not wanting to seem too anxious in the matter, shrugged a bit;

"I can understand your concern, Madam Armand, as does my sister; which brings us to another condition of my proposal. After discussing the matter with our nephew, who is in complete agreement, and since we are, as you say, securing your granddaughter's future, we'd like to take complete responsibility for Edith."

Although he couldn't allow any outward demonstration of his amusement to show; inwardly, Beau wanted, more than anything, to laugh at the transformation of her features from anxiously confident to the mask of shock that he now saw. However, determined in his course of action, Beau made certain that his expression remained as impassive as possible as Elanor sought clarification;

"When you say you're prepared to take complete responsibility for Edith..."

Leaning forward, Beau stated without preamble;

"I mean just that, Madame Armand; my sister, my nephew, and I are prepared to take complete responsibility...including financial for your granddaughter. We would, of course, like for her to come live with us. Please understand something; the money I'm prepared to offer you...that comes from my nephew's own funds. And, just so you understand how serious my nephew's intentions are, the reason I'm prepared to sell you that property for half of your original offer is because Aaron is willing to recompense me for the difference."

Just as he'd hoped would be the case, Beau could see she was contemplating the implications of his statement with the foresight of greed that she was so well known for. But, he also knew that another facet of her character, one much less discussed, was her need to hide behind the guise of propriety; something that found her observing;

"I must admit that your proposal, and willingness, to see to Edith's care is a most generous one. And of course, your nephew's expression of his determination where my granddaughter is concerned is something I find most heartening. My greatest concern is that Edith makes a successful marriage, and of course, I want to ensure her happiness. But, I'm sure you can appreciate my concern over how it would look to have Edith living in the same house as her intended."

Raising his hand to halt the remainder of her objections, Beau informed her;

"I quite agree, Madame Armand, which is why I'd never have suggested such an arrangement were it not for the fact that Aaron shall be leaving just after graduation to attend university in California. Before that time, you and I can take care of the legalities of transferring Edith's guardianship from you to my sister and I; and once Aaron has left, Edith can join our household. Given his high opinion where education is concerned, we intend on allowing Edith to continue attending Miss Robilard's school; she should complete her studies at about the same time Aaron completes university and further arrangements can be made at that time."

Seeing the hint of resistance in her eyes, Beau, although he was loathed to do so, ventured;

"Of course if you're not amiable to the arrangement and insist that your granddaughter should wed the Baptiste boy, I'm certain that the gossip will die down...eventually. I mean, after all, Aaron is leaving so that will help remove some of the fodder that can fuel the fires of talk regarding this situation...and your family. On the other hand, imagine the spin on the tale of just how romantic it is that a young man as reserved in his emotions as my nephew so openly confessed his admiration for your granddaughter when he learned he might well lose her to another."

Allowing the flicker of a smile to lift the edges of his lips, Beau prodded, "Come now, Madame Armand, despite that sharp intellect you possess, you can't convince me that you don't find the story a romantic one."

Noticing how her eyes shifted downward for a moment, Beau knew he had won his battle, especially when she asserted;

"I'm afraid that I must insist that you settle the issue with Monsieur Baptiste; in fact, I would like it done forthwith and in my presence."

Rising from her chair, Elanor motioned for Beau to remain seated as she reached for the bell pull. Having already considered this possibility, Beau remained nonplussed as he calmly agreed;

"Of course, Madam Armand! I think it only right that I handle that task myself."

Despite his initial show of ranting and raving, Monsieur Baptiste was more than satisfied to allow the idea of his son and Edith's marriage to fall by the wayside...especially in light of Beau's generous offer in the form of a deed to a piece of property that the man had been hoping to purchase for quite some time. Once the man had left, Beau faced his hostess;

"Shall I assume that we've reached an agreement to satisfy all parties involved, Madam Armand?"

Nodding, Elanor confirmed;

"Yes, I do believe we have."

More than aware that the woman possessed a duplicitous side, Beau stated with finality;

"Excellent! My attorney and I shall call on you next week, and once we've signed the necessary papers transferring Edith's guardianship, I'll sign the deed to that piece of property, as well as place a bank draft in your hands for the funds we discussed."

Although she realized that Beau was more than aware of her nature and aware of how to counteract that nature, Elanor was also more than aware of the fact that, in the grander scheme of things, handing her granddaughter over into the care of the Alexanders was a small price to pay for the wealth she was going to accumulate. Allowing a smile of satisfaction to lift the edges of her mouth, she offered her hand before bidding;

"I look forward to that meeting, Monsieur Alexander. I've no doubts that I've made the right decisions today...for the betterment of Edith's welfare of course."

Taking her hand to brush a light kiss across her knuckles, Beau acknowledged;

"Of course, Madam! Now, with your kind permission, I'd like to take my leave so that I may deliver the good news to my sister and nephew."

Waving her hand towards the door as she reached for the bell pull, Elanor encouraged;

"By all means and please give my best to both. And please express to your nephew that, despite how this was brought about, I'm thrilled that he shall be a member of our family."

Addressing her servant, Elanor ordered;

"Henri, please show, Monsieur Alexander out."

Once his carriage was in motion and he was sure he was out of range of observation, Beau allowed a deep sigh of relief to escape before slumping back against the seat, asking aloud as he did so;

"How in the world do performers do that night after night? I only had to deal with the old dragon a couple of hours and I'm exhausted."

As much as he wanted to believe it to be the case, as he looked out the window, Beau couldn't help but wonder if what he'd considered being the hardest part of the challenge facing his nephew was truly that...or if there was more to come that he simply had not foreseen.

Aaron sat in the drawing-room, listening as his uncle went over the details that had been settled between Edith's grandmother and himself regarding Edith's future. Beau, having finished his explanation, took a few moments to study his nephew's reaction which was, to say the least, one of shock and surprise. However, both gave way to practicality as Aaron cleared his throat before summing up the situation, as he saw it;

"Uncle Beau, I'm grateful to you for everything you've done to help Edith, but you've done so at a great expense."

Crossing his arms over his chest, Beau questioned;

"Aaron, do you think that something that can be as easily replaced as money is too great a sacrifice to help make sure Edith doesn't have to spend her life with Adrienne Baptiste?"

Shaking his head, Aaron adamantly stated;

"No, sir...I do not! But I just feel a little guilty that you and Aunt Clarissa have gone to such expense, but I'm grateful to you for it because it will help Edith."

Exchanging a knowing look with his sister, Beau speculated;

"But, if the money were yours to spend, would you have done anything differently?"

Without hesitation, Aaron shook his head;

"No, sir, I would have done exactly what you did."

Nodding, more proud of his nephew for his answer than he could ever express, Beau smiled before laughing slightly as he confided;

"I'm very glad to hear you say that, Aaron because I have something to tell you. You see the money I used was actually your money."

Giving Aaron a moment to let his words sink in, Beau waited for the inevitable. And, sure enough, his nephew didn't disappoint;

"Uncle Beau, how in the world could that have been my money...especially that much of it?"

Although he'd hoped to surprise his nephew with the information on his graduation day, Beau knew the time had come to divulge just how he'd come by the money he'd offered Elanor Armand to secure her granddaughter's freedom from the shackles of marriage to Adrienne Baptiste. Deciding that, after having to deal with, not just Elanor Armand, but Howard Baptiste as well, he deserved a little libation, Beau poured himself a small brandy before explaining just how the money had been available;

"I was saving it as a surprise for you before you left for university, but under the circumstances, I think it's only fair to tell you now. You see, Aaron..."

With that, Beau launched into his narrative of just how it was that his nephew had come into such a fortune. When he'd finished, Aaron stared at him in wide-eyed wonder before paraphrasing;

"So, basically, what you're telling me is that the money my father had set aside, the money that Mr. Beauvoir sends you every month for allowing me to stay here, you've been investing it for me?"

Clarissa nodded as she answered for her and her brother;

"You see, Aaron, your uncle and I WANTED you to come live with us. We tried explaining to your father that he didn't need to pay us for letting you stay here. But, you know your father; he INSISTED we accept the money; in fact, he told us that if we didn't, he would have to consider letting you board at the school instead. So, rather than argue with him, Beau and I discussed it and we decided that we'd accept the money; however, your father never stipulated what we had to do with it. And now, thanks to your uncle's talent for investing, you have a nice little nest egg to help give you a good start once you're ready to strike out on your own."

Astounded by their generosity, Aaron rose from where he sat to hug his aunt before turning to his uncle and offering his hand as he shook his head;

"I don't know how I can ever thank you two for everything you've done for me."

Placing his hand on his nephew's shoulder, Beau ventured;

"I can; just do what you've always done, Aaron...work hard and do what you know is the right thing. But I want you to remember something your grandfather told me a long time ago; sometimes you may have to do something that will seem wrong to those around you, but if you know in your heart, truly know, that it's for the right reasons, in the end, never let your path be swayed...you tactics maybe, but never your path."

Taking the man's words to heart, Aaron eagerly nodded;

"I promise, Uncle Beau, I want you and Aunt Rissa to always be proud of me."

His brow furrowing slightly, Aaron asked;

"But there are two questions I'd like to ask if it's alright."

Making a sweeping gesture, Clarissa encouraged;

"By all means, dear, ask us anything you'd like."

Taking in a deep lung full of air, Aaron spoke;

"Alright, my first question is; do I have to marry Edith in two years?"

Sinking into his chair to face his nephew, Beau queried;

"Before I answer that question, I'd like you to answer mine; do you WANT to marry her, son? And I want you to be honest with us AND yourself when you answer that."

Taking her nephew's hand, Clarissa insisted;

"Please be true to yourself and search your heart before you answer."

Shaking her head, she lamented;

"Your uncle and I have seen too many marriages that were arranged based on wealth and politics, and seen the unhappy results to want that for you...or for Edith."

Swallowing hard, Aaron observed;

"I like Edith...I like her a lot. But I like her as a friend, and I don't think that will ever change. When she told me what she did about Baptiste and being forced into marriage, and when he told me that part of the reason was to teach me a lesson, all I could think of was that I didn't want her to suffer something I knew she didn't want in the first place...not on my account. I said and did what I did at the social because I couldn't think of any other way to help her. I know that I'm young, but I also know that what I feel for Edith isn't enough to base a marriage on, especially when I can't see what we have growing beyond the stage of being friends."

Shaking his head, Aaron confided;

"This may sound silly, but if I ever get married, I want it to be because I find a girl who I can't imagine not having by my side for the rest of my life."

Clearing his throat, touched by the realization that his nephew was, despite outward appearances, someone who possessed strong emotions that ran very deep, Beau quietly encouraged;

"No, Aaron, that doesn't sound silly at all. It's a shame that more people don't share your feelings on the matter of marriage. You just keep feeling the way you feel and I have no doubts that, when you do find the girl you want to make your wife, you'll have a happy and loving marriage. As far as marrying Edith goes; I told her grandmother that, at the end of two years when you and she completed your educations, we'd make further plans. I didn't, however, commit to just what those plans might be. When she turns eighteen, Edith will be able to take control of her parent's estate and do as she pleases; and, what's to say, that declining to enter into marriage, with you or anyone else for that matter, isn't in her plans."

Beau was relieved to set his nephew's mind at ease as he took a sip of his brandy. But, recalling his nephew's statement, he furrowed his brow a bit in thought as he reminded;

"You said that you had TWO questions, Aaron; what's the second one?"

A hint of a grin starting on his features, Aaron came to the point;

"So just how much money ARE we talking here, Uncle Beau?"

Beau began laughing at his nephew's inquiry, but soon found his laughter dying as Charles, his face a mask of deep worry, entered the room to announce;

"Mister Beau...Miss Clarissa, there's a young gentleman here to see Mister Aaron."

Puzzled, Aaron asked;

"Who is he, Charles?"

Sighing heavily, as if he didn't want to perform the duty, Charles answered;

"The young man's name is Bernard Antoine, Mister Aaron."

Looking from his aunt to his uncle, Aaron explained;

"He's one of Adrienne Baptiste's friends."

Her expression reflecting her fears, Clarissa suggested;

"Perhaps we should just send the boy away, Beau."

Shaking his head as he stood, Aaron issued;

"No, Aunt Rissa."

Addressing Charles, he ordered;

"Show him in, Charles."

Aaron remained standing as Charles led the visitor into the drawing-room. Although Bernard Antoine was, at least, three years older than Aaron, he felt intimidated by the younger man, especially in light of the fact he was a few inches shorter and had gotten a head start towards working on his middle-aged spread. However, despite the physical inferiority, he felt in the young man's presence, Bernard still held Aaron in the highest of esteem; although that was a fact that he refrained from sharing with Adrienne Baptiste. The truth of the matter was that, if he weren't afraid of the repercussions of such an act, Bernard would gladly forego Adrienne's friendship, especially in light of just how much he detested his acquaintance's character and personality. However, and at his father's encouragement, Barnard retained his 'friendship' for the sake of the prestige and connections that the acquaintance offered. But, given the task that his 'friend' had charged him with, Barnard wished, more than anything, that he and Adrienne were complete strangers as he entered the Alexanders' drawing-room. Approaching Aaron, Bernard advised;

"Mister Stempel, I'm here on behalf of Adrienne Baptiste, sir, who is demanding satisfaction for the matter regarding his formerly intended, Miss Edith Harper."

Shooting up from where she sat on the settee, Clarissa, wringing her hands, exclaimed worriedly;

"But my brother, Aaron's uncle, Edith's grandmother, and Monsieur Baptiste settled the matter between them earlier today; that young man has no room to challenge Aaron."

Lowering his head a bit before shaking it, Bernard observed, his tone a disheartened one;

"I wish that I could agree with you, Miss Alexander, but unfortunately...and technically, under the rules of a duel, Adrienne can request satisfaction. And, despite mine and even his father's advice, he has done just that."

Facing Aaron, Bernard inquired;

"Adrienne requests that you meet him at sunrise tomorrow. There is a clearing near the school, are you familiar with it?"

Accepting Aaron's nod as an affirmative, Bernard explained;

"Adrienne asked that I remind you that he is no swordsman."

Unable to contain his amusement at the reminder, Aaron quipped;

"After having shared fencing class with him, he doesn't have to remind me. So let me guess; he requested that we use pistols...even though I have the right to choose the weapons?"

Once the second nodded, Aaron shook his head;

"NO! He wants satisfaction? FINE! But he's going to have to get it with the weapons he was born with; HIS FISTS...if he can. Tell your principal his challenge has been accepted."

Offering a slight bow, Bernard nodded;

"I'll inform Adrienne and we shall see you and your second on the field of honor at sunrise."

Determined to make certain his feelings were more than clear, Aaron shook his head as he stated adamantly;

"There's no honor in this, and you know that as well as I do. This is nothing more than Baptiste having a temper tantrum because he was told he couldn't have something; even though his reasons for wanting it in the first place were less than honorable. But, since he wants to go thru with this farce, I'll be happy to oblige him, and as far as seeing my second; no, you won't. Unlike Baptiste, I don't involve others in my stupidity, and tomorrow will be no exception to that rule."

Nodding to Charles, who'd remained in the room after showing Bernard in, Aaron directed;

"Charles will show you out; until tomorrow, sir."

After the front door had closed, Beau faced his nephew to advise;

"Aaron, you have to have a second."

Shaking his head, Aaron refused;

"No, Uncle Beau! I appreciate your concern, but I am not going to ask anyone else to take part in this stupidity. And before you say it; I don't want you there, you've done enough as it is by helping Edith. Besides, I'm not a total idiot, that's why I said fists instead of pistols. Maybe if I beat some sense into Baptiste I can at least help the next fella he targets after I'm gone."

Nodding towards his aunt, Aaron begged;

"Now if you'll excuse me, I need to see to my valedictory speech for graduation."

Waiting until they heard his bedroom door shut, Clarissa turned to her brother to demand;

"You're worried, aren't you, Beau?"

Facing his sister, Beau stated in honest terms;

"Yes, Rissa, I am. Although he used his head in choosing his weapons, Aaron hasn't considered that his opponent may well not give him the benefit of an even playing field."

Placing her hand on her brother's arm, Clarissa begged;

"Beau, I don't want him going alone...he CAN'T go alone."

Patting his sister's hand, Beau nodded before assuring her;

"Don't worry, Rissa, I have an idea."

Catching Charles' attention, Beau ordered the carriage ready before turning to his sister;

"If Aaron should ask, just tell him I've gone to speak to our attorney about drawing up Edith's guardianship papers."

Her brow creasing in concern, Clarissa demanded;

"Beau, where are you going?"

Settling his hat on his head, Beau took a deep breath before answering;

"Hopefully, I'm going to give our nephew a little insurance...at least where Adrienne Baptiste taking him by surprise is concerned."

Although he appeared outwardly calm, inside, Aaron couldn't help but worry. While he knew he was prepared to act honorably in the matter, knowing Adrienne Baptiste's sneaky and underhanded tactics as he did, the idea of his opponent cheating wasn't one he put past him. The problem was, considering the activity they were engaged in, Aaron knew that having Baptiste cheat in this instance could carry fatal consequences. Waiting at the clearing as had been agreed, Aaron held his head high as Adrienne and Bernard approached. Just as he had known would be the case, as he approached, Adrienne jeered;

"No second, Stempel? What, no one willing to be associated with someone of your ilk?"

Rolling his eyes at the barb, Aaron was about to retort when a familiar voice answered the insult;

"Actually, Baptiste, although Aaron's got quite a bit more sense, and breeding, than what you do, he was prepared to face you alone since this is, by far, the most asinine idea that you've ever had...and you've had some whoppers since I've known you. However, I decided that, given your reputation for, shall we say, ungentlemanly conduct, I would serve as his second."

While the opponents stared in shock and disbelief at his appearance, Aaron broke the mood by demanding;

"Danial, what are you doing here?"

Approaching the young man he'd considered a friend worth having since he was first introduced to him, Danial Benoit extended his hand as he explained;

"Let's just say that I received word of this, and your refusal to ask anyone to act as your second. So, since you refuse to ask, I volunteer...if you'll have me."

While he refused to allow his adversary to see it, Aaron breathed a sigh of relief as he remarked;

"If I'll have you? You have no idea how glad I am to see you."

Although he'd told Aaron the truth when he'd said that he'd received word, what Danial failed to mention was that he'd received it thanks to a visit he'd received from the younger man's uncle. Once he'd learned what was taking place, Danial had eagerly assured Beau;

"Monsieur Alexander, Aaron has done everything possible to avoid confrontations with Baptiste, but for some reason, that jackass refuses to cease harassing your nephew. Don't worry, I can promise you Baptiste will have bragged about this, so I'll simply tell Aaron I received word and I'm there to make certain everything stays fair and above board; he just doesn't have to know that I received that word from you."

Danial brought his attention to the present as Adrienne taunted;

"I suppose you decided on the barbaric use of our fists because you didn't feel confident in your use of a pistol; eh, Stempel?"

Handing his jacket to Danial and rolling his sleeves up, Aaron shook his head as he stated, his tone holding no hint of boasting, only a hint of matter of factness as he shook his head;

"Actually, Baptiste, I felt that the only way to give you a fair chance at saving that worthless neck of yours was to use our fists instead of weapons. Now, how do you want to do this?"

His expression conveying his dislike for his opponent, Adrienne huffed;

"We do this like gentlemen, Stempel. We observe the rules by stepping off our paces, once we turn then we'll commence. Do you understand or is that beyond the grasp of your limited intelligence?"

Raising an eyebrow in derision, Aaron retorted;

"I'm not the one who's twenty years old and still trying to graduate...now am I?"

Narrowing his eyes in hatred, Adrienne ordered;

"Just turn and follow the rules, Stempel, and keep your smart remarks to yourself."

A few minutes later, the two adversaries stood back to back as Bernard began counting off the paces;

"One, two, three, four, five..."

Aaron had just wondered why Bernard had ceased his count when he noticed Danial's eyes widen just before he rushed towards him, knocking him to the ground as a shot rang out over his head. Rolling onto his back before sitting up, it took Aaron a moment to process what happened; but, when he did, he turned to his friend to offer a hasty;

"THANKS!"

Facing Adrienne, whose face was a mask of panic, Aaron shot to his feet before rushing forward to tackle his opponent. Once he had him on the ground, Aaron found all of the frustration, anger, and hatred he had for his adversary rushing to the top to be unleashed as he pummeled him with punch after punch; systematically working his way from Adrienne's face to his midsection and back again. Both looking to the other simultaneously, Bernard and Danial silently agreed it was time to step in. Although they knew that Adrienne deserved every blow he was receiving, both, especially Danial, knew that once he realized just how over the edge he'd gone, Aaron would suffer from the guilt he would feel over the act. There was no doubt as to the fact that Aaron had acted in self-defense, even though the only effort that Adrienne had made as he was being beaten by his opponent was to cover his face with his hands as he begged for mercy. Even though each took an arm, Danial and Bernard soon discovered that stopping Aaron's rage wasn't as easy a task as they'd originally thought it would be between them. However, thanks to their combined efforts, the pair were able to restrain Aaron, at least enough until the fury they saw burning in his dark eyes began cooling somewhat as he realized just what had taken place. Turning from one to the other, he nodded before shaking their hands from his arms;

"I'm alright!"

Holding his hand out to Adrienne, Aaron advised;

"THIS is over with, Baptiste! That is, of course, unless you'd prefer we see this fight until one of us can't get up; and judging by your appearance, I can assure you I won't be the one on the ground."

Grudgingly, Adrienne snatched at Aaron's hand and pulled himself up to stand. Once he was on his feet he slapped at Aaron's hand before hissing;

"I SHOULD HAVE KNOWN! Of course, a guttersnipe like you would fight like a common hoodlum...rather than a gentleman."

Shrugging a bit, Aaron returned;

"Maybe I do, but be glad for that fact. And while you're at it, thank Danial and your second for stopping me before I REALLY lost my temper. Now, you demanded satisfaction and we went thru the charade; how you handle the outcome is your problem...not mine."

Aaron was about to turn when he noticed the look of panic in Bernard's eyes, as well as catching a side glance of Adrienne's hand reaching into his pocket. Without a thought, Aaron's lightning-fast reflexes kicked in just as his adversary cocked and aimed the Derringer. Lashing out, Aaron was able to knock the gun from Adrienne's hand before he could pull the trigger; however, given that it was cocked and ready to fire when the gun hit the ground it discharged and sent a bullet straight into Adrienne's shoulder. Grasping his wound, as if it was a fatal one, Adrienne exclaimed;

"YOU SHOT ME, YOU BASTARD!"

Already seeing the direction that the wheels of his mind were taking as they turned, Danial shook his head vigorously;

"OH NO YOU DON'T, BAPTISTE! I promise you; if you try and do ANYTHING that might get Aaron in trouble, I will personally see to it that every single detail I know about you will be brought out into the light of day. Do we understand each other?"

Seeing the hint of stubbornness that he knew from experience meant he would do everything possible to cause trouble, Bernard, realizing just what sort of ilk Adrienne Baptiste truly was, backed Danial;

"And I'll be more than happy to verify everything Danial attests to."

Seeing the shock in his former acquaintance's eyes, Bernard shook his head;

"Enough is enough, Adrienne! You've done nothing but try and torment and torture Aaron since he began attending school. He's never done anything to warrant the acts you've tried to commit against him. You're only problem is that you're jealous of him because he earns on his own what your father has to buy for you. I've sat back for too long and kept silent; but no more. We're no longer boys...we're men, and I have no desire to be the type of man that you seem determined to be."

Turning to face Aaron and Danial, Bernard assured them;

"I was wrong to go along with him, even if I said and did nothing, I was wrong nonetheless. All I can do is ask you to please forgive my weakness and cowardice for not standing up to him sooner. However, I can promise you, going forward my association with Adrienne Baptiste is at an end."

Facing the person who they considered to be the bane of their existence at that point, Bernard advised;

"And since my father has brought me into our family business, I'm going to strongly urge him to cease doing business with your father...IMMEDIATELY!"

Still clutching his shoulder, Adrienne's eyes widened in fear as he stammered;

"B...but, that means that you'd have to tell him your reasons. And you forget, you can easily be implicated if I..."

Laughing, Bernard reminded;

"Implicated and convicted are two very different things, Adrienne. And if I am implicated...so be it! But I won't be the only one answering for those actions; will I, Adrienne?"

Seething, Adrienne faced Aaron as he fumed;

"This is all your fault, Stempel! You and your damn forthright attitudes."

Nodding towards his wound, Adrienne glared at Aaron before vowing;

"I don't know how, Stempel, but mark my words; somehow...someday, you're going to pay for the way you've insulted, and turned my friends against me."

Snatching his waistcoat from Bernard's hands, Adrienne stormed off, leaving the trio staring after him. His eyes never wavering from the departing figure, Danial theorized;

"Aaron, you had better be careful until you leave for university; he may well stay inconspicuous for a while, but people with a personality such as Adrienne Baptiste's never let an imagined slight go."

Nodding, Bernard added his warning;

"He's right, Aaron! Believe me, even though his reputation isn't a savory one, that doesn't stop him from being cruel, and even heinous."

Taking a deep breath, Aaron looked from one to the other before agreeing;

"I know that he's not to be taken lightly, and you have no idea how grateful I am to the both of you for what you've done to help me today. And believe me, I plan on taking every precaution where Baptiste is concerned, but I'm sure that, by the time I've finished my studies and decided on what direction I plan on going to make my way in the world, Adrienne Baptiste will have found something more interesting than me to occupy his thoughts and time."

Accepting his jacket from Danial and, after bidding Bernard farewell, Aaron walked with his friend in silence as he hoped that his prediction regarding Adrienne Baptiste would prove accurate.