A/N – So far, it's unanimous…everyone who's reviewed wants another chapter. I'm still astounded that this has already received 31 reviews.
In response to one of those reviews, I'm sorry the characters don't seem very…in-depth. I don't think I'm actually going to show their thoughts, but rather, let their actions and words speak for them.
I forgot the disclaimer from the first two chapters, but I don't think any of you thought I was actually delusional enough to think that I owned any of the characters from this story. Everything but the characters is mine…make that, everything but the characters' names is mine, because so far, none of the characters are really…in character. And yes, I CAN actually use the word "characters" more than that in one coherent sentence; I simply refrain from doing so.
Anyway, because you all asked so nicely, and because I received two threats of bodily harm if I did not continue this story, here's chapter 3.
A GOLDEN CAGE
The carriage finally jolted to a stop, and Rory set down the book she had been reading. She looked up, and found Tristan staring at her. She smiled nervously.
"Wait here." He commanded, before climbing out.
She was only too willing to acquiesce, and remained in the carriage, twisting her hands. After a few minutes, the door opened again, and a head poked inside.
"Milady?"
She avoided the eyes of the servant, covering her trepidation by gathering her shawl around her shoulders. "Just a moment, please."
"Of course, Milady…but I promise…we don't bite." He soothed.
She looked up, shocked by his tone. He looked to be about her age, with friendly brown eyes and fuzzy hair. A warm smile graced his lips. She found she couldn't help but return the smile, and offered her hand.
He took the hand, squeezed it lightly, and assisted her from the carriage. "Milady, I give you…Stars Hollow."
Her eyes widened slightly, as she took in the rolling green hills and the massive keep. Unlike her grandparents' home, this place seemed warm and inviting, and not at all intimidating.
"May I escort you inside?"
She shook herself out of her reverie, and glanced back at the servant. "Yes, of course. Where is…"
"Milord has been away for some time. There were some matters that required his immediate attention. He requests that you settle in, and join him for dinner."
"Alright."
The servant released her hand, and began walking towards the keep. Straightening her shoulders, she followed a few steps behind.
He escorted her through the keep, finally stopping at a massive wooden door. "Milady's chambers."
She hesitated a moment, before pushing open the door. She stood silently, taking in the finery around her.
"I will leave you to settle in now, Milady." The servant spoke behind her. "If you should need anything, just call for Mrs. Hayden. I expect she will be in shortly."
"Thank you…I'm sorry, what is your name?" Rory asked, still unsure of herself.
"Jess, Milady. Good day." The servant closed the door behind him, leaving Rory alone with her thoughts.
She set about unpacking her trunks, and had nearly finished putting all of her books on the shelves when there was a knock at the door. "Come in." She called.
"Good evening, Milady. I'm Mrs. Hayden. I trust that everything is to your satisfaction?" The attractive woman spoke rapidly as she bustled into the room.
"Yes, it is. Thank you very much." Rory replied, without looking up from her books.
"Good, good. Well, come here, young lady, let me get a look at the woman our Tristan has chosen for his bride." Mrs. Hayden spoke firmly, but kindly.
Rory obediently stood. When she and Mrs. Hayden locked eyes, both were taken aback.
"Oh my…it's…" Rory was stunned.
"Rory?" Mrs. Hayden asked, her own cornflower blue eyes widening.
"Mother?"
A/N – Sorry this chapter's short, but it seemed like a good stopping place, to give the reunion the appropriate amount of drama. Heheheh. I know that there are now a bunch of questions raging through my mind, like did Tristan know that Lorelai Gilmore (Hayden) was working for him? Is that why he pushed Rory so hard to marry him? (I know it doesn't seem like he really pushed at the moment, but trust me, he did.) Why is she called Mrs. Hayden? If she's actually married to Rory's father, why did she leave Rory with Emily and Richard? Hmm…these questions need answers, which means my fingers need to fly, but before that can happen, I need to know which questions y'all really want answered. And, are there any that I've missed? Only way for me to find out is if you guys press that little tiny "go" button, and submit a review for me, pretty please!!! Also, what do you guys think of turning Stars Hollow into Tristan's ancestral home?
As you all can probably tell, I've started liking this story…and the massive number of reviews definitely helped that!!!!