Part 7
This part is twice the length of the last one. And I do believe this one will have some of you with tears in your eyes , I know it did me when I wrote it.
Sw
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A month had past since the night Scarlett had all but said she didn't love Ashley Wilkes anymore. During that time Rhett found closeness to Scarlett he never thought possible. She had decided they should not have anymore secrets from each other.
Rhett of course agreed to listen to all of her confessing. Laughing at most of them. Rhett was rewarded with a few good slaps. If Scarlett hadn't been pregnant he might have been tempted to hit her back. At least that's what he told himself knowing if not for the latter he would always come up with a reason never to lay a hand on Scarlett.
When Scarlett wasn't with him, she either was playing with the children or taking his mother for visits to see Melanie who was sick in bed for most of this last month. Rhett had argued with Scarlett over leaving the house almost seven months pregnant.
Scarlett had like always listened to what he said then did as she pleased. Only after their last fight over this matter did Scarlett break down and cry out how much Melanie meant to her, Rhett couldn't after that band her from seeing Melly.
So when Scarlett entered their bedroom white as a ghost and shriving uncontrollable Rhett knew something awful had happened. Not since Bonnie's death almost two months ago did Rhett ever see Scarlett have that look in her eyes, one of despair.
Scarlett's eyes looked up locking with Rhett's dark questioning ones. Scarlett wasn't sure in the next second who moved if it had been her or him the only thing she did know were Rhett's strong arms where wrapped around her.
"Scarlett, what wrong?" Rhett asked feeling how tense his wife was against his chest.
"I'll kill him Rhett. I promise I will kill him." Scarlett barely got out before she lost her voice to sobs.
"Kill who? Scarlett what has happened?" Rhett demand as he pulled back so he could look her in the face.
"Ashley I'm going to kill Ashley. He knew Rhett, he knew." Scarlett said not making much sense to her bewildered husband.
Eleanor Butler who stood by the door could hear her son's confused voice trying to make some type of sense from an over emotionally Scarlett. Mrs. Butler hadn't meant to overhear them; she had only wanted to see Scarlett to her room.
"Rhett" Eleanor said knowing it was going to fall to her to break the news to her beloved son.
Rhett pulled Scarlett closer and then asked his Mother. "What's got Scarlett this upset it's not good for the baby?'
"We went to see Mrs.Wilkes today. Rhett she had been with child. The doctor doesn't believe she'll live through the night. Scarlett's been threaten to kill Mr. Wilkes since than." Eleanor said feeling like a third wheel hoping Rhett could clam Scarlett down before she lost her own child. Seeing the anger cross Rhett's face Eleanor decided to leave hoping the two could clam down each other.
In between sobs Scarlett kept saying over and over." He knew. He knew."
Tears filled Rhett's eyes Melanie was a good friend losing her wasn't going to be easy. Right now he had to push his own feelings aside and get Scarlett to stop crying.
"I know my Pet. But there is nothing we can do to change this. Please Scarlett think of our baby." Rhett plead with his wife.
Scarlett forced her tears back Rhett was right she wouldn't allow Ashley to cost her their baby. Tomorrow she could think about this tomorrow when she was stronger. Lifting her off her feet Rhett carried Scarlett to their bed.
As he laded her down Scarlett whispered "Don't leave me" Rhett obeying her request laded next to her until her breathing changed letting him know sleep had claimed her.
*~*
Rhett wasn't sure what had made him leave Scarlett's side to go to the Wilkes home. Melly, couldn't be dying, was the only thought Rhett found he was able to think. Knowing his Mother, and Mammy we're watching over Scarlett made his leaving her side possible.
Wade who had insisted on coming to be with his younger cousin and see his Aunt held Rhett's right hand as they walked to Melanie's house.
Aunt Pittypat was the one who let step-father and step-son in. The moment Wade's little body was in the door Pittypat had him in her arms. "She's being asking for you Wade. "The old woman said thinking how unfair it was she would outlive her niece as she had her nephew. Looking back at his Uncle Rhett, Wade only went when he saw Rhett nodded his head.
As Rhett found his way into the setting room, his eyes fell upon the honorable Ashley Wilkes who looked near death himself.
Ashley eyes fell onto Rhett feeling guilt over having upset Scarlett earlier he could only hope Rhett would allow him to apology. "Melly has been asking for you and Scarlett." Ashley said taking the coward's way out.
"Of course I'll see her. Scarlett won't be able to she's resting." Rhett said feeling like a heel he didn't like Ashley yet with Melly in the next room dying he couldn't be anything else but polite.
"Is Scarlett okay?" Ashley asked concern writing all over his face, "She was awful upset at me earlier."
Rhett who under normal circumcises would have been delighted to tell Ashley what Scarlett thought or more importantly wanted to do to him. But for Melly's sake Rhett would hold his tongue. Beside Mrs.Wilkes shouldn't be worrying about Scarlett.
"Scarlett is upset Melanie is like a sister to her. I would have been sooner but Scarlett wouldn't let me leave. She resting now as long as she stays clam I think both her and the baby will be fine." Rhett said watching the door wanting for Wade to appear this had been a bad idea. Rhett just wanted to collect his charge and leave.
"Uncle Rhett" Wade said as he entered the room with tears in his eyes. Rhett ran and hugged the boy to himself. As the boys sobs stopped he founded his voice "Aunt Melly is asking for you Uncle Rhett."
As Rhett left the room getting himself prepared to see Melanie he realized this was why he had come. He was getting a chance to say Goodbye to a wonderful friend and Lady. Something he hadn't gotten to do with Bonnie.
As he entered her small room Rhett heard her weak voice say "Captain Butler, Rhett you must promise me you'll take care of Scarlett she loves you so."
Rhett almost let his tears he was holding in fall with those words, Scarlett loving him was something he longed for what seemed like his whole life.
"Of course I will Melly you needed worry Scarlett and all of her children will never want for anything." Rhett stated knowing it wasn't allowed for him to set beside her so he stood in front of her instead.
"Captain Butler look after Ashley and Beau for me. I would ask Scarlett to but she isn't here. I asked Wade and he said she was resting. She's okay isn't she?" Melanie asked using most of what was left of her strength.
"Don't worry about Scarlett; the baby and she are fine." Rhett said praying what he spoke was the truth.
"I have something I want to tell you and ask of you." Rhett said as he felt one tear ran down his face. Melanie looked so tiny lying before him." First I want to tell you that Scarlett and I both think of and love you like a sister. I will truly miss you Mrs.Wilkes." Hearing Rhett's words brought tears to Melanie's eyes.
"I always knew Scarlett belonged with you. Ever since I saw how you played with Wade. I knew you would make a good father to him." Melly said trying to hold on alittle longer.
Rhett seeing this hurried to get his words out. "The thing I wanted to ask you is when you get to heaven and see my Bonnie tell her how much Scarlett and I miss and love her." defeated as he spoke those words tears ran down his face.
"I will, and Captain Butler I've been proud to call you friend." Melanie said as she then watched Rhett leave her room in search of Ashley she was sure. Knowing Scarlett and Rhett would look after her two men. Melanie felt no worry about leaving them.
*~*
After telling Ashley, Melanie needed him Rhett was surprised to find Wade wasn't there until Pittypat informed, Rhett, India had taking him to their house so he could be with Beau.
Rhett stood there knowing his excuse for leaving was gone. He could always say he wanted to check on Scarlett to get away. But his love for Melanie wouldn't allow that. Rhett fondly remembered first meeting Melly she was a Lady someone who reminded him of his Mother. He always wanted her respect knowing he had that and her friendship made Rhett realize perhaps he wasn't all cad.
Melanie's words earlier and the promising he made to her kept his mind busy. He couldn't buy Ashley out of the Mill like he had planned. Neither could he sell it to him the man didn't have since even to ran a business. Beau was easier to think about, he would send the boy to college if he wanted to go and make sure he wanted for nothing.
Hearing Pittypat start crying anew and only now noticing Ashley presence did Rhett realize is dear friend Melanie Wilkes had left the cruel world behind to go where she always belonged.
*~*
Rhett returned home telling Pittypat he would pick Wade up in the morning. The need to see Scarlett was overwhelming. To hold his hand on her round stomach feeling their baby kicking. Rhett had always did as he pleased never caring who got hurt along the way, the day he met Scarlett that all changed.
He had never believed in love at first sight until that day, Rhett had tried to tell himself when he saw Scarlett walking up the stair case that it was just the hunt. Then when he overheard Scarlett declaring her love for Ashley his heart was sold.
From that day on Scarlett O'Hara had brought him the greatest joy and miserly possible.
Yet his love for her never died she was what he had builted his life around. If what Melly said was true then perhaps they could start anew. Put the pain behind them, Rhett had a feeling that what Scarlett was trying to do with him staying in her room now.
As he enter their bedroom he saw his mother setting in her usually chair. She was reading that book Scarlett had giving up on a few weeks ago.
"Mother" Rhett said as he rested his hands on the back of her chair.
"Rhett" Miss Eleanor said then turned her head to look at him." I didn't hear you come in. I didn't expect you home so soon."
Rhett knew that was his Mother's way of asking how Melanie was. This last month she had become friends with the late Mrs.Wilkes. "There wasn't a need to stay any longer." Rhett said.
"The poor child she was an angel. Scarlett is surely going to miss her, "Miss Eleanor said remembering the first time she saw Melanie and how Scarlett's face it up. From the way Scarlett had taking the news Melanie was dying, she wasn't going to take the news very well. "If your tired Mother I can set with Scarlett." Rhett offer hoping his Mother would take him up on it.
Miss Eleanor who most of the time could read her son like a book could tell he wanted time alone with his wife.
"Yes I could use a nap before dinner." Eleanor said leaving her chair. "Are you're coming down for dinner or would you like a tray sent up for Scarlett and you? She asked as she stood before the door.
"The tray. I'm afraid I wouldn't be very good company for you or Ella." Rhett said looking at Scarlett who was sleeping. Knowing when she woke he would have to inform her of Melanie's passing, Rhett felt his heart being pulled down reminding him of losing Bonnie all over again. As the door closed behind his Mother leaving him alone with Scarlett, Rhett remembered something her heard once. 'The good die young' and indeed they did both Bonnie and Melly would forever be young and beautiful in his mind.
*~*
Rhett had tried reading his mother's book but had come to the conclude Scarlett had been right it just didn't hold his attention. The first few chapters had tricked you into believing it was going to be a good book followed by boring chapters. Shaking his head Rhett put the book on Scarlett nightstand.
"Rhett" Scarlett whispered with her eyes still closed.
"I'm here Scarlett" He said as he walked to his side of there bed and climbed in.
Opening her eyes this time Scarlett looked at the empty chair then turned her head to find Rhett next to her. She knew from the look upon his face Melly was gone.
"Did you get to see her?" Rhett was blown away by her question. How did Scarlett know he had left to see Melly, Perhaps they were more alike then he knew?
"Yes I did my Pet. She made me promise to take care of you, something she needed have worried about. "Rhett replied. Scarlett smiled a small almost pitiful smile, that was just like Melanie thinking of others to the very end.
"I wish I could have told her goodbye. I'm so glad I told her how much I loved her." Scarlett said just letting her thoughts aloud. "Oh Rhett, What a stupid fool I was thinking I loved Ashley. Why I would have ran away with him before I married Frank if he would have just left Melly." Scarlett tearfully confessed.
Rhett who had thought he heard all of Scarlett's secrets raised an eyebrow to this one. "Where did that idea come from Scarlett?" He asked seeing just how far she had taken her crush for Ashley,
"I really can't remember now. Only that I was so depressed Rhett. It was around the time I needed the Three hundred for Tara's taxes." Scarlett paused getting her thoughts in order so she could truly answer Rhett's question. Rhett just looked at her there wasn't any sign he was angry.
"I just wanted to run away from all my problems. Rhett you don't know how hard it was. Everything fell to my shoulders. I hated Melanie because she had what I always wanted." Scarlett stopped as guilt over her words came upon her. Rhett just listen knowing that was all he could do until Scarlett worked this out for herself.
"It really wasn't Ashley so much as Melanie had the dream I wanted. A husband who loved her and who she loved in return. I just wanted someone to take me away at that point in time. And Ashley was there but of course he declined." Scarlett found she could still remember Ashley words about being a coward shaking her head she continues. "All I ever really wanted was someone to take me far away and spoil me so I never had to worry again." Scarlett finished hoping Rhett wouldn't judge her too harshly.
Rhett had listened to Scarlett's every word and for once was relived to find she didn't have any hiding meanings behind them. Scarlett was just being honest. For that he never could get mad.
"You want to hear something funny Scarlett?" Rhett asked laughing.
Scarlett didn't understand why Rhett had changed the subject. Hadn't she just opened herself up to him?
Rhett could see Scarlett didn't understand what his question could possible have to do with her earlier words. Decided to just tell her.
"What's so funny my Pet is I have always wanted to spoil you. Just to take you far away from Mr. Wilkes and never let anyone ever hurt you, that's the reason I turned you down that day your came to me while I was in jail. I would have just ended up hurting you and that was something I, found I, couldn't make myself do." Rhett said opening up to Scarlett something he had never really done before.
"It's a good thing you did turn me down. I don't know where we would be if you hadn't" Scarlett said happy to think of the past so she wouldn't have to think of the future without Melly in it. No it was easier to think of the past and it sadness she had learned to live with then the ones she still had to learn.
Rhett sensed Scarlett didn't want the conversation to end asked a question that had burned in his mind still till this day. "Would you have really given yourself to me?"
Scarlett turned her head and blushed a deep red at Rhett's question. "II would like to say 'No' truth be told it would have depended on you". Scarlett answered with her face still hid from Rhett.
"Me" Rhett laughed. He couldn't wait to here Scarlett's thinking on this one.
"Yes you Mr.Butler" Scarlett defended her earlier statement. "It all depended on how far you would have gone to get what you paid for."
Rhett found himself laughing so hard tears came to his eyes. He had to admit it felt good to laugh again. Scarlett always could make him laugh, after getting his laughing under control Rhett found his voice.
"In other words my dear Mrs. Butler if I would have been nagging you everyday your would have giving in?"
Scarlett found herself smiling it had been so long since Rhett had been the man she married tonight it seemed they had gone back in time to when they were friends. There wasn't anything mean behind his words he was only teasing her that she could handle.
"Yes Mr. Butler if you would have been nagging me everyday, I would have kept my part of the deal. Personal I'm glad you did turn me away. I don't think we would be here now if you hadn't" Scarlett stated as she felt the baby kick.
Rhett pulled Scarlett into his arms then kissed her forehead. "I would like to think no matter what roads we might have taken they would always end together. Truth be told I don't think we would be here either if I had taken your offer." Rhett stopped almost as if he feared continuing.
Scarlett's head was lying on Rhett's chest when she felt him tense up. "Please continue Mr. Butler" Scarlett said in her best imitation of Rhett's voice she could muster.
This was rewarded with Rhett's laughter and another kiss to her forehead.
"If you must know my dear. I was only going to say. That one of two things would have happened. Either you would have hated me and never wanted to see me again or you would have become my mistress." Rhett stopped waiting for Scarlett's temper at the word Mistress to appear.
"It would have been the first one. After that I never could have looked at you without remembering my shame. Just another reason I'm glad that you acted like a gentleman once and turned me down." Scarlett said thinking perhaps this was the beginning of her and Rhett actually talking not yelling at each other or teasing.
"So am I. Only if I had to do it over again I would have just proposed in that jail cell and gotten it done with." Rhett said smiling thinking about how awful he had felt after getting out to only discover Scarlett had remarried. That's why he had done the insane and proposed to a woman whose husband had just died. Rhett found he couldn't take the chance Scarlett would find someone new.
Scarlett took in Rhett's words could they mean perhaps he care deeply for her as she did him? If she had learned this a year ago she would have made Rhett suffer. Now the thought of Rhett's love left her longing for it to be true.
"Rhett today I thought my best friend had died. Only that's not true." Rhett's eyes widely at her words." I loved Melanie and I always will don't get me wrong there. But she never really knew me. I've always had to hide who I am from everyone even Mammy that is until I met you Rhett" pulling herself up so she could look into Rhett's eyes as she continue "I never have to worry that your think ill of me. And most of the time as much as I hate to admit we think alike. So you see my dear Mr.Butler you are my best friend."
Rhett couldn't help but feel deeply honored by Scarlett's words. She consider him her best friend someone she could trust. Truth be told Rhett didn't feel he had a best friend. Those wasn't completely true the last few months before and after Bonnie's death Scarlett had been there for him listen to his stories or idea's. They had become friends again and for the first time Rhett hoped something more.
"I'm truly honored my Pet." Rhett said in a sincere tone.
Scarlett smiled then lower her head onto Rhett's chest again and mumbled "Rhett do you remember how we got on this subject?"
"Not really Scarlett. But it was a welcome distraction." Rhett said as he remembered Melly's death.
"Rhett I know there no way you would let me go to Melanie's funeral but perhaps after it's over you could come back and get me so I could say goodbye?' Scarlett asked.
Rhett could hear in Scarlett's voice she was started to get tired. "It's depends on how your feeling as long as you feel well enough I will take you. Now I think it's time for another nap for you"
Scarlett who was almost asleep already opened one eye and replied. "Only if you take a nap with me."
Rhett nodded his head and closed his eyes knowing tomorrow would only bring sorrow.
Tbc...................
This part is twice the length of the last one. And I do believe this one will have some of you with tears in your eyes , I know it did me when I wrote it.
Sw
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A month had past since the night Scarlett had all but said she didn't love Ashley Wilkes anymore. During that time Rhett found closeness to Scarlett he never thought possible. She had decided they should not have anymore secrets from each other.
Rhett of course agreed to listen to all of her confessing. Laughing at most of them. Rhett was rewarded with a few good slaps. If Scarlett hadn't been pregnant he might have been tempted to hit her back. At least that's what he told himself knowing if not for the latter he would always come up with a reason never to lay a hand on Scarlett.
When Scarlett wasn't with him, she either was playing with the children or taking his mother for visits to see Melanie who was sick in bed for most of this last month. Rhett had argued with Scarlett over leaving the house almost seven months pregnant.
Scarlett had like always listened to what he said then did as she pleased. Only after their last fight over this matter did Scarlett break down and cry out how much Melanie meant to her, Rhett couldn't after that band her from seeing Melly.
So when Scarlett entered their bedroom white as a ghost and shriving uncontrollable Rhett knew something awful had happened. Not since Bonnie's death almost two months ago did Rhett ever see Scarlett have that look in her eyes, one of despair.
Scarlett's eyes looked up locking with Rhett's dark questioning ones. Scarlett wasn't sure in the next second who moved if it had been her or him the only thing she did know were Rhett's strong arms where wrapped around her.
"Scarlett, what wrong?" Rhett asked feeling how tense his wife was against his chest.
"I'll kill him Rhett. I promise I will kill him." Scarlett barely got out before she lost her voice to sobs.
"Kill who? Scarlett what has happened?" Rhett demand as he pulled back so he could look her in the face.
"Ashley I'm going to kill Ashley. He knew Rhett, he knew." Scarlett said not making much sense to her bewildered husband.
Eleanor Butler who stood by the door could hear her son's confused voice trying to make some type of sense from an over emotionally Scarlett. Mrs. Butler hadn't meant to overhear them; she had only wanted to see Scarlett to her room.
"Rhett" Eleanor said knowing it was going to fall to her to break the news to her beloved son.
Rhett pulled Scarlett closer and then asked his Mother. "What's got Scarlett this upset it's not good for the baby?'
"We went to see Mrs.Wilkes today. Rhett she had been with child. The doctor doesn't believe she'll live through the night. Scarlett's been threaten to kill Mr. Wilkes since than." Eleanor said feeling like a third wheel hoping Rhett could clam Scarlett down before she lost her own child. Seeing the anger cross Rhett's face Eleanor decided to leave hoping the two could clam down each other.
In between sobs Scarlett kept saying over and over." He knew. He knew."
Tears filled Rhett's eyes Melanie was a good friend losing her wasn't going to be easy. Right now he had to push his own feelings aside and get Scarlett to stop crying.
"I know my Pet. But there is nothing we can do to change this. Please Scarlett think of our baby." Rhett plead with his wife.
Scarlett forced her tears back Rhett was right she wouldn't allow Ashley to cost her their baby. Tomorrow she could think about this tomorrow when she was stronger. Lifting her off her feet Rhett carried Scarlett to their bed.
As he laded her down Scarlett whispered "Don't leave me" Rhett obeying her request laded next to her until her breathing changed letting him know sleep had claimed her.
*~*
Rhett wasn't sure what had made him leave Scarlett's side to go to the Wilkes home. Melly, couldn't be dying, was the only thought Rhett found he was able to think. Knowing his Mother, and Mammy we're watching over Scarlett made his leaving her side possible.
Wade who had insisted on coming to be with his younger cousin and see his Aunt held Rhett's right hand as they walked to Melanie's house.
Aunt Pittypat was the one who let step-father and step-son in. The moment Wade's little body was in the door Pittypat had him in her arms. "She's being asking for you Wade. "The old woman said thinking how unfair it was she would outlive her niece as she had her nephew. Looking back at his Uncle Rhett, Wade only went when he saw Rhett nodded his head.
As Rhett found his way into the setting room, his eyes fell upon the honorable Ashley Wilkes who looked near death himself.
Ashley eyes fell onto Rhett feeling guilt over having upset Scarlett earlier he could only hope Rhett would allow him to apology. "Melly has been asking for you and Scarlett." Ashley said taking the coward's way out.
"Of course I'll see her. Scarlett won't be able to she's resting." Rhett said feeling like a heel he didn't like Ashley yet with Melly in the next room dying he couldn't be anything else but polite.
"Is Scarlett okay?" Ashley asked concern writing all over his face, "She was awful upset at me earlier."
Rhett who under normal circumcises would have been delighted to tell Ashley what Scarlett thought or more importantly wanted to do to him. But for Melly's sake Rhett would hold his tongue. Beside Mrs.Wilkes shouldn't be worrying about Scarlett.
"Scarlett is upset Melanie is like a sister to her. I would have been sooner but Scarlett wouldn't let me leave. She resting now as long as she stays clam I think both her and the baby will be fine." Rhett said watching the door wanting for Wade to appear this had been a bad idea. Rhett just wanted to collect his charge and leave.
"Uncle Rhett" Wade said as he entered the room with tears in his eyes. Rhett ran and hugged the boy to himself. As the boys sobs stopped he founded his voice "Aunt Melly is asking for you Uncle Rhett."
As Rhett left the room getting himself prepared to see Melanie he realized this was why he had come. He was getting a chance to say Goodbye to a wonderful friend and Lady. Something he hadn't gotten to do with Bonnie.
As he entered her small room Rhett heard her weak voice say "Captain Butler, Rhett you must promise me you'll take care of Scarlett she loves you so."
Rhett almost let his tears he was holding in fall with those words, Scarlett loving him was something he longed for what seemed like his whole life.
"Of course I will Melly you needed worry Scarlett and all of her children will never want for anything." Rhett stated knowing it wasn't allowed for him to set beside her so he stood in front of her instead.
"Captain Butler look after Ashley and Beau for me. I would ask Scarlett to but she isn't here. I asked Wade and he said she was resting. She's okay isn't she?" Melanie asked using most of what was left of her strength.
"Don't worry about Scarlett; the baby and she are fine." Rhett said praying what he spoke was the truth.
"I have something I want to tell you and ask of you." Rhett said as he felt one tear ran down his face. Melanie looked so tiny lying before him." First I want to tell you that Scarlett and I both think of and love you like a sister. I will truly miss you Mrs.Wilkes." Hearing Rhett's words brought tears to Melanie's eyes.
"I always knew Scarlett belonged with you. Ever since I saw how you played with Wade. I knew you would make a good father to him." Melly said trying to hold on alittle longer.
Rhett seeing this hurried to get his words out. "The thing I wanted to ask you is when you get to heaven and see my Bonnie tell her how much Scarlett and I miss and love her." defeated as he spoke those words tears ran down his face.
"I will, and Captain Butler I've been proud to call you friend." Melanie said as she then watched Rhett leave her room in search of Ashley she was sure. Knowing Scarlett and Rhett would look after her two men. Melanie felt no worry about leaving them.
*~*
After telling Ashley, Melanie needed him Rhett was surprised to find Wade wasn't there until Pittypat informed, Rhett, India had taking him to their house so he could be with Beau.
Rhett stood there knowing his excuse for leaving was gone. He could always say he wanted to check on Scarlett to get away. But his love for Melanie wouldn't allow that. Rhett fondly remembered first meeting Melly she was a Lady someone who reminded him of his Mother. He always wanted her respect knowing he had that and her friendship made Rhett realize perhaps he wasn't all cad.
Melanie's words earlier and the promising he made to her kept his mind busy. He couldn't buy Ashley out of the Mill like he had planned. Neither could he sell it to him the man didn't have since even to ran a business. Beau was easier to think about, he would send the boy to college if he wanted to go and make sure he wanted for nothing.
Hearing Pittypat start crying anew and only now noticing Ashley presence did Rhett realize is dear friend Melanie Wilkes had left the cruel world behind to go where she always belonged.
*~*
Rhett returned home telling Pittypat he would pick Wade up in the morning. The need to see Scarlett was overwhelming. To hold his hand on her round stomach feeling their baby kicking. Rhett had always did as he pleased never caring who got hurt along the way, the day he met Scarlett that all changed.
He had never believed in love at first sight until that day, Rhett had tried to tell himself when he saw Scarlett walking up the stair case that it was just the hunt. Then when he overheard Scarlett declaring her love for Ashley his heart was sold.
From that day on Scarlett O'Hara had brought him the greatest joy and miserly possible.
Yet his love for her never died she was what he had builted his life around. If what Melly said was true then perhaps they could start anew. Put the pain behind them, Rhett had a feeling that what Scarlett was trying to do with him staying in her room now.
As he enter their bedroom he saw his mother setting in her usually chair. She was reading that book Scarlett had giving up on a few weeks ago.
"Mother" Rhett said as he rested his hands on the back of her chair.
"Rhett" Miss Eleanor said then turned her head to look at him." I didn't hear you come in. I didn't expect you home so soon."
Rhett knew that was his Mother's way of asking how Melanie was. This last month she had become friends with the late Mrs.Wilkes. "There wasn't a need to stay any longer." Rhett said.
"The poor child she was an angel. Scarlett is surely going to miss her, "Miss Eleanor said remembering the first time she saw Melanie and how Scarlett's face it up. From the way Scarlett had taking the news Melanie was dying, she wasn't going to take the news very well. "If your tired Mother I can set with Scarlett." Rhett offer hoping his Mother would take him up on it.
Miss Eleanor who most of the time could read her son like a book could tell he wanted time alone with his wife.
"Yes I could use a nap before dinner." Eleanor said leaving her chair. "Are you're coming down for dinner or would you like a tray sent up for Scarlett and you? She asked as she stood before the door.
"The tray. I'm afraid I wouldn't be very good company for you or Ella." Rhett said looking at Scarlett who was sleeping. Knowing when she woke he would have to inform her of Melanie's passing, Rhett felt his heart being pulled down reminding him of losing Bonnie all over again. As the door closed behind his Mother leaving him alone with Scarlett, Rhett remembered something her heard once. 'The good die young' and indeed they did both Bonnie and Melly would forever be young and beautiful in his mind.
*~*
Rhett had tried reading his mother's book but had come to the conclude Scarlett had been right it just didn't hold his attention. The first few chapters had tricked you into believing it was going to be a good book followed by boring chapters. Shaking his head Rhett put the book on Scarlett nightstand.
"Rhett" Scarlett whispered with her eyes still closed.
"I'm here Scarlett" He said as he walked to his side of there bed and climbed in.
Opening her eyes this time Scarlett looked at the empty chair then turned her head to find Rhett next to her. She knew from the look upon his face Melly was gone.
"Did you get to see her?" Rhett was blown away by her question. How did Scarlett know he had left to see Melly, Perhaps they were more alike then he knew?
"Yes I did my Pet. She made me promise to take care of you, something she needed have worried about. "Rhett replied. Scarlett smiled a small almost pitiful smile, that was just like Melanie thinking of others to the very end.
"I wish I could have told her goodbye. I'm so glad I told her how much I loved her." Scarlett said just letting her thoughts aloud. "Oh Rhett, What a stupid fool I was thinking I loved Ashley. Why I would have ran away with him before I married Frank if he would have just left Melly." Scarlett tearfully confessed.
Rhett who had thought he heard all of Scarlett's secrets raised an eyebrow to this one. "Where did that idea come from Scarlett?" He asked seeing just how far she had taken her crush for Ashley,
"I really can't remember now. Only that I was so depressed Rhett. It was around the time I needed the Three hundred for Tara's taxes." Scarlett paused getting her thoughts in order so she could truly answer Rhett's question. Rhett just looked at her there wasn't any sign he was angry.
"I just wanted to run away from all my problems. Rhett you don't know how hard it was. Everything fell to my shoulders. I hated Melanie because she had what I always wanted." Scarlett stopped as guilt over her words came upon her. Rhett just listen knowing that was all he could do until Scarlett worked this out for herself.
"It really wasn't Ashley so much as Melanie had the dream I wanted. A husband who loved her and who she loved in return. I just wanted someone to take me away at that point in time. And Ashley was there but of course he declined." Scarlett found she could still remember Ashley words about being a coward shaking her head she continues. "All I ever really wanted was someone to take me far away and spoil me so I never had to worry again." Scarlett finished hoping Rhett wouldn't judge her too harshly.
Rhett had listened to Scarlett's every word and for once was relived to find she didn't have any hiding meanings behind them. Scarlett was just being honest. For that he never could get mad.
"You want to hear something funny Scarlett?" Rhett asked laughing.
Scarlett didn't understand why Rhett had changed the subject. Hadn't she just opened herself up to him?
Rhett could see Scarlett didn't understand what his question could possible have to do with her earlier words. Decided to just tell her.
"What's so funny my Pet is I have always wanted to spoil you. Just to take you far away from Mr. Wilkes and never let anyone ever hurt you, that's the reason I turned you down that day your came to me while I was in jail. I would have just ended up hurting you and that was something I, found I, couldn't make myself do." Rhett said opening up to Scarlett something he had never really done before.
"It's a good thing you did turn me down. I don't know where we would be if you hadn't" Scarlett said happy to think of the past so she wouldn't have to think of the future without Melly in it. No it was easier to think of the past and it sadness she had learned to live with then the ones she still had to learn.
Rhett sensed Scarlett didn't want the conversation to end asked a question that had burned in his mind still till this day. "Would you have really given yourself to me?"
Scarlett turned her head and blushed a deep red at Rhett's question. "II would like to say 'No' truth be told it would have depended on you". Scarlett answered with her face still hid from Rhett.
"Me" Rhett laughed. He couldn't wait to here Scarlett's thinking on this one.
"Yes you Mr.Butler" Scarlett defended her earlier statement. "It all depended on how far you would have gone to get what you paid for."
Rhett found himself laughing so hard tears came to his eyes. He had to admit it felt good to laugh again. Scarlett always could make him laugh, after getting his laughing under control Rhett found his voice.
"In other words my dear Mrs. Butler if I would have been nagging you everyday your would have giving in?"
Scarlett found herself smiling it had been so long since Rhett had been the man she married tonight it seemed they had gone back in time to when they were friends. There wasn't anything mean behind his words he was only teasing her that she could handle.
"Yes Mr. Butler if you would have been nagging me everyday, I would have kept my part of the deal. Personal I'm glad you did turn me away. I don't think we would be here now if you hadn't" Scarlett stated as she felt the baby kick.
Rhett pulled Scarlett into his arms then kissed her forehead. "I would like to think no matter what roads we might have taken they would always end together. Truth be told I don't think we would be here either if I had taken your offer." Rhett stopped almost as if he feared continuing.
Scarlett's head was lying on Rhett's chest when she felt him tense up. "Please continue Mr. Butler" Scarlett said in her best imitation of Rhett's voice she could muster.
This was rewarded with Rhett's laughter and another kiss to her forehead.
"If you must know my dear. I was only going to say. That one of two things would have happened. Either you would have hated me and never wanted to see me again or you would have become my mistress." Rhett stopped waiting for Scarlett's temper at the word Mistress to appear.
"It would have been the first one. After that I never could have looked at you without remembering my shame. Just another reason I'm glad that you acted like a gentleman once and turned me down." Scarlett said thinking perhaps this was the beginning of her and Rhett actually talking not yelling at each other or teasing.
"So am I. Only if I had to do it over again I would have just proposed in that jail cell and gotten it done with." Rhett said smiling thinking about how awful he had felt after getting out to only discover Scarlett had remarried. That's why he had done the insane and proposed to a woman whose husband had just died. Rhett found he couldn't take the chance Scarlett would find someone new.
Scarlett took in Rhett's words could they mean perhaps he care deeply for her as she did him? If she had learned this a year ago she would have made Rhett suffer. Now the thought of Rhett's love left her longing for it to be true.
"Rhett today I thought my best friend had died. Only that's not true." Rhett's eyes widely at her words." I loved Melanie and I always will don't get me wrong there. But she never really knew me. I've always had to hide who I am from everyone even Mammy that is until I met you Rhett" pulling herself up so she could look into Rhett's eyes as she continue "I never have to worry that your think ill of me. And most of the time as much as I hate to admit we think alike. So you see my dear Mr.Butler you are my best friend."
Rhett couldn't help but feel deeply honored by Scarlett's words. She consider him her best friend someone she could trust. Truth be told Rhett didn't feel he had a best friend. Those wasn't completely true the last few months before and after Bonnie's death Scarlett had been there for him listen to his stories or idea's. They had become friends again and for the first time Rhett hoped something more.
"I'm truly honored my Pet." Rhett said in a sincere tone.
Scarlett smiled then lower her head onto Rhett's chest again and mumbled "Rhett do you remember how we got on this subject?"
"Not really Scarlett. But it was a welcome distraction." Rhett said as he remembered Melly's death.
"Rhett I know there no way you would let me go to Melanie's funeral but perhaps after it's over you could come back and get me so I could say goodbye?' Scarlett asked.
Rhett could hear in Scarlett's voice she was started to get tired. "It's depends on how your feeling as long as you feel well enough I will take you. Now I think it's time for another nap for you"
Scarlett who was almost asleep already opened one eye and replied. "Only if you take a nap with me."
Rhett nodded his head and closed his eyes knowing tomorrow would only bring sorrow.
Tbc...................