Jace studied the old man's pale face. "Father?" he said, cautiously.
"Yes, son." Lord Malcolm was still dealing with having his dream come
true
and having it shattered all in one swift moment.
"I think Jett's wrong. I think that *was* Joxer. I think my brother so
wanted him dead, he can't accept that he might not be." The middle
triplet
sighed. He didn't want to build his father's hopes, only to shatter
them
again, but he had to talk to someone about it. "And have you ever
known
Gabrielle Taylor to do something deliberately cruel? I've known her
since
childhood - she doesn't have it in her."
The elder Mansfield looked thoughtful. "No, she's not that sort.
Still, I
only got a brief glimpse of the boy - he could be fooling her, as
well."
"I saw him, father. It was like looking in a mirror. I do think it's
him."
Lord Mansfield looked tired. "Perhaps it is, son. I guess we'll have
to wait
and see."
~**~
The servants were thrilled to see Gabrielle and Xena again, and were
politely welcoming to Joxer, who was totally taken aback by the
number of
people who seemed to be present just to fawn over the two women. The
young
man's meager belongings were settled into the guest quarters, and
Gabrielle
went to lay down for a bit. Lord Taylor took Joxer into his study, and
offered him a cigar and brandy. The former ape-man was totally
confused by
the cigar, declining as gently as he knew how, but couldn't see any
harm in
the glass of amber liquid. That was, until it burned his throat all
the way
down, causing him to cough and choke. Lord Taylor slapped him on the
back,
laughing. "I forgot, Gabrielle explained you were raised by savages. I
suppose they didn't have 'fire-water' there?" Joxer shook his head,
understanding the meaning of the term easily. He wiped the tears from
his
eyes. The older man looked critically at the bloodstained
shirt. "Shouldn't
you change that, old chap?"
Ashamed at his appearance, after Gabrielle had worked so hard to help
him
look right for this, Joxer simply hung his head. Xena, who had been
outside
the door and alerted earlier by the young man's loud reaction to the
brandy,
stepped into the room. "He hasn't much in the way of clothes, sir. The
'savages', as you put it, didn't have a lot of tailors in the bush."
Gabrielle, too, had approached quietly during this.
"I was hoping to get your permission to take him to your tailor
tomorrow and
order him a few things, Poppa."
Lord Taylor smiled indulgently at his daughter. Ever since her mother
had
died in childbirth, his whole life had been wrapped up in this girl.
He had
seen, from the time of their appearance at the station that there was
something special between her and the newly discovered Mansfield boy.
And
while Jett had troubled him, this one seemed different - very
different. "Of
course, dear. Have Harrington make him up a few suits, and don't
forget a
tuxedo. And as for this ruined shirt of his," the man's face creased
in
thought, "I'm not as broad-shouldered as this strapping young fellow,
but,"
he patted his well-rounded girth, "I *am* broad, and one of my shirts
might
do for him in a pinch. Hazel!" he called into the hall, and a middle-
aged
woman in a maid's uniform appeared from thin air. "See if you can
find a
shirt of mine to fit young Joxer here in my closet." The maid
scurried off.
"I suppose the betrothed couple might like a bit of time to talk
before
supper, especially after all the day's excitement." The nobleman
winked at
the tall bodyguard. "Why don't you come tell me about your trip,
Xena, while
they take a walk in the garden?"
Gabrielle didn't have to be told twice, and firmly grasping Joxer's
arm, led
him outside. They walked arm-in-arm for a while, until they reached
the
secluded gazebo she considered her place of refuge in life. It was
where she
went when she wanted to be alone, or when things were troubling her.
This
had been the place she'd first sketched the flowers and plants, and
discovered her life's true calling. She sat on the bench, and patted
the
spot beside her. "Joxer, we need to talk." He sat close beside her,
much
closer than proper Victorian mores would consider suitable. A tiny bit
uncomfortable, Gabrielle swallowed hard and began. "What
does 'betrothed'
mean to you, Joxer?"
"You told me it was a better word for 'mate'," he answered simply.
"And what does 'mate' mean?"
"Two, together. A male and a female. Then, little ones. When my
cousin Jett
mated - " He stopped, unable to understand Gabby's squeal of surprise.
"You have a cousin named *Jett*?" she asked, wide-eyed. He
nodded. "And he's
an - orangutan, like the rest of your family there, right?" He nodded
again,
still not understanding her reaction. "Oh, that is so *perfect*," she
gasped
around her laughter. At his mystified expression, she pulled herself
together. "You'll understand better when you get to know your
brother," she
explained. "Go on."
"Jett noticed Murlee, like I noticed you. He gave her his mating cry -
like
I did. And she came to him, like you came to me. Not too much longer,
there
was Gamat, the baby." He smiled at the memory of his cousin's oldest
son. "A
few seasons later, there was Meeloo." He shrugged. "They mated. They
had a
family. Some of my other cousins joined with them, and they had a
family
group." His eyes lit up. "Are you worried about Xena? When she finds
a
mate, she can be part of our family group. Even before she finds one,
she
can."
"No, no," Gabrielle protested. "What you're describing is
called 'marriage'
here. A man, like you, and a woman, like me, promise before god and
the
priest and some of their friends that they will stay together
forever. Then,
after that, they can have babies." She wondered how many of the
details to
share with him. She knew a lot more than most unmarried girls her age
in
this day. It was one of the interesting benefits of having a former
street
child as her best friend. Xena had seen all the parts of life on the
seamy
side of London, and shared them with the artist years ago. As a
result,
Gabrielle knew that she would not come away from her wedding night in
dull
shock, as so many of the girls she had grown up with had. His troubled
expression drew her concern, however.
You told me it was 'betrothed'." He frowned at the inconsistency.
"That's because 'betrothed' is what happens before people get
married. And
since you and I haven't made the promise yet, we aren't married." She
took
his hands in hers. "It means we promise each other that we plan to get
married."
"We can make the married promise now. Then we can have babies." He
smiled;
the solution seemed so simple.
She sighed. "It's not that easy." His face fell. "The promise is made
at a
ceremony called a 'wedding'. It takes a while to put one together,
and it's
very important." She grew shy, and turned away. "I'd like to have a
wedding
with you, Joxer. But it means waiting for those babies, and other
things,
too." She blushed - only with this man would she even be having such
an
intimate conversation.
He could tell this troubled her, and he wasn't sure what to do. She'd
explained that while his grooming her hair was a nice thing, it
wasn't an
appropriate gesture of affection in English society. Yet she hadn't
explained what he should do instead. He remembered her greeting with
her
father, and what Xena had done when Gabby had been upset. He put his
arms
around her, and she turned, resting her head on his chest. Her arms
wrapped
around his waist, and they just sat there like that for a few
minutes. Then
Gabby reached up and touched his face, and she moved her lips to
touch his.
Uncertain what this meant, he sat still for a moment, but her mouth
moved
slightly, and he moved his to accommodate hers. This movement was
pleasant,
and he moved some more. Suddenly, she pulled away, her breath coming
in deep
gulps, as if she'd been running. He noticed his heart felt the same
way. He
pulled her closer again. "Joxer will wait for babies. Whatever it
takes to
make Gabby my mate. We will be - betrothed." He could just see her
wide
smile before she rested her head again on his chest.
~**~
It was sometime later, after the incident at the station, when Jett
entered
the house. Madison the servant took his coat.
"Madison, where is father?"
"He's in the den, sir, with Master Jace. Will there be anything else,
sir?"
Jett waved Madison away. "No, Madison. You may attend to your duties."
"Yes, sir," he replied as he bowed and walked away. Jett entered the
den
where his brother and father were seated.
He walked up to his father and clasped him on the back. "Father, I was
wrong. I'm so sorry. But this took me by surprise."
Malcolm looked at his son. "What do you mean, Jett?"
Jett knelt down beside his father's chair. "The man at the station
*was*
Joxer, father. By all that is holy, he *is* alive."
The old man stared at him. "You said it was just a cruel joke. How
could you
lie to me?"
"Father, I didn't. I really thought it was a deception. I thought
Xena was
behind it. You did offer money to anyone who found him, and I thought
Xena
did that to get the reward. But I was wrong. It is him, father. Why
don't we
all go over to the Taylor's home and see him? I know he will be so
happy to
see you father, and you too, Jace."
Jace looked suspiciously at his brother. "What are you up to, Jett?"
Jett placed an arm around his brother. "I am up to nothing, dear
brother.
Just helping to reunite father and son. I'll have Madison bring the
coach
around and then we can leave. I'll be right back."
Jett walked out into the garden where someone waited in the gloom.
"Do you have everything ready?"
"Yes, but you'd better bring him."
"I will, but give me a little time. I've got to earn his trust."
The shadowy figure nodded in agreement and slipped away.
Jett came out front where his father and brother were waiting. He
climbed
inside and ordered their driver Algernon to take them to Lord Reginald
Taylor's home.
~**~
Gabrielle took Joxer back into the house. He wanted to touch her lips
again
but she told him no.
"What was that we were doing, Gabby? It felt very nice."
She laughed a bit shyly. "It's called kissing."
He nodded his head "I like kissing."
He reached over to pull Gabrielle closer and kiss her again, but she
shook
her head, pulling away. "Not now, Joxer. There is a time and place
for such
things, and there'll be more of that once we're married." He looked
disappointed and Gabrielle touched his face lovingly. "Don't be sad,
Joxer."
He smiled at her. "I'm not sad, Gabby. I'll wait as long as you want."
She smiled back at him. Suddenly Hazel appeared. "Miss Gabrielle, your
father wants to see you. Lord Mansfield and his sons are here."
Gabrielle looked surprised, and then nodded her head.
"Tell father we will be right there, Hazel."
"Very good, Ma'am, I will tell him."
Gabrielle smiled at Joxer. "Your family is here. Run up and change
your
shirt, and let's go meet your father."
Joxer just stood there.
"What wrong Joxer?"
"I do not want to see my brother again. I..." He frowned in
concentration,
trying to think of the word his Gabby had used earlier. "I hate him,
he's
mean."
Gabrielle gently took his arm. "Joxer, I was angry. I shouldn't have
said I
hated Jett. He's your brother. Please, let's meet them. I won't let
him hurt
you again, I promise."
Joxer nodded his head, and after a quick trip upstairs, went with her
to the
den. As he entered, he watched the elderly man come forward. The old
man
touched his face, tears running down his cheeks. Joxer reached over
to wipe
them off, as he had seen Xena do for Gabrielle.
"Oh my son, is it really you after all these years? Let me look at
you."
Joxer stood uncertainly as the old man kept going around him. He
decided to
make Gabrielle pleased, and he gathered his father into a hug. The
man was a
little surprised, and he gasped, "You certainly are a strong one."
Xena gestured for him to let go. Joxer had forgotten about his own
strength.
"I am sorry. Did I hurt you?"
Malcolm shook his head. "No, no, my boy. It's just so wonderful to
see
you."
Jace came forward with his hand out to Joxer. "Hi, I'm your brother,
Jace."
Joxer looked at the hand and bowed down to kiss it. Jace giggled, and
Jett
stepped forward. "No, you don't kiss a man's hand; you shake it.
Watch me."
He took Jace's hand and shook it. "See? Like that."
Joxer stared at Jett - he seemed a lot friendlier. Jett turned to his
father. "Father, I think we should have a social gathering so you can
tell
everyone about Joxer."
Lord Mansfield nodded his head. "That's a wonderful idea, son." He
turned to
Joxer. "Would you like that son?"
Before Joxer could answer Xena broke in. "I don't think that's a good
idea,
sir. Not now."
Jett smiled at her in a way that made Xena want to slap him
silly. "Oh, I'm
sure Gabrielle will have him ready by next week. If she can."
The blonde woman looked angered by the challenge. "Oh, he'll be
ready, all
right. You just wait and see."
"Good, then. So let's set the party for - say, next Saturday?"
Gabrielle nodded her head. Lord Mansfield took Joxer out to the
garden to
talk and to get to know him better. Xena approached her
friend. "Gabrielle,
what were you thinking? Joxer's not ready for this."
Gabrielle looked at the older woman. "I don't know, Xena. I just don't
know."
~**~
The next week was the busiest Joxer could ever imagine. They began at
the
tailors, where Mr. Harrington fussed over his wide shoulders and
strong
upper arms, and wrote up the order for three suits, a tuxedo, a half
a dozen
shirts and a topcoat, with a rush on the tuxedo and one of the suits.
Joxer
had never been measured and wrapped and pinned like that in his life,
and
found out quickly why the assistant had warned, "Watch out for the
pins if
you sit down!" Then they went to the cobbler, who managed to put
Joxer in a
pair of soft leather boots that changed his opinion of shoes. They
were much
better when they fit properly. He also measured, and planned to
custom make
another pair. Then there were handkerchiefs and cravats and
suspenders and
even underclothes to be bought. After an entire day devoted to
outfitting,
the former ape-man slept better than he could imagine, partly thanks
to the
wonderful featherbed in which he rested.
The next day was spent going over etiquette and working through his
first
dance lessons, which Joxer wasn't certain he cared for. But Gabby
informed
him they would be a daily routine, and rewarded him with another kiss
when
he finally stopped fussing about it. For that, he would dance all
day, every
day. Lord Taylor coached his future son-in-law on the niceties of
politics
and after-dinner small talk. His daughter had made it clear in no
uncertain
terms that she did not want Joxer familiar with cigars, so he learned
how to
properly decline the offer. He did learn to sip brandy without
choking on
it, however.
On the third day, the walls began to close in. "Gabby," Joxer begged
his
love, "I have to get out and *do* something. All I do is sit or stand
or
ride in carriages. I need to swim, or climb some trees, or
something." She
had heard about the gymnasium that the Young Men's Christian
Association had
erected in London recently, and after some inquiries, was able to
arrange a
visit for her betrothed for a few hours. He came out beaming; having
swam,
learned more about boxing, and worked out on the bars and ropes.
While they
stood outside, at least four different young men, obviously in awe of
his
physical abilities, stopped just to express their admiration.
Xena, on the other hand, was determined to discover what Jett
Mansfield had
up his sleeve. The turnaround in attitude had been a bit too neat and
convenient for her tastes. She visited all her old haunts, asking
discrete
questions and showing a sketch Gabrielle had done of Jett, but no one
seemed
familiar with him. She even arranged lunch with Jace, who was as
suspicious
as she was, but had no more idea of what was going on.
Joxer's favorite occurrence of the entire period was the visit with
the
priest - not due to any newfound religious feelings, but because that
brought him a step closer to mating with Gabrielle. Marriage. She had
coached him on the proper answers, and he had done wonderfully, only
hesitating when asked about his baptism, which she covered. A date
was set,
not too far off, and Gabrielle had kissed him again on the landing on
the
way down. That night, he headed cheerfully to his father's estate to
have
his first dinner alone with his long lost family.
Things were going too well; Xena was worried.
~**~
The little 'family reunion' had gone swimmingly. Jett sat on the
bench in
the darkened courtyard after Joxer left the house, the only light
coming
from the glow of his pipe. "My *dear* brother is coming along so
nicely.
It'll be such a *shock* when he runs off on the night of his social
introduction. And of course, I'd only be obligated to comfort his
abandoned
fiancée."
The figure beside him snorted. "You're not good enough for her,
Mansfield."
The eldest triplet raised a brow in amusement. "And you *are*, my
friend?
Hardly. You haven't sufficient class in your little finger."
Jett's companion stood and glowered at him in anger. "She's too fine
a woman
to be impressed by social class. And I'll never be your friend." The
fine
gentleman tapped out his pipe and watched the other storm away.
"Oh, don't worry. I never *want* to be your friend." He stood and
dusted off
his pants, heading inside.
~**~
Jett and Lord Mansfield had insisted that Joxer dress for the party
at the
Mansfield estate, and so he had arrived late Saturday afternoon, his
things
having been sent over earlier. He was shown to a room by an awed young
serving girl, which he realized after a few minutes was the room that
had
been kept all these years for him. His clothing was hung on the front
of the
wardrobe, his shoes were polished and beside the bed. The wicker
bassinette
that must have been his was tucked in the corner, covered in netting,
but
otherwise, it was a room obviously outfitted for a young man. He
wondered if
Jace and Jett had similar rooms. A small part of him missed the
simple nest
he had shared with Sheera, Keenan and Raylan, and on rare occasions,
his
father. Except, this was his father, and this, not the nest, should
have
been his home. His mind whirled at the thought. A tap on the door
drew him
from his memories. "Come in."
"Joxer?" Lord Mansfield still seemed overwhelmed by the return of his
youngest boy. Even though he never gave up hope, the reality was far
better
than he had even dreamed. "I have something for you, son." The
elderly man
took a small box from his pocket. "I gave one of these to Jace and
Jett when
they turned eighteen, but yours has been in my dresser all these
years,
awaiting your return. It was a real pleasure to be able to remove it,
finally." He watched eagerly as Joxer opened the box and extracted
the fine
gold pocket watch. "See," Lord Malcolm pointed out, "Your name is
engraved
inside." He fumbled in his other pocket. "I know you've given
Gabrielle your
mother's locket, but I also wanted to give you this, as the first of
my sons
to become engaged." He held up a lovely emerald ring, and Joxer took
it
carefully from his fingers, examining it. "I gave this to your mother
when
she agreed to marry me. I'd like you to present it tonight, when we
announce
the betrothal formally."
Joxer was lost in the beautiful green stone. "It matches her eyes," he
breathed quietly.
"So it does," his father chuckled. "You do have it bad, my boy. But
you've
made a good choice."
The Taylor carriage was among the first to arrive at the Mansfield
estate,
and inside, an elegantly dressed dark-haired woman was fuming. "I
still
don't like it, Gabrielle. Jett doesn't just give in like that.
Something's
going on."
"Xena, everyone in London knows that you hate him and he hates you.
You've
spent all week trying to tie him to some kind of plot against Joxer,
and you
can't. Why don't you just accept that maybe he's doing what's right
this
time?" Gabrielle Taylor was considered one of the most beautiful
women in
the London social scene, but she rarely had cared about her
appearance,
dressing in whatever her maid laid out, and usually leaving parties
early
due to boredom. Her peculiarities had prevented many men other than
Jett
from even approaching her. This time, however, she had dressed with
care,
going over every detail carefully. She was stunning. And she planned
to
spend the whole evening dancing with her betrothed, whose true
identity
would finally be revealed to the world. She just knew nothing could
go wrong
tonight, and she refused to let her best friend's paranoia ruin her
grand
plans.
"I think we should go in," Lord Taylor offered, fairly certain he'd
missed
something somewhere in this conversation, which wasn't unusual. He
hoped
Malcolm would be able to understand her, once she married into *his*
family.
~**~
Lord Taylor helped his daughter out of the carriage. His ward gave
him a
look, so he didn't even try to help her. Xena hated social
gatherings - if
this one wasn't for her friend, she wouldn't be here. They entered the
house, and Madison took their coats and Lord Taylor's hat. They
walked into
the ballroom, where they were announced.
"Lord Taylor and his daughter, Gabrielle, and ward, Xena."
Lord Mansfield came up and greeted them. "Today is the day, Reginald,
that I
tell everyone about the return of my son, and you will announce the
upcoming
marriage of my son and your daughter."
"Where is Joxer?" asked Gabrielle.
"Can't wait to see him, can you, my dear? He feels the same about
you, I
believe. He'll be down soon."
"Mister Oscar Wilde," the butler announced.
Lord Mansfield turned to his middle son. "Why is he here?"
Jace stared at him. "I invited him." He turned and greeted his friend,
taking his arm and leading him away. Lord Mansfield shook his head.
He knew
that Jace was different, but he wished he weren't so public about it.
******
Joxer stood in front of the full-length mirror, looking at himself.
"Do you like what you see?"
He didn't turn, knowing it was Jett standing behind him.
"I think I look very nice, thank you."
Jett laughed as he place a hand on his shoulder. "Joxer, I've got a
message
for you. Gabrielle wants to see you in the garden."
"Why? I though I couldn't see her until the party."
"She wants to give you another kiss. She asked me to bring you." In
getting
to know his brother, Jett had managed to find out a great deal about
his
relationship with the Taylor's, one member of the household in
particular.
Joxer's eyes lit up. He gladly followed Jett downstairs and into the
garden.
"Gabby, where are you?" But she wasn't there, and his shoulders
slumped.
"Jett, you're wrong. Gabby isn't here."
Jett walked over and stood by him, his face twisting into an ugly
grimace.
"Do you want to know what I think? I don't think she ever really
wanted you.
I think under all that glitter you're still a savage, and not worthy
of
Gabrielle."
Joxer turned in anger. "You have no right to say that. I *am* your
brother."
"My brother!" He laughed without humor. "If I had my way, *Jace*
wouldn't be
my brother, either."
Joxer started towards Jett, when suddenly someone grabbed him from
behind
and put an odd smelling hankie over his mouth. After struggling for a
few
minutes, he passed out.
"You could have helped, Jett."
"You had everything under control, O'Malley. Now get him out of here.
Oh, by
the way - don't sell him to a sideshow. I thought it was a good idea
when
you first suggested it, but now I think it's too cruel. Kill him
instead."
Drake looked with disgust at the aristocrat. "Can you at least help
me get
him in the wagon? He's heavy."
"I don't do manual labor. That's what you're getting paid for." At
that,
Jett turned to walk away.
"Hey, if you don't help me, I won't get out of here. Might spoil your
little
surprise."
"Okay, fine. I'll help you. "
When they got Joxer into the wagon, Jett turned to Drake. "Hit me."
"What?"
"I said, hit me. I've got to make this look real."
Drake smiled grimly as his fist went into Jett's face, knocking him
out.
Then he tore his clothes. ' That should make it more convincing, my
*friend*. Thanks for the best offer I've had all day.' At that, he
climbed
into the wagon and drove away with Joxer's still figure.
The party was in full swing. Lord Mansfield clinked his glass to get
everyone's attention. "Please! Everyone take your seats. I have an
announcement to make."
Everyone sat down and waited for Lord Mansfield to speak. "As you
know, my
wife and younger son disappeared 22 years ago. My wife's remains were
found,
but no sign of my son Joxer ever was." He motioned for Gabrielle to
come to
him. "During her recent stay in Borneo, Gabrielle Taylor found my son
Joxer
and brought him home to me." Everyone gasped and started whispering
among
themselves. "I would like you all to meet my youngest son, Joxer
Mansfield."
They waited, but Joxer did not appear. Everyone was shocked when Jett
stumbled in instead. He was a mess. His shirt was torn and he was
bleeding.
Lord Mansfield hurried over to his son. "Jett, what happened? Tell
me, boy."
Jett moved weakly as his father helped him over to a chair. Someone
handed
him a brandy, and he took a drink before he began. "It was horrible.
I'm
sorry, father. Joxer attacked me. He just went nuts. It was like he
was an
animal or something. I didn't stand a chance."
"What did you do to him?" asked Xena dangerously.
Jett looked at her. "Nothing. He was just too much of a savage to
make it
here. He's gone, and he nearly killed me in the process."
Gabrielle grabbed Jett. The little blond artist had strength he never
knew
about, as was finding out now. "Where is Joxer?!"
~**~
"Yes, son." Lord Malcolm was still dealing with having his dream come
true
and having it shattered all in one swift moment.
"I think Jett's wrong. I think that *was* Joxer. I think my brother so
wanted him dead, he can't accept that he might not be." The middle
triplet
sighed. He didn't want to build his father's hopes, only to shatter
them
again, but he had to talk to someone about it. "And have you ever
known
Gabrielle Taylor to do something deliberately cruel? I've known her
since
childhood - she doesn't have it in her."
The elder Mansfield looked thoughtful. "No, she's not that sort.
Still, I
only got a brief glimpse of the boy - he could be fooling her, as
well."
"I saw him, father. It was like looking in a mirror. I do think it's
him."
Lord Mansfield looked tired. "Perhaps it is, son. I guess we'll have
to wait
and see."
~**~
The servants were thrilled to see Gabrielle and Xena again, and were
politely welcoming to Joxer, who was totally taken aback by the
number of
people who seemed to be present just to fawn over the two women. The
young
man's meager belongings were settled into the guest quarters, and
Gabrielle
went to lay down for a bit. Lord Taylor took Joxer into his study, and
offered him a cigar and brandy. The former ape-man was totally
confused by
the cigar, declining as gently as he knew how, but couldn't see any
harm in
the glass of amber liquid. That was, until it burned his throat all
the way
down, causing him to cough and choke. Lord Taylor slapped him on the
back,
laughing. "I forgot, Gabrielle explained you were raised by savages. I
suppose they didn't have 'fire-water' there?" Joxer shook his head,
understanding the meaning of the term easily. He wiped the tears from
his
eyes. The older man looked critically at the bloodstained
shirt. "Shouldn't
you change that, old chap?"
Ashamed at his appearance, after Gabrielle had worked so hard to help
him
look right for this, Joxer simply hung his head. Xena, who had been
outside
the door and alerted earlier by the young man's loud reaction to the
brandy,
stepped into the room. "He hasn't much in the way of clothes, sir. The
'savages', as you put it, didn't have a lot of tailors in the bush."
Gabrielle, too, had approached quietly during this.
"I was hoping to get your permission to take him to your tailor
tomorrow and
order him a few things, Poppa."
Lord Taylor smiled indulgently at his daughter. Ever since her mother
had
died in childbirth, his whole life had been wrapped up in this girl.
He had
seen, from the time of their appearance at the station that there was
something special between her and the newly discovered Mansfield boy.
And
while Jett had troubled him, this one seemed different - very
different. "Of
course, dear. Have Harrington make him up a few suits, and don't
forget a
tuxedo. And as for this ruined shirt of his," the man's face creased
in
thought, "I'm not as broad-shouldered as this strapping young fellow,
but,"
he patted his well-rounded girth, "I *am* broad, and one of my shirts
might
do for him in a pinch. Hazel!" he called into the hall, and a middle-
aged
woman in a maid's uniform appeared from thin air. "See if you can
find a
shirt of mine to fit young Joxer here in my closet." The maid
scurried off.
"I suppose the betrothed couple might like a bit of time to talk
before
supper, especially after all the day's excitement." The nobleman
winked at
the tall bodyguard. "Why don't you come tell me about your trip,
Xena, while
they take a walk in the garden?"
Gabrielle didn't have to be told twice, and firmly grasping Joxer's
arm, led
him outside. They walked arm-in-arm for a while, until they reached
the
secluded gazebo she considered her place of refuge in life. It was
where she
went when she wanted to be alone, or when things were troubling her.
This
had been the place she'd first sketched the flowers and plants, and
discovered her life's true calling. She sat on the bench, and patted
the
spot beside her. "Joxer, we need to talk." He sat close beside her,
much
closer than proper Victorian mores would consider suitable. A tiny bit
uncomfortable, Gabrielle swallowed hard and began. "What
does 'betrothed'
mean to you, Joxer?"
"You told me it was a better word for 'mate'," he answered simply.
"And what does 'mate' mean?"
"Two, together. A male and a female. Then, little ones. When my
cousin Jett
mated - " He stopped, unable to understand Gabby's squeal of surprise.
"You have a cousin named *Jett*?" she asked, wide-eyed. He
nodded. "And he's
an - orangutan, like the rest of your family there, right?" He nodded
again,
still not understanding her reaction. "Oh, that is so *perfect*," she
gasped
around her laughter. At his mystified expression, she pulled herself
together. "You'll understand better when you get to know your
brother," she
explained. "Go on."
"Jett noticed Murlee, like I noticed you. He gave her his mating cry -
like
I did. And she came to him, like you came to me. Not too much longer,
there
was Gamat, the baby." He smiled at the memory of his cousin's oldest
son. "A
few seasons later, there was Meeloo." He shrugged. "They mated. They
had a
family. Some of my other cousins joined with them, and they had a
family
group." His eyes lit up. "Are you worried about Xena? When she finds
a
mate, she can be part of our family group. Even before she finds one,
she
can."
"No, no," Gabrielle protested. "What you're describing is
called 'marriage'
here. A man, like you, and a woman, like me, promise before god and
the
priest and some of their friends that they will stay together
forever. Then,
after that, they can have babies." She wondered how many of the
details to
share with him. She knew a lot more than most unmarried girls her age
in
this day. It was one of the interesting benefits of having a former
street
child as her best friend. Xena had seen all the parts of life on the
seamy
side of London, and shared them with the artist years ago. As a
result,
Gabrielle knew that she would not come away from her wedding night in
dull
shock, as so many of the girls she had grown up with had. His troubled
expression drew her concern, however.
You told me it was 'betrothed'." He frowned at the inconsistency.
"That's because 'betrothed' is what happens before people get
married. And
since you and I haven't made the promise yet, we aren't married." She
took
his hands in hers. "It means we promise each other that we plan to get
married."
"We can make the married promise now. Then we can have babies." He
smiled;
the solution seemed so simple.
She sighed. "It's not that easy." His face fell. "The promise is made
at a
ceremony called a 'wedding'. It takes a while to put one together,
and it's
very important." She grew shy, and turned away. "I'd like to have a
wedding
with you, Joxer. But it means waiting for those babies, and other
things,
too." She blushed - only with this man would she even be having such
an
intimate conversation.
He could tell this troubled her, and he wasn't sure what to do. She'd
explained that while his grooming her hair was a nice thing, it
wasn't an
appropriate gesture of affection in English society. Yet she hadn't
explained what he should do instead. He remembered her greeting with
her
father, and what Xena had done when Gabby had been upset. He put his
arms
around her, and she turned, resting her head on his chest. Her arms
wrapped
around his waist, and they just sat there like that for a few
minutes. Then
Gabby reached up and touched his face, and she moved her lips to
touch his.
Uncertain what this meant, he sat still for a moment, but her mouth
moved
slightly, and he moved his to accommodate hers. This movement was
pleasant,
and he moved some more. Suddenly, she pulled away, her breath coming
in deep
gulps, as if she'd been running. He noticed his heart felt the same
way. He
pulled her closer again. "Joxer will wait for babies. Whatever it
takes to
make Gabby my mate. We will be - betrothed." He could just see her
wide
smile before she rested her head again on his chest.
~**~
It was sometime later, after the incident at the station, when Jett
entered
the house. Madison the servant took his coat.
"Madison, where is father?"
"He's in the den, sir, with Master Jace. Will there be anything else,
sir?"
Jett waved Madison away. "No, Madison. You may attend to your duties."
"Yes, sir," he replied as he bowed and walked away. Jett entered the
den
where his brother and father were seated.
He walked up to his father and clasped him on the back. "Father, I was
wrong. I'm so sorry. But this took me by surprise."
Malcolm looked at his son. "What do you mean, Jett?"
Jett knelt down beside his father's chair. "The man at the station
*was*
Joxer, father. By all that is holy, he *is* alive."
The old man stared at him. "You said it was just a cruel joke. How
could you
lie to me?"
"Father, I didn't. I really thought it was a deception. I thought
Xena was
behind it. You did offer money to anyone who found him, and I thought
Xena
did that to get the reward. But I was wrong. It is him, father. Why
don't we
all go over to the Taylor's home and see him? I know he will be so
happy to
see you father, and you too, Jace."
Jace looked suspiciously at his brother. "What are you up to, Jett?"
Jett placed an arm around his brother. "I am up to nothing, dear
brother.
Just helping to reunite father and son. I'll have Madison bring the
coach
around and then we can leave. I'll be right back."
Jett walked out into the garden where someone waited in the gloom.
"Do you have everything ready?"
"Yes, but you'd better bring him."
"I will, but give me a little time. I've got to earn his trust."
The shadowy figure nodded in agreement and slipped away.
Jett came out front where his father and brother were waiting. He
climbed
inside and ordered their driver Algernon to take them to Lord Reginald
Taylor's home.
~**~
Gabrielle took Joxer back into the house. He wanted to touch her lips
again
but she told him no.
"What was that we were doing, Gabby? It felt very nice."
She laughed a bit shyly. "It's called kissing."
He nodded his head "I like kissing."
He reached over to pull Gabrielle closer and kiss her again, but she
shook
her head, pulling away. "Not now, Joxer. There is a time and place
for such
things, and there'll be more of that once we're married." He looked
disappointed and Gabrielle touched his face lovingly. "Don't be sad,
Joxer."
He smiled at her. "I'm not sad, Gabby. I'll wait as long as you want."
She smiled back at him. Suddenly Hazel appeared. "Miss Gabrielle, your
father wants to see you. Lord Mansfield and his sons are here."
Gabrielle looked surprised, and then nodded her head.
"Tell father we will be right there, Hazel."
"Very good, Ma'am, I will tell him."
Gabrielle smiled at Joxer. "Your family is here. Run up and change
your
shirt, and let's go meet your father."
Joxer just stood there.
"What wrong Joxer?"
"I do not want to see my brother again. I..." He frowned in
concentration,
trying to think of the word his Gabby had used earlier. "I hate him,
he's
mean."
Gabrielle gently took his arm. "Joxer, I was angry. I shouldn't have
said I
hated Jett. He's your brother. Please, let's meet them. I won't let
him hurt
you again, I promise."
Joxer nodded his head, and after a quick trip upstairs, went with her
to the
den. As he entered, he watched the elderly man come forward. The old
man
touched his face, tears running down his cheeks. Joxer reached over
to wipe
them off, as he had seen Xena do for Gabrielle.
"Oh my son, is it really you after all these years? Let me look at
you."
Joxer stood uncertainly as the old man kept going around him. He
decided to
make Gabrielle pleased, and he gathered his father into a hug. The
man was a
little surprised, and he gasped, "You certainly are a strong one."
Xena gestured for him to let go. Joxer had forgotten about his own
strength.
"I am sorry. Did I hurt you?"
Malcolm shook his head. "No, no, my boy. It's just so wonderful to
see
you."
Jace came forward with his hand out to Joxer. "Hi, I'm your brother,
Jace."
Joxer looked at the hand and bowed down to kiss it. Jace giggled, and
Jett
stepped forward. "No, you don't kiss a man's hand; you shake it.
Watch me."
He took Jace's hand and shook it. "See? Like that."
Joxer stared at Jett - he seemed a lot friendlier. Jett turned to his
father. "Father, I think we should have a social gathering so you can
tell
everyone about Joxer."
Lord Mansfield nodded his head. "That's a wonderful idea, son." He
turned to
Joxer. "Would you like that son?"
Before Joxer could answer Xena broke in. "I don't think that's a good
idea,
sir. Not now."
Jett smiled at her in a way that made Xena want to slap him
silly. "Oh, I'm
sure Gabrielle will have him ready by next week. If she can."
The blonde woman looked angered by the challenge. "Oh, he'll be
ready, all
right. You just wait and see."
"Good, then. So let's set the party for - say, next Saturday?"
Gabrielle nodded her head. Lord Mansfield took Joxer out to the
garden to
talk and to get to know him better. Xena approached her
friend. "Gabrielle,
what were you thinking? Joxer's not ready for this."
Gabrielle looked at the older woman. "I don't know, Xena. I just don't
know."
~**~
The next week was the busiest Joxer could ever imagine. They began at
the
tailors, where Mr. Harrington fussed over his wide shoulders and
strong
upper arms, and wrote up the order for three suits, a tuxedo, a half
a dozen
shirts and a topcoat, with a rush on the tuxedo and one of the suits.
Joxer
had never been measured and wrapped and pinned like that in his life,
and
found out quickly why the assistant had warned, "Watch out for the
pins if
you sit down!" Then they went to the cobbler, who managed to put
Joxer in a
pair of soft leather boots that changed his opinion of shoes. They
were much
better when they fit properly. He also measured, and planned to
custom make
another pair. Then there were handkerchiefs and cravats and
suspenders and
even underclothes to be bought. After an entire day devoted to
outfitting,
the former ape-man slept better than he could imagine, partly thanks
to the
wonderful featherbed in which he rested.
The next day was spent going over etiquette and working through his
first
dance lessons, which Joxer wasn't certain he cared for. But Gabby
informed
him they would be a daily routine, and rewarded him with another kiss
when
he finally stopped fussing about it. For that, he would dance all
day, every
day. Lord Taylor coached his future son-in-law on the niceties of
politics
and after-dinner small talk. His daughter had made it clear in no
uncertain
terms that she did not want Joxer familiar with cigars, so he learned
how to
properly decline the offer. He did learn to sip brandy without
choking on
it, however.
On the third day, the walls began to close in. "Gabby," Joxer begged
his
love, "I have to get out and *do* something. All I do is sit or stand
or
ride in carriages. I need to swim, or climb some trees, or
something." She
had heard about the gymnasium that the Young Men's Christian
Association had
erected in London recently, and after some inquiries, was able to
arrange a
visit for her betrothed for a few hours. He came out beaming; having
swam,
learned more about boxing, and worked out on the bars and ropes.
While they
stood outside, at least four different young men, obviously in awe of
his
physical abilities, stopped just to express their admiration.
Xena, on the other hand, was determined to discover what Jett
Mansfield had
up his sleeve. The turnaround in attitude had been a bit too neat and
convenient for her tastes. She visited all her old haunts, asking
discrete
questions and showing a sketch Gabrielle had done of Jett, but no one
seemed
familiar with him. She even arranged lunch with Jace, who was as
suspicious
as she was, but had no more idea of what was going on.
Joxer's favorite occurrence of the entire period was the visit with
the
priest - not due to any newfound religious feelings, but because that
brought him a step closer to mating with Gabrielle. Marriage. She had
coached him on the proper answers, and he had done wonderfully, only
hesitating when asked about his baptism, which she covered. A date
was set,
not too far off, and Gabrielle had kissed him again on the landing on
the
way down. That night, he headed cheerfully to his father's estate to
have
his first dinner alone with his long lost family.
Things were going too well; Xena was worried.
~**~
The little 'family reunion' had gone swimmingly. Jett sat on the
bench in
the darkened courtyard after Joxer left the house, the only light
coming
from the glow of his pipe. "My *dear* brother is coming along so
nicely.
It'll be such a *shock* when he runs off on the night of his social
introduction. And of course, I'd only be obligated to comfort his
abandoned
fiancée."
The figure beside him snorted. "You're not good enough for her,
Mansfield."
The eldest triplet raised a brow in amusement. "And you *are*, my
friend?
Hardly. You haven't sufficient class in your little finger."
Jett's companion stood and glowered at him in anger. "She's too fine
a woman
to be impressed by social class. And I'll never be your friend." The
fine
gentleman tapped out his pipe and watched the other storm away.
"Oh, don't worry. I never *want* to be your friend." He stood and
dusted off
his pants, heading inside.
~**~
Jett and Lord Mansfield had insisted that Joxer dress for the party
at the
Mansfield estate, and so he had arrived late Saturday afternoon, his
things
having been sent over earlier. He was shown to a room by an awed young
serving girl, which he realized after a few minutes was the room that
had
been kept all these years for him. His clothing was hung on the front
of the
wardrobe, his shoes were polished and beside the bed. The wicker
bassinette
that must have been his was tucked in the corner, covered in netting,
but
otherwise, it was a room obviously outfitted for a young man. He
wondered if
Jace and Jett had similar rooms. A small part of him missed the
simple nest
he had shared with Sheera, Keenan and Raylan, and on rare occasions,
his
father. Except, this was his father, and this, not the nest, should
have
been his home. His mind whirled at the thought. A tap on the door
drew him
from his memories. "Come in."
"Joxer?" Lord Mansfield still seemed overwhelmed by the return of his
youngest boy. Even though he never gave up hope, the reality was far
better
than he had even dreamed. "I have something for you, son." The
elderly man
took a small box from his pocket. "I gave one of these to Jace and
Jett when
they turned eighteen, but yours has been in my dresser all these
years,
awaiting your return. It was a real pleasure to be able to remove it,
finally." He watched eagerly as Joxer opened the box and extracted
the fine
gold pocket watch. "See," Lord Malcolm pointed out, "Your name is
engraved
inside." He fumbled in his other pocket. "I know you've given
Gabrielle your
mother's locket, but I also wanted to give you this, as the first of
my sons
to become engaged." He held up a lovely emerald ring, and Joxer took
it
carefully from his fingers, examining it. "I gave this to your mother
when
she agreed to marry me. I'd like you to present it tonight, when we
announce
the betrothal formally."
Joxer was lost in the beautiful green stone. "It matches her eyes," he
breathed quietly.
"So it does," his father chuckled. "You do have it bad, my boy. But
you've
made a good choice."
The Taylor carriage was among the first to arrive at the Mansfield
estate,
and inside, an elegantly dressed dark-haired woman was fuming. "I
still
don't like it, Gabrielle. Jett doesn't just give in like that.
Something's
going on."
"Xena, everyone in London knows that you hate him and he hates you.
You've
spent all week trying to tie him to some kind of plot against Joxer,
and you
can't. Why don't you just accept that maybe he's doing what's right
this
time?" Gabrielle Taylor was considered one of the most beautiful
women in
the London social scene, but she rarely had cared about her
appearance,
dressing in whatever her maid laid out, and usually leaving parties
early
due to boredom. Her peculiarities had prevented many men other than
Jett
from even approaching her. This time, however, she had dressed with
care,
going over every detail carefully. She was stunning. And she planned
to
spend the whole evening dancing with her betrothed, whose true
identity
would finally be revealed to the world. She just knew nothing could
go wrong
tonight, and she refused to let her best friend's paranoia ruin her
grand
plans.
"I think we should go in," Lord Taylor offered, fairly certain he'd
missed
something somewhere in this conversation, which wasn't unusual. He
hoped
Malcolm would be able to understand her, once she married into *his*
family.
~**~
Lord Taylor helped his daughter out of the carriage. His ward gave
him a
look, so he didn't even try to help her. Xena hated social
gatherings - if
this one wasn't for her friend, she wouldn't be here. They entered the
house, and Madison took their coats and Lord Taylor's hat. They
walked into
the ballroom, where they were announced.
"Lord Taylor and his daughter, Gabrielle, and ward, Xena."
Lord Mansfield came up and greeted them. "Today is the day, Reginald,
that I
tell everyone about the return of my son, and you will announce the
upcoming
marriage of my son and your daughter."
"Where is Joxer?" asked Gabrielle.
"Can't wait to see him, can you, my dear? He feels the same about
you, I
believe. He'll be down soon."
"Mister Oscar Wilde," the butler announced.
Lord Mansfield turned to his middle son. "Why is he here?"
Jace stared at him. "I invited him." He turned and greeted his friend,
taking his arm and leading him away. Lord Mansfield shook his head.
He knew
that Jace was different, but he wished he weren't so public about it.
******
Joxer stood in front of the full-length mirror, looking at himself.
"Do you like what you see?"
He didn't turn, knowing it was Jett standing behind him.
"I think I look very nice, thank you."
Jett laughed as he place a hand on his shoulder. "Joxer, I've got a
message
for you. Gabrielle wants to see you in the garden."
"Why? I though I couldn't see her until the party."
"She wants to give you another kiss. She asked me to bring you." In
getting
to know his brother, Jett had managed to find out a great deal about
his
relationship with the Taylor's, one member of the household in
particular.
Joxer's eyes lit up. He gladly followed Jett downstairs and into the
garden.
"Gabby, where are you?" But she wasn't there, and his shoulders
slumped.
"Jett, you're wrong. Gabby isn't here."
Jett walked over and stood by him, his face twisting into an ugly
grimace.
"Do you want to know what I think? I don't think she ever really
wanted you.
I think under all that glitter you're still a savage, and not worthy
of
Gabrielle."
Joxer turned in anger. "You have no right to say that. I *am* your
brother."
"My brother!" He laughed without humor. "If I had my way, *Jace*
wouldn't be
my brother, either."
Joxer started towards Jett, when suddenly someone grabbed him from
behind
and put an odd smelling hankie over his mouth. After struggling for a
few
minutes, he passed out.
"You could have helped, Jett."
"You had everything under control, O'Malley. Now get him out of here.
Oh, by
the way - don't sell him to a sideshow. I thought it was a good idea
when
you first suggested it, but now I think it's too cruel. Kill him
instead."
Drake looked with disgust at the aristocrat. "Can you at least help
me get
him in the wagon? He's heavy."
"I don't do manual labor. That's what you're getting paid for." At
that,
Jett turned to walk away.
"Hey, if you don't help me, I won't get out of here. Might spoil your
little
surprise."
"Okay, fine. I'll help you. "
When they got Joxer into the wagon, Jett turned to Drake. "Hit me."
"What?"
"I said, hit me. I've got to make this look real."
Drake smiled grimly as his fist went into Jett's face, knocking him
out.
Then he tore his clothes. ' That should make it more convincing, my
*friend*. Thanks for the best offer I've had all day.' At that, he
climbed
into the wagon and drove away with Joxer's still figure.
The party was in full swing. Lord Mansfield clinked his glass to get
everyone's attention. "Please! Everyone take your seats. I have an
announcement to make."
Everyone sat down and waited for Lord Mansfield to speak. "As you
know, my
wife and younger son disappeared 22 years ago. My wife's remains were
found,
but no sign of my son Joxer ever was." He motioned for Gabrielle to
come to
him. "During her recent stay in Borneo, Gabrielle Taylor found my son
Joxer
and brought him home to me." Everyone gasped and started whispering
among
themselves. "I would like you all to meet my youngest son, Joxer
Mansfield."
They waited, but Joxer did not appear. Everyone was shocked when Jett
stumbled in instead. He was a mess. His shirt was torn and he was
bleeding.
Lord Mansfield hurried over to his son. "Jett, what happened? Tell
me, boy."
Jett moved weakly as his father helped him over to a chair. Someone
handed
him a brandy, and he took a drink before he began. "It was horrible.
I'm
sorry, father. Joxer attacked me. He just went nuts. It was like he
was an
animal or something. I didn't stand a chance."
"What did you do to him?" asked Xena dangerously.
Jett looked at her. "Nothing. He was just too much of a savage to
make it
here. He's gone, and he nearly killed me in the process."
Gabrielle grabbed Jett. The little blond artist had strength he never
knew
about, as was finding out now. "Where is Joxer?!"
~**~
