Author's Note: Gaspar-Francois is the true name of the Marquis de Sade's grandfather, as to whether he really shared his grandson's proclivities I don't know but I used artistic license. Reviews are always welcome.

Chapter 4

After several angry minutes, Samantha calmed herself and ventured out of the room. She didn't want to cooperate with Jack, but given the circumstances it would seem there was little choice. If there were going to find a way home, they would have to stick together. But in an era where women were property and needed protection, the only way Sam could be near Jack without prying eyes would be if they were married. She hated that Jack was right and even more she hated that he was the man who'd aroused her so intently earlier that evening at the gallery before they were shot.

Shot! The memory suddenly hit Samantha, previously she had only remembered as far as Jack's balcony seduction and her unfortunate discovery of his identity. Briefly, she wondered what would have happened if she hadn't discovered the truth. They would have been undressing one another by now instead of being in the 18th century and the attackers at the museum would never have shot at them. Looking down at the expanse of flesh at the top of her gown she seemed unscathed, but then she wondered about Jack. The image of him placing himself in front of her, to shield her from the bullets, flitted through her mind. Suddenly the memory of falling to the floor with him came back and the continued sound of shooting.

Walking as fast as she could in the voluminous dress, she made her way down the hall. At last it opened up to an immense staircase and she could hear the sound of music emanating upwards. Gathering up her skirt, Sam made her way down the steps and stopped at the site of the lavish ball. A kindly looking elderly man, came forward and offered her his arm. Uncertainly, she placed her hand on his arm and allowed him to lead her into the throng.

"I just finished signing the marriage contract my dear," the man informed her in a clipped English accent. "Your mother, God rest her would have been so proud of you."

This must be her father, she decided. "When is the ceremony to take place?"

"So anxious to leave your old father?"

"No, of course not," Sam replied giving the appropriate response.

The man smiled and shook his head. "It's quite all right Samantha. When you first set your cap for a frog I had my doubts, but it's obvious the Viscompte is as in love with you as you've been telling me you were with him for the last two months. I'm quite relieved matters were resolved without marrying you off to that sot of a squire that lived next door."

Sam smiled weakly and said, "Me too."

"One matter which should please you my dear, the ceremony is to take place in three days time."

"Th- three days?"

"What's wrong?" he father asked then smiled. "Oh you're just so surprised. When I told your Jack how anxious you were to wed him, he immediately relented on the traditional betrothal length and agreed to the date you wanted."

"How wonderful." Forcing a smile, she grabbed a champagne glass from a passing tray and downed it rapidly. Then grabbed another to the shock of the servant.

Across the room, Jack made his way slowly towards them through the crowd. His hair like Samantha's was unpowdered. The honey colored locks coupled with his black clothing and it's small scarlet dash on his waistcoat, made him stand out against the pastel and powdered crowd. Even in this era, Jack had a predatory grace about him. Several women approached him and he spoke to them politely, but his eyes never left Samantha. At last he stood before Samantha.

Taking her hand to kiss, he whispered softly, "Your father is going to make the announcement now. I suggest if you can't pretend to be overjoyed, at least try not to look so hostile."

As he reached into his coat and brought out large ruby ring, Samantha plastered a dazzling smile on her face and hissed, "Marriage to my stalker, what more could a girl ask for?"

Jack placed the ring on her finger then pulled her close. "This!" he retorted and brought his lips down hard against hers.

A gasp went through the crowd as the couple violated several rules of propriety. Sam's father cleared his throat loudly. Jack lifted his mouth from Samantha's, smiled at her father, then winked unabashedly at Samantha. Rapidly her father made the announcement and glasses of champagne were raised. As people surged forward to congratulate the pair, Sam clutched Jack's arm tightly as they were cornered by well-wishers. A man in a red satin coat and a silver vest came near them and Jack's senses went on high alert.

Placing an arm around her shoulder, he murmured in his slight french accent, "Samantha, the man in the red coat, I've seen him somewhere before."

"Was he at the museum?"

Shaking his head, Jack answered, "No. But I know I've seen his image in a book and I believe he could be trouble. Until we're certain of who he is you will under not speak to him. Do you understand me?"

"We aren't even married yet and you're already ordering me around?!?"

"Please trust me on this."

Samantha rolled her eyes and walked away. Spying a series of doors that lead to a balcony, she moved towards them. Unintentionally, she bumped directly into the man Jack said to avoid. She froze for a moment, unsure of what to do. Jack had been so emphatic, but she could hardly run into someone and walk away.

"Pardon me, Sir."

"Not at all. I am pleased to meet the beautiful bride of the Viscompte. I am Gaspard-Francois, an old friend of your betrothed's family," he informed her with a disarming smile and took her hand to kiss.

"Nice to meet you. I was just heading out for some air," Sam explained.

At that, the stranger grabbed two glasses of champagne from a passing waiter and handed her one. "In that case allow me to escort you outside."

Jack scanned the crowed for Samantha's blonde hair and grew nervous when he couldn't find her. Perhaps she went to her room in anger or outside. Although he understood her distress, they were in no position for petty arguing. This was a volatile and dangerous time for anyone and women in particular. Taking hold of his future father-in-law's arm he inquired discreetly, "Have you seen where Samantha is?"

"Saw her with some chap in a red coat heading outside."

"God damn it to hell!" Jack swore and pushed into the crowd.

A man dressed in servants attire, asked, "Is something the matter, Monsieur Vicompte?"

"Probably. Do you know who the man in the red coat is?" Seeing the man's surprised expression, Jack added, "I just got engaged, my mind isn't where it should be."

"That is the Gaspar-Francois, Marquis de Sade."

Less than one full day in the 18th century and Samantha was in the clutches of the grandfather of the future Marquis, who would learn everything he knew from Gaspar. Jack ran across the ballroom, pushing his guests aside as he made his way outside...