My apologies for the long wait. Life has been very busy plus my little writing fairy seems to have disappeared and I am having trouble finding her. She peeked out from hiding long enough to get this chapter going but then disappeared before I could finish, so I've been left to my own devices and things were a bit foggy. I hope you like. I promise I will do my best to add more before too very long.


Anthony's attempt to avoid Rosamund was short lived. Her car had only made it a few feet down the street when Rosamund ordered the driver to stop. Hurriedly climbing out of the car, she walked briskly back toward the station and met with Anthony and Edith just as they exited arm in arm and smiling foolishly at one another.

The smiles dropped as they stopped short of Edith's aunt, who was scowling angrily. "Aunt Rosamund?" Edith said in surprise.

"Edith," Rosamund replied icily. Then looking at Anthony just as frostily, "Well, I suppose I know now why you've been avoiding me all this time."

"Lady Rosamund," Anthony greeted her evenly.

"Exactly how long have you two been conspiring behind my back?"

"There was no conspiracy, Lady Rosamund. Edith and I became reacquainted quite by accident and found we have many similarities. It was only natural that we…"

"Natural! Oh, it is like that, is it?"

Edith gasped at her aunt's vehemence. But Anthony's face reddened at the woman's insulation. "While I realize that my own reputation is in shreds, I would hope you trust your own niece more than that."

"Obviously not! The two of you have been carrying on and all the while… well, if you were unaware of my feelings, I know Edith was not."

"Aunt Rosamund, I'm sorry that you feel betrayed. It was not my intention. Anthony and I just… happened."

"And does your father know where you are? Does he know you've run off with this… this lothario? I can't imagine he'll be pleased when he hears the news."

"He knows already. He bought my ticket," Edith replied meekly.

"Edith and I are to be married, Lady Rosamund. I do hope that once you are over the shock, you will attend our wedding?"

"You must be joking!" Rosamund snapped. And without a word, she turned and stormed away.

Edith fought the tears that welled in her eyes. "We should have gone on to the next stop."

"It wouldn't have mattered, my darling. We would have to face her eventually. At least now it is done."

"I suppose," she sighed. "But I was hoping for a little more time for us with no family intrigue."

"We'll have all the time in the world soon enough."

Anthony kept to his plan, much to Edith's chagrin. By evening, she was safely settled in her hotel room. They'd dined at a small bistro around the corner and then Anthony had left her to return to his flat. "I'll pick you up tomorrow morning to go to the registry," he'd told her as he kissed her good night. And then he'd disappeared down the hall and into the lift, never having so much as stepped into her room.

Alone in her room, Edith considered the events of the day and sat with a silly smile on her face as she realized how much had changed for her. Not only was she engaged to a man that she not only loved without reservation, but one who fascinated her as well. And her family, or at least her father, approved… well , perhaps approved was too strong a word. But he had agreed and even sent her into her future. And while her aunt was furious, at least she knew now. And tomorrow they would go to the registry office and then be married as soon as possible. Edith couldn't ever remember feeling quite so satisfied in her whole life. The only thing missing at the end of her glorious day was Anthony himself. But that would soon be resolved as well.

Just as she was about to turn out the bedside lamp her phone chimed, indicating a text. Picking it up, she smiled when she saw it was from Sybil. Papa told us what happened. So exciting. And romantic!

It is! She typed back. But Aunt Rosamund saw us as the depot. She's furious!

"Oh no! Are you with him now?

"No, he insists on being a gentleman. Tell Papa not to worry. We're off to the registry office tomorrow to get a date.

A few minutes later Sybil responded. Mama says to let us know when. She wants to be there. We all do.

I will tell you as soon as I know.

She wants to know where you are?

The Kensington. Anthony is at his flat nearby.

Papa says that is a relief.

Ha Ha. Of course he does.

I really think he is alright with it. He said you looked happier than he could remember ever seeing you.

I am; I am extremely happy.

He will tell Granny tomorrow.

If Rosamund hasn't already.

I don't think so. Granny would have been here if she had.

"Right.

Good night.

Good night.

Edith felt even happier after Sybil's information. Mama and Papa were not upset by her plans and Sybil was excited. She didn't mention Mary's reaction, which could only mean it wasn't a good one. But Edith didn't care. Granny would not be happy but Edith knew eventually she would come around. Granny could be difficult at times, but she wanted her family happy.

Feeling bold, Edith picked up her phone again and texted Anthony. Just heard from my sister. Papa really is alright with us. And Mama wants to come to the wedding. Is that alright?

A few minutes later he replied. Of course it is alright. Invite the whole family if you wish. So glad your parents are not against this.

Sybil thinks it is all very romantic.

Foolishly so perhaps.

Happily so.

I can only hope you feel the same in a few years.

Always. Edith paused and then typed again. I wish I was there with you.

After a long moment Anthony responded. I am only just beginning to understand your capability to torture a man.

Only one man and it is because he tortures me with his absence.

Oh god, the dreams I shall dream tonight

Maybe we'll be together in our dreams? And then soon it won't be a dream but reality.

For me, my dear, it will always be a dream.

And you wonder why I love you so.

And I love you, my sweet. But perhaps time to go to sleep. I expect a busy day tomorrow. I'll see you in the morning.

Yes, you will. Goodnight, my love.

Goodnight.

Edith's dreams were filled with Anthony and she awoke the next morning with a smile and a full heart.