A/N:

Happy holidays everyone!

Here's a little upfront gift for you in a form of some chapters. I might not have enough time around Christmas Eve to publish these, so do it now when have time :)

Also, don't forget to comment and tell me how the sequel seems so far! Your opinions are vital for this fic to survive, so should this story lose followers etc, I'd very much like to know a reason for it to fix possible problems!

Have a very merry Christmas and wonderful start for the year 2016!

Entry 1

Six months. Six horrible, intolerable months had gone by since th' escape o' Jack Sparrow. Six whole months since I'd cut all but inescapable ties wi' William, which I'd endured wi' unbelievable determination for me ain surprise. Even noo thinkin' back that time, I have no idea how I was able to go thro' those days wi'oot stoppin' by his workshop lik' had been me habit. Wi'oot talkin' to 'im any mair than was necessary. Weel, tellin' th' truth I think I do ken how I was able to withstand all me misery 'n' sorrow 'n' sustain meself from breakin' doon in ridiculous tears every time I saw me loved one in another woman's arms... Work. Hence th' day Sparrow had evaded his execution 'n' ran aff wi' his ship half a year ago, I'd strived to drown all me heartbreak 'n' depression intae work, me days fillin' wi' such amount o' manual labor that I hoped it to be enough to make me forget everythin' remindin' me o' William.

However it was because o' me suddenly peaked diligence that Mattie had seen fit to have me replace 'er as th' manor's hoosekeeper (as she'd awready gained notable amount o' age, 'n' nae but a couple o' months efter me return had stairted to show signs o' it). So nae alone th' matters o' th' hoose but also th' burden o' th' planning for th' upcomin' engagement party 'n' wedding o' William 'n' Miss Elizabeth were left in me care, wanted I or nae. 'N' th' fact that as th' fiancé o' me Mistress it was expected to see William dauner aboot th' mansion daily, at th' latest durin' dinner, which didn't at all help me heal from th' scars he'd left in me. But under this duress I tolerated it wi' gritted teeth, avoidin' all possible contact wi' 'im 'n' kept oor relationship as nonexistent as two people's from higher and lower class. Because that's what he anymair were to me. Me laird. 'N' Miss Elizabeth's future… husband.

Aboot two weeks efter Commodore Norrington had set sail to recapture Sparrow, Peter had suddenly disappeared from Port Royal following th' announcement o' William 'n' Miss Elizabeth's engagement. Which was why I could very weel deduce th' reason why he'd left. He'd probably felt as bad as I aboot their abruptly changed relationship 'n' fled his ain hertache to th' seas, but wi'oot sayin' anythin' to me. By juist vanishin' from th' Fort one mornin', nae leavin' any kind o' note behind to explain his deed. 'N' those a little ower two months he'd been gone I hadn't received any kind o' letter nor word from 'im 'til th' day o' early October when he'd as unexpectedly reappered. Lookin' so dishevelled 'n' windswept that I was close nae to recognize 'im, nor wasn't sure wanted I even inquire th' location where he'd spent his time awa'. But even I'd asked aboot his travel in general, he didn't tell me anythin' 'n' maist certainly nae where he'd been or doin' what. But by th' keek o' his bruised demeanor 'n' claes which reeked o' alcohol, I wance again was very capable to reach a conclusion sufficient enough wi'oot any further pryin'.

As a result o' his unauthorized departure, consequently Peter had been demoted as simple cadet at th' hauns o' Gilette (who'd been promoted 'imself when Norrington had as unexpectedly resigned his post as Commodore efter returnin' from his ain voyage, beaten by both mother nature 'n' Sparrow, leavin' Port Royal 'imself shortly efter). But oddly enough, Peter hadn't seemed to care aboot th' demotion o' his rank in th' Navy, even for th' last years it had meant evrythin' to 'im to have a glorious career in th' military..

But then again, ever since me brother had come back he'd seemed different somehow, broodin' several freish secrets he bewared o' revealin' to anyone, especially me. I could tell 'im to have changed during those two months he'd been gone, back at me starin' another man completely whenever I'd met his gaze. Someone only resemblin' th' brother I'd grown up wi', though to untrained outer eyes he seemed but 'imself. Where I kenned somethin' to be squint, 'n' th' thought o' 'im hidin' somethin' so major which had had th' power to change 'im worried me, confused me. But Peter's covert changes had been quickly left oot o' me mind as th' day o' th' engagement party drew nearer, requiring all me concentration 'n' strength for me to survive it.

"…We will need two dozens of chocolate and vanilla pastries, five quiches with ham and vegetable filling, a frosting and decorations for the sample wedding cake Miss Elizabeth requested, three servers of saltine crackers coated with caviar and herbal cream cheese, one dish of scones that go very well with the tea, and lastly berry tarts with some whipped cream!"

Mattie finished 'er mantra aboot th' eatables o' th' engagement party. All chosen 'n' carefully discussed doon to th' tiniest detail wi' Miss Elizabeth a few days ago to be prepared for today's celebration for twenty guests arrivin'. Half o' oor work awready done, but a lot needed to happen in one mornin' afore th' bethrothal party if we wanted to be finished in time.

"Did you hear what I said, Miranda?" Mattie's voice asked then as I was seasonin' th' dough for th' pastries, me nae turnin' me eyes from me hauns as added mair flour, noddin'.

"Aye, I heard ye. I'll be soon finished wi' these, it takes ten minutes for me to prepare 'em."

"This is unusual. Normally your head would be in the clouds, considering what day is at hand", she noted, me holdin' back a jolt as kenned instantly what she was referrin' to. Me stubbornly concentratin' oan th' pastries which stairted to come alive afore me, 'er keepin' wheest for awhile as followed me vigorous moldin'. "How're holding up, dear? If this is too rough for you, just say so."

"I'm awright", I replied simply, stairtin' a freish pastry.

"So you say, but when I look at you, you seem rather stressed about the forthcoming betrothal party."

"Mattie, I can't stand idle. This is me job, 'n' there's too much for ye 'n' Estrella to do alone afore efternoon."

"Yes, but isn't taking care of yourself also your job? You've been in this kitchen for two days, hardly leaving it! I understand why you feel more comfortable hiding in here, but it's not good for you to work that hard to distract yourself from Will and Miss Elizabeth's engagement. Because that's what's still bothering you, am I right?"

Aye, she was too experienced wi' me to be fooled. So that was why I then paused in middle o' bakin', sighin' 'n' closin' me eyes. Wantin' wance again to keek at 'er helpless 'n' let meself to be comforted, 'til came to me senses 'n' straightened me back. Continuin', shovin' th' woe intae th' farthest corner o' me hert, oot o' me mind.

"That's exactly why I have to keep oan workin'. If I can't keep meself busy I stairt to wallow in me sorrow again, which I'm tired o' doin'!" I stated, me voice in th' end revealin' me what else than dooncast mood by crackin' a wee, Mattie sighin' 'erself as juist watched me work. Accustomed, wi' such vigor that it might've nae been healthy when one only saw me. But these chores were th' only thing keepin' me together.

"Someone else can do that for you", Mattie reminded, graspin' me forearms to halt me, me lettin' oot a frustrated breath this time as met 'er eyes. Seein' 'er smile. "There's indeed a lot to be done, but it doesn't either mean you have to do it all by yourself."

"But…"

"No buts, you've done enough for the morning. You just have to find another way to stray form the reality which hurts you so. But like I've said time and time again, you need to accept Will's feelings for our Mistress. That's the only way to get rid of the sadness, and if you don't… Well I must tell you those feelings and wishes you keep harboring for him shall become but the evil which will turn against you. Make you a person you don't want to be."

Me gaze fell as I thought aboot 'er words, seein' th' reason in 'em as always when neist only nodded dejected. "Aye."

"Miranda!"

I gasped as Governor Swann's voice shouted me name, me instantly returnin' me coupon back to normal as removed th' apron, straightened me uniform's hem 'n' hastily pushed th' stray hair back under th' bonnet afore left th' kitchen. Headin' for th' dinin' room me employer's voice had come form, me soon findin' th' quite displeased lookin' Governor standin' beside th' table. A teacup in his haun, his eyes examinin' th' tea set placed oan th' table to wait for to be dusted.

"Aye, me laird?" I asked, curtseyin'. Me however deterrin' a confused frown as Governor Swann pointed at th' tea cup wi' a sigh, turnin' it aroond to show me th' stains within. Th' sight o' 'em fillin' me wi' frustration as me ain gaze strayed to Hannah 'n' Lily who were takin' oot th' correct tablecloths to be ironed at th' other side o' th' room.

"It is your task to make sure everything is in order now when old Mattie has given her duties to you. So could you explain why the china is in this condition the day of my daughter's engagement party?" he queried seriously, inclinin' his heid as I bowed mine meekly.

"Forgive me sir, I take care o' that right awa'", I promised, curtsyin' again 'n' received th' cup from 'im. Quickly daunerin' ower to th' tray 'n' lifted th' tea set to take it wi' me back to th' kitchen. Me hardly bein' able to banish th' angry leer which I was close to direct at me fellow maids who were gigglin' at th' background, enjoyin' to see me reprimanded for their mistakes.

"I make sure this won't happen again", I reassured, turnin' aroond as me employer made a concurin' nod. Crossin' his arms behind his back as met me eyes curtly.

"Good. Everything has to be in place when the guests arrive. But as I know how much work my daughter's elaborate plans both for today's party and the wedding inflict upon you, I do forgive you. And believe most certainly you not to disappoint Elizabeth. She has told me you to have been indispensable help who without she couldn't have managed."

I hid how much that statement caused me insides to twist 'n' simply smiled. Keekin' doon as shook me heid. "Nae at all sir, I juist did me duty. I'm honored to be o' help in any wey I can."

"Good to hear, my dear. Now, off you go! I mustn't hinder you further."

I made a quick third curtsey as then headed for th' doorwey, however turnin' to glance at th' other maids rather sharply. "Come along Lily 'n' Hannah. I have somethin' to discuss wi' ye."

Th' still snickerin' pair did what I asked, curtsyin' their wey oot o' th' room efter me, wance in th' protection o' th' kitchen me finally twirlin' aroond in utmaist frustration. Slammin' th' tray on th' table so hard that th' china tinkled, me liftin' th' same cup oor laird had been holdin' but a few minutes ago. Me noo expressin' similar outrage for th' lack o' moral visible in this tea set, which had been left wi'oot proper cleanin' efter th' last use.

"What is this Hannah, Lily? Ye cannot leave th' dishes this filthy but should've properly cleaned 'em afore puttin' 'em intae th' cabinet!" I exclaimed, upset as then placed th' cup back wi' th' rest. Beckonin' to th' whole set wi' me haun. "This will nae do, ye ken that much! Governor will nae be pleased by this kind o' lack o' standards, 'n' it is me to answer for it!"

"Well, I say you got right what you deserved", Lily chirped sourly, smilin' as stepped closer to me. Keekin' doon at th' tea set as weel. "As said, you are the housekeeper in this house instead of Mattie, Miranda, and as such it should've been you to spot such neglect in our duties. You let this error slide as much as we did."

"I cannot keep constant watch ower ye! I'm nae yer keeper, 'n' it is solely yer responsibility to perform yer tasks immaculately. I have me hauns full as it is!" I breathed, shakin' me heid incredulous for their evident disregard o' th' matter. 'N' it was noo Hannah who met me irises, 'er ain as nonchalant. Jeering even.

"It's understandable why you'd be so keen on filling the formed gap in your life with work, but that doesn't give you the right to shout at us", she stated, me blinkin' in astonishment o' 'er words which had a foreboding feelin' to 'em. For a reason I then instantly realized, 'er cruel continuation causin' me hert to squeeze in me chest. Fillin' it wi' but harsh awareness o' th' current situation I did me best to escape every hour o' th' day.

"But maybe this just proves you to be awfully unsuited to this kind of position from the very beginning? As now when your dear blacksmith is marrying another woman, leaving you with your broken heart and pathetic feelings of longing which distract you from performing your own duties as the housekeeper properly, I think it would be better for you to give up. Maybe it would be best for both you and this household if you just left, disappeared like your brother did and never come back."

I tried me hardest to hold th' agony within which Hannah's cold tone resurfaced, me closin' me eyes wi'oot a response as tried to harness th' wance again widly stromin' feelings o' betrayal 'n' sorrow. Placin' a haun oan me stomach as Lily 'n' Hannah's amused laughter hurt me, me nae comprehendin' why they had to remain so mean to me. Force me to face wi' th' always painful truth that I'd been abandoned by William because o' Miss Elizabeth. But regardless at that moment I indeed felt meself th' maist useless. Even efter all I'd done these past months (th' least nae bein' me altogether's insane efforts to make me beloved's betrothal wi' someone else th' maist perfect event o' all), they still kept wrenchin' th' knife in th' wound. To discourage me, 'n' ye ken what? It truly worked.

"Shut your mouths the two of you!" Mattie then exclaimed all o' a sudden, steppin' neist to Hannah 'n' Lily who at least hold some respect to th' true matron o' this hoosehold, cringin' as 'er hard haze told 'em to stay silent. "You should be ashamed of yourselves! Miranda is right to scold you, this kind of behavior is unacceptable! Yet alone to say such terrible things…"

"It's awright, Mattie!" I surprisingly interrupted 'er, all three pairs o' eyes turnin' to me baffled as I locked gazes wi' th' elderly woman. Resigned, this time holdin' th' tears o' distress at bay as nodded. "They're right. It seems I'm but a nuisance to everyone aroond me. I'm useless!"

Silence descended as I was gouped at, me former exclaim causin' all poignant comments to run awa' from me fellow maids' tongues as for a while I returned their gazes me ain helpless. Fightin' against that oppression which caused th' walls stairt to shrink aroond me, makin' me feel mair trapped than in months. I needed to get oot o' there, to distract meself again.

"Th' glasses need proper polishin'."

"Miranda", Mattie called as I marched past 'er to th' door, me however nae stoppin' but daunered all th' wey to th' front door o' th' manor. Feelin' meself mair at ease immediately efter leavin' th' foul atmosphere o' th' kitchen behind, which had driven me mind too close back to misery. But th' hing I'd mentioned was but an excuse, a justification to get awa' from me problems yet again. Me then leavin' th' hoose 'n' runnin' straight to th' docks, to cool doon.

I came to a final halt at th' end o' a pier. Squeezin' me eyes shut to stop th' wellin' up tears from fallin', regardless o' me efforts one or two slippin' oan me cheeks which I instantly wiped awa'. Placin' me left palm on me eyelids to prevent mair from flowin', thrustin' back th' accursed snivels makin' their wey up me throat. I was pathetic, wasn't I? Half a year had passed 'n' I still wasn't able to get ower me hertbreak 'n' move oan. Lik' a complete gowk (fool) I was stuck luvin' th' only man I couldn't have, nae matter how much I wished so in me hert ,which gained its only fuel from those remains o' hopes that he would come to his senses. That he would return to me 'n' love only me. But such idiotic, desperate belief was laughable 'n' to be rid o'. But as I stood there, again wallowin' in me distress 'n' let oot slow breaths to calm meself, I realized that I didn't ken how. I didn't ken how to let go o' me luv. O' William, because I still luved 'im mair than anything. 'N' even maybe it was that bitterness I in some part o' me felt for 'im that dragged me oot o' th' bed in th' mornin's, I even couldn't bring meself to relinquish that.

Nonetheless, this wasn't th' day to spent in useless yearnin'. Above everythin' I had me duties to fulfill, which was why I stayed at th' harbor as long as it took for me to stop breakin' doon ower Hannah's remarks 'n' th' emotions awoken by 'em. Me then obediently returnin' back to th' manor to finish th' preparations for th' party wi' th' others.

Cheerful murmur o' th' guests drifted to th' kitchen as me 'n' Mattie were runnin' aboot th' room, makin' last preparations, where Lily 'n' Hannah were currently servin' champagne at th' lounge. Governor Swann soon knellin' his glass to gain everyone's attention, to give a speech for his daughter 'n' his freish son-in-law. Th' food had been awready mostly served, except some o' th' sweet baked goods which had been meant to be brought to th' table together wi' th' tea. 'N' as aforehand instructed by th' Governor it was aboot time to bring th' tea, us tryin' to have th' cake ready for presentation. Me placin' th' last raspberries 'n' flowers in place as Mattie hurried to take th' water kettle from th' hearth.

"Is it ready?" she queried, pourin' th' water thro' th' tealeaves. Lettin' 'em to brew for a moment as I turned, stairtin' to gather th' finally clean tea set ontae th' tray wi' sugar 'n' couple o' creamers. Noddin' as quickly sliced three lemons 'n' placed 'em onto a plate, it as weel takin' its place on th' platter.

"Aye, all is set to be served. We're only missing th' tea."

"It's coming in a moment. Hope our lord's speech will last as long as they usually do."

I smiled a wee afore after a couple o' minutes took th' task o' pourin' th' steamin' tea intae th' beautiful pot decorated wi' detailed, haun painted floral patterns 'n' golden rims. As elegant as th' rest o' th' set, me lastly landin' th' pot in th' middle o' th' tray 'til lifted it to take it oot. Sighin' as perfectly aware o' th' time th' two servin' th' guests should've come to retrieve th' cake, but for me relief Hannah 'n' Lily did appear efter all. However slammin' th' door open so that I almost dropped th' tray, me experiencin' a great scare as th' expensive 'n' priceless cups 'n' saucers swayed dangerously from one side to another 'til I managed to stabilize me burden, me sighin' mair deeply but simply beckoned to th' cake 'n' th' rest o' th' tableware behind me. Daunerin' forward 'n' soon arrivin' to th' gentry part o' th' hoose. Crossin' th' foyer as Governor Swann's voice reached me lugs, causin' me to pause momentarily afore enterin' th' lounge.

"…ergo after all that has been said, lastly I wish to propose a toast to my daughter Elizabeth and her fiancé, Mr. Turner! May they live long and find all the happiness in their soon befalling marriage. Cheers!" Governor bidded happily, givin' Miss Elizabeth a gentle smile as lifted his glass. Th' guests followin' his example, me seein' th' celebrated couple to be standin' in middle o' th' crowd o' th' invited twenty revellers. Very much lik' their guests dressed intae their finest, both smilin' as elated, standin' arm in arm side by side though William seemed rather uncomfortable due to th' formalities this event had required as noo all eyes moved to th' two o' 'em. Many congratulatin' words spoken in unison afore everyone took a sip from their drinks, givin' me th' cue to enter. Me swallowin' as revealed meself behind th' wall, me employer's eyes findin' me as did one certain other person's. Governor Swann smiling in satisfaction.

"Ah, perfect timing!" he breathed, all attention noo turnin' to me 'n' th' other maids at me wake as we curtsied consecutively, daunerin' intae th' room to take th' tea 'n' cake to th' dinin' room. "I think all of us would enjoy a cup of steaming hot tea!"

Agreeable mumble erupted from loads lips o' th' men 'n' women present as I passed 'em, me gaze directed strictly toward th' dinin' room at th' end o' th' lounge. Me nae givin' a single keek to William (who clearly seemed delighted to see me, 'n' whose anticipatin' gaze followed me when I walked by) as swiftly made me straight wey to th' followin' room. Being careful o' nae bumpin' intae any o' th' high lords 'n' ladies spread throughout, soon hearin' a infatuated breath behind me back as put th' tray oan th' sleek tablecloth. Stairtin' to unload it to fill th' cups wi' th' drink as Hannah arrived to assist me. Another panful o' tea emptyin' easily intae those mair than a dozen cups.

"Oh, its perfect! Just like I wanted it to be!" Miss Elizabeth complimented th' cake, which had indeed been made precisely accrodin' to 'er very specific instructions from th' fillin' to th' exquisite decorations. It matchin' wi' th' rest o' th' room's flower arrangements as planned. So listenin' to 'er adoration I turned to deliver th' cups to th' awaitin' guests, glancin' at me Mistress as she was touchin' th' flowers a wide smile oan 'er lips. William comin' to 'er side to examine th' cake too as I only brushed past 'em, thankin' me luck that Lily had been quicker to offer tea to th' couple 'n' th' host o' this party afore me, leavin' me free to go to th' other side o' th' room to serve.

"Only best for you, my dear", th' Governor replied proudly (as if it had been 'im who'd spent hours to prepare it). But it was then when a voice I hadn't heard for weeks surprisingly cut intae th' dicussion for th' foremaist time.

"Miranda has always been skillful in baking."

I turned from the truly beautiful looking cake to send a gaze to my best friend who most probably was responsible of making it (I could recognize the work of her hands instantly), fond smile on my lips. But it was instantly wavered as I noticed the way Miranda froze due to the sound of my voice before cringing, me not even separating did she actually turn that much to give me a fleeting gaze. But in either case her still so clear desire to avoid me by any means hurt as much as ever, as I'd dared to hope things to have turned to better during the past months. But for that curt moment she'd passed me without a single look or word, now made me realize things were just the same between us. Bad, if not worse.

For the last hour or so I'd felt uncomfortable enough by standing there, wearing rather garish clothes which didn't seem to fit me at all while compared to my usual worn shirt and breeches (even they should've as part of the lifestyle I'd decided to have with Elizabeth). Surrounded by people so notably higher in status than I that I didn't exactly feel like belonging among them, as after all the time getting used to this new life of mine, a big part of me still cognized myself as common blacksmith. But if my adaptation problems weren't enough to make me uneasy, Miranda's reserved behavior only increased my discomfort. To see her apparently dislike me as much as those six months ago making me merely sad. But alone that she refused to meet my eyes hurt my feelings, me dropping my gaze down to my cup momentarily as realized her indeed not to turn to meet it.

"Yes, she's done excellent work", Governor Swann praised in turn, nodding at Miranda who finally came to a halt. Curtsying, however against my hopes her eyes looking up to Elizabeth and her father only. Me experiencing that familiar squeeze in my chest as she bypassed me as if I wasn't there. But then again, was I to blame her? With a low sigh I comprised the answer to be no.

"Father's right, this cake is wonderful Miranda! Thank you so much, this is a marvelous engagement present", Elizabeth remarked in excitement, sincerity in her voice as she smiled at Miranda. Me concurring in silence as watched Miranda to return her smile, curtsying again.

"Juist did me duty, Miss. But I'm glad if it pleases ye 'n' yer fiancé."

I flinched slightly when Miranda's eyes finally visited me, but possibly by mistake as she instantly drew her gaze away from me. Me however not allowing myself to get discouraged this time as now the tea served our guests started to converse among themselves. Me walking closer to her, smiling in gratitude, in the end not being able to deter the sensation of dejection as I saw how tense she became when I approached. Her eyes staying focused on the carpet the whole time, regardless of her obvious reluctance me still trying to sound as sincere and happy as Elizabeth. As that's what I was ultimately, under all that discomfort.

"It's amazing what you've done for us today. I want to thank you as well, I'm very happy that we can count on you with the arrangements of the wedding", I said cheerfully (though not pleased how those words had come out in totally different sounding way than I'd intended), trying to capture her gaze. Failing, me holding back a frown as Miranda simply looked to the side. Her tiny smile but feigned and too formal when she responded, her voice not expressing but politeness, me not recognizing that warm and lovable person I cared for from it.

"There's no reason to thank me, me laird. Lik' said I did what was expected o' me", she pointed out curtly, the honorific she'd used while addressing me feeling everything but natural. So amused by this I shook my head, inclining it.

"What's this? When has it become essential for you to call me so formally?" I queried sarcastically, truthfully baffled, now shaking my head to emphasize my amusement. "There's no need for that between friends, isn't there?"

"Ye're th' fiancé o' me Mistress 'n' th' young laird o' this hoose, so it would be improper to call ye anythin' but", was her quick reply, her tone even more resolute and devoid of that warmth which was characteristic to her. The plain coldness she expressed to me still shocking me as she then only gave me a curtsey as well. Not much but peeking at me for a fraction of a second before was about to leave the room, dismissing my attempts of conventional familiarity right off.

"Wait", I had time to say, taking her wrist gently to stop her from running away. She'd been doing that for weeks, even the slight glimpse of me causing her to dart to the opposite direction on the streets or in the manor. And to witness she was to do it again, I couldn't handle it anymore. So now forced to turn and meet my gaze Miranda faced me, but even she tried to look composed I could tell there was sadness deep within her brown eyes which as well had lost their warm color. Me sighing for this, sting of my conscious reminding me once again of the cause to that sadness I so clearly could detect from her being, me next only smiling at her like I'd always had.

"Do you have a minute?" I asked, hopefully. "You haven't stopped by at the smithy for a very long time, so I'd like to hear how you've been doing lately. Talk. Though you obviously already know what is going on in my life without me telling you."

Even I'd tried to be sarcastic again, I instantly somewhat regretted my choice of words again after witnessing that look from Miranda's irises, which seemed like an accusation of some kind. Frustration mixed with anger, me realizing to know the answer for that inquiry myself. But nevertheless I wasn't lying. I'd accustomed to have Miranda in my life, and ever since I'd confessed my feelings to Elizabeth Miranda appeared to draw all the time farther away from me. Understandably, as I was well aware of the shock and evident heartbreak I'd inflicted upon her the day Jack had escaped from Port Royal. But as we'd all moved on and she'd had time to deal with my attachment to Elizabeth, I wished to make amends with her. Have her back. Because it really had been bothering me, our relationship which had changed from that strong and close bond of friendship to very cool terms before I'd even known it. And even having Elizabeth as my wife didn't make me anything but overjoyed, that happiness still seemed somewhat diminished when Miranda had come to hate me so for it. I wanted things to be as they once were.

"You aren't busy right now, am I right?" I inquired again, still smiling. But for my following disappointment she didn't seem to share my wishes of reconciliation, the way she yanked her hand from my grasp making me but frustrated.

"Forgive me, but I have work, me laird", she stated, about to flee again. But I didn't let her leave.

"You always have work, Miranda", I remarked, more serious now, but my voice softened at the end. Me giving her close to a pleading look straight into eyes. As yes, she had strayed to stare at me. Her eyes shoving me a peek of that girl I'd known for the past years and still cared for dearly, however the emotion written all over her face momentarily telling of reluctance. As if she would've wanted to rip her eyes away from mine, but couldn't. Something, and I presumed it to be her still very much existing love for me, preventing her. Which was why for the first time in too long time I was able to look at my dear friend, hear her voice, were it but polite tone of a servant talking to her lord.

"Please Miranda, I just want to talk to you again. I want to…" I tried for the second time, with softer tone, but was interrupted by Miranda. Her looking away from me what else before soon enough turned her back to me, alone that feeling extremely bad.

"No me laird, I don't have time to talk wi' ye. 'N' ye should remain 'ere wi' yer wife to be instead o' wastin' yer valuable time oan yer servant."

The edge hidden into her words smarted more than I expected, like many times before while face to face with Miranda oppressing wave of guilt washing over me as I watched her to start to walk toward the doorway. Me knowing that she was going through similar type of turmoil of emotions within her but different kind from mine, me then only sighing in even greater frustration as was left with only one option again: to leave her alone. As always if Miranda got to decide.

"Is she still treating you like that?" Elizabeth's astonished voice asked then, bringing me back from my dejected ponders as I turned to my right. Seeing her arrive by my side, as well looking after Miranda her delicate eyebrows quirked for surprise where I nodded. Elizabeth's arm hooking with mine as I then shook my head, smiling sadly.

"She has all the right to be mad at me", I admitted, meeting my loved one's eyes. "I hurt her. I still can see it from her, every time we meet. She can't bear the sight of me."

"But that doesn't entitle her to be so rude to you!" Elizabeth breathed incredulous, then sighing herself. This time gentle smile rising on her lips as she faced me in turn, her hands rising to my shoulders. "You might've hurt her by leaving her, but you did it to follow your own heart. She shouldn't be angry to you because you wanted to spear her from any further misunderstandings by doing what was right for your own happiness. She should realize that. And above everything you are to be her lord soon, so she should at least start to treat you with more respect."

I smiled as a response, though maybe not completely agreeing with Elizabeth in everything she'd said as made another nod. My own hand rising to touch her cheek as our foreheads touched after a small moment of examining one another, my eyes closing as the scent of her perfume made me once more recall the affection I felt for her. Me barely deterring myself from kissing the beautiful woman in my embrace.

My blissful ponders were then however cut by the series of startled wails. My, Elizabeth's as well as the guests' attention now drawing to Miranda who'd frozen by the doorway leading to the foyer. Her expression but frightened and her complexion at first pale until it turned bright red when she stared at the man sitting on a chair right next to her. Miranda then eyeing at the tea she'd apparently splashed all over his clothes by accident while passing by, where I separated from Elizabeth. Finally that frown making its way on my forehead as I didn't remember to have met that man before, following him to tilt his head as he wiped his jacket rather nonchalantly. But Miranda was terrified, embarrassed as was in for her nature to be, me in fact smiling a little as during that moment witnessed that same young woman I knew to hurry to the man with several apologetic curtseys. Taking out her handkerchief to offer it him.

"I am so sorry, me laird!" she breathed, making another curtsey as Governor Swann was quick to arrive to the scene. Bowing himself to what appeared to be a Scottish man in a kilt, its tartan pattern as well as the pin on his shoulder symboling his clan, my father-in-law locking gazes with this dark haired foreign guest. But as my eyes quickly flickered back to Miranda, I could tell her to be equally awed with me after realizing the man's nationality.

"Forgive her my boy, she didn't mean to ruin your jacket", my father-in-law apologized for his part, giving a fleeting sharper gaze at Miranda who simply dropped her gaze down humbly as was expected. Resigned, where that certain tone in the Governor's voice irritated me somewhat. Tone I'd accustomed to be used on by those who'd seen me beneath them not only in station, but in human dignity. That kind of tone people like me and Miranda, ordinary folk, had to listen to from those above us… Except that now as the future husband of Elizabeth I didn't belong to that society anymore. Sometimes I truly forgot the nature of the life I currently led…

"It is gey much awright, this life tend tae get us a wee cluttered from time tae time. 'N' this, if ye forgive me tae have attended tae such important celebration sae underdressed Weatherby ol' mukker, isn't me best jacket ", the stranger replied familiarly, smiling at Governor Swann until his interested eyes found Miranda again. Me seeing how her own suddenly lit for similar interest, them locking gazes for a while before the man surprised everyone around them. Including me and Elizabeth, but mostly Miranda by claiming her hand.

"We Scots ur solid build. Whin they ootlanders didn't succeed in murdurrin' us, even a wee drop o' tea won't chap me aff, isn't it nae sae, lass?" he inquired in amusement, remarkably, Miranda blinking in confusion until her cheeks turned red again. Her looking away, down, anywhere but at the man who instead of getting agitated due to her accident had abruptly taken her hand possibly to kiss it even she was but a servant of this house. And as well utmost baffled for this fact Governor Swann stared at them for a moment speechless, me frowning again as watched the Scotsman's gaze to stay focused at blushing Miranda.

"Aye, sir", she complied, blinking now furiously, trying to curtsey for the third time to leave. But like me earlier the man didn't let her, only examining her with unreadable expression. Curiously, and his maybe a bit too friendly behavior seemed somewhat foreboding to me, making me wonder about his identity and intentions.

"Well, it is quite alright my boy, you look as dashing as ever!" The Governor finally stated, gaining a nod from the Scotsman. "It's indeed very good for you to have come and taken time to attend my daughter's engagement party. Both Elizabeth and I were delighted to hear from your great-uncle you to have returned after such a long absence."

Apparently Elizabeth took notice of my questionable frown, seeing me to be staring at the man talking to her father intently, her now leaning closer to me. Her voice lowering into a whisper as she filled in the gaps of my knowledge of her and her father's circle of acquaintances and family (in which I still had a lot to catch up on if I wanted to survive this marriage superbly).

"That's Taran Rodric McTavish, grand-nephew of our neighbor Earl Woodworth", she informed me, exchanging a glance with me and I saw her eyes to be filled with similar delight as her father's. "Taran's an old friend of ours. I've known him since I was a child, and even he's much older than me I remember him to have come to our house to play with me. When I was too wild for father to handle."

I released a slight laugh for her last comment, but my gaze soon returned to Mr. McTavish in interest too. So he was an old friend of Governor Swann's and related to Earl Woodworth? But the old Earl was British, like my father-in-law.

"But he's Scottish, isn't he?" I asked quietly, giving another quizzical glance to Elizabeth. She simply smiled with a nod.

"You noticed?" she said amused, us both giving the kilt a remarkable look before she continued. "Yes, Taran's mother was Scottish and he was mostly raised there. He only visited here shortly every now and then to see his mother's family. But my father has told me that nowadays he's very important man within his clan. He has his own estate in the highlands, and he enjoys great confidence when it comes to the matters of the clan, so it's highly likely one day he will become the head of McTavishes. But who knows, he's hold his position for years now so only time will tell… Nevertheless he's a very pleasant man Will, if at times a little unsophisticated. But that's purely due to the culture he's grown amidst and overall Taran's very agreeable once you get to know him and his rough manners."

"Earl Woodworth has Scottish lineage?"

"Yes, but rather distant. Like I told you, Earl Woodworth's niece ergo Taran's mother was Scottish on her father's side. But come on, I'll introduce you to him and you can ask all the questions you want by yourself."

I mulled the given information about this Scottish man in my mind for a moment, this suddenly appeared stranger regardless how liked and distinguished not seeming so agreeable at first glance to me for some reason. I couldn't explain it, but under those smiles and polite gazes he kept on directing around himself to seem indeed but sensible noble man I deemed to see something everyone else didn't. Something hidden, deep within that man's eyes. Something I couldn't name or expose, but after trying to figure out the reason for my disagreeable feelings about Mr. McTavish I shook my head. What was I thinking? If he was the friend of the Swanns, of course he was nothing but what Elizabeth had just told me. Polite, pleasant man with evident charm. But still as I watched him once again turn to Miranda, them exchanging a rather long gaze I then shook my head tardily. Observing them.

My gaze shifted back to Miranda, taking note of her abashment as she was addressed by the Scotsman, and rather friendly at that after Governor Swann had departed to go converse with the other guests. Mr. McTavish astonishing both her and me with his ease to start a discussion with a maid, where nobles such as him almost never acknowledged those lower their class in any way. Yes he was polite as to any woman within this room, but still he seemed to see Miranda as… equal to him. Practically fawning over her without even attempting to restraint himself.

"I say lass, there's nae better welcome than tae hear someone speak th' language o' me homelands 'ere sae far awa' from me beautiful Scotland", Mr. McTavish remarked cheerfully, his smile wide as he locked gazes with Miranda. Her returning his stare for a few seconds until looked down once more, indeed extremely baffled for the reason why a man such as him suddenly would seek her attention. And I had to admit to be wondering same.

"But even if ye'd be but anither ootlander lassie, yer bonny coupon would mak' me certainly recall th' stoatin' greens o' home I left behind, competing wi' ye. I find ye tae have grown intae a braw wifie from th' wee bairn I saw run aboot th' hoose wi' young Lizzie years ago."

"Me laird I… thank ye me laird, but I neither deserve nor want such praise… It makes me rather owerwhelmed", Miranda said in great embarrassment, meeting McTavish's eyes.

"Forgive me fur discomfittin' ye, but I'm feart it is me gey habit to act sae. Afore bonnie lassies me tongue runs awa' from me reason, but at this point I reckon it tae be appropriate to ask yer forgiveness", Mr. McTavish replied with even wider smile, this time standing and taking Miranda's hand again. Her directing a little uncomfortable glances around the room as the guests took notice how the Scotsman bowed to her, before the man looked up to her. Lifting his eyebrows. "I'd ne'er wish to make a lady uncomfortable aroond me. Especially those I have me eye oan."

"Sir!" Miranda breathed under her breath shocked, me wrinkling my brows as she pulled her hand free. McTavish simply smiling at her.

"None o' that noo, juist pretend I spouted oot a litany o' unnecessary compliments which ur proper to be recited at times whin woman's decency is offended", McTavish stated, leaning closer to Miranda who took a nonplussed step back. However not expressing such dismay that I expected, her eyes locked into the Scotsman's, him as well realizing this and lifting his jaw in a confident manner. "It is nae me type tae be mair courteous than absolute requisite amount, 'n' confess tae be mair straightforward than ye might prefer… But nonetheless, afore I can mak' amends tae ye in th' wey ye favor, tell me whit's yer name lass?"

Miranda didn't answer at first, contemplating McTavish's words, examining him in small outrage of his truly bold character, which apparently could be identified as this somewhat unsophisticated behavior Elizabeth had mentioned. And now I understood why, me staring at the man in dismay myself as did some of the guests nearest him and Miranda. But instead of turning angry or as awkward as before, Miranda now sighed. Her expression rather calm when she responded, bowing her head.

"Miranda Martins, sir."

"Taran McTavish at yer maist fateful service. I can honestly say that me trespass intae me great-uncle's hospitality has taken a greatly pleasant turn upoan meetin' ye who's such comely sight fur man's eyes. I trust I can count oan an audience wi' ye when ye see it fit?"

His latest statement outraged me even more, causing me to stare at Miranda incredulously as I couldn't believe her to allow that man to speak to her so… presumptuously. But apparently this level of brashness was enough to Miranda too, her turning red again as her own gaze finally fell from McTavish's face to stare at her apron. Her not responding as she only inclined her head, a call of Mattie's saving her from the uneasy situation. Her then collecting herself as smiled at the man, curtsying for the last time.

"Guid day, sir."

I followed Miranda to hurry out of the lounge, Taran McTavish's eyes as well trailing her steps until he turned. Leaving his seat beside the wall with a fresh cup of tea he'd received from Estrella, starting a lively conversation with Countess Somerset and her husband.

"Now's our chance. Let's go, I can barely describe Taran's unique character, so you just have to meet him in person to see it yourself", Elizabeth's voice spoke after such a long silence, me noticing to have fallen deep into my ponders as saw her step forth. Me following her gaze which led to the said man's back. But before she could take another step I stopped her, smiling at her as turned her around. Meeting with her in turn baffled eyes.

"Maybe later."

Efter two hours th' last guests finally left, including th' rather eccentric Scotsman I'd met previously when I'd made a total fool oot o' meself by splashin' hot tea all ower 'im. I'd been so eager to ran awa' from William that wi'oot thinkin' I'd brushed past th' man, in accident shovin' th' tea cup from his haun 'n' causin' th' tea to spill ontae th' carpet as weel as his fine tailored jacket. I sighed due to th' remembrance o' that humiliatin' moment, 'n' reprimanded this time meself for bein' such a klutz. I hadn't been that embarrassed for a very long time, but regardless o' me error 'n' th' indignity it had brought, all that shame for me clumsiness had been quickly forgotten when he'd so suddenly stairted to address me. Even askin' me name! I'd expected 'im to have gotten angry ower me mistake, but instead I could've sworn 'im to have… fawned me. That's what it had seemed lik', 'n' I couldn't fathom a reason for it. I was but a servant, 'n' there had been so many unmarried young ladies present in th' party that th' possible explanation why he would've showed me any mair attention than occasional keek o' distaste made me very doilt th' mair I thought aboot it. Tryin' to fathom what had occurred in th' lounge as I noo was gatherin' th' dishes wi' Estrella.

Me thoughts returned back to anither disconcerting man present at th' party, causin' me to sigh woeful. William had tried to speak to me again. He'd tried to do so several times these past months, but how could I have a normal conversation wi' someone who made me hert lurch every time I gazed upoan 'im? Makin' me relive that blasted luv which burnt me from inside lik' a hot iron torchin' me guts, his very presence or a single keek makin' me wish to become completely callous. Numb to every human emotion, such ability givin' me th' qualifications to become but cold person who didnae have to suffer for me at this point ludicrous yearnin' for a taken man. But knowin' me, such hopes were as useless as me wishes to win back William's luv, which was why I had to keep goin' th' same wey. Avoidin' 'im, have nae dealings wi' 'im unless it concerned th' matters o' th' manor or th' still forthcomin' wedding. That was th' only wey for me to live wi' me pain, lettin' it lessen slowly by time. But I wasn't sure did I actually believe meself in that…

"Miranda?" Miss Elizabeth's voice then suddenly called oot to me, me straightenin' me back 'n' turnin' to see 'er dauner back intae th' lounge 'n' all th' wey to th' dinin' room where I was. William by 'er side. I hid me discomfort by smilin' at me Mistress, curtsyin'. Me knees were stairtin' to truly ache at this rate if I had to keep oan cutrsyin' lik' that…

"Aye, Miss?" I inquired, Miss Elizabeth's eyes littin' up by some form o' excitement as she noo urged William to follow 'er. 'Er comin' to a halt a couple o' feet awa' from me, 'er gaze focusin' solely oan me, where William's rather doilt attention was swiftly moved from me to his fiancé when she stairted to speak. Truly jocular tone in 'er voice.

"Good that I still found you here. I have something important to tell you!"

"Aye, Miss?" I asked again, noo mair carefully as examined 'er face which seemed satisfied o' somewhat, William noo inclinin' his heid quizzically.

"Why did you need me here too?" he queried in turn, me automatically avoidin' his gaze as he glanced at me curtly. "I would love to stay Elizabeth, but I still have today's work to finish before dinner."

"I know that Will, but if you just would wait one moment!" Miss Elizabeth urged happily, turnin' back to me. "Because both of you need to hear what I've been planning lately. It's a surprise I've been eager to tell you for a long time, Will. As well as you Miranda, as you are both equally important to me."

"Surprise, Miss?" I repeated questionably, droppin' me gaze due to th' sound o' me Mistress' last remark which I didn't agree oan full-hertedly, liftin' th' last cups ontae th' tray as Estrella arrived. Takin' care o' th' rest o' th' dirty plates 'n' cutlery by amassin' 'em ontae 'er ain server, where I spied from th' corner o' me eye how Miss Elizabeth keeked at both me 'n' expectant William by 'er side. Finally smiling, revalin' 'er secret juist as Estrella left th' room, me liftin' me tray form th' table.

"As you know Miranda, after Will and I have been married we'll move to our own house which father has promised to provide for us. And once we do live on our own, we will need a capable housekeeper. Dear Mattie is an ideal choice for such task, but unfortunately too frail to be commissioned for our service. So I was thinking that as you're so close to both me and Will, maybe you would like to leave my father's service and come to work in our manor? I myself think it to be an excellent idea!"

"What?" William asked, as shocked as was I, earnin' a beamin' smile from Miss Elizabeth as much as me widened eyes could see. But he was hardly as dismayed as me, as instantly efter hearin' Miss Elizabeth's proposition I cringed, th' tray slippin' from me fingers. It along wi' th' fine china crashin' ontae th' floor 'n' shatterin' intae million pieces at me feet, me nae even noticin' it as had been stuck to goup at th' back wall o' th' dinin' room in utmaist bewilderment. Nae registerin' when th' worried turned gazes o' William 'n' Miss Elizabeth were then directed at me efter a few seconds o' death silence, me simply standin' there frozen oan me spot as they examined me in mutual confusion due to me reaction. Me Mistress steppin' forth.

"Miranda, are you alright? You turned pale", she queried, me blinkin' for a few times as 'er earlier words echoed in me mind. 'Em causin' me hert efter all soon to lurch afore it was squeezed by pure agony when William daunered ower to me. His coupon filled wi' worry 'n' pity which made th' knot in me stomach tighten, me gaspin' again as I felt his haun to press oan me arm. Its light touch snappin' me oot from me shocked daze.

"Is everything well?" he asked. Me deterrin' th' great urge to slap his haun awa' as then quickly kneeled, frownin' at th' mess I'd accomplished wi' mair o' me klumsiness.

"Forgive me Miss, I… Juist have done quite much work and am a wee tired. I'll clean this up right awa'!" I half stuttered, managin' to keep me emotions under control plausibly as wi' hasty fingers stairted to gather th' shards o' flowery porcelain from th' carpet.

"You shouldn't exhaust yourself too much", William mused. "Go rest."

A sting o' annoyance submerged among me stirrin' feelings. What choice do I have if I don't want to think about your marriage all the time? I thought bitterly, payin' no heed to his prompt. Causin' 'im to sigh 'til I accidentally sliced me finger wi' one o' th' fragments, th' nurturin' trait liftin' its heid within 'im 'n' this time urging him to take hold o' me haun to stop me.

"Be careful", he prompted again, kneelin' beside me to aid me, worry colorin' his voice as weel when he spoke. But he then flinched back when I did shove his helpin' haun awa', though gently, actually this time meetin' his eyes which looked to me in confusion. Me possibly allowin' a glimpse o' me inner torment to show from me irises when I noo barely managed a serious face oan me coupon. But th' shakin' o' me hauns told o' other feelings than me feigned cheerfulness.

"Naw, me laird. I'll take care o' me ain mess."

"But are you well enough to work?" Miss Elizabeth asked as I then rose back to me feet, rushin' toward th' lounge after givin' 'er a fleetin' carefree smile.

"Aye, I'm sure. Guid day to ye, Miss. Mr. Turner."

I stopped to give William a slight curtsey afore succeeded to sneak oot o' th' room 'n' their sight, William's voice probably callin' efter me but I ignored it what else. Pent up breath escapin' me lips instantly when I was freed from their company, wi' half runnin' steps me wance again escapin' to th' kitchen. To th' only place where I didn't need to smother me feelings, me pushin' thro' th' door. Th' tray almost fallin' from me hauns midair as I leant against th' table, curious gazes o' Mattie 'n' Estrella foremaist turnin' to take in th' smashed china afore they rose to me distraught form.

"Miranda? Are you alright?" Mattie enquired, throwin' a rag oan 'er shoulder as eyed at me. Me shakin' me heid vigorously, lik' too many times afore holdin' back tears o' frustration. Finally answerin' truthfully to one o' those numerous inquiries made aboot me condition I noo admitted to have only lied so far.

"No. I am not alright."

Scottish words:

Pronouns etc:

o'= of, th'= the, 'em= them, oor= our, 'n'= and, intae= into, 'er= her, 'im= him, me=my, ontae=onto, tae = to, sae = so, fur = for

1th chap:

thro'= through, ain=own, wi'=with, noo=now, wi'oot=without, lik'=like, mair=more, ken=know, doon= down, aff= off, hert= heart, hoose=house, awready=already, nae = not, efter= after, stairted = started, dauner= walk, aboot = about, laird= lord, weel= well, mornin'= morning, ower= over, awa'= away, maist = most, claes = clothes, haun = hand, 'imself = himself, freish = new, squint= to be wrong/slant, oot = out, aye = yes, ye = you, oan = on, wheest = quiet, awright = alright, efternoon = afternoon, wance = once, keek = look, meself = myself, 'til =until, wee = a little/little, juist = just, neist = next, coupon = face, aroond = around, heid = head, ower = over, wey = way, goup = stare, hing = task, gowk = fool, luv/to luv= love/to love, lugs = ears, loads= several, foremaist= first, gey= very, mukker = friend, ur = are, solid = hard, whin = when, they = those, ootlanders = in this the British/strangers, murdurrin' = kill, chap = knock, anither = another, bonny = pretty mak' = make, stoatin' = beautiful, braw = fine, wifie = woman, bairn = child, feart = afraid, whit's = what is, doilt = confused, didnae = didn't, utmaist = utmost