Part II
(Chapters III & IV)
(Disclaimer: I am in no way affiliated with Jane Austen or any republication of her works. I only wish to express an idea inspired by her novel Pride and Prejudice.)
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Chapter Three
(Learning)
Mary had been at Dodgewood for three and a half months. She had spent her time teaching Daniela, who had recovered and no longer acted with the frustration she had shown the fateful night of her illness. Her remaining time was spent with Lord Dodgewood, who seemed preoccupied with getting to know the woman he had hired to teach his young ward. Mary had said nothing of the lord's kiss that night and it continued to plague her mind at its meaning. However, she could say that she had gotten to know the nobleman quite well in their talks and walks, and he in turn had gotten to know who she was.
They took their jaunts at nearly the same time each afternoon. The lord was persistent that their walks occur and he furthered their acquaintance after the evening meal in the drawing room. Mary would play for the lord and Daniela and they would share their stories of growing up with the young girl. Neither Mrs. Garwood nor Ms. Hollander remarked about the couple's growing relationship… except with one another. They felt sure that the eight and twenty year old lord was smitten with the two and twenty year old governess and vice versa. The two were oblivious of the other's affections and the two elder women held esteem for both the well-bred young lady and their good master. They cared only for their happiness but they knew their place.
It was a fine afternoon that Mary was told the answer to Daniela's mysterious origins. The two were walking alongside the infamous river (Edward the closest to the water) and Mary could not help but ask where the young girl had come from. She had been at Dodgewood for so long and she felt the need to know who the girl's true mother was. It was almost as if she wanted to verify that Daniela was truly some waif the lord had taken pity on… or if she was the lord's child by some… lady of the night. Her companions answer would be nothing that she had ever expected.
Edward looked at the young woman beside him with pained eyes. She was two years his junior yet she had the wise kindness of someone as ancient as Time. 'Maria' was every bit the passionate burning fire and… the calming balm of water. He knew he could trust her with Daniela's story but… the memory was something he had been running from since the knowledge of Daniela's existence.
"It is a sad tale," the lord murmured and looked towards the horizon with wondering eyes.
Mary put a gentle hand on the pained man's arm, "You need not tell me if it distresses you."
Edward looked at her with tears in his azure eyes and gave a sad smile, "No, you deserve to know Maria. You see I have met two angels in my life and both of them have found a special place in my heart. Daniela is the daughter of both an angel and an evil spawn."
Mary took the nobleman's hand and gave a gentle squeeze and the lord continued, "Her name was Ana Maria. She was the daughter of a Spanish Don, an old friend of my father's. You could say we grew up together. She was very much a sister to me and my spiritual guide. She helped me see that the world was so much more than my playground."
Mary was dismayed to see tears slip down the venerable strapping man at her side, "Please, my lord, do not continue if it pains you."
Edward shook his head, "No, no you deserve to understand. Ana Maria was a year older than I. She wanted to become a nun in the church and her parents were accepting of their daughter's wishes. She loved everything with a full open honesty and trusted everyone. She could be friend to anyone and could not stand to see anyone in pain. You remind me of her, Maria."
Mary blushed and asked, "Is that why you call me 'Maria'? I had always thought it was because of Daniela."
Edward smiled, "It was because of Daniela and because I knew it annoys you when I call you that. At first, I had just thought it a strange coincidence that your names were so close."
Mary gave a smile, "You wanted to annoy me?"
"Only because your quick wit astounds and entertains me," Edward chuckled and squeezed her hand. "Why do you think I still employ you?"
Mary gave him a shocked and amused glance, "I beg your pardon?"
Edward laughed, "You may have it. Although, I do not know what you would need it for."
Mary chuckled lightly before turning to look up at him, "You were saying."
Edward nodded softly, "She was my closest friend and her life ended wastefully. Her father was hosting a party of several diplomats and aristocrats of all nations. I had left the party to settle a business venture for my father. I returned well after everyone should have been abed, it was nearly close to one in the morning. My room was one door down from the second story library and as I passed the room to get to mine… I heard muffle sobs."
Mary felt the lord's grip on her hand tighten and they stopped underneath the shade of a tree. Edward sat on a boulder at Mary's insistence and Mary took her seat beside him. She took a handkerchief from her pockets and softly wiped away the man's tears. Edward chuckled without humor as he took the offered cloth. He continued his story without looking at the woman beside him.
"I will never forget the sight that greeted me when I entered that library. I opened the doors to find Ana Maria on the floor. Her night gown was shredded and torn in pieces around her. She had a swollen eye and her lip was bleeding. She was sitting, huddled, with her knees against her chest, rocking back and forth and sobbing. She… she was covered in… in blood and… and…"
Edward could not continue and Mary nodded with understanding. Inside, her heart wrenched in pain for the lost young woman who had been the victim of such an evil attack. She could not help but let the tears well in her own eyes.
"I immediately shouted for help and awoke the whole house. Her father came in and shouted for a doctor. Ana Maria was broken… She would not let a man come within two feet of her. The doctor had to rely on the help of the women around him to examine the battered woman. She did not stop sobbing until she fell into a medicinally induced slumber. Her father and I searched the entire neighborhood for the beast that would do such a deed but… found nothing. I hated myself… continue to hate myself for not being there to protect her. If only I would have returned sooner…"
Mary made him look at her, "You cannot blame yourself. Ana Maria would not want you to. It was no one's fault but the evil man who did such a thing to her."
Edward rested his head against his and Mary's hands and Mary wrapped her other arm around the lord's shoulders.
"Ana Maria told us who it was… when she found out that she was with child. I went in search of the man. He was a spoiled son a nobleman who thought he was invincible. I could have killed him one night. I found him…drunk in a dark alley. It took everything I had to not seize him and take away his undeserved life. I regretted that decision when Daniela was born and Ana Maria died, her last word was her daughter's name. The moment she slipped away I wanted to hunt the streets for the bastard who had taken a live angel… my best friend away from the earth. I found out later he had been killed in a drunken fight with some sailors. The knowledge of his death still does not rid me of the need for vengeance and regret that I did not take my chance."
Mary held her breath at the lord's dark thoughts. She made the lord look up at her and she squeezed his hand.
"You did the right thing, Edward," she murmured without realizing she had used his given name. "Ana Maria would not have wanted you to lose your life for murdering her attacker. She would want you to learn to forgive. She wanted you to understand that it was not your fault… that you did your best and continue to do so. Do not regret the right decisions, my lord. You have a child in there that loves you. Do you not see that? You have run for far too long. She needs a father and you are that father. You may not have given the seed to create her but you are her true father despite the unconnected blood. You must do what Ana Maria would have wished, Edward. You have to care for Daniela truly. You have to be in her life for more than a passing month or so."
Mary took a deep breath after her speech and then she looked down at the ground, "Forgive me, my lord, it is not my place to pass judgment."
The nobleman looked at her with stunned appreciative eyes, "No, I fear you are right. You are so right."
The two stared into one another's eyes. Tears were glistening in both sapphire and jade depths. Edward still clasped Mary's hand within both of his and Mary still held her arm comfortingly about his shoulder. It was an embarrassing moment when they realized their improper nearness. Mary pulled away first and blushed. She refused to look at the lord and moved to stand. Edward stood and cleared his throat. His heart was doing strange things inside his chest and he could not help but be fascinated and grateful to the woman before him, yet again. She had sat through an appalling story and her only concern had been his grief and Daniela's future well-being. He felt responsible for Mary's embarrassment and decided to apologize for their improper proximity.
"I am sorry Maria," Edward began softly, "if I have over stepped my bounds…"
Edward stopped as Mary turned to look at him with shocked green eyes. Her hair was in a braid and it swung wildly with the speed and force of her turn. Edward could not help but admire the woman's beauty and spark. However, his ears registered the fact that she was speaking to him.
"It is I who overstepped my bounds, my lord," Mary murmured. "I am sorry for that and for causing you to relive such painful memories."
Edward smiled, unsurprised with his governess's response. He shook his head and put his hand on his hips.
"How about we begin our return to the castle and overlook anything potentially embarrassing?" Edward suggested with a teasing smile.
Mary nodded with a small smile of her own, "That seems a very good idea. Besides, Ms. Hollander will have had supper ready by now. We have spent so much time out here."
Edward chuckled and they began their walk towards the castle. Mary wrapped her arms around herself against the chilling breeze and Edward offered his coat, to which she politely refused. Edward looked at her appraisingly and decided to pose a daring question.
"I have told you something no one else knows outside of Spain," he began softly. "Perhaps you would tell me something no one knows of you."
Mary looked up at his request and she felt a nervous twinge of embarrassment. However, she felt that she owed him his request. He had shared something deeply personal that only a very close friend or relative might be told, someone who he trusted explicitly. It was only fair to entreat him with the same respect and unfailing trust he had placed in her. She took a deep breath and decided to reveal her deepest wish. A wish she had hidden from everyone, even her sisters. She looked up at him with shy emerald eyes.
"I will tell my deepest wish," Mary murmured softly. "Not even my sisters know of my most secret wish."
Edward felt humbled that this amazing woman would trust him enough to reveal something she had not even told her closest family. He nodded and met her green eyes with serious azure ones, waiting patiently for her to continue on. After a moment, Edward realized that Mary had been struck by a bout of uncertainty.
"You need not be embarrassed, Maria," Edward told her in a comforting tone. "I will not make light of your secret and I most certainly would not try and hurt you with such information. You can trust me, Maria."
Mary searched his eyes for any falsehood and took a deep breath when she found nothing but sincerity. She nodded with a small smile and turned to look towards the castle.
"I have always been the less brilliant sister," Mary murmured softly. "I was always overshadowed by Jane's beauty, Elizabeth's wit, Kitty's delicate ways, and Lydia's frivolity. Each of my sisters, with the exception of dear departed Lydia, found men to care for them and respect them as they were. They found true partners in life and are becoming mothers."
Mary paused to collect her thoughts. She felt tears begin to fall but proudly kept her head and shoulders straight. She was about to speak again, when she felt warm fingers brush away her tears with a soft cloth, her handkerchief. Mary looked up at the silent lord and silently gave a nod of thanks when she took the piece of cloth he offered. Edward remained silent, his eyes the only window into what he could be thinking. They were alight with warmth, understanding, and the wish to comfort. Mary could not stare into the cobalt depths without thinking highly improper thoughts about kissing his lordship. She quickly turned her head towards the castle again.
"At first, without my eldest sisters at home," Mary began again, her voice softly wavering, "I thought that it was my chance to prove that I could be just as delicate as Kitty, as witty as Elizabeth, and perhaps be as charming as Jane if not a match to her beauty. I know I am not plain but… I could not come near Jane's beauty. It is almost otherworldly."
Edward wanted to disagree with her about her beauty but realized that it would be imprudent. He had never met her sisters and his comparison would be considered illogical by the intelligent woman before him. He kept his silence and studied Mary thoughtfully as she continued.
"However," Mary sighed, "it was not to be. Mama was obsessed with my sisters' marriages and good fortune. Papa was almost as absorbed as Mama was with my sisters' lives, although with different attitude. For awhile, I contented myself to improve myself in all fields, especially my music. Kitty and I were good company for one another but, that was strained when Lydia died. Lydia was always Kitty's favorite sister. Then she was sent to stay with Elizabeth when we found out there was to be a Darcy baby. Kitty was reacquainted with Colonel Fitzwilliam, the cousin to Elizabeth's husband, and they too fell in love and married."
"It was then I realized I was completely alone," Mary murmured sadly. "I was actually very useless to my parents and I knew it would not be long before my mother was pressing me to marry. It has been her goal to see all of us married from our births."
Mary chuckled humorlessly, "I felt stifled in the house. After my sisters married, the young men at home decided that I was pretty and interesting enough to pay attention to but, I did not want to be a 'second best' wife. With my whole quest for 'self-improvement', I discovered that I was happiest being myself and that I was perfect as I am for anyone's company. Then I decided that I would no longer be sequestered to my parent's home and pressures. I advertised and… here I am."
"But…" Edward urged lightly.
"Oh, I love it here, my lord," Mary smiled softly. "Do not fear that I dislike my situation here at Dodgewood. However, I… My most secret wish is that I find someone for me, as my sisters found for them. I want someone who does not choose me because I am 'good enough' but because I am special to them. I want so desperately to find the love and respect in a man that my sisters have found in their husbands. I want to bear children and raise them with that man."
Mary blushed and closed her eyes, "I want to be seen as the only beautiful woman in a room to that man. I want to know what love is… I want to realize the passion of love and not just the other passions I hold for everything else in my life."
Mary became silent after her outburst and Edward looked to find tears spilling down the stubbornly strong woman's cheeks. They fell silently, like pristine silver, down the soft curve of the young woman's face and Edward felt his heart twist with the urge to hold and comfort her. Here was a woman who only wished for love, a woman who gave and gave, who admitted her faults and when she was wrong, a woman who would not back down from something she believed in, a woman who was more beautiful than sunset, a woman who gave her friendship and kindness freely, a woman who was filled with passion in all aspects of her life, and a woman who loved deeply. Edward could tell that she had been hurt in the past by thinking she was 'second best'. He had never met her sisters but he could already tell that Mary was the shining sun amidst them. She admitted her jealousy for her sisters but it was overcome by her genuine affection and love for them. She had been the one hidden by her sisters' supposed greatness in whatever aspect and thrived despite the lack of care given to her. She was strength and beauty personified.
Edward wanted shout all of this to the world and with heart beating wildly, his mind finally came to a shocking realization. He was in love with Miss 'Maria' Bennet. He looked at her and felt such an overwhelming rush of emotions that the knowledge of his love hit home in his heart and mind. Edward was nearly giddy with thoughts about a future with this spirited woman. He desperately ached to kiss her, hold her against him, and his imagination even went into the point of indecent thoughts about 'married life'. Before he could embarrass himself, he coughed and realized he had said nothing in response to Mary's confession.
"Maria," he started softly and took her hand as they reached the castle's courtyard. "I am sure that you will find a man worthy for your attentions, a man that will love you as I… as you deserve."
Edward nearly hit himself at his near admission. He could not help himself as he brought Mary's hand up to his lips and kissed the delicate skin tenderly. He left his lips a moment longer than he should have and straightened himself to find Mary looking at him with a strange look in her eyes and a deep blush that made Edward want to reach and kiss her, just to keep that lovely flush of pink in her cheeks. Instead, he wisely released her hand and took a propriety step backward. They continued to stare at one another in silence until the shrill whinny of horses and the sounds of carriage wheels interrupted their reverie. Mary blushed and they both turned to see three carriages approaching the castle. She heard Edward's muttered curse and looked at him with questioning eyes.
"It seems we are to have guests," Edward answered, his voice betraying his contempt for the uninvited 'guests'. "I am surprised they had not come sooner. I had hoped that they had given up on making a noble neighbor of me."
Mary arched a brow at the lord's vehemence, "May I enquire as to your disagreement with them? Who are they for that matter?"
"The first carriage seems to be Lady Charlotte Ives; her estate is a mile in the opposite direction of the village. Do not repeat this but she is almost as stifling as your Lady Catherine."
Mary laughed lightly, "My lord! You should not speak of your peers in such a manner. It will hardly generate neighborly feelings."
Edward smiled at her laughter and shook his head in disagreement.
"Trust me, Maria," Edward replied, "you will understand once you have met Lady Charlotte and her daughter."
"What of the other carriages, your lordship?" Mary teased lightly. "Who are these 'intruders' you wish so to be rid of?"
Edward arched a brow and laughed, "The second carriage is mostly likely carrying Mr. Henry Forrester. He is a novelist who borders on being satirical. I just say he is as mad as the people he tends to write about."
Mary shook her head, "I have never heard such an impertinent and improper speech… except from my mother. You are supposed to be a proper and amiable aristocratic gentleman."
"I believe that the world holds to much stock in propriety," Edward teased lightly. "If I had my way, propriety would be expressing our selves freely without fear of being ostracized from our peers."
Mary laughed, "The world would be in chaos from too many feuds and battles caused by ill-tempered words. You, my lord, would surely be in the thick of each one."
Edward laughed and nodded, "I do not doubt that. However, I shall promise to act the perfect gentleman while our 'guests' remain. The last carriage probably holds Mr. and Mrs. Hurst and Mrs. Hurst's sister…"
"Miss Bingley," Mary sighed and rolled her eyes. "Simply wonderful…"
Edward quirked a brow at the sudden change of attitude from his secret love, "I take it you have been acquainted with Miss Bingley before?"
"She and Mrs. Hurst are my sisters-by-marriage," Mary sighed. "How Charles could be related to them is completely beyond me. He is a completely different type of person."
"Which of your sisters married Bingley again?" Edward asked as they walked towards the oncoming carriages.
"Jane. That is another interesting tale. I am surprised I have not told it to you yet."
Edward put his hands in the pockets of his coat, "You can always tell it to me later. Hopefully, our 'guests' will not intrude for very long."
Mary shook her head with a laugh, "You must promise to behave, my lord. I am sure Charles and Fitzwilliam will be down here protesting my presence here if you are anything but a perfect gentleman. Those two have taken to the brotherly role quite eagerly and they are very over-protective because I have no blood brothers to protect my honor."
Edward chuckled, "I promise to behave. Besides, you can very well protect your honor by yourself. You can be a very intimidating woman, Maria."
"Miss Bennet," Mary reminded, although with an amused grin.
"I will be damned if I call you that," Edward answered. "I will compromise to Miss Maria. We have been in company far too long for me to simply call you Miss Bennet or Miss Mary. You will always be my Maria."
The carriages came to a halt before them removing Mary's chance to respond to the provocative statement. Her heart twittered when she had heard him say 'my Maria' and wondered senselessly at what that could possibly mean. She prayed that the Hurst's and Caroline would not stay for long. They may be relatives but it did not mean she had to like them at all. Mary stood in her place as Edward moved to help the ladies out of the first simple but elegant black carriage pulled by a pair of equally ebony horses. The first woman was older with honeyed hair and a buxom figure. Mary assumed that it was Lady Charlotte by the age lines in her face. Her assumption was confirmed when the woman spoke.
"It has been far too long, Edward," she smiled in an overly amiable voice.
Edward nodded and bowed to kiss the woman's hand, "I agree, Lady Charlotte. I had just been planning to visit Ives Manor earlier this week."
Mary bit back a smile at the obvious falsehood and continued to watch the display in silence. Lady Charlotte moved to make way for the next occupant of the carriage. Edward offered his hand a dainty hand gloved in garishly scarlet gloves found its way to the lord's palm. Mary held her breath as a stunning young woman exited the carriage with a smile and smug gleam in her eyes. She was dressed in an almost blinding scarlet getup with black trimmings. Her hair was nearly a silver gold and was pinned in ringlets against head. Mary instantly did not like the woman. Miss Ives nearly vibrated with cold maliciousness and Mary made a vow not to allow Daniela to associate with such a creature. She felt her heart clench in anger as the woman with ice blue eyes laughed and took Edward's arm as if she owned the appendage. To her happiness though, Edward looked extremely uncomfortable and delicately removed his arm from the grasping female.
"Miss Bianca Ives," Edward murmured with a slight nod. "You are as shining as ever."
Miss Bianca smiled appreciatively at the comment but Mary could not hold back a light giggle. She understood Edward's play on words very well and smiled lightly when Edward glanced with a grin towards her. The next carriage moved up and out stepped a young man, possibly in his early thirties. He carried a log in his hand and a black bag in the other. Mary was curious about the man. He was short in stature and had spectacles that made his eyes appear beady. He had mousy brown hair that looked as if it had never seen a comb. However, his face and attitude seemed amiable enough. Mary could tell that she could make a friend with the young man. The last carriage came to the party and Mary sighed as she moved closer to the group. She would have to be respectful and greet her in-laws. Edward took notice of her movement and turned to give her an amused smile. Miss Bianca noticed the lord's movement and turned only to glare at the young woman approaching them.
"Miss Bianca might I introduce Miss Maria Bennet," Edward said in response to the cool woman's glare. "She is my ward's governess and has become quite the asset to Dodgewood."
"Miss Bennet," Bianca murmured with a clipped voice and sharp nod of her head.
Mary curtsied politely, "Miss Ives, Lady Charlotte, and Mr. Forrester, I am pleased to make your acquaintance."
The three nodded in response and Mary quickly assessed that Lady Charlotte was as cool as her daughter. However, Mr. Forrester was amiable and offered a curious smile. Edward chuckled and gave her pointed glance that made Mary chuckle lightly. Mr. and Mrs. Hurst exited the final carriage and the latter looked up in shock once she saw Mary in the group. She said nothing and stepped out of the way for Caroline to descend the carriage steps, dressed in her trademark color of glaring orange. Caroline looked up and the smile she had on her face dropped when she saw Mary standing beside the Lord of Dodgewood.
"What are you doing here?" she asked in a voice bordering on impertinence.
Mary smiled lightly, "I am employed as governess, Caroline. I am surprised that Charles and Jane did not tell you. It is good to see you, Richard, Candice, and you as well Caroline."
The three nodded and did the proper bow and curtsy for the lord. After everyone was greeted and introduced, Edward directed the party towards the castle parlor. He trailed behind alongside Mary and they held a whispered conversation of plans. Mary told the nobleman that she would keep Daniela away from the party. She did not think it was wise to push the young girl into such a gathering so suddenly. Edward nodded and gained Mary's promise to play for the group after supper. They laughed silently at the party before them before they parted at the staircase. Edward's eyes followed his angel all the way up until she disappeared down a hall. Sighing, he moved to face his duties as a noble host.
Mary found Daniela in the second story library reading by the fireplace. Mary smiled and cleared her throat softly. Daniela looked up with startled eyes but the chocolate orbs brightened when she realized it was her beloved governess. Daniela smiled and stood to welcome Mary with a warm hug. Mary chuckled and returned the embrace before backing away and asking the young girl what she had been reading.
"I was reading one of Senor Edward's books. It was different stories like fairy-tales but… they were not normal fairy-tales. They were… I think the book said they were myths and legends."
Mary's eyes widened and her mind could not help but amused at the irony. Daniela was reading the same book that had caused her to fall into the river; the very book that had started her acquaintance with the lord. Mary smiled and took a seat next to the young girl on the settee. Daniela took out the book and decided that she would read out loud to her governess for once. Mary laughed at the child's insistence and decided to relax and offer assistance when it was called for. Mrs. Garwood found them an hour later to announce supper was served.
Mary helped Daniela put the book away and straighten up the library after the use and they both started their walk towards the kitchen. Mary took Daniela's hand and they walked down the hall. Daniela took that moment to realize that her governess had not spent the usual time with her 'father-figure'. Being a precocious and inquisitive child, Daniela could not resist asking why that was. Mary sighed and began the task of informing the young girl of the party downstairs.
"Lord Dodgewood has guests, Daniela," Mary began. "We do not know how long they intend to stay as they were quite uninvited. That is another lesson on courtesy. Never invite yourself into someone else's home. However, if you do happen to be in our 'guests' presence, do not mention their intrusion.
"Why are they intruding? Does that not show they are discourteous and…" Daniela trailed off trying to think of how to word her concerns. "Why is Senor Edward allowing them to stay if they are intruders?"
Mary giggled and squeezed the child's hand, "His lordship is allowing them to stay because he is being the better man. He is showing his amiability and hospitable nature by allowing them to stay. However, if I know our lord, he will make a point to show he was not pleased with our guests surprise visit."
Daniela nodded and looked up at Mary with troubled eyes. Mary squeezed her hand and asked the girl what was ailing her.
"Do I have to meet and talk with them?" Daniela asked softly. "I do not want them to laugh at me because I cannot speak like them."
Mary kissed the girl's forehead, "You do not have to if you do not wish to. However, I promise that I will not allow them to laugh at you. They would have to answer to both me and the lord."
Daniela nodded satisfied with the answer and her face took on its normal exuberant expression as she tugged Mary towards the kitchens. They passed a hall that the 'intruders' were traversing in but did not realize such. Edward looked up as he heard Daniela's childlike giggling and Mary's light tinkling laugh. He caught sight of them just before they disappeared past the hall's entrance. He smiled with warmth at the pair before the call of duty beckoned him to repay his attentions to his uninvited peers. He did not notice that one other person had seen the pair and had also noticed Edward's warm loving gaze towards them.
Bianca Ives was not about to let some trollop of a governess steal her intended husband. First, she must gather information about the servant from Miss Bingley. Caroline was always a close friend and as it was… they were the proverbial peas in the pod albeit 'rotten' peas. Still, Caroline had a connection with the little trollop and that would most likely prove completely useful. Bianca continued to think her malicious thoughts straight through dinner until it came time for the party to retire to the drawing room. While her name suggested she was pure, Bianca Ives was far from an angel. She was as close to a black-hearted shrew as there ever was. (A/N: Bianca is White in Italian)
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Chapter Four
(Feeling)
Mary knew that she disliked Bianca Ives the moment she had seen her climb out of the carriage. However, she was now in the thought to move her emotion from dislike to despise. Not only had she shown herself to be a hypocritical witch of a woman. She had insulted and hurt Daniela's delicate pride.
Mary sat at her desk, the oil in her lamp running low, fuming at the vicious woman named Miss Bianca Ives. She had already written in her journal the worst sorts of thoughts about the creature no… beast, the woman revealed herself to be. It was several hours after supper and she still had not dressed for bed. She wanted to scream but that would wake the distressed (and finally asleep) Daniela, the castle's despicable 'guests', and the lord if he was asleep yet. He had taken up trying to console Daniela alongside her. Mary's only satisfaction of the night was that fact. Lord Dodgewood's anger at the insult paid to his surrogate daughter was great. However, he did not reveal that to his guests… at the present time. He felt Daniela's pain and Mary's anger were more pressing matters.
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Mary had allowed Daniela to come to the drawing room after their supper. The child had asked if she could, just to listen to Mary's performance, and Mary had acquiesced. Mary had arrived holding, a rather shy, Daniela's hand. Daniela had angled herself to wear she could hide most of herself behind Mary's skirts. Lord Dodgewood had raised his eyebrows when she entered with the young girl and Mary bowed her head.
"You asked me to play for you, my lord?" Mary said politely and then brought Daniela slowly in front of her. "Daniela wished to listen as well and I thought the hour was reasonable for her to listen awhile before bed."
Edward smiled at Mary's smooth answer to the obvious question in his eyes. Mary gave an unassuming polite smile and Edward moved to take Daniela by his side. Daniela's eyes widened at the people near him and she gave a small shake of the head and moved closer to Mary. The lord gave a light chuckle and quickly moved to recover his appearance. He stood near the hearth, a usual setting when Mary played and Daniela relaxed somewhat at his presence there. The lord then began to speak, so as to introduce Daniela to the guests.
"This, my dear friends, is my little Daniela," Edward smiled. "Daniela this is Lady Charlotte, countess of Ives and her daughter Miss Bianca Ives, this is Mr. Forrester, this is Mr. Hurst and his wife Mrs. Candice Hurst, and this is Miss Caroline Bingley. They are Miss Maria's relatives by marriage."
Daniela looked towards Mary for confirmation and Mary nodded with a warm smile. Afterward, Daniela made a polite curtsy and moved to take her usual seat next to Mary. Mary gave a quick glance towards the lord who gave a small shrug along with an amused smile. Mary then gave a slight bow before announcing her piece to the party within the drawing room. Daniela sat with rapt attention, watching her governess's fingers travel over the keys with graceful precision. Mary smiled at the child as she glanced up from the music. Mary murmured to Daniela and the child nodded quietly. She sat straighter and helped Mary turn to the next page of music. Mary then gave a slow nod and the two started to softly sing the lyrics to the piece they played.
Daniela sang softer than Mary; however, the ten year old carried out the melody unwaveringly as she read the music carefully. Mary sang the harmony and could not help but feel pride at Daniela's capabilities and her pretty voice. It was a voice that would gain strength with work and confidence. Edward watched the pair with fascination. He swore, at that singular moment, Mary had a halo of light around her being. He realized foolishly, it was a lamp creating such a visual display. However, it still could not diminish the awe-inspiring feelings of love and fascination. He could not force his eyes away from the lovely warm green glow of her eyes, the soft curve of her neck, the delicate smile she held as she sang with Daniela, the glow of her skin in lamplight, and the list went on…
He coughed when he realized that the two had finished their song while he was still lost in rapture. He prayed that no one realized such an embarrassing thing. Mary was still smiling at Daniela. He watched as she praised the child before she glanced up at him. She gave a happy and accomplished smile and then murmured something else to Daniela. The child nodded and moved towards the nobleman. Edward arched a brow towards Daniela and bent to her level. Daniela held a bright confident smile and kissed her paternal father's cheek.
"Good night, Senor Edward," she murmured softly. "Miss Maria says that it is time for me to leave for bed."
Lord Dodgewood smiled and kissed the child's forehead before she turned back to Mary. Mary stood gracefully and took the child's hand and told the lord and his 'guests' that she would return momentarily. Edward bowed his head as they passed and gave a murmured goodnight to his young ward. The two had barely opened the door when the cool voice of Bianca Ives had cut through the room. Mary felt the child stiffen at the cruel voice of the spoiled aristocrat.
"Honestly," she 'murmured' to her peers. "Miss Bennet has either been lacking in her duties or the child is simply not intelligent enough to listen on how to speak proper English. One would think that after three months of lessons, the accent and faltering would diminish."
Mary nearly turned to slap the wench calling herself a 'noblewoman'. Instead, as she felt Daniela start to shake, she chose the most 'polite' words she could think of. Without turning to learn at the culprit or the others in the room, she started to speak with as calm and firm a voice as she could. However, a deaf man could hear the way her voice shook slightly with barely repressed anger.
"Daniela is highly intelligent, Miss Ives. She has learned to read music within a month, a rare feat indeed, especially for someone of your caliber. Daniela also has very exceptional hearing," she added, her tone as poisonous as viper's venom. "You would do well to remember that... and to mind your ignorant tongue."
"Well I never…" Miss Bianca's words were cut off by a short 'goodnight' from the seething governess and the quick harsh closing of the door.
Edward watched Mary leave and swelled with pride. It was at that moment that he decided he was going to win her in anyway he could. Mary Bennet was going to become Lady Maria Eckert of Dodgewood or he would give up his title. To Hell with it all, he would give up his title if Mary would consent to becoming Mrs. Maria Eckert. However, the pride he felt did not override his anger and his need to tend to his 'daughter'.
"I must bid you goodnight," he murmured tonelessly. "You are invited to stay as long as you wish… provided that you do not insult those of my household again. Mrs. Garwood will attend to you and lead you to the guest's quarters. Goodnight."
After the quick emotionless speech, he nearly raced out of the drawing room. He found Mary sitting on the landing with the sobbing child in her arms. Edward felt his heart pulse with anger at the witch who would so eagerly cause a child pain. Easily, he took Daniela from Mary's arms and lifted her into the cradle of his own. With Mary at his side, he carried the still crying girl to her room. Mary called for a warm bubbling bath to be run, a favorite activity for the child. As that task was being settled, Daniela cried out her grief with her head in Mary's lap. Edward sat in a chair whilst the females were settled on the bed. Mary rubbed the child's back gently and murmured soothing words. Edward held onto a tiny delicate hand and patted it helplessly.
"Why? Why would she make fun of me?" Daniela hiccupped. "I thought I was doing it... speaking right."
Mary bent to kiss her hair, "You were speaking and singing perfectly, darling. She was being hateful because she thinks she can. Think nothing of it. She is just a bitter spoiled woman who did not have people to love you as we do. I promise, she will never hurt you like that again."
"You promise?" Daniela asked, her tears quieting softly.
"Yes," Mary answered and continued to rub the child's back.
Edward kissed Daniela's hand affectionately, "I promise that she and none of them will hurt you or they will have to see to me."
Daniela sniffled and nodded against Mary's lap. She moved to sit up and wiped her eyes, even though sadness and tears still lurked in their depths. She put on a brave smile and moved to stand. She told the two that she was ready to take her bath and Mary smiled. Daniela was an exceptional child. She would no doubt grow up strong and hardworking.
"Do you need my help, Querida?" Maria asked softly. (Querida Darling)
"Yes, please," Daniela murmured softly and waited for Mary to come help her undress for her bath.
Mary quickly helped the child ready herself for her bath and then left to retrieve her nightgown. When she was sure Daniela had everything she needed and no longer needed her, Mary left to the adjoined bedroom. The nobleman still sat there, silently staring at the wall before him. Mary shut the bathing room door and moved a little away before speaking in a hushed but furious tone.
"I do not care if I lose my position," Mary murmured fiercely, "if that woman comes near Daniela again… I will… I will… I do not know what I will do but it will certainly not be pleasant or proper."
Edward could not help but let out a chuckle at the wild eyed 'Maria' before him. It was a very interesting and appealing sight and so contrasting the normal calm strong woman she was. He reminded himself 'again' never to anger the beautiful angel before him… at least until he was allowed to kiss her when he wished to. He shook his head of such thoughts and stood before answering her.
"I will not allow Miss Ives," Edward said in a mock of Mary's tone, "to come near Daniela again. Everyone has already been warned should they insult my household again. Although, I think you put the very word 'fear' into each of their hearts with your display, Maria."
Mary blushed and looked at the floor, "I apologize. It was misjudged and improper of me."
"And we are highly fortunate that I did not say worse," Edward responded seriously and then chuckled. "I told you already, Maria. I do not hold much stock with propriety."
"Well, in any case," Mary sighed, looking at him once more, "I am glad that one of us acted properly."
"Yes, and that was you," Edward murmured. "The only thing that would have been proper was seeing Miss Bianca Ives put in her place."
Mary could not help the small grin and shook her head, "I fear you will be a terrible influence on me, my lord."
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That was the last thing she said before Daniela graced them with her presence and the two readied the child for bed before retiring to their rooms. Mary sighed as she sat at her desk. She wondered if she could possibly sneak some form of reptile-like creature into the room in which Miss Ives slept. She shook her head with a laugh at the immature thought.
She thought quietly to herself about the reason she had been so furious. She had been angry with the simpering beast of a wench the moment she had seen Miss Ives capture a hold on Ed...Lord Dodgewood's arm. Mary had been quietly seething when she had seen that Miss Ives had placed herself very close to the lord. She had been angry when the wretched woman merely glanced at him with those hypocritical ice blue eyes of hers. A shade that was nothing like the melted sapphire of Lord Dodgewood's eyes…
Mary paused as she read what was just written in her journal. Her eyes widened as her mind finally caught up with the answer her heart was blaring at her. She shook her head and sat back against her chair. She, Mary Bennet, after twenty-two years of life was jealous over a man! She shook her head dumbfounded at such an unfathomable occurrence. She had felt jealousy before, if being the middle 'awkward' sister was any indication. However, she had never ever felt jealous over a man before. She, for that matter, had never loved… She looked down at her journal, as again, her mind caught up with her heart's knowledge. She blushed as she looked at the words she had written with hasty emotions.
She looked at the lamp's flame with rapturous wonder. She was in love! Mary Bennet finally knew what it was to be in love with someone. As soon as she could feel elated over such a prospect, Mary felt depression fall upon her. She lightly hit her head against the wood of her desk. She would, of course, fall in love with someone she could never have. She blinked back tears at the thought that Fate had played some cruel twisted practical joke on her. She had finally achieved 'part' of her wish…only to realize she would never obtain the rest of it. She could not have been more brokenhearted if the lord had come in her room and told her to leave Dodgewood never to return. She gave a quiet laugh that mixed into a sob and she took out some paper for a letter. She would have to write to Elizabeth. Elizabeth would know what to do. Elizabeth would tell her how to handle a broken heart and continue with life… Mary cried softly as she began the letter.
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Dearest Elizabeth,
Oh Lizzie, I am in a terrible position… I fear I have done the most incredibly foolish thing while here at Dodgewood and I need your help. Lizzie, I have finally fallen in love. Oh, I think you would find him an incredible man. He strong, kind, handsome, has a wonderful sense of humor, a sense of chivalry and honor unseen these days, and heart so large that I am surprised he has not burst. However, in my foolishness, I have fallen in love with someone unattainable, someone who could never love me. I have fallen in love with Edward Gerard Eckert of Dodgewood.
My heart is breaking at the impossibility of his loving me in return. He is a dear devoted friend but he is a lord Lizzie! How could a lord ever want me, someone of limited connection and someone who is his servant… for want of a better word? I am at a lost on what to do. I do not know if I can survive the heartache of being near him each day and it is even worse than what I have told you! I was jealous over him, Lizzie! I have never thought like twelve year old girl (not even when I was twelve) but today I did! I wanted to say every horrible thing I could to the incredible witch of a woman hanging on his arm. Miss Bianca Ives is a horrible wretch… but that is not the reason for my letter.
I told him my deepest, most secret wish Lizzie! Now I feel like an utter fool, a complete and utter lack-wit. Please, Lizzie, do not tell anyone else of my foolishness. Only… Please tell me what I should do! I cannot even think properly!
Your Disheartened Sister,
Mary Bennet
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Mary quickly sealed the letter and decided to leave it on the stack of letters to be sent out in the morning. She hastily wrote the address and marked it with 'post-haste' before she left her room with a low-lit lantern. Her tears muffled to quiet sniffles as she hastily made her way down the halls and stairs to the front parlor. She held onto the letter with uncertainty before slowly letting it rest atop the others. Taking a deep steadying breath, she then made her return trip to her chambers. All the while she did not notice another lantern in the parlor, nor did she notice the figure that slowly pocketed the letter and moved to the emptied drawing room.
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Edward felt like a complete cad for stealing her letter but… he could not take knowing that Mary was in pain and remain ignorant of the cause. He was walking from the kitchens, when he had heard her muffled tears. Immediately, he was nearly overcome with the urge to go and wrap her in the protective cocoon of his arms and protect her from her any harming force. However, his body refused to move as he watched the woman he loved slowly set a letter on the others to be sent out. He could not help his next actions as she disappeared from sight. Why would she bother to bring the letter down at this time when she could have sent it with William in the morning? Why would a letter distress her so? Then he read that it was addressed to her sister Elizabeth and marked 'post-haste'. He raised a brow and without another thought, pocketed the letter.
Now that he was in the drawing room, alone, he felt like a complete twit. He was acting like a school boy but, curiosity and concern overcame his embarrassment. He retrieved the letter from his pocket and slowly brought it up to the lamp light. Feeling slightly like a twelve year old, he slowly unsealed the document and opened it. Mary's normally neat script was written in haste and there were several blots as if she spilt ink… or as if her tears had fallen on the page. However, he could still make out the main points of the letter. He read the letter… and then reread the letter…and reread the letter again. His heart was both filled with elation and pain.
He was overwhelmingly ecstatic that his angel loved him. She really, written-proof, loved him! When he had read those words, he wanted to race up to her room and smother her with kisses. However, commonsense and her next depressed words made him stay in his seat. His heart nearly broke into when he read that she thought he could never love her. He wanted to laugh at the irony. She was heartbroken about a false certainty. But laughter was far from his mind; her pain was his pain. He had to reach her and reveal his feelings but… it would have to wait until later. It was far too late and he did not want shock Mary in the middle of the night. He sighed with impatience and put the letter in the fire. Mary would not need the advice of her sister… yet. He would concede that she could use it when she was planning their wedding. With a grin at that thought he retired to his room and dressed for bed. As he drifted to sleep, his thoughts were filled with different plans of proving his love and of getting rid of those pesky intruding 'guests'.
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Mary awoke and began to go through the normal paces. She met Daniela, who was considerably happier after a night's rests, for breakfast and then kept up her smile during lessons. She took the child out into the garden for more drawing lessons but… none of the simple pleasures that she used to thrive on thrilled her. She felt hollow and angry at herself for feeling that way. She shook her head and smiled when Daniela eagerly showed her the sketch the girl had finished. Mary nodded and smiled, quietly directing Daniela to go sketch another object. She sat watching the fountain listlessly. Her heart ached and she did not know what to do. She felt certain that she would have to leave… and such a thought broke her heart into even tinier fragments.
Dodgewood had become her home in so many ways. She was in love with nearly every aspect of the estates; the wonderful people, the beautiful land, the freedom, Daniela, and Lord Dodgewood himself. She did not think her spirit could survive being separated from them. She would shrivel up and die inside, ending up as the 'Mary' from before. Mary felt a tear slip down her cheek and she furiously wiped it away. She was stronger than this, she thought to herself. She would continue on, as if nothing had changed. She would learn to live alone and surround herself in the happiness and warmth of her friends. She would not let her foolish heart destroy the life she had made. So lost in these thoughts of hers, Mary did not realize the figure in acid green move into the center of the maze. She looked up and thanked heaven that she had sent Daniela away to draw.
"Miss Ives," Mary nodded stiffly without standing from her seat. "What do I owe the displeasure?"
The cold woman smirked, "Oh, I would not use that tone with me Miss Bennet. You do not know who you trifle with. I will never allow someone to speak to me as you did; especially some lowly servant."
"I believe you did allow me to speak to you as I did," Mary retorted, not bothering to grace the woman with her gaze. "And you deserved every word said to you. You are a spoiled foolish woman with nothing better to do than hurt an innocent child."
"Please," Bianca sneered, "that child is far from innocent. Likely an illegitimate child from some prostitute he met in Spain. As it is, once I run this castle, she will be sent to some school and you...will never find work as a governess again. Oh, but do not be alarmed, the world is always in need of a good scullery maid."
Mary stood to face the woman and crossed her arms tightly to refrain from striking the woman. Jade met ice, chestnut met blonde, angel met devil; it was a battle of wills between two formidable forces. Mary would not hear Daniela or the lord be insulted in such a candid manner. Nor, would she let the memory of Daniela's innocent mother be degraded by the detestable woman's ignorance. Mary adjusted her shawl as she walked closer to the woman, her glare fierce and her mouth in a tight frown, until she was merely a breath away from the self-declared future "Lady Dodgewood".
"You, Miss Ives, have not a chance in hell," Mary began almost silently to any eaves-droppers, "of being Lady Dodgewood. You know nothing of his past and know nothing of Daniela. Daniela is the most innocent child I have encountered in this world. Her mother was a well respected and amiable woman. She did not deserve her fate but you… you come very close to deserving it. You are the epitome of a shrewish wretch. You may be innocent to others and untouched physically but… your heart is even now visibly a blackened hole. You have not one unselfish thought running that small, unintelligent, ignorant head of yours. Now, if you do not wish me to violently prove my disgust for you…" Mary trailed off with a nearly deadly whisper. "I suggest you return to your uninvited post in the castle, share your hypocritical smiles with the others, and stay clear of Daniela and stay far away from me."
Miss Bianca Ives was shaking with fear at the underestimated power and strength vibrating from the woman before him. Her eyes were wide with shock and her mouth was slightly parted as she gasped for breath. Mary narrowed her eyes, gave a brief nod, and moved to leave the maze. Her back stiffened as Miss Ives finally regained her voice and dared give a response to the speech.
"You may be in love with him," Miss Ives laughed humorlessly, "but you will never be his lady. You are not worthy of him and he will never look twice in your direction."
"That may be," Mary responded, her tone revealing no emotion, "and yet I still have a better chance of his calling me 'friend' than you have of him calling you 'acquaintance'. As I said before, Miss Ives, you would do well to stay clear of me and the child. I will not tolerate another uncalled for attack against an innocent child."
Without another word, Mary left the maze with her head held high. She could not help a slight smile on her face as she headed towards the castle. She had left the woman speechless, standing like a fool near the fountain. Laughing lightly, she found Daniela at the entrance of the maze and holding the child's hand, they traveled to the castle's currently empty drawing room for tea and then a music lesson…
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Edward Eckert of Dodgewood did not know what he was going to do with the woman he had silently claimed as his future wife. He had finally escaped the infuriating guests and had decided to follow Mary and Daniela to the gardens. He bit out a curse when he saw the heinous Bianca Ives reach the gardens before him. He followed silently and at a far enough pace to remain unseen. He was curious as to what the woman would dare do without her peers to support her. He knew that she was not a woman with a very strong back bone and could not help but see what his feisty angel would make of the she-devil named Bianca Ives. He took another route to hide behind the wall of shrubbery that enclosed the center of the maze. This way he would hear everything that passed between the women. His mind nearly glanced with glee when he found a small hole that would allow him to witness the women's stand-off.
Although, he knew it was insanely immature of him to resort to such antics, he could not help but feel a slight bit proud as his craftiness. He could see and hear nearly everything and he knew for sure that it would be entertaining to see his 'Maria' put the witch in her place as no one else would do. He had laughed at Mary's cool acknowledgement of Bianca's presence and grew when Bianca's hateful declaration was duly dismissed by his lovely 'Maria'. However, his amusement quickly turned to barely controlled fury at the wretch's insults to both him, his 'daughter', and to Ana Maria's good name. He watched with awe and admiration as Mary stood and came up to the uncouth aristocrat. His ears strained to hear her words but the effort was well placed. Mary had delivered the most amazing set-down he had ever heard! Not only that but she had nearly vibrated with the passion and fierce fire behind her emotions.
Edward was satisfied even more so when he saw the shocked and fearful face of Bianca. He wanted to chuckle when he saw that the woman was trembling. He watched as Mary began her exit and when the witch began to speak again, he had tensed as Mary had. He listened with outrage at the woman's foolish and incorrect words. It would only give fuel to Mary's belief that he held no love for her. However, he was quickly filled with pride as the woman he loved responded quickly and with the more likely event. He desperately wanted to go to Mary and make her see that he loved her more than anything. However, he knew that it was now not the place with the malicious Miss Ives about. He decided to follow Mary's return to the castle and join his angel and Daniela for the music lesson.
Luckily, the party had taken to an afternoon nap (an activity that the nobleman could not fathom their need for) and he was quite alone as he entered the drawing room. He moved to lean against the hearth and smiled at Mary when he had caught her gaze. He smiled to himself when she blushed and turned to speak to Daniela. The lord would have given anything at that moment to know the thoughts running through Mary's head. Instead he contented himself to listening to her voice as she sang lightly with Daniela. He was so proud of his little ward and he could not help thanking heaven that Daniela had been the very key to his finding 'Maria'.
Without thinking, he drew closer to the pianoforte and sat at the chair right next to the instrument. Mary turned at the sound and her eyes widened to see him so close. She gave a soft smile and Edward had the urge to lean over and kiss her softly. He honestly did not mind that Daniela was there. Mary could always teach her that such displays were not appropriate unless she was in love. His mind gave a brief thought that no man would ever come near his little girl in such a manner. Than his love-addled wits became alert to the sound of Mary's voice directed towards him.
"What was that?" He asked apologetically.
Daniela giggled and Mary smiled softly, "I asked where your 'guests' were, my lord. Are you feeling well?"
"I am feeling better than I have ever felt before," Edward grinned. "Our 'guests' are taking afternoon naps… a habit that I thought was for children younger than our little cherub here."
Daniela laughed when Edward reached over Mary's arms to tweak her nose. In her amusement she missed the display between her guardian and governess. As Edward brought his hand back, his forearm had accidentally brushed against the curve of Mary's breast. Mary let out a gasp as the contact hummed through her entire being. She felt she would have a heart attack. Edward had felt her gasp and watched her eyes close with shock. He settled his hands in his lap and tried very, very hard to try not and think of lewd thoughts and embarrass himself. He could not feel guilty about the accident, not with the knowledge he held. He took a breath as he realized he could tell her now. He could reveal all he felt for her. His thoughts were interrupted as Mrs. Garwood entered the drawing room.
"Oh! There you are milord," she murmured breathlessly. "I mean no offense, but that Lady Charlotte and her daughter will be the death of us all with her demands."
Edward laughed lightly, "What does your quest entail this time my fair Mrs. Garwood?"
Mrs. Garwood shook her head, "Miss Ives claims she is grievously ill because of the negative attitude Mary has 'brought' to the castle. I never realized smiles and laugher were negative. Did you milord?"
The lord shook his head as he tried to control his mirth. Mary could not help but start laughing at the woman's ridiculous ploy. Edward stood and joined Mrs. Garwood at the door with the intent to 'attend' to Miss Ives. He gave a wink to Mary and Daniela, reveled at Mary's soft smile and blush, and than turned to say one last thing before leaving.
"Come, Mrs. Garwood," he declared. "We must remind Miss Ives that this castle is not her home and if she is affected in such a manner than she has every right to leave for a more comfortable situation."
Mrs. Garwood chuckled nodded. She gave Mary a knowing glance before following the lord towards the guest quarters. The elder woman knew very well the emotions warring within the two young people she had come to care about. She knew that the lord and Mary was a near perfect match as she had ever seen. She just prayed that they would get that through their mulish young heads before it was too late. She knew the price of not taking the chance at love. She was a widow because of it.
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Mary sighed as she sat down for supper that evening. She thanked Ms. Hollander for the meal and sat next to William and Ephraim (the manservant Niles's thirteen year old son). The two gave her a friendly smile which she returned before helping Daniela sit next on the other side of her. Daniela smiled at Ephraim; they had become quite good friends because of their close age. Mary chuckled as the children began a conversation and Ephraim revealed what strange treasure he had found while traveling through the estate's fields.
She really wished to quickly reach her chambers, draw a warm bath, and then settle for a night's healing rest. She felt as if she had blown through the day with a thousand full-sized stones strapped to her back. Mary knew it was because of the tension she held while in the presence of the lord. She did not wish to give even the slightest hint of her regard for him. Mary did not know if she could survive such an embarrassment. She finished her meal silently and then helped Daniela ready for bed. Mrs. Garwood came in to help her with her corset and to help draw the bath she desperately wished for. The woman decided that it was time for some 'direction' that the amiable young woman seemed to lack.
"You know dear," the maid smiled as she unlaced the corset. "I have never seen the lord so at ease with guests before. He always held such distaste for his noble neighbors."
Mary smiled towards the window, "I convinced the lord to be proper. My brothers by marriage would certainly not allow me to stay in a castle with a vagabond lord."
Mrs. Garwood grinned at the clear affection within Mary's voice, "You know he is desperately in want of a good wife to direct him in propriety."
Mary nearly choked and the maid wanted to hum with satisfaction. Mrs. Garwood helped fill the bathing basin and watched as Mary searched for words. She hid her smile as the woman entered to help fill the bath.
"The lord seems to handle himself quite well, Mrs. Garwood," Mary murmured. "I am sure that, if he keeps his current humor towards society, he will find a suitable wife in due time."
Mrs. Garwood sighed with annoyance and failed hopes. She shook her head, bid Mary a good night and left the woman to her bath. She left the chamber muttering about 'foolish young people' and 'not seeing the obvious'. Edward was startled as she nearly ran into him. He could not help but ask her, even though he knew he had waited to long and it was too late to confront 'Maria' tonight.
"Mrs. Garwood, Maria has not already taken to bed has she?" he asked nonchalantly.
"Yes, milord," Mrs. Garwood smiled knowingly. "She is taking her evening bath now and then she will take her rest. Was there anything I could do for you? Is there some emergency that I need to alert Miss Mary to?"
Edward sighed and shook his head, "No, that is quite alright. It can wait until tomorrow. But I will be damned if I wait any longer…" he muttered to himself.
"What was that, milord?" the maid asked barely hiding her grin.
"Oh? Nothing, it was nothing Mrs. Garwood. Goodnight," he murmured before turning to enter his study.
Mrs. Garwood chuckled and made her way down the stairs. Thank heavens that one of them had some sense in their head. She was humming as she entered the kitchens to share the latest news with her old friend Ms. Hollander. She had to reveal that their plan to make the couple realize their affection for one another was succeeding. She happily shared the updates with the cook and they giggled like immature little girls. They so wished for their master to finally settle down and find happiness in life. With Mary, they had seen the exuberance from his boyhood return to the young lord. They only hoped that it would not be long before a marriage was announced.
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(Author's Note: I am addressing the repeated question I have found within reviews. I have read Jane Eyre. While dreaming up ideas for a P&P fan fiction about Mary, I was watching a film version of Charlotte Bronte's novel. My brain seriously went into overload with ideas. So, I understand the familiarities with this and the marvelous novel by Charlotte Bronte and I hereby give credit for her inspiration. However, I would like to stress that my story will have severe differences in the future. I do not want to remake a classic. I hope that everyone finds my story original aside from the similarities with Jane Eyre and the obvious use of Jane Austen's characters. I would also like to thank all of you for taking the time to read my story and to commend all of those who did notice the similarities. I am glad to find those who share my interest in the classic romances. May your lives be blessed, XOXO –Kittenprophetess.)
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(Play-list for Part II (Chapters Three & Four))
(P.II) "Can't Fight the Moonlight" –Leanne Rhymes
(C.3) "Imperfection"-Saving Jane 'M' + "Your Eyes"-Rent: Taye Diggs 'E'
(C.4) "Girlfriend"-Avril Lavigne 'M' + "Everything"-Michael Buble 'E'