Mary Born Anew: Maria

by swtimperfection21

Mary Bennet strikes off to find her own life outside of Longbourn. She finds many new things and adventures as a governess to a mysterious Lord's ward. Is love perhaps in the future of the last 'Miss Bennet?

5. Part IV 'Ch 7 & 8'

Part IV

(Chapters Seven & Eight)

(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 Seven

(Understanding)

The lovers had moved to sit on the ground. Edward was against the fountain; his legs sprawled out so that Mary fit between them. His arms were wrapped around her to keep the cool night air at bay. They had been out in the garden for hours, simply laughing, talking, and enjoying one another's presence. Mary rested her hands over the arms clasped around her waist and rested her head back against Edward's shoulder. The lord kissed his newly betrothed love on her forehead and chuckled when she failed to suppress a yawn.

"I should get you to your bed," Edward murmured, "I've certainly kept you out long enough."

Mary shook her head tiredly, "No, I am not tired. I wish to stay right here and gaze at the stars."

"Are you sure?"

Mary nodded softly, "It will not be long until this unseasonably warm weather gives way to barricading snow. I want to enjoy this freedom with you before winter holds us in its grasp."

Edward nuzzled her hair, "Alright, but that reminds me of something important."

Mary sighed happily, "What is that?"

"A certain love of mine's birthday is in four days," Edward chuckled mischievously.

Mary sat up straight and turned around to look at him in surprise. Her fiancée was looking at her with amused eyes, sparkling with the merriment of startling her. Mary shook her head with a grin and settled herself back into his arms. She could not fathom how he had gotten that information. She did not remember having told him when her birthday was. With laughter in her voice she asked him how he came about such information.

Edward responded with a kiss to her temple, "Well, a certain little senorita and well-meaning maid told me that your birthday was the third of November."

Mary shook her head and sighed as Edward's hands caressed over the skin of her arms. Her lord chuckled and pressed light kisses over the curve of her jaw. He started a trail down her neck but was deterred by another, rather large, yawn from Mary. He bit back a stint of laughter and shook his head.

"We should really be getting to bed, beloved," Edward murmured. "Otherwise we will be held accountable for actions we have yet to partake in."

Mary looked at him in confusion as she reluctantly stood. Her confusion seemed to be amusing to Edward, who chuckled as he stood. The glare he received only incited another peal of laughter. Edward pulled her into his arms and kissed her happily. As quickly as her anger had come, it was that easily melted away by the sweet loving kiss. When they pulled apart, Mary rested her head against Edward's chest with an exasperated sigh.

"What is it," he asked her.

Mary looked up at him and shook her head, "I cannot seem to stay angry at you."

Edward grinned and bent to kiss the tip of her nose, "Good, because anger hardly encourages affection. I want our life to be merry with a very small amount of strife."

Mary smiled at him, "But our arguments make life interesting, Edward."

"Well, we can always argue. I love hearing what you have to think, Maria," Edward responded with a chuckle and another soul-searing kiss. "But only if we know that our love is more important than that of petty arguments."

"Of course," Mary nodded and sighed against his neck. "I do not want to return to the castle. I am afraid…"

Edward looked down at her with concern. Mary's eyes were closed as she held herself against him. He did not like the fact that his angel was afraid of something. He felt a primal need to obliterate anything threatening his love and to hold her protectively away from the threats of the world. Softly, Edward asked her what she was afraid of and Mary looked at him with sad, serious, eyes. Mary sighed as they began their journey towards the castle.

"I am afraid that this, you and I," Mary murmured, "is all just some grand dream and if I fall asleep… I am afraid that I will wake up to find that I am still in my room at Longbourn. I think that such a thing will break my heart into irreparable pieces."

Edward kissed her firmly, "You do not need to be afraid of such a thing. I promise, the moment that you wake, I will be sitting at your desk prepared to give you a kiss and another affirmation of my love for you."

Mary laughed lightly, "We will scandalize the region."

Edward smiled at her response and brought her close to his side, "Then the region shall be scandalized. I will not have you thinking second thoughts about our impending marriage, Maria."

"Now I know it cannot possibly be a dream," Mary murmured with another soft yawn.

The couple reached the warmth of the castle and entered it quietly. The lord led his lady to the staircase that would lead them to each of their respective chambers. Edward asked Mary what she had meant about knowing it was not a dream. He was filled with amused curiosity at her firm, amused, conviction about the subject. Mary laughed at his question and looked at him with sparkling eyes full of merriment. They stopped at the doorway to her chambers and Edward looked at his fiancée expectantly.

Mary smiled, "I know it cannot be dream because if I were dreaming I would never allow my reputation to be so scandalized and you, my lord, would never suggest such a thing."

"Well, I am glad that you have distinguished reality from fantasy," Edward chuckled and leaned in closer, "now, I do believe I should give you one last kiss goodnight and be off to bed."

Mary smiled at him and raised her lips to his. Their kiss started a soft meeting and confirmation of affection. However, with a sigh from Mary it turned into a new feeling altogether. Edward tunneled one hand into the wealth of Mary's hair. His other hand caressed down her side causing Mary to sigh against his lips. With a soft groan, Edward gently deepened the kiss and pushed his tongue past her lips. Mary met his questing limb with her own and their passion increased. Arms wrapped themselves unerringly around Edward's shoulders and fingers found paths through his ebony curls. His lips left hers, much to Mary's displeasure, and traveled over her jaw. Mary jerked and gasped as she felt his tongue lightly trace the lobe of her ear. Her hands clutched his shoulders as her knees threatened to buckle. Chuckling with a blend of amusement and passion, Edward held his arms around her waist to keep her from falling. His lips found her neck then and he placed teasing, nipping, kisses over the sensitive column.

Mary's moan was quieted only by Edward's quick return to kiss her mouth. She sighed as she leaned against the door to her chambers. Impulsively, her fingers gently scratched the back of her attentive lord's neck. This reflexive action seemed to cause a rift in Edward. He cupped Mary's bottom with both hands and pressed her firmly against the door. His groan could not be quieted by their kisses and reverberated through the hall and in Mary's ears. With a gasp from Mary, Edward pulled away as quickly as he had pressed her against the door.

Edward looked down at the floor as he panted with unspent passion. He ran a shaking hand through his black curls and looked at Mary with a slightly guilty expression. Mary was gazing at him with wide eyes and she blushed when she met his eyes. She raised her hands to her lips and looked at him with curious and innocent eyes.

Edward sighed, "I apologize, Maria. I believe I got a little carried away."

Mary nodded numbly before smiling softly, "I think we both were carried away, Edward."

Edward smiled uncomfortably, "I should leave you now before I do something I am not sure I will regret."

Mary nodded and opened her door before slowly stepping through after one last sweet kiss from her fiancée. She closed it regretfully and laughed as she made one step towards the desk in her room. An abrupt clamor of knocking halted her and she turned to look at her door in confusion. Carefully, Mary moved to the door and reached out for the knob. She slowly began to open the solid wooden door but was surprised when it was pushed back and Edward came through. Her eyes were wide with surprise and confusion as Edward took her into his arms and kissed her fiercely. Her surprise quickly melted into a more pleasant and heated feeling as she began to return the impromptu kiss.

She wrapped her arms around Edward's neck and sighed. Edward groaned softly and buried a hand in her hair. He braced his other arm around her back, holding her firmly against him. After a long moment of passionate interplay, Edward pulled away from their kiss and rested his head against her hair; panting for breath. Mary closed her eyes as she leaned against his chest. Her fingers wearily clutched his shoulders and she, too, was at a loss of breath.

"What brought that on?" Mary murmured brokenly as she desperately sought air for her lungs.

Edward chuckled lightly, "I could not stand the thought of not having one more kiss from you before I retired. I am sorry if I frightened you."

"You terrified me out of my wits before I realized who it was," Mary admonished before chuckling, "I love you, Edward."

"I love you, Maria," he murmured before sighing and kissing her temple. "I really should leave you for now. Give me one last kiss?"

Mary shook her head in amused exasperation before tilting her head to accept her love's gentle kiss. Edward reluctantly released her from his grasp and moved towards the hallway. Mary followed him until he reached past her doorframe. She stood and watched as he traversed the short trip to his own chambers. Both the lovers kept their eyes on the other until the last moment when their doors closed off the sight of one another.

Mary rested against her door and laughed gleefully. She shook her head and went to her desk. She gracefully sat on the chair and then took out her journal. She quickly wrote down the events of the day and her feelings about each respective incident. When she was done with that task, she reverently took the roses from her hair and made to press them within the pages of her journal. She deferentially caressed the silken petals of each bloom. She closed her eyes with the joy the two blossoms had brought her and kissed them before painstakingly preserving them in the pages of her journal for the rest of time.

When her task was finished, she reverently hid her journal away and stood away from the desk. She walked to her wardrobe and took out her night gown. Easily, she unfastened her dress and then removed her chemise and other undergarments. With a bit of remarkable flexibility, she undid the laces of her corset and removed the binding article. She was smiling like a loon as she pulled her nightgown over her head. She put her clothes away for the laundresses to come and clean. Carefully, she went to put out each unnecessary candle and lamp but for the one near her bed. Finally, with a sigh, Mary found her way beneath the blankets of her bed and after saying her prayers; she reached and put out the final lamp. Her last thought was how much she loved Edward before her mind fell to the peaceful realm of dreams.

Edward sighed as the door barred the vision of his beloved. He leaned back against the solid oak door and smiled to nothingness. Easily, he strolled into the adjoining room that served as his private study. He looked out the large bay windows into the dark night sky before reaching into his desk's uppermost drawer and pulling out the trustworthy journal that had been by his side even in his darkest of times. He quietly and painstakingly wrote down every detail that had transpired throughout the day… taking time to write out every emotion he could remember running through him at the time. He laughed, sighed, and some would swear a few tears found their way to the corners of his eyes as he wrote. When he was finished with the account, he hid the tome away and dressed for bed. He left instructions to be woken no later than thirty-past seven. He knew for sure that he would be awake for his beloved at that time. He smiled as he blew out his own lamp and restlessly fell to his mattress. Leisurely, he rested his head back on his hands and let his thoughts drift as they may.

"I love you, Maria Bennet," he murmured into the night before sleep consumed his form.

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It was a beautiful clear day at Dodgewood. The grass was a lively emerald green, swaying in a hypnotizing dance over the gentle hills of the estate's countryside. The breeze was warm and gentle and brought with it, the pleasing scents of roses, heather, lilac, and other various flora. The sun was bright and saucy in the vibrant blue sky; a sky that held not one cloud to threaten the bright day. The river flowed peacefully, its waters reflecting perfectly its surroundings.

Livestock fed in distant pastures and the people of Dodgewood and the nearby village of Nottinville went on with their daily lives. Children played happily in the warm air. Tradesmen did their work peacefully and the women kept their homes amicably. Near the beautiful structure that was Dodgewood Castle, Edward was running after a laughing Mary. The chase was playful and at a slow pace; a pace set by Mary's newly gained girth.

Her long chestnut waves flew behind her in the breeze. The skirts of her light, lilac colored, dress flew billowed behind her as if they were the clouds stolen from the sky. Laughing jade eyes turned to steal a glance behind and then turned to look towards their destination, the tall oak tree that had revealed so much to the two lovers. The tree had opened up Edward's past and Mary's deepest heart and then revealed it to the other; enabling them to realize their love for one another. Mary playfully hid behind the large wide trunk and giggled lightly as she waited for Edward to catch up to her.

Edward laughed as he reached the tree and came around the trunk to find his 'Maria'. His disheveled ebony curls were even more untidy from the wind and their impromptu game of chase… not to mention Mary's obsession with running her fingers through the silken strands. He wore only his white linen shirt, un-tucked, and with the uppermost buttons left undone. His tan breeches hugged his legs like a second skin and his boots were slightly scuffed from the race. His sapphire eyes sparkled with merriment as he reached his beloved and took her into his arms for a deep impassioned kiss.

Mary sighed against his mouth, "I love you, Edward."

Edward grinned and pulled away from the kiss, "I love you, Maria."

Easily, Edward eased Mary to the ground and they lay together gazing up at the sky. Well, Mary gazed up at the sky and Edward leaned on an elbow to gaze down at Mary. She smiled at him and sighed in content bliss. Her hands rested over the hand that lay on her distended stomach. She caressed the skin between each knuckle, spots that she found him to be very sensitive in. A teasing growl filled her ears and a soft nipping kiss found its way onto the sensitive pale column of her neck. The brilliant blue of the vast never-ending sky faded in comparison to the dark sapphire of her lord's passionate gaze. He moved to lean over her, unruly jet forelocks falling into his eyes.

"How do you feel, mi angel?" he murmured with concern and caressed her rounded belly.

Mary sighed and wrapped her arms around his neck, "As well as to be expected, my lord. Although, I am truly surprised that I have any energy… you are very… attentive as always, Edward."

Edward chuckled and the corners of his eyes crinkled with his laughter. Mary smiled up at him impishly. She did not care if anyone saw them this way. This was their home and they would do as they damn well pleased. Propriety was hardly suitable for a happy home, Edward repeatedly succeeded in convincing her. Her breathing hitched as Edward's hand began a more dangerous caress and came up to the front ties of her dress. She looked up at him, her eyes darkening into a deep jade with her ardor.

"Have you lost all sense of propriety, Maria?" he teased her with a mock look of surprise.

Mary shook her head and then blushed as she remembered a certain event that had taken place that morning. Edward stalled in his light teasing and arched a brow. Gently, he cupped her cheek and bid her to look him in the eye. She blushed at him, a display of shyness that she had not revealed in a very long time.

"What is it, Maria? Are you not feeling well?" Edward asked worried now.

Mary sighed and shook her head, "I am feeling fine, Edward. I just had an embarrassing morning with Daniela during her lessons."

Edward arched a brow, "What happened?"

"We… we have to be more… discreet, in the evenings Edward," Mary murmured and looked up at him. "She asked about the strange noises in the middle of the night."

Edward had the gall to chuckle at such a provocative statement, "What did you tell her?"

"I told her that it was something she would understand when she was older," Mary huffed, annoyed at his inability to grasp the gravity of the situation. "What was I supposed to tell her?"

"The truth?"

Mary glared up at him, "She is ten years old, Edward! I am terrified of the day her first blood comes. It was… so embarrassing. How would you like to explain the ways of the world to your daughter, Edward?"

Edward shuddered with dismay at such a prospect, "I do not think so. Besides, no man will ever come near my standards for our daughter."

Mary smirked at him, "And what if they come to Daniela's standards?"

Edward gave her a mock glare and then grinned, "I promise, I will do the explaining for this child… unless it is another girl. I do not think I could handle such a situation."

Mary smiled up at him and Edward leaned down to give her a kiss, "So, my dearest Duchess of Dodgewood, where were we?"

Mary shook her head and sighed as Edward's hands continued their previous journey. His lips made loving nips down her neck and she let out a soft moan of his name. Her fingers tunneled into the silken ebony of his hair and lightly scratched his scalp. A deep shuddering groan answered this innocent action and a large palm gently squeezed a cloth covered breast. Mary brought Edward up and gave into the urge to kiss him senselessly.

"Maria," he murmured.

"Edward," Mary sighed.

"Maria."

Mary quirked her brow in confusion, "Edward?"

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"Maria, it is time to greet a new day," the familiar baritone penetrated her subconscious.

She opened her eyes wide and sat up to take in her surroundings. She took a deep breath of relief as she encountered the familiar sights of her chambers in Dodgewood. She flushed as she remembered her dream and her eyes took in the sight of the Duke of Dodgewood resting amiably at her desk. She realized, with a bright smile, that it was a dream that could soon be the future.

Happily, and without thought to propriety, she rushed out of her bed and moved to embrace her fiancée. Edward chuckled as he brought the adorably disheveled Mary to his lap and held her close. Mary wrapped her arms around him and bent to kiss him softly. The day was bright outside her windows and she could here the sounds of daily life going on around her. She took in the sight of Edward's impeccable appearance, aside from his always unruly curls, and flushed at her own state of dishevelment. Embarrassedly, she tucked a lock of hair behind her ear. Edward grinned at the bout of shyness.

"Why so embarrassed, love?" he asked teasingly, "We are to be married after all."

Mary smiled at him, "Good morning, my lor… Edward."

Edward cupped her cheek and kissed her lightly, "It is a good afternoon, milady. You seemed so content in your rest that I could not bear to wake you."

Mary's eyes widened, "Everyone must think me a grand lay-a-bout! How could I have slept so late?"

Edward chuckled and easily soothed her frustration, "You were up very late, mi angel. It is perfectly understandable that you slept in a bit late. Aside from that, you are to be the lady of this castle and so no one will care how and when you sleep."

Mary bit her lip and then nodded with a sigh. Edward chuckled and kissed her warmly. He traced the back of two fingers over the line of her jaw and then slowly down her neck. Shuddering with a sigh, Mary leaned into the touch and clutched at his shoulders. Easily, Edward deepened the kiss and brought her even closer to his form. Their passion increased and they felt the need to never let one another go. Mary held onto Edward desperately and Edward clutched Mary hungrily. He almost overstepped his bounds when a knock at her door broke them apart. Mary nearly fell in her haste to leave his lap and stand. Edward stood and steadied her with a light chuckle… a chuckle that earned him a dark glare that only increased his amusement.

His laughter was quelled when the door to her chambers opened and a head of long black curls peeked around with questioning brown eyes. Mary smiled and opened her arms in invitation and Daniela entered the room fully, racing into her soon to be mother's embrace. Mary laughed and then turned to look at her fiancée with a 'stern' look. Edward grinned wickedly at her and nodded before giving a last kiss to her forehead and quitting the room. Mary pulled apart from the embrace and smiled down at Daniela.

The young girl was impeccably dressed, as was her father. She was wearing a light blue dress with matching bow to hold back her hair. Her brown eyes were bright with happiness and inquisitiveness. Mary bid her to help her dress for the remainder of the day, a task that Daniela readily agreed to. Mary changed into her various undergarments and then patiently instructed Daniela on how to lace her corset. When she pulled on a comfortable tan gown, she sat down at her desk to put on her shoes and Daniela asked to brush her hair.

"Of course you may, Daniela," Mary smiled at her. "Thank you for all your help."

"Si, Miss Maria," Daniela murmured happily. "Have you given Senor Edward an answer?"

Mary turned her head to look at the child, who now held a mischievous twinkle in her chocolate orbs. Daniela looked down with a grin and Mary laughed before tweaking her nose playfully.

"If you must know, querida," Mary smiled at her, "I have and Lord Edward and I are to be married."

Daniela laughed happily and hugged her soundly. Mary smiled and kissed the child's forehead and returned the embrace. The sunlight filled the room and gave the scene a charming glow. Mary looked out her windows into Dodgewood's beautiful countryside and shivered as a chill ran through her. Daniela looked up at her and frowned with concern.

"Are you well, Miss Maria?"

Mary smiled down and nodded, "Of course, just a trifle chilled. I'll be fine once I have had a decent meal in my stomach."

Daniela nodded and then insisted that Mary leave for the dining room at once. Mary shook her head and giggled lightly at the child's tenacity. Her hand was firmly held in Daniela's smaller one and that hand pulled insistently at her as she followed. Daniela was bound and determined that her new mother be well and fed. Her dark curls bounced as she hurriedly led Mary down the winding staircase. Mary's loose chestnut waves flew gently behind her as she kept up with the child's abrupt pace. They startled jovial Mrs. Garwood as they raced into the dining room. Mary apologized while trying to contain her laughter and obtain her breath. Mrs. Garwood simple smiled and curtsied to the new mistress of Dodgewood, before giving a small wink as she left the dining room to oversee other duties in the castle.

Mary turned to find Edward standing near a place setting she assumed to be hers. It was at the right hand side of the head chair and she smiled at him happily. Daniela had already taken her place on the left hand side. She was happily awaiting her surrogate parents' arrival to the table. With a teasing sense of gallantry, Edward aided his lady to her seat and placed a chaste kiss to skin just behind her ear. She gasped and turned to give him a sharp look of disapproval, however, the love and passion hidden in her vivid green orbs took away the sting of her gaze. Edward took his place at the head of the table and bid the meal be served.

Mary sighed with contentment and smiled across at Daniela, who was happily devouring her victuals. Gently, Mary speared a piece of the fish that dwelled on her plate and brought the fork to her mouth. She gave a quiet moan of pleasure at the delicious taste and then reached for her cup of tea. Her gaze caught Edward's and they both smiled before Mary returned her eyes to the vision of her meal.

"I fear you are distracting me, my lord," she murmured teasingly. "I will no doubt waste away from lack of nourishment."

Edward grinned at her, his eyes twinkling merrily. Daniela, however, looked between the two with concern and frowned. She loved her father very much but if he was going to be the cause of harm to her beloved Miss Maria, she would have to put a stop to it. She cleared her tiny throat and caught his attention.

"Senor Edward, you should not distract Miss Maria from eating," Daniela lectured, "she was not feeling well this morning."

Mary looked at Daniela and then towards Edward and ducked her head to hide her smile of amusement. Edward looked at Daniela with a mixture of shock at the 'demand' and then smiled softly before nodding towards the child. He leaned forward and placed a paternal kiss to the child's forehead and leaned back in his seat. He gave a grave vow to not distract the beloved Miss Maria from her meal again. Mary gave a quiet chuckle at the proceedings before her and finished swallowing her last bite of fish. The forelocks of her chestnut hair swayed as she shook her head at her new family.

The rest of the meal was consumed in happy serenity. Looks of amusement and passion passed between the two adults at the table. Edward fought too keep silent as his little Daniela had ordered him too and very nearly suffered from it. His minx of a fiancée would look at him with that twinkle in her gemstone eyes. Her dimples would reveal the grin she tried in vain to hide away. The curtain of her hair would fall just so as she moved in her seat and all these aforementioned things were driving him to the point of near physical distress. Although he cherished Daniela, his mind and heart was engrossed with his 'Maria'. He ached to take her away, romance her… show her things she had only dreamed of seeing. He yearned to marry her and finally sate the primal male that was, for the most part, hidden beneath a civil veneer.

Mary sighed as she looked at her future husband for the countless time. He was going to drive her mad with yearning if he kept looking at her with those devilishly charming sapphire eyes… Or better yet, that one sided grin that always weakened her knees. Her fingers nearly itched with the temptation to run through the glossy curls atop his head. She nearly shouted in relief when Daniela finally finished the last of the meal before them. Edward moved quickly to help her out of her seat and then suggested a walk for them before Mary began Daniela's lessons.

"A walk would be lovely, my lord," Mary smiled happily.

Edward looked at his daughter and smiled, "Do you wish to join us, Daniela?"

The angelic child shook her head and her ebony curls bounced, "I think I will finish the book Miss Maria gave to me. I want to be prepared for the lesson today."

With that declaration, Daniela left the couple's company and headed for her normal drawing room. Edward turned towards Mary and smiled before offering his hand. Mary gladly took it and they too, left the main dining hall. Edward tucked his lady's hand in the crook of his arm and lead her toward the entrance way. They stopped at the door to take their cold weather clothes from a stern looking Mrs. Garwood and then quickly escaped towards the gardens in a fast pace. They reached the garden's entrance laughing and short of breath. Edward brought Mary into his arms and they awkwardly made their way through the maze. They only stopped when they reached the second and only remaining entrance to the rather large maze.

Edward chuckled as he and Mary strolled out of the gardens, "I thought we would never escape."

Mary shook her head, "Daniela is so determined to be helpful. I dread to see how she is when we begin to plan our wedding. I love her so… she is just as eager about our marriage as we are."

Edward pulled her close to his side and sighed. The air had been crisp and cool that morning, a sure sign that November… and winter, had come. The sky displayed only a hint of turmoil in the distance and the wind rattled the fallen foliage around them. Despite the lack of vibrancy around them, the lovers were content with the blossoming of their bond.

"We must journey to London," Edward murmured, "We have many things to arrange."

Mary sighed, "I hate to leave our home. I still have yet to write my parents and sisters. That is a something I must do… and soon. Imagine, showing up in Town announcing a marriage that has not been properly approved by my father. It will cause an outrage."

Edward chuckled and drew her near, "Darling, we are an outrage. I love you."

Mary smiled up at him, "I love you, Edward. When are we to leave?"

They faced one another and Edward brought her into his arms, resting his cheek against her hair. The trunk of the solid tree that guarded the second entrance of the maze served as support for Mary's back.

"Tomorrow," he murmured, leaning against her soft form. "It will be a three day journey at most. I plan to take Daniela and we shall stay for a fortnight. We will arrive on your birthday, love…" he commented abstractedly.

"This is perhaps a frivolous question," Mary murmured, looking away. "Where are we going to stay while in London?"

Edward chuckled, "I have a house in town, darling. I do sometimes have to attend business and unfortunately… political affairs."

Mary nodded and then moved to smile up at him, "I can visit Jane and Charles!"

Edward nodded and could not help but return the woman's vibrant smile, "Yes. Are you planning on informing them of your future marital status?"

Mary shook her head softly, "I would rather keep it as secret as possible until we have told my parents. It would not be right if I did otherwise."

Edward nodded, "I agree, my sweet. Come let me kiss you. I have been yearning to since luncheon."

Mary chuckled and shook her head before drawing him close. Their lips met tenderly and Edward hummed thoughtfully. Mary sighed against his lips and broke away to look up at him. His eyes were distant and he had a wistful smile upon his countenance. Mary shook her head in amusement and daringly traced his jaw with a slow finger. Edward's eyes darkened with passion as he returned his gaze to her.

"I do believe you were supposed to be kissing me, my lord," Mary murmured, a coquettish smile on her lips. "Please, tell me what took you away from your fiancée's lips."

Edward raised a brow and chuckled. Tenderly, he caressed the side of her cheek with the backs of his fingers. Mary closed her eyes and smiled. Briefly, he bent to capture her lips again.

"I apologize, beloved," he grinned, "I was dwelling on the future. I cannot wait until the moment we wed. How do you envision our day?"

Mary smiled and settled herself further against the tree. Edward grinned and leaned over her. With a happy sigh, Mary turned her head to look out at the green hills of Dodgewood's countryside. She could just barely make out the steeple of the village's church. A flock of sheep herded in the distance and other than the boy overseeing them, they were the only two people about. The sky was getting only a fraction darker as the clouds came closer to their home and the wind toyed with the loose ends of Mary's hair. Edward rubbed his nose against the delicate shell of Mary's ear.

"Maria?" he whispered questioningly.

Mary smiled and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him impossibly close. "Do you wish for me to be honest?"

Edward leaned back and arched a brow, "Of course."

"I really do not wish for an extravagant wedding," she murmured, "all I really need is you and the cleric."

Edward grinned roguishly, "Are you sure?"

Mary nodded, "My sisters' weddings were big flamboyant affairs orchestrated by my mother. I would prefer to be in charge of my own wedding."

Edward nodded and bent to lightly trail his lips down her neck, "Of course, my love. We will do everything you wish."

"What about your wishes?" Mary asked him.

Edward came to capture her lips again, "My only wish is to have you and your happiness."

Mary grinned, "We shall never get through this."

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"I apologize, ladies," Edward sighed as he entered the carriage.

The weather for their trip to London was abysmal. It was the start of their final day of travel and rain beat down against the carriage's top. The skies were angry and gray. The wind snarled around them and the temperature had suddenly become frigid. Every moment or so, a flash of lightning was seen and a peal of thunder was heard. The roads were rough and a fear that the lanterns would smash and cause a fire kept them from having light. Daniela was huddled against Mary; both wore clothes that had become nearly sopping wet even from their short journey from inn to coach. The young girl let out a quiet sneeze and snuggled closer to her governess. Mary sighed and wrapped the blankets that Edward had provided more tightly around the child. Within minutes, Daniela had fallen asleep nestled against Mary.

Mary smiled as she looked at the equally disheveled looking Edward, "It is not your fault, you know."

Edward turned his gaze from the ominous sky to the ever bright eyes of his fiancée. The left corner of his mouth lifted in a wry grin and he leaned against the wall of the carriage. The surroundings of the carriage did not do his love justice. He could barely see Mary as it was but the dark weather cast a dim gray glow about their transportation. It was truly amazing that she still shone through… her eyes being the most prominent.

"How can you still be so cheerful in this abysmal tempestuous weather?" Edward grinned at her.

Mary reached across for his hand and Edward leaned forward to grasp the slighter, more fragile, appendage. He sighed as he felt the warmth from her and their eyes flashed as they looked on one another. Droplets of water were falling from the loose strands of hair that had fallen from her chignon. More beads were trickling down her skin and Edward could not think of a more tempting sight. If he could just follow the trails with kisses he would be a happy… Edward coughed and shifted as he bid his mind to think of less provocative things. Mary arched a brow and Edward requested that she answer his previously stated question.

Mary quickly hid an amused smile and went on to ask, "Is it really that difficult for you to understand how I can be so cheerful?"

Edward grinned at her, "Trust you to not give me a straight answer."

Mary reached and tweaked his nose playfully, "I beg your pardon!"

"And you may have it, although I do not know what you would need it for," Edward grinned impishly.

Mary shook her head at the impertinent nobleman and smiled, "I do love you, you frustrating man."

"And I love you, you equally distressing woman," Edward chuckled as she gave him a reproving look.

Mary sighed and leaned back against the seat cushions, "I am so cheerful because I am with the only people that I will ever need; the man I love and the child I adore. How can I be discontent when I have been so fortunate?"

Edward smiled at her tenderly, "I will go mad for wanting you, Maria."

Mary blushed, "It is highly indelicate to say such things in the presence of a child, Edward Eckert."

Edward chuckled and looked out the window, "We are not far off from Town. I say it should be late afternoon when we arrive."

Mary nodded and looked at the threatening skyline, "I hope this weather will pass soon. I fear Daniela will catch a terrible cold if she is exposed to too much of it."

"I wish I could have provided more comfort for the both of you," Edward sighed.

Mary shook her head, "We are warm within our blankets and safe from the storm outside. We can only ask that much of you, Edward. However, if you do wish to provide me with some entertainment I will not object."

"And how shall I entertain my beloved?" Edward grinned as she gave him a teasing smile.

Mary smiled and handed him a book she had kept in her handbag, "I believe this will suffice, my lord, if you would be so obliging to read it aloud to me."

"Any particular verse you wish to hear?"

Mary smiled and shook her head. With a happy sigh, she lay back and closed her eyes. The patter of the rain gave a soothing rhythm against the roar of the wind. The sway of the carriage as it moved onward calmed her frazzled spirits. However, it was the deep timbre of the Duke of Dodgewood's voice that completed the balm on her weary soul. Mary slept soundly for the remainder of the trip and Edward watched over his fatigued angels. Their quiet, but for the weather outside, trip soon ended in the middle of the afternoon. Edward looked out the windows of his carriage as he heard the banter and rhythm of the city. He grinned as they stopped before his town house. It looked inviting compared to the fierce weather. He turned towards the other occupants of the carriage and smiled. Easily, he stood and pressed a light kiss to Mary's lips.

"Welcome to London, dearest," he grinned as she opened her dazzling green eyes.

888

Chapter Eight

(Planning)

"It is a beautiful house, Edward," Mary murmured and smiled at him as he led her into the warm foyer.

Edward grinned at her, "But it does not compare to Dodgewood Castle, does it?"

Mary bit her lip and shook her head with a grin, "I am afraid that the most beautiful house in the wide world could not compare to our home."

Edward kissed her softly and Mary blushed as she heard Daniela giggle behind them. Edward grinned rakishly at her as he pulled away and called for his manservant Marcus. The willowy butler soon appeared and Mary had to stop herself from remarking on his incredible height. Edward gave the middle-aged man his orders for the luggage to be situated in the appropriate rooms and then led Mary into the parlor, where a warm fire was roaring cheerfully.

"I think we should warm ourselves before a tour is in order," Edward said and nodded towards a young maid standing dutifully at the door. "Mrs. Glover, I would like some tea and warm biscuits for my lovely companions. They have been through a terrible ordeal that I am liable for. I must do everything I can to make them comfortable during our stay here."

"Yes, milord," Mrs. Glover murmured with a curtsy before she left the room to fetch the beverages.

Mary looked at Edward with glowing eyes and then turned to Daniela who had been silent all this time.

"Are you all right, dearest?" she asked worriedly.

Daniela nodded with a happy smile, "I am just… weary from all the traveling and the storms."

Mary nodded and opened her arms for the child. Easily, Daniela embraced her governess and Mary kissed the top of her head. Mary pushed back the dark ringlets gently, to look into the deep brown eyes of the child she adored so well. Daniela smiled up at her and rested quietly against her warmth.

"I suggest that after our tour of the house, you take a very warm bath and go straight to bed," Mary murmured maternally. "I promise tomorrow we will spend the day having fun and take a rest from your lessons. However, we will resume your studies afterward."

Daniela nodded and smiled, "Alright, Miss Maria. Can I play with my dolls now?"

Mary laughed, "Of course, dear."

"You are such a wonderful mother," Edward murmured softly so that only Mary could have heard.

Mary looked at him startled and her cheeks filled with a flattered blushed, "What?"

Edward smiled at her and took her hand to place a soft kiss on the relaxed palm. The new surroundings of the bright town house did his love much better justice than the dreary carriage. The sitting room they were in was nearly all in white. It was surprisingly feminine for a young bachelor to call home. Edward believed he could thank the maids for that. The furniture and cushions were in various shades of cream and off-white. The drapes were a layered creation of lace over beige cotton. The wooden features of the room had all been finished in taupe. The only decidedly masculine item in the room was the fireplace. The mantle still maintained its dark cherry veneer; it was a source of surprising contrast to the room. Edward thought that it suited the room very well and kept the space from being completely consumed by femininity.

"I remarked on your rather wonderful skills as a mother," Edward answered with a teasing grin, his blue eyes sparkling in merriment.

Mary looked away, "But… I am not her mother. I am just acting as a governess."

Edward gently took hold of her jaw and drew her gaze to his, "Darling, I have never seen a governess show as much love and affection as you bestow upon Daniela. You do not have to deny what you feel, love. I am not her father by blood… but I am her father. It is the same with you. You are not the mother that birthed her, but you are her mother. I do believe you taught me that lesson not too long ago."

Mary blushed, "I do love her very much. I wish I was her mother truly."

The couple both turned to look at the oblivious, blissfully, playing child. Mary smiled tenderly at the ebony haired little girl. The dark green dress Daniela wore had become dusty while the child sat on the floor. Her head was bowed as she intently played out the story she had invented for her playthings. Tears filled jade eyes and Mary embarrassedly flicked them away. Edward turned and felt his eyes soften at the show of emotion. He could not help himself and leaned over to kiss her.

The kiss was deep but not flagrant in its passion. He still held her jaw delicately in his hand while his other was held between the both of her hands. Mary sighed out his name as they parted, just for a moment, and Edward bent to kiss her again. Mary took one of her hands and reached to cup his jaw. Edward murmured her name against her lips and pushed his skin into her palm. A soft cough interrupted the lovers' interplay and they pulled apart. Mary's cheeks flushed with embarrassment as she saw Mrs. Glover carrying the tray laden with tea and biscuits.

Edward smiled kindly at the housemaid, "Thank you, Mrs. Glover. You are excused to do your other duties."

The trio enjoyed their tea in a comfortable silence. The fire and the cozy surroundings had finally taken away the chill of the damp air outside. Mary sighed in contentment as she took another sip from the fine porcelain teacup. She smiled as Edward told Daniela a silly tale that he insisted was a legend from a far distant land… but that she was sure he was only making up as he continued on. Nevertheless the child was enthralled with the tales of giant ogres, beautiful faeries, and evil witches. Mary was glad that the child's imagination could run unhindered in the care of Edward's mischievous fondness for storytelling. Mary laughed as she noted the certain similarities of the evil ogre queen and Miss Bianca Ives.

Edward grinned at her and gave a charming wink that made her heart flutter. Mary could not help but indulge his silliness with an amused smile and a shake of her head. Finally, the duke could not contain his restlessness and insisted that they take the tour of the house. The first floor consisted of, of course, the sitting room they had just vacated. Just down the hall was his lordship's study… which Edward confessed he rarely used. The adequate dining hall, that looked resplendent in different hues of yellows, gold, and bronze. Mary remarked that the brightness of the interior was to counteract the dull view of the street outside. Edward led them through the kitchens, much to the servants' disbelief, and introduced his staff to their future mistress.

After the somewhat awkward introductions, Edward whisked them away to the second floor. The staircase was a solid form, its banisters of dark wood gleaming with fresh polish. When they reached the hall of the second floor, the first room Edward introduced them too was the upstairs drawing room. Mary gasped in delight at the large room. The spacious room served as drawing room and library. Three sets of bay windows let in a wonderful view of the back garden. Everything was furbished in inviting burgundy and navy fabrics. The gleaming polished wood was the same rich cherry as the fireplace of the sitting room downstairs. However, there was something in the room that caught Mary's eye and brought both a mixture of relief and excitement.

A beautiful pianoforte sat against the wall between two sets of windows. It nearly gleamed in its perfection. Upon closer inspection, Mary surmised that it was a newly made instrument and if it had ever been touched with the intent of playing, it would surely have surprised her. She gently ran her fingers atop the keys in a reverent caress. She turned to give Edward a suspicious smile as he came beside her. She arched a brow towards him and placed the flat of her palm atop the dark wood of the instrument. Edward chuckled and gave her a guilty grin.

"I should have known I would never get past you," he murmured affectionately. "Do you like it? I know this is not home, but I could not bear the thought of depriving you… and myself of your music wherever we may be."

"When did you do this?" Mary asked looking at the impressive pianoforte.

Edward smiled and traced his fingers over the delicate digits resting pale upon dark cherry. He could not help himself and came up close behind her. He wrapped an arm discreetly around her front and bent to kiss her temple.

"I wrote to Marcus with the instructions the night you accepted my proposal," Edward grinned. "I knew we would have to travel to London and, much to my chagrin, I realized I did not have a pianoforte here for you to play. I realized that I must remedy that mistake at once."

Mary smiled and leaned back against him, "It is wonderful, Edward. It looks as if it has never been touched."

Edward whispered in her ear, "It has never been played… except to be properly tuned. Your hands will be the first to bring forth music from this instrument."

Mary turned and kissed him delicately, "I love you, Edward."

Edward rested his forehead against hers, "I love you, Lady Dodgewood."

Mary backed away and smiled, "I am not yet Lady Dodgewood and we should maintain a proper distance until I have become so. What if Daniela thinks this is the proper way to behave?"

Edward grinned at her teasing impertinence, "You are a maddening creature, my dearest."

Mary laughed and bid him to show her the rest of the town house. They found Daniela sitting on the floor, engrossed in some book she had found in the numerous bookshelves. They took the child and Edward continued on with his tour. The rest of the second floor was mainly filled with guest rooms and other such chambers… except for a peculiar set of double doors that led to a balcony and that balcony held a staircase that led to a ball room on the first floor. Edward apologized for not revealing that they had a ballroom. The large room had seen such little use that the nobleman had simply forgotten it. Mary shook her head at the young man and followed him as he led them up the flight of stairs that led to the third floor of the home.

The third floor held their private quarters. Edward opened the first door on the right of the narrow hall and introduced Daniela to her room. It was a beautiful room with a large bed covered in down quilts and pillows. Everything was decorated in different shades of pinks and peaches. There was a small table and a chair setting against the far wall. It was in between two large windows that almost resembled that of a cathedral, only that it was made of simple glass an not the artful stained glass. A small vanity and two wardrobes adorned the room and there was a door that opened to reveal a bathing room. The little girl was immensely pleased with it and opted to get settled in while Edward finished leading Mary's tour.

There were only three doors remaining in the hall and Edward opened the next door, across from Daniela's room. Mary gasped as her fiancée gently nudged her into the room. It was a large, stunning, room adorned in every beautiful shade of green imaginable. The bed was almost a monstrous piece of furniture with a large inviting mattress and light green colored sheets with a richer shaded quilt. The bed curtains were a dark forest green and looked to be made of the finest velvet. There were three windows of the same style as the ones in Daniela's room… although on further inspection the third window, farthest from the door, actually revealed to be a set of doors that led to a balcony that overlooked the garden. There was also a small desk, vanity, three wardrobes, and two other doors that held unknown accommodations.

Yet it was not the finery of the room, impressive though it was, that caused Mary's touched gasp. It was the insurmountable amount of roses that filled the room. There had to be twenty bouquets of a dozen roses. There were roses with crimson petals and also with the purest snowy white imaginable. There was even a light layer of petals covering the floor, bedspread, and table surfaces in the room. Mary turned to Edward with tears in her eyes and a bright smile.

"You are going to over-indulge me, my lord," she whispered.

Edward brought his thumbs to gently wipe away her tears and then cupped her face in his hands, "Beloved, one could never indulge you enough. These blossoms are paltry in comparison to your beauty. Happy birthday, the blossoms are for the birthdays you have already counted, for the ones we will, God willing, share together in the future, and a few more simply because you are too beautiful and perfect to trifle with me."

Mary shook her head with a smile and wrapped her arms around her lord to kiss him soundly. They stood there for a seemingly interminable amount of time in one another's arms, kissing and caressing what skin was revealed to them. Finally, Edward backed away after a moment and grinned down at her wickedly.

"Besides, why not spoil you when you give me such handsome rewards."

Mary gave him a light slap to the shoulder and Edward chuckled before taking her lips again.

888

"How long has this house been in your possession?" Mary asked as the couple walked through the gardens.

The tour had ended with the revealing of her bedroom. Casually, Edward mentioned that the other two doors led to a bathing room and, after clearing his throat, another entrance to his own chambers. Although shocked that his lordship would put such a temptation before them, Mary simply shook her head up at him and bid him to take her through the garden. The rain had finally passed and, though there was still a bitter chill, Mary had wanted to explore.

"For about five years," Edward answered caressing the fingers that rested in the crook of his arm. "I was already managing my father's estate and I bought this house about a year before he died. It really has only served as a stopping place until now. I do not believe I have entertained any guests while in London. No matter how infantile and immature I may seem, I do sometimes bury myself in matters of business."

Mary smiled up at him and shook her head, "You are not infantile, Edward. You simply possess a love for life that many have lost in this dreary world of ours."

Edward smiled, "Ah, but I cannot trust your judgment, Maria. You tend to favor my good traits rather than my faults."

Mary shook her head in annoyance, "Of course not, my lord. I happen to love you sincerely for all your fine attributes and… your follies."

Edward chuckled and placed a pacifying kiss to her brow, "I beg your forgiveness, beloved. I did not mean to irk your temper… although you are an adorable temptress when you are angered."

Mary looked away to hide the amused smile his remark had caused her. It was impossible to stay irritated with him. Edward chuckled once more and the couple continued down the small walking path until they found a small bench that had miraculously been kept dry from the tempest that had passed through. Mary sat down and Edward easily took his seat next to her. The Duke of Dodgewood could not keep his gaze from his lovely bride-to-be and he watched her as she gazed at their surroundings.

"What are you pondering over there?" Edward murmured, a smile coming upon his face.

Mary turned to look at him; she seemed startled that he had spoken. The nobleman grinned at her and repeated his question. The young woman blushed and turned her jade eyes toward the house. There were lanterns lit as the servants prepared for the fast approaching evening. The red brick was turned into a ruddy brown from the rain it had soaked in. Droplets of water still fell from different leaves and edges around them. Finally deciding that she could not put off the question any longer, she turned to look at her fiancée.

"I was thinking about Daniela," Mary murmured softly, "about what you said in the sitting room."

Edward nodded seriously, "Yes. What about that?"

Mary sighed and smiled, "I was wondering… when we are married could we go through and claim Daniela as our child legally. We would be a real, complete, family. Daniela could have true parents. I know it is abrupt, but I really feel that it is what should be done. We both already look on her as our daughter and I…"

Her next sentence was stopped short from the deep kiss Edward had pulled her into. Startled, Mary sat there for a moment without responding. She soon, however, melted into his embrace and returned the tender kiss with equal fire. When they parted, Mary looked into the love filled sapphires that mesmerized her time and again. Edward was equally mesmerized by the jade orbs gazing up at him. He cupped her face with both hands and placed a soft kiss upon her forehead.

"You do not have to be nervous about such a thing, Maria," he answered softly. "I heartily give my consent. How could I do otherwise?"

Mary smiled happily at him and tears filled her eyes. Laughing softly, Edward wiped them away with his thumbs and kissed her cheeks. Mary clutched the strong wrists attached to the hands that cupped her face. She closed her eyes and sighed as her fiancée began to plant feather soft kisses around her face. They both opened them in shock, however, as a strong gust of wind started and rain began to soak them in all directions. Laughing, Edward took hold of Mary's hand and they ran for asylum towards the house. As they reached the awning of the door way, Edward wrapped his arms around Mary and kissed her deeply as droplets of water fell from loose strands of hair and the sopping fabric of their clothes.

"You will be the death of me, Edward," Mary teased.

Edward chuckled, "Then it shall be a very pleasant end, will it not?"

Mary shook her head and kissed him lightly before they fled upstairs to change into dry clothes for their evening meal. They would be alone that evening. Daniela, upon listening to Mary's instruction, had gone straight to bed after her warm bath. Edward left his bride at the door to her room and continued on to his own chambers. Sighing, Mary went in her chambers and began to remove her sodden garments. She rang for a maid to help her straighten her corset and her hair as well. Afterward, she dressed herself in a cream colored gown that Edward had insisted on buying when they had lodged in a quaint village. She could not dissuade him from purchasing the 'early birthday present' and just smiled at his endearing, but unnecessary, need to lavish her with gifts large and small.

After surmising that she was finished making herself presentable, Mary went to stand before the full-length mirror that was in her room. Her hair was pulled into a very stylish up-do with tiny pearls pinned in orderly disarray. It reminded her of the style Elizabeth had worn to the first ball at Netherfield Park. In fact, she was sure that the pins she now wore had to have come from Lizzie. Her elder sister must have hid them away in one of Mary's valises. Elizabeth could never take no for an answer toward a gift. Elizabeth had insisted that the pearls were propitious and forced them upon her younger sister.

"Do you realize how otherworldly your beauty is?" she heard in an awed voice coming from behind her.

She turned to find Edward standing in the door that connected their rooms. He stood with one hand resting against the wooden frame. His face was filled with a strange, blush inducing, awed guise. Mary looked down at her hands and played with her fingers. She smiled at him and shook her head in amusement.

"I am really quite ordinary, Edward," she murmured. "I am astounded that you have yet to realize this."

Edward came forward with an aggravated light in his eyes. Gently, he placed his hands on Mary's shoulders and bid her to look again at her reflection. He then moved to stand beside the mirror and gazed down at her. His arms were crossed and his cobalt eyes burned with intensity as she stood there. Mary shivered slightly at the attention and looked at him in confusion. Before she could pose her questions, Edward began to speak in a soft firm voice.

"Look at yourself, Maria," he demanded, "you are anything but ordinary."

Mary looked at herself in the mirror and found nothing 'otherworldly beautiful'. She only saw herself. She looked at her fiancée and gave and apologetic shake of the head. Edward frowned and bid her to look again.

"Look again, darling," he urged, "it is not something that can truly be seen by typical observation. The dress you are wearing and the roses that are all around you do add a picturesque quality… but they are trivial compared to what I speak of. Your lovely dark hair shines like living flame, your skin is softer than silk and resembles the finest porcelain, and your eyes shine with such passion, warmth, and emotion… I could drown in your eyes and die a happy man. Still, while all of these things enrapture me, they are not what hold me to you, Maria Bennet."

Mary looked from her reflection as he paused. Her eyes were wide with a kind of awe filled sensation. Edward was looking at her as if he was starving for the sight of her. His own eyes were burning with a fire that threatened to consume Mary with its passionate heat. His mouth was set in a firm line, a sign that he was holding back what he truly wished to do. A curled forelock, the color of jet, fell over his eyes and gave him a roguish appeal. Although he was properly dressed, his countenance and the raw emotion in his voice made Mary tremble in a bizarre mixture of trepidation and anticipation… as if he was going to… ravish her. She looked back to her reflection.

"What is it that holds you, my lord?" she asked in a hushed whisper.

Edward smiled with a rapacious gleam in his eyes, "I do believe that I have told you this before, beloved."

"It appears that I must be reminded," Mary answered with a small smile of amusement.

Edward could not restrain himself from wrapping his arms around his beautiful fiancée any longer. He looked down with smiling blue eyes and held her close to his warm frame. Mary returned the embrace happily and smiled at him expectantly. The young aristocrat could not help but chuckle and bent to place a chaste kiss upon her lips.

"Youare what hold me, Maria," he murmured in answer. "It is the loving fiery spirit you posses that captures my heart time and again. Your mind, your heart, your laughter… your stubbornness; they all make you the person I wish to spend the rest of my life with. Venus could appear herself and not captivate me because she does not have your soul and mind. You are my goddess divine, Maria, and without you… this world holds no beauty for me."

Mary could not help the tears that came to her eyes, "You, Edward Eckert of Dodgewood, are the most flattering man in all of Britain. Byron gained his match when you were born."

Edward shook his head at her, "Do you know how absurd that sounds? I am by no means a match for Byron… I can barely tolerate his work."

Mary sighed and kissed him, "Your way with words is equal to the poet's. However, I would believe yours to hold much more honesty in them."

Edward scoffed, "Of course they hold more honesty. You are the woman I love. No other can compare to you."

Mary shook her head and moved to settle the mock argument, "So, my husband-to-be, where shall you be escorting me tonight?"

Edward stopped his attempt at speech at the suddenly posed question. He arched a brow and grinned at her. Mary laughed lightly and backed away from his embrace. Frowning slightly from the loss of contact, Edward moved to stand near the window. Mary turned to follow his movements with her eyes and then stood, patiently waiting for his answer. The room was heavily perfumed with the roses and it gave an almost exotic vibrancy to the bedchamber. The two lovers could hardly stand one moment without having their eyes on one another.

"We shall be attending one of London's finest opera houses, my inquisitive angelita," Edward grinned. "I have heard a report that the lead soprano is truly a wonder to behold. However, if I do say so myself… No voice can be as wonderful as yours."

Mary shook her head as she slowly came towards him, "There you are with that cajoling again. I fear I might suffer a tooth-ache from all the sweetness you give to me, Edward."

Edward laughed at the witty response to his very honest praise. He wrapped his arms around Mary as she came within range of his hold. Mary lightly laughed along as she rested her head against his shoulder. Her own arms wrapped around his back with her hands clutching his shoulders. Edward sighed as they stood, in each other's arms, looking out the window into the stormy night.

"Or would you prefer to stay in tonight, Maria?" he asked softly. "We can always go to the opera house tomorrow… Besides, I have the urge to finally employ the use of the ballroom."

Mary looked at him and smiled, "But we have no band to play for us…"

"Nonsense, the staff includes a band…" Edward paused as he pondered his statement, "well… The staff has its members who can put together a satisfactory group of instrumentalists."

Mary could not help the giggle that escaped her, "Edward, I love you. Will you honor me by being the first man I have ever danced with?"

Edward bowed his head deeply and gave her a teasing grin, "Of course, my love, it will be one of the most profound honors of my life."

Mary laughed lightly as Edward escorted her out of her chambers and into the hallway. They were soon down the flight of stairs that led to the second floor and Edward led her to the special entrance way into the ballroom. He had bewildered the solemn Marcus when he ordered that the staff be brought to play their instruments in the ballroom. Mary laughed as Edward bowed his head over her hand once they had reached the dimly lit room. She watched as her fiancée gave a small nod towards some unseen band and a soft waltz began to play.

"Edward!" she gasped lightly, "this is a highly improper dance!"

Edward chuckled rakishly, "Oblige me, little one. You know how I detest propriety and its restrictions."

Mary bit her lip and flushed with embarrassment, "I do not know this dance, Edward."

The grin the young duke had grew wider as he took Mary's arms and placed them properly for the dance.

"Then allow me the privilege of instructing you, beloved," he murmured and pulled her close before he began a soft whisper of instruction.

The couple danced and twirled in the candle-lit room. Mary followed Edward's lead with irrevocable trust and the couple laughed joyously in their own private world. Edward's firm hand rested at the small of her back and his arms supported her firmly as the world spun around them. Sighing with pure joy, Mary closed her eyes and let the music and gentle movements wash over her. She was happy, she realized… the happiest she had ever been in her life. Here she was in a vacant ballroom, doing the most improper things… and she was rejoicing in her actions. Edward loved her and would never look down at her for her behavior. He would behave improperly right alongside her. She saw his face flash inside her mind and she could not help the smile that tugged at her lips. He would, most decidedly, be the one to lead in improper behavior.

The music began to crescendo and their steps began to quicken fractionally. The change in tempo did not disturb Mary's thoughts. Her eyes were still closed, her faith in her partner constant and certain. Her life was finally taking shape. She had a bright future and a family of her own. A smiling image of little Daniela came into her mind and Mary felt her heart grow fuller. They would raise her to be a remarkable woman. She would never be unloved. She would be their first child. Mary could not help a small blush at the thought of future children. She so dearly wished that she could remain oblivious to what would happen on her wedding night, but… having four married sisters (and some detailed description from rather lurid novels) kept her from being completely naïve. In fact, her limited knowledge of the subject only increased her curiosity. This thought increased her blush and she opened her eyes when she felt and heard Edward's deep chuckle.

"What are you thinking about that would cause you to blush so?" he asked, his blue eyes sparkling with mischief.

Mary looked away, "It is a most improper subject, milord, and I wish not to discuss it at this time."

Edward arched a brow at the almost angry reply and stopped as the music's last note played. He followed Mary's retreat to a nearby settee. He was completely confused at her behavior and… a little perturbed by it. Without care to his wardrobe, he bent to his knees on the floor and looked into her down cast eyes. Her blush still remained and her green eyes were filled with an embarrassed shine. Carefully, he rested a hand over the ones she rested in her lap.

"Have I done something to distress you, Maria?" he asked seriously. He was worried that she may be having misgivings about their marriage. "Tell me, so that I may make amends and never repeat my behavior in such a way."

Mary looked at him finally and shook her head animatedly, "No, no of course not Edward! You have done nothing to anger me. I… I am just being…"

Her voice trailed off as she stared down at him with awkward shyness. She could not broach this subject with him. He was not her husband yet and besides… it was something she wished to discuss with her sisters. However, that was impossible until she could reveal her impending marriage. Deciding that she could put off such thoughts until an appropriate time, she smiled down at him apologetically and bent to kiss him softly. She brought her hands to cup his cheeks and she backed away to smile at him.

"I am sorry if I have made you worry," she murmured, "I just got carried away by thoughts. I do not want to discuss it… not because I distrust you. It is just something a woman needs to confess to another woman."

Edward nodded solemnly, "It is something you wish your sisters were here for."

Mary nodded with a smile towards her very perceptive duke, "Yes."

Edward nodded and made to sit next to her. Mary leaned against his shoulder as he wrapped a warm arm around her. She felt his warm lips press against her forehead and she smiled affectionately. Edward sighed, his breath caressing over her hair. He played with her fingers lightly and they sat for a moment in silence. However, silence was always meant to be broken.

"When do you plan to visit Jane and her husband?" Edward asked and then paused before asking, "They are the pair in town, are they not?"

Mary laughed lightly and nodded, "Yes they are and do not pretend that you were unsure. You have listened to my stories times aplenty."

Edward chuckled, "Just as you have listened to mine. In my defense, I was just trying to relax you, beloved."

"It is working," Mary smiled and turned to look up at him, "I planned on visiting them tomorrow. Unless, you had some pressing matters that I need to attend to."

Edward shook his head, "I can always attend neglected business matters. Although it will be a torture spending so much time without you, Maria, I believe I can survive. Do you intend on taking our daughter with you?"

Mary shivered with happiness at the term 'our daughter' and her smiled widened, "Yes, is that a problem?"

Edward shook his head thoughtfully, "Do you think your sister would mind if I invited myself at the end of the visit? I would like to meet your family even if we cannot reveal our true relationship."

Mary shook her head and her heart warmed at the thought, "Of course not. You are my employer after all. You can simply come with the intent of taking Daniela and I back to the house. I do not know my way around London after all. It would only make sense. I can simply tell Jane to expect you. Will you be taking us to my sister's home?"

"I would trust no other to the task," Edward responded, "You are both too precious to risk someone else taking you."

"Accidents happen, milord," Mary murmured softly.

"But no man would die for you as I would," he returned in the same soft whisper.

Mary looked up at him with almost saddened eyes, "Do not say such a depressing thing, Edward. Please?"

Edward smiled at her softly and traced her jaw delicately, "Do not worry, beloved, I intend to spend a long life with you."

Mary closed her eyes and accepted the kiss that came after that statement. The kiss grew in passion and their arms wrapped around one another. Edward caressed his hand down her arm and Mary shivered at the intimacy of the contact. Her own fingers felt the quickened beat of his pulse as they shyly slid beneath the collar of his shirt, against his the point where neck meant shoulder. Edward groaned her name softly and reluctantly tore himself away. His eyes gazed down at her with fire and his frame shook with barely repressed passion. It seemed that even the slightest touch of her upon his skin drove him mad with want. He gave a wry grin and stood offering his hand. Mary took it, lightly confused at the sudden change in attitude. Edward chuckled as he recognized the puzzlement in her eyes and kissed her fingers.

"I am sorry, Maria," he murmured, his voice raw with subdued ardor. "I had to stop in order to restrain from compromising you. I could no longer trust myself to maintain control."

Mary blushed at the honesty and nodded as he dismissed the band and led her up the stairs towards their rooms. With a very tender and sweet kiss goodnight, Edward left Mary at the door to her room and retired to her own chambers. Mary smiled as she closed the door. No sooner was it shut and a knock sounded lightly against the wood. Mary opened it slowly. She looked at Edward with concern and he smiled at her.

"Yes?" she asked softly.

Edward leaned into to give her one last kiss, "Happy birthday. Good night, Maria."

Mary smiled at him and returned the kiss, "Good night, Edward. I love you."

"I love you."

Edward allowed her to shut her door again and Mary moved to lock the door that connected their chambers. Edward had given her the key and instructed her to do so. He did not want any temptation before him in the night hours. He had just wanted Mary as near to him as possible. Deftly, Mary readied herself for bed and went to the writing table in her room. She took out her journal and quickly wrote down her thoughts. Afterward, she put out the lights and slipped beneath the sheets of her bed. She murmured her prayers and gave thanks for the very best birthday she had ever had.

Edward retired to his own chambers. He sighed with bliss as he dressed for bed. He looked out the window into the rainy night and grinned. He was going to be a married man and have a family. He had a pretty accurate guess as to what Mary had refused to speak of with him. He chuckled to himself; his fiancée was such a maddeningly tempting creature. He strode to the drawer at his desk and took out the ring he had brought from Dodgewood. He had intended to give it to her before they had left… but that was interrupted with their hasty trip to London. Carefully, he hid it away until the right time came for the beautifully crafted band.

888

"Mary!" Jane exclaimed as she saw her sister enter the parlor. "When did you arrive in town?"

The sisters laughed and hugged each other in greeting. Mary smiled at her eldest sister. She could not help the pure joy she was sure radiated from every pore of her body. Jane still looked as radiant as ever, motherhood suited her. That thought brought forth Daniela and Mary turned to usher the child forth. Daniela shyly looked up at the sister to her dear 'Miss Maria'. She was unsure of herself, as the last time she had been with strangers had not been a pleasant experience. Mary held the child's hand and nodded encouragingly at her. Mary then turned her gaze back to her sister with a smile.

"We arrived yesterday," Mary answered happily. "Jane, this is Daniela. Daniela, this is my eldest sister Mrs. Jane Bingley."

Jane smiled at the child benignly, "Hello, dear, I have heard so much about you from your governess. You are such a pretty young lady."

Daniela smiled shyly and looked down, "Thank you, Mrs…"

"Just call me 'Jane'," Jane said sweetly and then bid them to follow her into the sitting room.

"Charles is out on business," Jane said as they sat down in the luxurious room.

Tea was brought for them and Daniela was content to play with her dolls under the watchful eyes of her governess. Mary took a sip of her tea and smiled at the child before she turned her gaze to Jane. In turn, Jane looked at her younger sister with curiosity. She could not help notice the vivacity that Mary practically vibrated with. She seemed so different from the sister she had once knew and worried for. It seemed that leaving home had suited her greatly.

"Where is my nephew?" Mary asked happily.

Jane smiled at the mention of her dear baby, "He is taking an afternoon nap… finally. The poor dear was not feeling very well. I had to sing to him as he drifted to sleep."

Mary nodded and asked with concern, "I hope it is nothing serious."

Jane shook her head and waved off the remark with a smile, "Oh no, just a minor cold. He is just a little fussy. I love him so. However, you must tell me how are things with you? Your last letter was so long ago and Lizzie wrote me very irritated that you had not written again. However, I can put that to her trials with pregnancy. We were all very worried."

Mary shook her head, "I am very clearly fine… I have just been so busy with Daniela and my duties. I truly mean to write but sometimes there are just not enough hours in the day. Oh, I forgot to mention that my employer will be joining us near the end of our visit. This is my first trip to town on my own and I do not know my way very well. He insists on escorting Daniela and I back to the house for our own safety. I hope you will not mind. He was also very eager to meet you and Charles."

Jane looked at her with surprise, "Why would he want to meet us?"

Mary smiled and shook her head with a fairly convincing look of ignorance, "I have not the faintest idea. I surmise that he wishes to be more aware of my upbringing. I do influence his ward's life very much after all."

Jane nodded, satisfied with the answer, "Do you enjoy life at Dodgewood?"

Mary smiled widely and looked at Daniela again, "I do immensely. Daniela is such a dear child. She is highly intelligent as well. She is a voracious reader. Aside from her dolls, her books are her most prized possessions."

"That is a familiar quality," Jane smiled and both the women thought about Elizabeth.

Mary nodded with amusement, "I do miss Lizzie. I will have to write a long letter in apology for my lack of correspondence."

Jane nodded and laughed, "You may as well write a book about Dodgewood in order to earn her forgiveness. She has the strangest temperament as of late. Fitzwilliam wrote last that she had roused the kitchens at midnight for a mad urge for pickled beets. You and I both know that Elizabeth detests pickled beets. She had poor Mr. Darcy running around and around to do her bidding. I do hope that I was not as temperamental during my term with baby Charles. I cannot recollect being so tiresome."

Mary smiled fondly at the scene Jane depicted, "Elizabeth was always the more extroverted… aside from Lydia. It seems natural that she would have a more… interesting time with pregnancy."

Jane nodded and the sisters sighed at the memory of their lost sibling. They gave each other a small moment of silence before Jane asked Mary more questions. Mary answered each one happily and excitedly. She loved her life at Dodgewood and one could tell just by the light in her eyes as she described it. Jane could no longer contain the question that was urging forth from her. Mary seemed so different from the young woman she had known only five months prior.

"Mary, I hope you do not mind that I ask this," Jane murmured. "Have you… have you found someone for yourself?"

Mary stopped her tale about Mrs. Garwood and looked at Jane with surprise evident on her features. She agitatedly pushed a loose lock of hair behind her ears and looked at her sister. She opened her mouth to answer when they heard a knock at the door to the sitting room. The maid entered and curtsied politely before shyly announcing that the Duke of Dodgewood had arrived. Mary looked at the nearby grandfather clock and shook her head with a small, nearly imperceptible, smile. The silly man had only waited two hours… and had promised her four. She sighed in her mind; of course he had promised her four hours to visit but not how long he would accompany her for that visit. She smiled as she stood to greet her employer and secret betrothed.

Edward entered the drawing room with a sincere smile on his face. His blue eyes found Mary instantly. Their eyes met and they held a silent conversation. Edward knew Mary as amused at his impatience and Mary, in turn, knew that Edward would always be a trifle impatient. She would just have to carry enough patience for them both. Neither was aware that Jane was watching the two of them with keen wisdom. Her attention to the situation, however, was redirected as Edward advanced for Mary to make introductions. Mary smiled at her sister happily and nodded her head towards him respectively.

"Jane, dear," she said warmly, "this is my employer, Edward Gerard Eckert of Dodgewood. My lord, this is my sister, Mrs. Charles Bingley."

The two greeted one another politely and Edward took the seat Jane insisted he take. Daniela moved to greet her paternal figure warmly and Edward chuckled while gently ruffling her hair. With a light cough, Mary pointedly looked at Edward to encourage conversation. Her aristocrat smiled lightly and turned to the sister of his beloved.

"My dear, Mrs. Bingley," he said warmly, "I do apologize for my rather impromptu call. My concern for you sister and my Daniela made me see to their safe return myself. I also wanted to see what great family my amazing governess could have come from."

Mary blushed at the term and hid her emotions by sipping tea. Jane looked at her sister and then back towards the duke. She was amazed that someone of his order was in her sitting room… acting as if he were there on an ordinary visit. He seemed so at ease and unlike many of the other noblemen she knew… which were few (and most of them podgy and nearing a century in age). The duke of Dodgewood, however, was by no means stout or elderly. He was a rather debonair and handsome specimen of a nobleman… a newer generation. She could not help but notice that his attention seem to stray to her overly quiet sister. Hastily, she tried to supply some conversation.

"It is a pleasure to have you, my lord," Jane nodded with a kind smile. "I understand and on behalf of my entire family, am grateful for your concern about Mary's safety. My husband shall return home shortly… he is away attending business matters, you see."

Edward nodded with a small sigh of understanding, "I see indeed. I have just concluded attending to my own business affairs. While rather bothersome, they must be dealt with."

Jane nodded with a small laugh, "That is how Mr. Bingley thinks of his tasks. However, the birth of our dear son has caused him to look upon his ventures with a more critical eye. Tell me, how has my sister been while under your employ? My family, my other sisters most especially, are quite curious as Mary has neglected her correspondence."

Edward looked at Mary with a small smile, "She has been a most wonderful attribute to Dodgewood. I fear my estate would have gone on as a dreary place indeed if it had not been for the sunshine your sister brings to us all. Daniela has improved greatly under her tutelage and she… along with the staff, adore Miss Bennet."

Edward smiled at the surprise Jane seemed to gain from such a speech. He was certain that she was remembering the shy, hidden, 'Mary' from Longbourn. That was not the woman he knew. He knew a strong, passionate, and fiery 'Maria'. He was glad that he could finally shed some light to the true person that her sisters had inadvertently overshadowed. He had come to the room knowing, from Mary, that Jane was considered the most beautiful of the Bennet sisters. He could easily say, that although she did have a rather pretty countenance, she was no where near as radiant as his fiancée. However, he was permitted to have a more biased opinion of the subject.

Mary was sure that her face resembled the color hot coals. If she did not love the insufferable man so dearly… she would throttle him. His praise of her would only cause suspicion. It was truly fortunate that Elizabeth was not present during this visit. Lizzie would figure the both of them out in a mere moment. Mary knew that Jane had to be a little suspicious about Edward's praise. She knew so because it was so out of character from the sister they formerly knew. She was not quite ready to introduce them to the true 'Mary'. She realized it would be quite a shock to them. Of course, she was prosperous enough that her scandalous behavior with Miss Ives had not reached them from Mrs. Hurst and Caroline. Silently, she pleaded with her eyes for Edward to change the subject into a less provocative topic.

Edward could do nothing but answer those beseeching emeralds with a smile and a small nod of acquiescence. Mary gave an inaudible sigh of relief and chose to call Daniela to her side. The duke turned to his love's sister, who was staring at him, kindly, but… a slight bit of suspicion lurked in the pretty light blue orbs of Jane. He gave a small polite smile of his own and turned the subject to praise of the wonderful house. Mary's sister was easily distracted and entered the conversation easily enough. Mary joined the conversation when necessary, but was content enough to occupy herself with Daniela and the newly awakened baby Charles. It was during such a moment that the adult Charles walked into the drawing room. Edward stood in greeting but Mary was holding the baby and Jane… well Jane did not find it necessary to stand. She was his wife and mistress to his household.

Bingley was shocked by the small party gathered in his home. He looked at his wife wordlessly and Jane smiled and nodded her head towards Mary. He smiled as he recognized his sister-in-law. He then turned to the duke with questioning eyes. Edward raised his hand and the befuddled Mr. Bingley took it.

"Charles, this is Mary's employer, his lordship, the duke of Dodgewood," Jane proffered. "Your lordship, this is my husband, Mr. Bingley."

Edward nodded his head in acknowledgement as both parties shook hands. Bingley looked at him stunned and then turned to Jane afterward as if to say 'that is Lord Dodgewood?' His wife simply smiled and bid him to take a seat by her side. The men sat down once more and Bingley turned to Mary with a smile. Mary returned the gesture as she rocked the baby in her arms.

"It is wonderful to see you again Mary," he said happily. "I fear that Jane and Elizabeth were going to do poor Darcy and myself in with worry."

Mary laughed and nodded towards Daniela, "I have been fully occupied and I apologize for the lack in correspondence. It seems that there is never enough time to accomplish everything one set's out to do. I am grateful toward Lord Dodgewood for giving me a chance to visit and let one of my sisters know that I am still alive and well."

Charles and nodded, "What are you doing in town?"

Mary smiled, "Daniela wished to accompany his lordship. She has never truly experienced London and as her governess, it is my duty to accompany her. I cannot let her studies falter because of a short trip to Town. Can I?"

Edward arched his brow at the near seamless falsehood his love had supplied. He could not help but grin to himself. He would have to tease her about it when they were alone. For now, he was content to simply watch her as she interacted with those of her family. He was particularly enthralled with the way she held baby Bingley. It made something deep, deep inside him ache and yearn to see Mary carrying his infant in her arms. Mary felt eyes on her and she looked up from the child to catch the familiar cobalt orbs she loved. Her heart beat faster as she saw the yearning and passion in their depths. She smiled softly and looked down at the baby again. Their reverie was broken by Bingley's insistence that they join the Bingleys for their evening meal. Edward cleared his throat and looked towards Mary, who silently shook her head. He smiled and turned to give his host an apologetic nod.

"I greatly appreciate the offer," Edward answered truthfully, "and I would be more obliged to accept but I have some business left for me at home. I have been negligent and I fear that if I do not act… I will feel the consequences."

Mary smiled apologetically at her relatives, "I am truly sorry to have to leave. Perhaps, if his lordship will allow, we can dine together another night."

Edward nodded emphatically, "Of course! I will be happy and honored to dine with your delightful relatives another night."

Mary nodded towards her family and smiled as she stood to hand her nephew to his mother. Jane took him into her arms and the baby settled without fuss. The Bingleys led the visitors out to their waiting carriage and Mary hugged her sister goodbye. Charles shook hands with Edward and Daniela held the hand of her father. She was still too shy of the new acquaintances to say her farewells. Mary kissed the forehead of her nephew and smiled up at her sister.

"Please do make one more visit before you leave town," Jane murmured with shining sky blue eyes.

Mary nodded, "I promise I will… and I will also write to Lizzie and our parents. You do not have to ask that of me."

Jane smiled at her and nodded before watching as Mary was helped into the carriage by Edward. Little Daniela then disappeared into the coach and Lord Dodgewood gave a jaunty wave before he too disappeared. The Bingleys watched as they disappeared down the street before they reentered their own home. Jane looked at her husband with a smile and Charles could not help but kiss his wife like he had been yearning to all afternoon. Mrs. Bingley laughed as he told her of his yearnings and bid him to follow her.

"What do you suppose of him?" Jane asked her husband as she put her son into his bed.

Charles rested his hands lightly on her shoulders, "Of whom?"

Jane looked at her husband with a teasing glare, "Of the duke, Charles."

Charles chuckled and kissed his wife as they stood near the resting babe. They moved closer to their nearby bed and Mr. Bingley was slowly unwinding his wife's carefully constructed coiffure. Jane put her hands on his chest to stop his playful game. She wanted to seriously know his opinion of the nobleman. She would hate to feel as if her sister were in danger by some reprobate.

"I believe that the duke is a well enough gentleman," Charles answered finally, "and if it will not disturb you… I will also say that I think he is in love with your sister."

Jane looked at Charles with surprise as he pushed her back against the mattress, "Do you really think so? Mary would never marry such a man! Her propriety is all she has and he is her employer!"

Charles hushed his wife with placating kisses, "I simply meant that the nobleman was in love, not that it was requited."

Jane nodded and still looked worried, "Mary does seem happy. I would not want to tear her away from a life she so obviously enjoys."

"Good," her husband answered, "now that that is settled… let us proceed onto a more pleasant endeavor."

Jane laughed and welcomed her husband into her arms. Her thoughts on Mary soon were forgotten and her afternoon was spent in hazy pleasure. Her silly husband was still as amorous as the night of their wedding. She was sure she would be with child again shortly if he proceeded 'performing' his husbandly duties with such happy vigor.

888

"Thank you, Edward," Mary murmured happily as she rested her head against his shoulder.

Edward kissed her forehead and smiled, "Of course, Maria, it was my pleasure. I enjoyed meeting the Bingleys. However, your sister did reveal how you were hidden while growing in the Bennet house."

"Yes, my sister is very beautiful," Mary murmured glumly.

Edward chuckled and hugged her closer to his side, "I detect a note of jealousy, my lady. You must know that although I can see that your sister has a lovely countenance… it is no where near as beautiful as you are to me. I found your sister charming and a worthwhile relative to have but nothing more. I hold no infatuation for her. My love, and lust, is only for you."

Mary blushed at the term and moved to change the subject, "Do you think that Daniela is upset that she must stay at home tonight?"

Edward shook his head with a laugh, "I believe that she was too tired to be upset. We did show her around town with the rest of the daylight. This night is for those who are fully grown. I want to finally give you the experience of the opera house. Then I will whisk you away and show you Vauxhall… not all of it is of ill repute, darling."

"The pleasure gardens… are you positive? I highly doubt that that is even tolerated as proper for a man and woman yet to announce their engagement."

Edward chuckled and kissed her doubts away. They felt the carriage slow to a stop and Edward stepped out to help her step out of the carriage. He held his breath as she was once again revealed by the bright lights from the street and opera house. She was dressed in a gown of deep garnet. It enhanced the fire in her hair and somehow made her green eyes brighter. He had seen it in a shop that afternoon and insisted on buying it for her. He had simply needed to see how she would transform the dress into something a goddess was worthy for. He persisted until Mary had agreed with a sigh and shake of her head. Now, he was glad he had put up the fight to purchase gown for her.

He grinned to himself as they caught the eyes of passersby's. He very clearly caught sight of Lady Ives and her escort for the evening. The elder woman's eyes widened as she recognized who was on Edward's arm. Mary smiled up at him and allowed him to lead her into the opera house. She was oblivious to the extra attention she had received from the other patrons of theater. Edward had purchased a private balcony for them to sit in and he led her to it. Mary chastised him for the splendor that he did not need to indulge upon her. The duke quickly ordered for a small bottle of wine from the attendant and then settled in his seat next to his fiancée.

The opera house was very refined and clearly a haven for those with taste and money. The lanterns all around the large room made all the golden fixtures and finishes sparkle with faerie-like resonance. The deep red velvet of the upholstery and curtains caused the romantic feel of passion. The resplendent murals on the walls almost distracted a viewer from the stage. The chandelier that hung in the center of the ceiling, however, was the most arresting item. The tiny crystals that accented the stunning piece of craftsmanship sparkled with an almost blinding light. The flames that flickered in the lanterns caused a rather hypnotic effect. Mary was enchanted with the whole feel of the opera house and she smiled at Edward happily as she rested against her seat.

Edward grinned back at her, "Does this please you milady?"

Mary laughed and nodded, "I do believe I have been struck by awe at the splendor of it. I may not understand your need to flatter me with gifts… but I will not discount your talent for finding the most enthralling ones. I will never be able to repay you."

"You repay me by being in my life Maria," Edward insisted kissing her gloved fingers, "my debt is insurmountable compared to what you have given me."

Mary blushed and smiled, "I declare that we should hold no debts over one another. Love is not something that should be bought… only given freely."

Edward smiled and could not resist the urge to kiss her lips lightly, "I agree wholeheartedly, beloved. However, you cannot deny me the right to give you happiness with all the power I possess to do so."

"I will not deny you that right," Mary blushed, "as long as you do not deny me the same right."

Edward chuckled and nodded. Their banter ended and the room gained a hushed quality as the lanterns were turned down. Mary's attention was captivated as the orchestra began to play and the curtains opened to reveal the first scene. The tale of romance and unrequited love stirred Mary as she watched the wonderful opera. She felt tears at the corners of her eyes as the hero and his lady sang a tearful farewell. Her heart pounded with fear as the hero battled his love's captor. She gasped as the man was captured and cried again as the lady sang out for her love to be free. Her heart was pounding with all the built up emotion and she smiled and stood to clap as the curtain closed on the reunited lovers. Edward had stood to applaud beside her and she looked at him with glistening eyes. Slightly embarrassed, she began wipe away the tears. Her own love chuckled and bent to lightly kiss them away before they left the privacy of their balcony.

Mary sighed as they entered the haven of their carriage and Edward ordered for them to start for the gardens. Her green eyes were captured by sapphires as Edward made his seat next to her. Edward slowly leaned over her and captured her lips. Her answering sigh served to deepen the kiss and her arms wrapped around Edward's shoulders. Edward wrapped his own arms around her small waist and gave a quiet groan against her lips. Barely able to breathe with the passion he had stirred within, Mary pulled away panting for air. She stared into Edward's hazy eyes and smiled slowly.

"Thank you, Edward," she smiled.

Edward returned her smile, "Thank you, Maria."

Mary laughed and brought him to kiss her again. They continued their journey to the gardens and were surprised when their driver announced their arrival. Edward chuckled as he reluctantly pulled away to escort her out of the carriage. He moved to order the driver to return within the hour and he then took Mary's hand and led her on a fairly populated path.

Vendors stood selling their treats and wares. Couples walked arm in arm. Some were absorbed with one another… Some held the customary air of being forced together. There were children laughing and running gaily amidst the watchful eye of their nannies and neglectful eyes of their parents. Mary scented the delicate smell of jasmine and closed her eyes to breathe it in. Luckily, the weather had warmed enough for this one night. She feared that Vauxhall would soon feel the wrath of winter. She sighed as she thought of the unpredictable weather. She shivered as a cool breeze encountered the bare skin of her arms. Ignoring her protests, Edward removed his coat and wrapped it around her shoulders. She turned to look up at him with both appreciative and stern eyes. He merely grinned and took her hand again.

"It is beautiful," Mary murmured, "I barely remember coming to London with my sisters and parents. I sincerely doubt my father would have tolerated the gardens. He is not fond of Town as it is. I am glad you brought me Edward especially before winter steals the garden's charm."

Edward nodded and smiled, "I knew you would enjoy it. It is most definitely not our garden at home but… it has, somewhat, the same resonance. Still, you should see the gardens when snow has fallen. It may be cold and damp but it is breathtaking. I fear however, that our own gardens would still conquer it in wintry beauty."

Mary nodded and smiled at him, "I suppose this is another belated celebration of my birthday?"

Edward shrugged guiltily at her correct assumption. Mary shook her head with a light laugh and leaned against his shoulder. Edward kissed her forehead and they continued on exploring the gardens. Edward had been to Vauxhall before but the pleasure gardens held a new excitement when viewed through the eyes of his Maria. They were on their return journey towards the carriage when Edward brought forth the topic of their nuptials. Mary turned to look up at him as he posed his question.

"So, beloved, when shall we be married?" he smiled happily down at her.

Mary smiled at his jovial countenance, "I do not wish to wait too long, milord. Still, I believe we should wait a month or three… I want my family to have time to accept our relationship. Three months should be plenty of time and if it is not… Then we shall proceed without the offended party. I am plenty capable of making my own life altering decisions."

"Three months it is. We shall have our wedding in January," Edward smiled and nodded, "that is a good time. It will be a new year… a new beginning for us. It is pleasantly symbolic."

Mary laughed and nodded, "Yes it is. I do adore you, Edward. You can find the strangest things interesting, including myself."

Edward frowned, "Do not talk of yourself that way, Maria, please. It upsets me that you would. I love you. I fear your confidence took a blow when we visited your sister."

Mary sighed and nodded, "I am sorry, Edward. I am just so used to being the second rate sister. I promise, I will not lose myself by being in their presence again. It is just hard to believe that I have achieved all I have when I am with them. They remind me too much of my former self."

"Then I shall forever remind you of who you truly are," Edward answered grimly. "I love you, Maria, and I will not allow someone to make you think less of yourself… sister or not."

Mary smiled at him sincerely, "Thank you, Edward. I love you."

He smiled and helped her into the carriage before properly answering her gratitude with a kiss. Mary laughed happily as she returned the kiss and wrapped her arms around him. Edward gave her his own blissful chuckle and held her tightly against his form. They returned to the house slightly disheveled but in high spirits. Edward led his fiancée to the floor that held their chambers. After several kisses goodnight, Edward regretfully let Mary leave his arms for her room. Sighing, he went to his own room. Both the lovers lay awake for many hours, blissfully thinking of the other. However, morning would soon bring something to wreck their happy state…

888

"No dearest, that is the Italian epic," Mary smiled at Daniela as they discussed their lessons at the breakfast table with an amused Edward as audience.

"Oh, I thought it was also by Homer," Daniela nodded thoughtfully. "Does it continue on from Homer's stories than, Miss Maria?"

Edward chuckled at his bright child. He could barely tolerate reading such things when he was thirteen and here his little Daniela was… nearly absorbing it with vigor at the age of ten. He could attribute that partly to his future wife but at the same time… Daniela's inquisitive nature was an astounding thing to behold. His thoughts were interrupted as Marcus brought forth the daily post. He gave the manservant a raised brow. Normally, Marcus would wait until Edward had gone to his study to conduct some minor business before bringing him mail. The elderly butler nodded his head in apology and murmured that there was an urgent message sent for his lordship.

The duke's brows furrowed in concern and question, "Who is it from, Marcus?"

Marcus shook his head, "I do not know, my lord. It was simply brought to my attention this morning."

Edward took the letter and read the front. It had the hastily written scrawl of someone in distress. It looked tattered, as if it had taken days to reach the recipient address. He looked up as he felt a soft hand cover his own. Concerned emeralds looked at him and he smiled reassuringly. Carefully, he lifted her fingers to cover with a kiss and excused himself to his study. Mary watched him leave with worry. He had seemed distressed and agitated at this letter. She prayed that it was nothing dreadful. Forcing herself to smile for Daniela, she turned to answer the child's next question.

In his study, Edward paced as he read the letter. He was torn with duty and his need to be close to Mary. He had read and reread the letter countless times up to this point. A trail was becoming visible as he continued his agitated paces. The letter had been sent by messenger from an unclear address. It had reached Paris and had continued on from there to London. Edward surmised that the note had taken months to arrive.

Barely legible it was a distress call from a colleague he had traveled with a few years back… when he was running from the past. Horace Whittaker had been the captain of the ship Edward had worked on. Being a nobleman, he obviously did not need the position. However, he felt it was a much better way to pass the time than thinking about the past. Whittaker was a rough man but kind and wise. An adventurer at heart, Whittaker had brought Edward to a vast variety of exotic lands and people. When Edward's commission had ended, Captain Whittaker had told him of a journey he was planning to take. He wished to explore the Carpathian Mountains and Wallachia, the southern region of Romania. It was a dangerous journey but the adventurer was too fascinated with the lure of legends and vampire tales. Edward was not quite sure but he believed that the region was in control of the Russians… if the Turks had not regained hegemony within the region.

It had been nearly a year since Edward had heard from his old friend and this letter stirred a feeling of unease. The correspondence had taken far too long to reach him. What if there was no hope? He sighed and ran a frustrated hand through his hair. He looked up in surprise as the door of his study opened. Mary stood there her eyes filled with concern as her hand rested against the, now closed, door. Feeling a sense of peace engulf him, he opened his arms and Mary went to him. Wrapping his arms around her, he took a deep breath of her natural sweet scent and sighed. He would hate to leave her…

"What is troubling you so, Edward?" she asked softly. "Is it the letter Marcus brought to you this morning?"

Edward sighed and nodded against her hair, "Yes. I fear a friend of mine is in grave peril."

Mary looked at him with surprise and Edward handed her the letter to read. Slowly, she took it with careful fingers and read the hasty print.

8888

Lord Dodgewood,

If you are reading this than I may have some hope. I fear I have fallen into a terrible ordeal. I should have listened to you old friend… but this old adventurer could never pass up a chance. I am somewhere within Romania… I believe I'm in the Transylvanian region but… one cannot be sure. I know I am near the southern Carpathian Mountains. I was captured by a band of rebels and I am not sure what they want of me.

I very nearly lost my neck getting this message to you. I knew that you, good friend, would be my only chance. I sent it by way of another traveling group… The leaders held sympathies with my captors. I can only pray that it reaches you soon. If you do come after me… and should find me… departed, will you please find my son and inform him?

-Capt. Horace Whittaker

8888

Mary looked up at Edward with shocked eyes, "Oh, dear! I am so sorry Edward."

Edward sighed and nodded before turning to gaze out the rain battered window. Mary came close and wrapped her arms around him. She rested her head against his back in a sign of comfort. Edward bowed his head with frustration. He felt the warmth of her through the fabric of his clothes and he wished he could remain there forever in her arms. He raised his eyes to the tormented sky and felt resolved fill him.

"I am going after him," he murmured determinedly. "It is his only chance."

Edward felt his angel's arms tighten around him and he heard her deep intake of breath. He turned within the circle of her embrace and met her tear filled eyes with his own tumultuous gaze. He raised a gentle hand and cupped her cheek. They both knew very well that his very life could be at stake on this journey. They knew very well that their wedding plans for three months had taken a sharp detour. Who knew how long this rescue mission could take? Who knew if they would see one another again?

At this last frantic thought, Mary felt a panic swell deep within her. She closed her eyes and felt the tears fall down the curve of her cheeks. She heard Edward's unintelligible murmur and felt his lips kiss each fallen drop of salt water. She clutched his strong shoulders desperately and felt a tremor go through her. Her name was murmured with a concerned and almost desperate quality and she felt his arms crush her to his chest. His lips were in her hair and her forehead rested against the warmth of his bare neck.

"Let me go with you…"

Mary could not hold back the whisper that had sprung from her lips. It was a last request brought about by desperation and fear. She felt Edward tense within her arms and she knew the answer. Edward made her look at him. The duke held disbelief in his expressive orbs and his mouth was set in a firm line.

"No. Absolutely not," was all he could manage to say in answer.

Mary bit her lip, "Please, Edward, do not keep me from you… not for so long."

Edward pulled away from her arms and gave a frustrated sigh. He ran a forceful hand through his jet curls and began to pace once more. She truly did not know what she was asking. It was a dangerous journey for him alone. For her to be with him… the idea of her in danger drove him to near frenzy. It was impossible, he would not stand for it. He understood her fears… he felt them himself. However, to know that he would be the cause of her peril if she journeyed with him… He would rather die knowing she was safe than spend every moment together… never knowing if it would be their last.

"No."

Mary looked up at him, her tears turned to heated frustration, "Why not? I am not weak… I can do this with you, Edward!"

Edward growled in annoyance at her persistence, "Damn it all! I cannot let you go with me! I cannot put your life, of all people's, in jeopardy! Maria, please do not pursue it anymore. I love you too damn much that it would be hell on earth to lose you!!!"

Mary stopped her argument at his outburst. Her eyes were wide with shock from his raised voice and her heart was beating in rapid tempo. Edward felt a shock of his own… without another word, he moved forward, took her into his arms, and kissed her with a desperate passion. Mary gasped against his mouth and he took that chance to deepen the kiss. Flooded with shocked passion, Mary wrapped her arms behind his neck and began to return his affection with her own passion and desperation. Edward did nothing to hinder the groan that erupted from his lips and his hands clutched at her hips forcefully. Mary could not stifle her answering moan and she felt her knees begin to buckle. Deftly, Edward caught her in the cradle of his arms as he broke the kiss.

Mary rested her head against his shoulder and panted for needed air. Edward carried her to a nearby chaise and sat with her remaining in his arms. His chest rose and fell with his own hasty breaths and his lips rested against his forehead. Mary gave a defeated sigh and moved to look him in the eyes.

"When do you leave?" Mary asked softly, trying to be brave for him.

Edward touched their foreheads together, "Tomorrow evening. The sooner I set out… the better the outcome of this adventure will be."

Mary could not help the sniffle, "I am going to miss you."

Edward let out a deep halting breath, "I am going to miss you… so much."

Mary looked up at him with pleading eyes, "Promise me, Edward."

"Anything," he murmured committing every inch of her form to memory.

Mary gazed up at him, intent on her own memorization, "Promise that you will return to me, milord. Promise me that we will be husband and wife… that we will be a family."

Edward held back tears and kissed her, "I promise, Maria Bennet. I promise I will return and we will be married. I promise that we will provide a family for Daniela and share many, many years of love in the future together. Promise me that you will always know how I love you. Promise that you will think of me as I, undoubtedly, will think of you."

"I promise, Edward," Mary answered tears falling again. "I love you more than you will ever know."

Edward chuckled gravely, "I may have a slight inkling. Darling, I do not know what I am going to do without you."

"Nor I," Mary murmured boldly taking his lips for a kiss.

The lovers remained there for the rest of the morning. When it was time for luncheon, the couple told Daniela the unfortunate news and the child looked at her new parents tearfully. She may not understand the full danger, she was aware of the tension the adults held. It was planned that Mary and Daniela would leave for Dodgewood when Edward began his own journey. He wanted his little family safe at home, away from the city.

The family spent their last evening together at home. Regretfully, Mary had to send a message to Jane that their dinner invitation would have to be postponed due to an unforeseen emergency. Edward and Daniela listened to Mary play while the elder began to teach his little cherub the game of chess. Mary then helped the child ready for bed and the couple both helped read a story to her. When Daniela had fallen asleep, Edward and Mary stole away to have their last moments together.

It had finally stopped raining to reveal a startling star filled sky. The quarter moon hung bright in the heavens, colored a mere shade darker than Edward's eyes. It was still very cool, but with Edward's arms and the cloak he had bid her to wear, Mary was very warm. They sat on a stone bench that stood on the balcony that connected both their chambers. They listened to the bustle of the sleepless city and the quieter sounds of nature within the garden below. They talked quietly of their hopes for the future, of irrelevant things, and of things that meant the world to them. They kissed and held one another when the desperation became too strong. It was not until the wee hours of the next morning that Edward carried Mary's sleeping form into her chambers and lay her beneath the covers of her bed. He kissed her lips softly before leaving for his own chambers and falling to his own bed still fully clothed. If it were not for the peaceful night he had spent and the late hour upon which he had retired… he doubted his racing thoughts would have allowed him sleep. Fortunately for both of the lovers, their dreams were only filled with happy visions of the other.

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(Author's Note: I would like to sincerely apologize for the delay in posting an update. I have been detained by work and a fierce, unrelenting, case of writer's block. It was a struggle but I finally worked through it and I hope the result was well worth it for my readers. I enjoyed this chapter as it finally brings a part of the story I was anxious to reach. As soon as I finished… I let out a deep breath of relief.

In reference to the paragraph describing Edward's friend Capt. Whittaker, I tried to make it sound accurate. I thank the computer genius who gave us Google, because without it I would never have known what I was talking about. So… Wallachia is a real territory in Romania. My true inspiration for this part of the story is Vlad the Impaler. I know its weird but I have a fascination with vampires and their history… I also know that Wallachia at this time frame b/t 1775-1817 or Jane Austen's life… was constantly being switched to Russian control or the Ottoman Empire's.

In answer to the question about Edward's age and the age of Ana Maria before she died…I would like to apologize because I did not catch my own mistake. I had originally intended for Edward to be only two years older than Mary… and than I realized that it would be mathematically illogical. So I had changed it to six years making him, 28 and Mary, 22. I thought I had changed it and if you look in paragraph two of C. 3 you'll see that change. However, I did not reread the chapter carefully enough and I missed the fourth paragraph's age reference. So at the time of Ana Maria's rape, Edward was seventeen. I would also like to point out that I hit myself on the head every time I realize I didn't mention Ana Maria's age. I wanted her to be older than Edward but still young enough to be a 'target' … for lack of better term. So, from here on out, Ana Maria was nineteen when she was raped and barely turned twenty the day she died. When I edit the story and repost… that will be amended. So again, thank you, thank you, and thank you for pointing that out to me.

I believe this has been the longest author's note I have ever written. I think I'd better stop while I am ahead. I promise that my next post will not take months. It will take two weeks at the most. I am going to take a little break after this post because I want to reassess where I'm headed with the story. However, to reassure my readers… there will be nine parts to this story; plus and epilogue! Thank you for your patience, your awesome reviews, and your extremely helpful criticism. I love improving my work and all of you contribute to that.

May your lives be blessed. XOXO –Kittenprophetess)

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(Play-list for Part IV (Chapters Seven & Eight))

(P.IV) "Moonlight Sonata" –Ludwig Van Beethoven

(C.7) "Pieces of Me" –Ashley Simpson 'M' "Truly, Madly, Deeply Do" –Savage Garden 'E'

(C.8) "There you Are" –Martina McBride 'M' "Growing Old With You" –Adam Sandler 'E'