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?

9. Part VIII 'Ch 15 & 16'

Part VIII

(Chapters XV & XVI)

(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.)

Warning: This is another section where we realize the rating folks. 'M' for a reason.

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Chapter Fifteen

(Traveling)

The sun was shining when the two awoke the next morning. Mary smiled as she rested her cheek over his heartbeat. Edward's arms tightened around her and both let out a content sigh. The aristocrat pressed a soft kiss to his fiancée's hair.

"We should get moving," he murmured sleepily.

Mary nodded, her cheek nuzzling against the fabric of his shirt, "I know. I just, I don't want to move just yet. I want to get used to this feeling."

Edward chuckled, "What feeling?"

"The feeling of waking up in your arms," Mary answered softly. "This will be the rest of our mornings barring the woods and weather."

The young woman finally moved to look her fiancée in the eye and smiled wide. The duke grinned and pulled her down for a long and lengthy, and much needed, kiss good morning. It was languorous and tender. They pulled apart with another sigh and their eyes were shining with passion. Edward brushed her hair out of her eyes to tuck it behind her ear. His thumb caressed her cheek and Mary closed her eyes at the pleasurable contact.

"We are not making much progress are we?" she asked, the soft tone of voice doing nothing to hide her humor.

Edward chuckled and reluctantly pulled away after one last kiss to her forehead, "I suppose we are not. However, I find myself not minding in the least. However, our journey home will be long and... I find myself... that is."

"What is it, Edward?" Mary asked him with a smile as she stood and began donning her dry clothing, noting her lover's not-so-casual perusal of her figure as she did so.

"I want to be married when we reach Paris," he answered, his words tumbling in a rush.

Mary looked at him with wide green eyes and he hastened to explain himself.

"I need to make you mine before we return to Dodgewood," he began moving to enfold her in his strong arms. "I know that this idea is mad and that the censure from your family will most likely be severe... but I cannot imagine returning home without you as my wife. Hear me out Maria..."

Fingers lay over his lips to stop his progressively quickening speech. Sapphires stared once again into jade and Mary's lips formed a soft smile. Her eyes, ever a window into her soul, spoke of an understanding of her duke's feelings and the return of such sentiments. Delicately, she stood on her toes and pressed an innocent kiss on Edward's cheek.

Mary relished the feeling of his beard and warm skin beneath her lips. She closed her eyes at the feeling of his strong arms tightening their warm hold around her. She heard the steady thump of his heart as she rested her head on his chest. Both let out a sigh. Amidst the chirping of birds and the sound of wind and the nearby river, it was a peaceful moment.

"Yes."

Edward looked at her with a wide smile, "Yes?"

Mary's smile grew and she nodded happily, "Most definitely, yes. My family will forgive us. Besides, it is fitting that the most unnoticeable of the Bennet sisters cause the biggest scandal when she settles into marriage."

Edward kissed her deeply and Mary sighed with reciprocating passion before returning his ardor. Edward's hands explored the intriguing and lust inspiring form of his bride-to-be through her thin protection of clothing. Mary reciprocated her hands finding new ways to entice her lover. Their hands did not venture daringly beneath the barrier of cloth but the caresses and exploration were heated and passionate. The two separated with panting breath.

Mary laughed lightly, "It is most definitely a good decision to marry soon. We cannot seem to keep our hands to ourselves."

Edward grinned as he caressed her cheek, "Come angel, let us go home."

Mary smiled and nodded. The couple separated and moved to dismantle their camp before departure. Mary finished dressing and helped pack away their sleeping pallet. Edward donned a fresh shirt and coat and settled into his boots. They shared a quick meal of dried fruit and then Edward helped her onto Aurora. He climbed atop his own steed and they were on their way.

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Kev and John were calling Mary's name in the sun lit wood. Both had mixed feelings of exasperation, awe, and fear. Both could not believe that Mary would do something as foolhardy as this. Well, to be more honest, Kev felt that he should have expected this event. John, not having known Mary very long was in complete shock that a proper Englishwoman was gallivanting this way.

Both were in awe at the strength and perseverance Mary was showing. They could respect her tenacity and will. They were still shaking their heads at the fact that she could not keep her head on straight to see sense. That brought about the feelings of fear.

Both men knew that Mary was not raised to travail the wilds of an unknown country. She was more likely to get herself into serious peril than find the Duke of Dodgewood. John would not have been able to bear it if his old friend lost her... it would have been a tragedy John did not think Edward would live through.

Kev, for his part, could not bear the thought of Mary befalling an untimely demise. Though their time together had been short, Kev counted her as one of the closest friends he had ever had the fortune of making. She was easily the smartest woman he had ever met (most of the time), he thought sardonically. In fact, he knew beyond shadow of a doubt that he was falling for Miss Bennet. Only her love for the duke and his honor had truly stopped him from pursuing her romantically. There was also the fact that his heart recognized Mary's inability to have loved him the way she loved Dodgewood, and Kev knew that he deserved that love... just as much as Mary did, his primary reason for aiding his friend on her quest. He cursed under his breath as the sun shined over them. Kev would be damned if this was how Mary Bennet's story ended.

"When did ye meet Miss Bennet?" John asked the gypsy as they searched for tracks.

Kev smiled as he reminisced, "Miss Bennet and I met in Paris. I had been commissioned to guide two American couples through the wilds of the continent. Mary had joined them for the short term to have a sense of security while traveling. Then, when we came upon the last village you and his lordship had rested in, the Americans chose to stay behind whilst I aided Mary in her search. We had barely started traveling when that blasted storm came upon us. Then we came upon the kindly Bolivars. The rest you know."

"She be a strange woman for this time," John responded thoughtfully. "I am glad Dodgewood found her. 'e deserves 'is bit o' 'appiness. I only pray that they found one another."

"I have never met a woman who deserves the very best in life as Mary does. We need to find her soon. If that damn storm had not washed away her tracks, I am sure we could have found her by now."

John nodded and sighed, he guided his donkey towards the stream he had been tossed near and Kev followed. Both men had their eyes and ears open for any sound that the young woman could be near. They had been searching all day, it was settling into late afternoon and they still had yet to find a trace of the fearless Miss Bennet.

They heard the steady flow of the river before they came upon it and Kev spotted something on the ground and called John to a halt. He dismounted and picked up the glimmering piece to discover that it was Mary's charm bracelet. He knew that it was a treasure, one of the few given to her by her mother. He felt his heart clench in dismay and sadness as he looked at the tumultuous river. John joined his side and arched his brow in question. With fearful eyes, he raised up the trinket.

"This is Miss Bennet's bracelet. She told me that her mother had given to her for a birthday," Kev remarked solemnly. "I have no doubt that she crossed that damn river in the middle of the storm. It will have taken a miracle for her to have crossed it safely."

John clutched his shoulder in a comforting grip, "God 'as no short stock o' miracles, mate. Do not yet give up 'ope."

As if those were magic words, they both looked up as the sound of horses met their ears. Their jaws dropped as two forms came upon the opposite riverbank. Mary noticed them before her companion and she smiled and waved vigorously; calling out their names in greeting, as if she were out for an afternoon ride at Dodgewood. The duke took notice of the two men next and he smiled broadly as he realized John was part of the miniature search party. He shouted out a grateful greeting at finding his friend alive and well.

"I see you were right about those miracles," Kev murmured after the shock began to dissipate.

John nodded numbly, "Aye, but I just did not realize that miracles were so quickly dispatched."

"Ah, but I have heard that your God works in mysterious ways," Kev joked as his humor returned along with his friend.

"That 'e does, mate. That 'e does."

"We need to find them a safer passage across this river. Surely there is a bridge of sorts, somewhere."

John nodded and pointed in the opposite direction of the current, "Let us start this way. I believe that whilst I was on the opposite bank I saw the makings o' a road. If there be a road, there 'as ter be a bridge."

Kev nodded and shouted to the companions across the way, "Mary! John believes there to be a bridge in that direction. I am sure your newly recovered fiancée would much prefer if you took the extra time in order to cross this blasted river safely. I know that after the terror you put John and I through, it would be a nice change of pace."

Mary had the good grace to blush and look at Edward. Edward was simultaneously nodding in agreement, even as his eyes grew a tad darker in his suspicion of Kev's familiar treatment of his beloved. He shouted back towards Kev and John and told them they would make their way in the aforementioned direction and they set off. Their journey was quiet at first, but soon the duke's curiosity and... He would not dare admit it... his jealousy bade him question Mary.

"Who is that man with John?" he asked first, his voice calm and collected.

Mary looked at him and arched her brow, "His name is Kev. I met him in Paris. He was commissioned to act as guide to a group of traveling Americans I had joined. They were traveling the wilds of the continent and it seemed a good idea at the time."

Edward nodded and then looked at her again, "Where are those Americans now? Why is he here alone with you?"

"They are in the last village you had gone through. I knew that you were nearby and the Americans chose to stay in the village and allowed me to utilize Kev as my guide. I did not want to burden the wonderful people if they did not wish to travail the forests with me," Mary looked at him curiously. "Edward, why are you so tense?"

"You have been traveling alone with this man?" Edward demanded next, his voice no longer as cool and collected, although still quiet.

Mary's luminous jade eyes grew round in surprise and a spark of indignation rose within their depths. She looked ahead, squared her shoulders, and raised her chin proudly. She would not be interrogated as if she were guilty of some crime. She could hardly understand what the devil had come over her fiancée. Edward heaved a great sigh and closed his eyes against the rage within him. He was being a prat and he very well knew it. His fiancée had traveled the wilds of the European continent in search of him. There was no doubting her love for him. He should not let jealousy cloud his mind and make him do something he was bound to regret.

Edward looked up to find that he had fallen a bit behind of Mary and quietly caught up. He reached out and took her hand as the traveled together. He kissed the back of it tenderly and she turned to fix her affronted stare at him. Sapphire orbs looked at her, the apology clearly on display as her eyes softened and a smile found its way to her lips.

"I apologize," he murmured next. "I should not have spoken that way to you. I was just... surprised."

Mary looked at him and she felt that he was holding something back. Her heart quickened as she came to realize what had come over Edward. She also could not help the amusement that spread through her and she began to giggle. The lighthearted sound warmed Edward, and surprised him. He looked at her with an arched brow. That questioning look caused his love to laugh harder and shake her head at him.

"What has you so amused?" Edward pressed, unable to keep the smile from his own face.

Mary halted her horse and the duke did the same. She tugged him closer and kissed him softly. That kiss stole his heart and clearly stated that she was his as their companions across the water looked on. They separated and Mary blushed and smiled with a shake of her head. Edward grinned and they began their journey again.

"You, my lord, are jealous," Mary stated matter-of-factly, "and of something that is not there. I love you, Edward. I traveled without chaperone with a man as my guide. Nothing happened except a kind friendship. Nothing untoward could have possibly happened. He is not you."

Edward sighed and smiled at her, keeping his hand linked with hers between their horses. Mary squeezed his fingers with hers.

"I know I was irrational," Edward murmured. "I will always be a little irrational when it comes to you, angel. He is a reasonable good looking chap... And you have spent a great deal of time alone with him."

Mary rolled her eyes and smiled at her fiancée, "I have spent less than two days actually alone with Kev; and during that time we talked predominately about you. If we were not talking about you specifically, we were talking about home. I promise you."

Edward nodded, "I believe you, love. I am just a fool."

Mary shrugged with a teasing half nod and grinned at her fiancée. The duke grinned back and squeezed her hand within his grip. They continued on, both content to have cleared the air. The sun was high in the sky by the time they found the bridge. Perspiration clung to their brows in the sun warmed air. Mary and Edward crossed the bridge and met with John and Kev.

The travelers disembarked to give their horses a rest and to reacquaint themselves. Edward embraced his friend and Kev took Mary's hand and squeezed it. She smiled at him as he shook his head in both amusement and disapproval. Kev released her hand as the young woman clutched Edward's arm and pulled him towards the gypsy. She smiled up at the aristocratic gentleman, adoration evident in her jade eyes. Kev felt a twinge of pain in his heart at further proof that Mary was unattainable. It was just not in his cards...perhaps in another life.

"Edward, this is my friend Kev," Mary introduced warmly, affection for both men evident in her voice.

The two men sized on another up and grasped hands in a firm shake. Edward nodded politely to Kev. Despite his irrationally jealousy, the nobleman understood that Kev had played a great role in Mary's safety on her mad journey to find him. Kev returned the nod. He could plainly see the love that Edward had for Mary. That, and the respect that the Englishman was addressing him with, made Kev unable to do anything but hold respect for Edward.

"Thank you," Edward murmured sincerely, his tone almost grave. "You have done the greatest service in protecting Maria. I do not know what I would have done had I lost her."

Kev nodded and smiled in friendship, "A word of caution my lord. I would not let her too far out of your arms. She is quick to danger, a trait uncommon in a woman of her status. I think you are a lucky man for it. Your life shall never have a dull moment."

Mary blushed, "Kev really..."

"I quite agree," Edward chuckled and pulled his fiancée into his arms. "The pleasure of the task overcomes the burden."

Mary's face became an almost impossible shade of red. She lightly hit her fiancée on the arm. The men only laughed harder and Edward kissed her forehead. The young woman sighed in happiness at the gesture. She was out in the forest of a foreign land, surrounded by an unknown quantity of dangers, and she felt the safest she had felt since Edward had left that morning in London. The world melted away, and it was only the two of them. That was how she felt when she was in his arms.

Green eyes smiled up at him before Edward felt her pull him down to meet her for a kiss. He was pleasantly surprised before enthusiastically participating. His hold tightened around her waist and her arms locked behind his neck. They parted with heavy breath to hear the chortles of John and Kev. Neither were embarrassed, in fact Edward was proud of her. She had fully cast aside any thought of propriety and let their love be the foremost guide to her actions. His heart beat with wild happiness. The woman in his arms was completely his, and he was completely hers. The affirmation was wonderful.

"Come on love," he murmured cupping her cheek in his hand. "Let us go home."

Mary smiled widely and nodded.

The group made good time back to the kindly woodman's cottage and spent the night there. The Bolivars were happy to accommodate them. They were truly happy to know that the young lovers had been reunited and that all was well amongst the odd group of travelers. However, the constant eyes of their companions restricted Mary and Edward to separate sleeping arrangements. After a few passionate kisses goodnight, the couple separated for the evening. Both heaved a great sigh, they knew what it was to wake up in one another's arms. It was a great burden to be unable to do so now. However, it gave both the young people something to look forward to when they arrived in Paris.

Edward was determined to get his bride there as soon as possible.

They woke early the next morning and after a hearty breakfast, the group set off back towards the village so that Kev could reclaim his post as the American travelers' guide. It was also the best route to get back home for the others. The stormy weather had all but dissipated and their travel was quick and full of good humor.

"So should I expect an invitation to a future wedding?" Kev remarked offhandedly as they continued their way through thick forest.

Mary looked and Edward and blushed as he grinned.

"Unless you plan on following us to France, I would say not," Edward responded. "We plan to marry once we reach Paris."

Kev nodded without surprise, "That seems like something Mary would be willing to do. For a woman who is adamant that she is conventional and unsurprising... you do an astounding number of unconventional and surprising things."

Mary rolled her eyes, "I have never said that I was conventional or unsurprising. I simply said that I was raised a proper young woman... which, when you are raised by unconventional parents I expect you are more apt to become just as surprising... no matter how hard you try not to."

Edward chuckled and kissed the hand he held, "Love, you have said that you were proper since our first meeting. I believe when you decided to marry me in Paris your words were that the most unnoticeable Bennet sister should cause the biggest scandal."

"I... I was unnoticeable," Mary murmured softly. "I was overshadowed by my sisters' beauty and their easiness in society. I have never been able to emulate that ability. When I was younger my social graces were lacking."

Edward halted their horses and bid the others to go on ahead. He hopped off his steed and moved to take Mary in his arms. He kissed her despite her embarrassed protests; protests that died shortly to become impassioned responses back. Moments later, he pulled away from the kiss. His lips met her forehead as she rested against his frantic heartbeat.

"You are not unnoticeable Mary. You are wonderful and the people of your town were incredibly daft. Your sisters may be beauties but you are even more beautiful than they are. Your social graces are wonderful... because they are unconventional. I love you for who you are. You can be whoever you want to be... because that will be the woman I love for the rest of my life."

Mary felt a tear slip down her cheek as she smiled up at her fiancée. He wiped it away and softly kissed her lips once more.

"You always know what to say," Mary murmured as they parted.

Edward shrugged, "I always know what to say to you because it's the truth."

His love smiled and allowed him to help her climb astride her horse before mounting his own beast. They quickly caught up with their traveling companions. Mary's confidence felt even stronger as she remembered that her sisters had never gone through such a journey for their husbands. Nor did she think they could have gone through with it. Except Lizzie, she amended in her mind; she could see Elizabeth doing such an outlandish thing. Perhaps she had more in common with her sisters then she had originally thought.

They stopped at nightfall and set up camp. Edward and Mary got to share a sleeping pallet under the careful eye of their unspoken chaperones. It was a pleasant experience despite the awkward situation. Edward even teased about having to fall asleep in on the secluded woods in Dodgewood. The men laughed and Mary shook her head and said goodnight.

They reached the village by the next afternoon. The Rollins and Harpers were overjoyed and relieved to see that Mary had found her love and returned with him safely. They were eager to have the couple, and John, as dinner companions that evening; the jovial Americans were eager to hear about their adventures. The women were even more eager to hear about the romance.

"Ah here is our food," called Mr. Rollins good naturedly. "It is about time. I am sure you four are starving."

Edward and John nodded most especially and the duke spoke in answer, "Aside from our stay at the Bolivars we have not seen civilization and real food for weeks. This food and having my fiancée here is heaven."

Mary smiled at him as the women sighed and tittered. He grinned and winked before making a show of kissing her hand. Fiona slapped her husband lightly on the shoulder. She gave him a teasing smile as he looked affronted.

"Why can you not be that romantic Michael?" she demanded with a grin that contradicted her tone.

Michael Rollins shook his head and pulled her close for a soft kiss, "Because dearest, I save my romance for behind closed doors."

The table filled with laughter even as the women rolled their eyes at the young man's theatrics. Mary leaned her head against Edward's shoulder and let out a sigh. She looked around the table of her new friends and felt a keen sadness that she would soon be departing from them.

"You will have to visit us in Dodgewood," she announced with a glance to Edward who nodded wholeheartedly. "I shall miss you terribly. You have become such wonderful friends to me in this quest to find my Edward."

Edward kissed her softly and unabashedly in front of their spectators. He then turned to speak to the table, "Yes. There will always be room in our home for those who protected my Maria until I could find my way back to her. I am grateful for every single one of you. I hope our friendship will be a long and happy one."

Lily, who was sitting on the other side of Mary, clasped their hands together, "You can expect us to visit you Mary. Fiona and I will not be able to rest until we see how your romantic adventure has settled. Besides, I cannot wait to finally meet your little girl. Daniela sounds enchanting."

James grinned at his wife, "My wife is eager to have children. I told her this trip would be our last before we settled down and really decided to have a go at it."

"James!" Lily smacked his arms, her face one of embarrassment.

The table chuckled and Edward found his heart at ease with these people. They were his sort of people, unabashed to speak their minds and hearts. They were certainly welcome to Dodgewood. Mary and he could only benefit from their company.

The dinner waged on to a late hour and Mary excused herself to see to Aurora. Edward excused himself not a moment after and followed her to the stables. The rest of their companions laughed at the young lovers.

"I believe that is the most in love couple I have ever seen," Lily remarked with a sigh before smiling at her husband, "with exception to us dearest."

"Of course," James grinned and kissed her.

John shook his head, "Tha' young man is mad abou' Miss Mary and ye'd 'ave to be thick ter not see it."

Kev nodded with a rueful grin, "And the same could be said in reverse. I have never seen a woman more in love... with respects to Mrs. Harper and Mrs. Rollins."

Fiona smiled and shook her head, "To think I thought our story was romantic and adventurous Michael. It seems trivial when you compare it to a continent wide quest to find your fiancée..."

Michael arched his brow, his dark brown eyes wide in offense. "Trivial? Woman I nearly had my neck cut clean off because of you! Not to mention the siege... and the near fatal bullet wound!"

Fiona laughed lightly and kissed her affronted husband into silence, "I was jesting darling. Of course our own romance is an epic tale."

Lily grinned at James who shook his head, "Do not even get started my beautiful flower."

"Honestly James, our story is magic," Lily responded with a nostalgic sigh, her green eyes twinkling.

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"Edward, we are in the stables!" Mary gasped against her fiancée's ear. "Anyone could walk in at any given moment."

Edward nipped her chin before giving her one last heated kiss and removing himself from her person. Mary tried to mend her disheveled appearance. Her hair, previously placed in a serviceable bun, was in disarray. Her shirt was pulled from her breeches and the top few buttons were pulled free. She shook her head with a smile as she put herself to rights. Edward grinned and ran a hand through his ebony curls. Curls in want of a trim, Mary thought as her heart pounded with his nearness. He had also yet to shave his beard. He planned to do so once they reached Paris. It would be more prudent when they were once again settled in society.

Edward wrapped an arm around his fiancée's waist as they walked towards the stalls where their horses were being kept. Mary leaned against his body and sighed with contentment. They were still weeks away from Dodgewood and in the middle of a wild country, yet neither had felt this at home in weeks. All they had needed was one another.

Their newly awakened passion was now a pleasant burden as they fought to be respectable. What once had been embers of curiosity and love; was now an inferno of need for one another. They had still yet to cross that final barrier, and would not until Paris, but the temptation was almost unbearable.

"I cannot wait to have you as mine," Edward murmured as he watched Mary brush her horse.

His angel smiled at him with a shake of her head, "I am already yours Edward."

Edward chuckled and moved to help her, brushing the great beast's other side, "You know what I mean Maria. I know you feel the same intense passion."

Mary blushed and nodded, "I would not lie to you. Still Edward, I may not be clinging to the rules of propriety any longer but that does not mean there are still lines we should not cross. Possible risk of exposure in a stable being one of those lines."

Edward snorted and nodded in agreement, "I know Maria. I am sorry. I just... I needed..."

"I know," she looked at him with impassioned jade eyes. "I needed you too."

Edward let out a soft almost inaudible groan, "You do not know what you do to me when you look at me like that."

Mary grinned facetiously, "Actually darling, I think I remember what I do."

Edward brows arched and then he gave his own teasing grin as he moved to catch his bride. Mary's laughter rang through the building as she tried to escape from him. Unfortunately, she was trapped by the corner and Aurora's stubborn unwillingness to move. Her duke's hands found her sides and began to tickle in earnest. She gasped for breath and laughed uncontrollably as she tried to squirm away and uselessly fight against his superior arm strength.

They had fallen into, thankfully clean, hay and it was now embedded in their hair. Their clothes were in disarray as they continued their war. Her earlier reparations were undone and made worse. The laughter dissolved into gasps as tickles became caresses and their mouths met for impassioned kiss after impassioned kiss.

Tongues caressed one another and explored the recesses of the partner's mouths. Hands explored just beneath the barrier of cloth and caused gasps from the lovers as each fingertip met skin. Edward had settled between the v of Mary's legs and said young woman found herself arching her back to move against him. The movement caused the duke to groan loudly. His hips thrust against her desperately and his hand moved to the front of her breeches, eager to simply touch her heat he felt through the fabric.

Mary gasped his name as his fingertips found their way to her moist curls. Her nails scraped the skin of his back in pleasure as he found that center of pleasure and electric sparks shot through her body. Her other hand traveled down his abdomen in a deliberate caress. She reached for the front of Edward's breeches.

A loud noise from the entrance of the stable caused the lovers to still.

They breathed heavily as they heard footsteps move to one of the stalls closer to that entrance. Quickly they removed themselves from the temptation of one another and Edward helped Mary stand. They both breathed a sigh of thanks that Aurora's stall had been one of the farthest from the entrance. Mary dusted herself off feverishly. She reassembled her clothing and reached into her hair, dismayed at the mass amount of hay she found in her chestnut waves.

Edward had put himself to rights and chuckled at her expression before pulling some of the offending plant out of her hair. She rolled her eyes at him with a small grin and then moved to pull some hay out of his own ebony curls. They rid themselves of as much of the offending material as they could and then finished their tasks in the stables before heading back to the inn.

He was sharing a room with John that night. It was next to Mary's room so that she would be well watched after... and so that he could make the most of his goodnight kiss. It would be terrible to yet again be apart from her after knowing the bliss of sleeping beside her. He was stronger than he realized to be able to put himself through this torture. He was also mesmerized by the strength his lover had shown. Their resistance had been put through the ultimate test.

Edward guided Mary to her door and leaned in to kiss her reverently.

"I love you," he murmured heatedly, his passion still very much a fire in his veins. "Dream of me?"

"Always," Mary breathed with a smile before kissing him once more. "I love you, Edward. Goodnight."

"Goodnight."

Mary moved into her room and slowly shut the door, relishing her last few moments with Edward. When he was out of sight and the door firmly shut, she locked the door and went to the small desk in the comfortable room. She gave a sigh of joy at the large tub full of steaming water, a product of her love's attentiveness she was sure. She slipped out of her mussed clothes and slipped into the blissful heat.

As she bathed she rested her head back against the tub and her mind reminisced over the few eventful days. Her body tingled both with the warmth of the water and the memories of her private moments with Edward. She knew that their passions were getting the best of them and that they were probably sinful... but she could not regret them. Nothing that felt so perfectly right could be wrong in her eyes.

Her hands trailed the soaped wash cloth over her skin languidly. Her breaths were deeper and her heartbeat quickened. Realizing her situation she laughed and shook her head and finished her bath. Once properly attired in a nightgown, she called for maids to cart away the tub and then peacefully snuggled into her blankets and fell straight to sleep.

Edward only wished his venture towards sleeping had been as easy as his lover's. His yearning for her was a fire in his veins. His arousal had not abated. His mind raced with memories and desires and eagerness for the future. If anything his predicament continued to become more difficult to bear. Growling to himself, he dressed haphazardly in a pair of breeches, shirt, and boots and found himself walking out of the room, the inn, and back to the stables.

This time he went to his own horse's stall and fed the beast some oats and patted his flank. He sat on a nearby stool and attempted to will his ache away. Moments later he resigned himself to the fact that this time his will was no match for the haunting and beautiful memory of Mary gasping his name in pleasure. It fell defeated at the recollection of her nails scraping over his back and her hips arching into his... and god how her heat felt beneath his fingers.

"Damn it all!" he cursed himself and glared down at the rampant proof that in this moment he was a weak willed fool.

With a resigned sigh, he reached and took himself in hand. His breath became more labored as his mind remembered all the heated moments he had shared with his Maria. He stroked himself firmly and quickly, needing to relieve himself of the ache. His body was tense and aching, on the cusp of relief, and then the glorious moment finally happened. He released and as he did so he groaned out the cause of his distress's name.

He panted heavily in the short moments afterward. His blood thrummed in his ears causing a temporary moment of deafness. The release still felt hollow and he still burned. However, he was at a manageable point. He quickly cleaned himself and took care of his appearance. He took care of his horse and then began a slow walk back to the inn.

He ignored the patrons in the main area and made his way to his room and calmly readied himself for bed once again. This attempt proved successful and he found himself asleep in moments.

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The next morning was filled with bittersweet farewells. Mary had hugged each of her new friends, even Kev despite the fact that the sight made Edward's teeth clench. However, Edward set aside his unfounded jealousy and shook the man's hand in sincere gratitude for his assistance to Mary.

Once everything was properly squared away and they had enough supplies for the journey back towards more civilized country, Edward, Mary and John set off for home. They were to go on horseback (John had curiously gotten over his fear of the animals after his bout in the river) until they reached France. From that point on, Edward insisted they enlist in a carriage.

"I have traveled from Paris to this point on horseback," Mary argued as they traveled. "I see no point in hiring a carriage once we reach France. It will only delay our return home."

Edward shook his head, "Humor me love."

Mary raised her brow, "Humor you? You cannot honestly think I will benefit from a carriage ride as opposed to horseback? Neither mode of transportation is the most comfortable. In fact I would prefer to go on horseback, less likelihood of asphyxiation."

John snorted and shook his head as he rode on the other side of Mary, who cast him an amused glance of her own. Edward, on the other hand, gave a beleaguered sigh and ran a hand through his disheveled curls.

"Maria, I just am trying to do what is best for your health and comfort. You have spent weeks out in god knows what sort of climate and I do not want you to have to continue doing so for more than you have to."

Mary shook her head in mild insult, "I used to walk in terrible weather all the time when I was living with my parents. I can handle some rain and wind. I am in wonderful health. When, may I ask, did you lose your mind?"

Edward's eyes widened as he looked at her as John chortled, "Why, my lady, do you ask that?"

"In what way did my journey translate into a need for constant overbearing protection? In what manner have I acted that you have perceived me of weak constitution? Edward, honestly, you are being quite ridiculous," Mary responded with exasperation.

Edward felt his own ire rise but before he could respond his fiery spirited fiancée began to speak again.

"Edward," she murmured softly and reached out to clasp his hand comfortingly. "I understand that you are being so... that this behavior is out of love and worry for me. I love you for caring for me but, do you not love me for own strength? Do you not think I cannot determine my own limits? I understand that I have probably made you lose your mind when you found me and that I have made some foolish decisions... but I am not a child and those decisions were made with my love for you. I do not ask that you stop protecting me... but do not discount my opinions in matters directly concerning me."

He let out a deep sigh and smiled at her, he pulled his horse to a stop and Mary did the same. John continued forward to give the lovers a moment of privacy. He leaned over and cupped her cheek in his free hand. His thumb caressed her skin and Mary angled her head to accept the kiss she knew was coming. He obliged with a grin and they kissed sweetly.

"I cannot count how many times you have made me fall in love with you," he murmured after they parted and began to travel again.

Mary smiled sweetly at him, "I love you too. Now will you see reason?"

His bark of laughter scared birds in the surrounding trees. John's laughter soon joined his as did Mary's sweet giggles. It was moments before the duke could even answer.

"I will compromise," Edward looked at her seriously. "We will travel to France as we are. If you are still feeling as you do when we reach the border, then we shall continue to Paris on horseback. If however, you seem fatigued or, God forbid, ill then we shall acquire a carriage."

Mary thought this plan over for a moment and then nodded, "I find this to be sensible."

The rest of their journey was uneventful with mild arguments and plenty of love, laughter, and friendship. John could clearly see that Mary was the most suitable choice for his longtime friend. He could only laugh with them as Mary refused to back down. She challenged the aristocrat and made him see that his way was not the only way and it was good for the young man who was used to only have 'one' way. This talent had caused them to end their journey to Paris on horseback and not in a carriage.

John could not believe Mary's claims that she had been the 'ugly duckling' of her family of five sisters. She was radiant and full of life and her sisters sounded comparably dull. Then again, he knew that sometimes it took leaving home before you truly knew yourself. He smiled as he had an amusing debate with Mary over something unimportant.

One thing he was sure of, it was an exceedingly good thing that the young couple was planning to wed shortly. During their journey it was nearly impossible to not see the passion between Edward and Mary. They were hardly inappropriate in John's eyes, but it was clear that some borders had been crossed beyond public view. He sighed as he felt a spike of jealousy. It was time he found his own woman; perhaps, he thought, in Paris.

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Mary gave a sigh of relief as she sank into a tub of hot soapy water. She was in her temporary hotel room in Paris while Edward secured the necessities to legalize their marriage and secure a pastor for their wedding. They had arrived early in the morning and Edward insisted she bathe and rest. She simply did not want to argue. However, she defied him by settling into bed and sleeping until noon. When she woke, she found a note explaining Edward's whereabouts and then she pulled the bell for a bath.

She scrubbed her hair and then the rest of her before settling in and just relaxing in the warm fragrant water. She stared blankly at her surroundings as she thought of what the next day would bring, provided Edward accomplished his goals. Her heart raced at the thought of finally being able to call Edward her husband and all the rights that that entailed. She smiled softly to herself.

"Oh what have you done to me Edward," she murmured to the room.

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Meanwhile, Edward was furiously arguing with a vicar in a church nearby. The older man simply would not hear of marrying a young man and woman from so far away on such short notice. The short, stout, and balding vicar thought there was some sort of dastardly reason the two wanted to wed and in such short notice.

"I beg of you to understand," Edward sighed looking at the man. "My fiancée are attempting to stay right in the eyes of God. I do not wish to disrespect her or tarnish her in any way. There is no reason other than our sincere love and need for one another that we wish for you to marry us tomorrow."

"Sir, you cannot expect me to believe that a man of your class has found a woman wanting to marry you in such a way," the cleric argued. "What of her family..."

"She has no family," Edward lied and felt a twinge of guilt at the deception and in a church on top of it. "We wish to marry, tomorrow. I will make a sizeable contribution to this church if you will only do it. Please Vicar, I love this woman. I only want what is best for both of us and an expedient marriage is that."

The elderly man sighed and saw the sincerity in the man's voice, and the prospect of a charitable contribution to help his church's many needs was not undesirable.

"Very well, my lord," he acceded. "Despite my better judgment I shall perform your wedding ceremony. Please tell me you at least have another witness and the proper legal documents?"

Edward sighed and smiled, "Of course, I would not seek you out without them. I secured the documents first. At what time should we arrive?"

"I will perform the ceremony at 10 in the morning," the cleric responded. "I wish you to bring the bride at least a half hour before so that I may speak with her. Now, if you will excuse me, I have an appointment to attend to."

"I understand," Edward nodded with a beaming smile. "Thank you. Thank you very much."

The duke left the church with a light and eager feeling in his heart. It was now well into the evening and it had been several hours since he had seen his fiancée. His smile grew; they were going to be married tomorrow.

He paused near a dress shop and saw a dress that he simply knew he needed to see his bride in. He also saw, ruefully, that he needed to shave and his hair was frightfully unkempt. It was no small wonder that the small religious man had felt uneasy about performing such an impromptu marriage. With a grin, he moved into the shop.

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Chapter Sixteen

(Loving)

A soft knock disturbed Mary's slumber. She had once again fallen asleep after her bath. It seemed she was more exhausted then she had let on to Edward and John. Perhaps the excitement of their travels had falsely energized her, she had wondered before falling under the throes of slumber again.

She rose from the bed and patted down her sleep mussed hair. She then went to the door and opened it. She smiled and threw it wide open. Edward was standing there with a package, looking particularly handsome with his hair cut and his face freshly shaven. He grinned at her and indicated that he wished to come into her room.

"Hello angel," he murmured and kissed her softly as she led him to the sitting area.

Mary smiled up at him as she sat down. Edward took the chair across from her. Edward felt his heart clench at the sight of her. It was clear that he had woken her. She was beautiful in the combined light of dusk and the fireplace. He was glad to spend a few moments with her before they went down to enjoy a meal with John.

"Have you had a nice rest?" he queried.

Mary nodded, "I slept until noon, took a bath, ate lunch, and then I decided I was tired again. My excitement must have caught up with me. You have been busy today Edward. Where all did you go?"

"I have been procuring the necessary documents and arrangements for our marriage tomorrow."

"You also managed to stop by a barber and some other shop," Mary acknowledged with a smile as she moved to sit upon her fiancée's lap. She cupped his cheek and ran her thumb over his smooth skin.

Edward nodded and turned to kiss her questing fingers, "I did. Do you wish to see what I have bought?"

Mary sighed dramatically, "If I must."

Edward growled and tickled her sides until she laughed merrily. They were both chuckling as he pulled her into his arms and sat the unknown parcel atop her lap. With a smile of curiosity, Mary moved to unfasten the package. Her hand went over her mouth as the paper within the ornately wrapped box moved to reveal a beautiful gown.

It was white silk with lace overlay and a beautiful gold embroidered leaf pattern along the hem and travel up towards the waist. It was exquisite and Mary would never have dreamed that she would wear such a dress. After her several moments of silence, Edward took the hand she had over her mouth and clasped it within his own hand. He laced their fingers and moved to rest their foreheads together.

"I want you to wear this tomorrow. I saw it in a shop window and knew it was meant for you," Edward explained. "I want you to have one perfect thing in this hasty, and let us admit it, shameless marriage ceremony."

Mary moved and kissed him passionately. Edward tightened his arms around her and the dress and its wrappings fell to the floor unheeded. They parted several moments later and Mary caressed her nose over his. Her fingers ran through his newly shorn curls and her nails lightly scratched at the base of his neck.

"You are the one perfect thing I have in this hasty marriage," Mary murmured with a blissful happy smile. "I appreciate the gesture and the gown is simply divine. However, I would be completely content marrying you in a potato sack if the end result was that you were my husband."

Edward grinned and kissed her again, "I love you."

"I love you. I am so excited for tomorrow Edward."

"I am incredibly eager for tomorrow as well," he responded resting his chin on her shoulder as she placed kisses on his forehead. "But for now, I think we should join John for dinner. I am sure he is impatiently waiting for us."

Mary nodded and stood from his lap, "it is just as well. I am famished."

Edward chuckled and watched as she moved to pull her hair into some semblance of fashionable style. They then left the room and went in search of John and their meal. The dinner was jovial and filled with a happy tension as their excitement kept mounting for the following day. They were hours away from becoming man and wife. John could not help but gently tease them for their behavior.

"I honestly cannot wait to be rid of you for a few weeks," Edward teased his old friend. "You have constantly been in the way of my favorite activity."

John snorted and took a sip of his wine, "Ye'd think ye'd be glad tha' I be there ter keep ye in check."

Edward coughed and Mary shook her head with a blush.

"Really boys, I ask that you try to behave," Mary teased them both her green eyes twinkling with amusement.

After the dinner Edward escorted Mary back to her chambers and gave her one long lingering goodnight kiss behind closed doors. She smiled breathlessly as he parted from her and moved towards the door.

"Until tomorrow," he murmured heatedly, looking at her one last time.

Mary nodded and smiled passionately at him, "Our last night of sleeping alone."

"Maria..." he breathed and could not help himself and moved to kiss her eagerly a few minutes more.

Finally, with a great deal of strength from some unknown reservoir, Edward again disentangled himself from his bride to be and left her for the night. Mary moved and locked the door and rested her head against the cool wood. She smiled to herself and moved to set things out for the next morning. Her gown she lovingly laid out over the dresser provided in the room. She had thankfully discovered that Edward had also purchased shoes to match. She had feared she would have to wear her riding boots. It seemed strange to be wearing normal clothes after so many weeks spent in breeches.

Also within that package Edward had bought was a beautiful rope of pearls and breathtaking diamond earbobs. Edward had wanted her to feel beautiful and Mary smiled to herself. He took care of that by existing but... these adornments did not hurt in the least. She sighed; she would have to discuss his penchant for gifting her with extravagant things.

After everything was setting out and waiting for the next morning, Mary moved to dress for bed. She then sat at the vanity and brushed her hair idly as her mind raced with excitement and nerves. She smiled at herself in the mirror. She was getting married tomorrow. She was getting married tomorrow!

She wrote a letter to Elizabeth then and decided to send it the next day. She did not want their whirlwind marriage to come as a complete surprise to her family. Afterward, she finally felt she could accomplish some sort of endeavor at sleep and found herself under the coverlet. Sleep was hard but after a seemingly endless amount of struggle, Mary found it.

Edward had suffered a similarly inability to sleep. His mind was spinning with thoughts of the future, particularly his wedding tomorrow. He was marrying the woman of his dreams in the morning. He could barely stand the wait.

He too laid out his clothes for the next day. He patted the pouch that bore their wedding rings he had purchases earlier. They were simple gold bands, the same shade and quality of gold that Mary's engagement ring. He would hand them to John in the morning.

He then wrote for a long time in his journal and then a letter to his staff in London, and then to his staff in Dodgewood to prepare them for their arrival in the next few weeks. That was another occasion he could hardly wait for. He desperately wished to be home with Mary. He wanted to put this monstrous quest behind them and start their lives together.

After he felt he was completely prepared for the next morning, Edward got into bed and slipped into sleep.

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Edward had sent Mary and John to the church before him. This way she could speak with their officiate and calm the small man's nerves and he did not wish to spoil the breathtaking sight of her standing before him in that gown by seeing it before they stood in church to take their vows.

Now he was impatiently waiting at the altar with the vicar who smiled at him accommodatingly. Edward gave a forced smile of his own as he waited. The doors finally opened and Edward looked up to have his breath stolen away. Being led down the aisle of the church by John was the most breathtaking woman he had ever seen.

Mary was always and had always been beautiful to him. However, he could honestly say that she had never been more beautiful until this moment. He found himself thinking that he had thought that several times in the course of their relationship and smiled widely as he caught her joy, and tear, filled eyes.

It was only too soon that she had reached his side and he eagerly took her hand in his and they faced the vicar after they both mouthed the words 'I love you'. The small man officiating their marriage smiled at them. It was only too clear the level of passion, love, and commitment the couple before him felt. After his earnest talk with Mary, he was only too happy to perform the marriage.

The ceremony itself was short, simple, yet perfect. The world faded away as they exchanged their vows of fidelity, love, and protection. By the time they were ready to exchange rings, Mary was openly crying and Edward felt a few tears of joy fall from the corners of his eyes.

The rings firmly put in their appropriate place; they clasped hands and looked towards the vicar who dabbed his eyes at the beauty of the couple before him.

"With the power vested in me," he finally said after a few moments to regain his composure. "It is my honor to pronounce you as husband and wife. You may kiss your bride, my lord."

Edward wasted no time and cupped her face gently and took her lips for a soft, chaste, kiss. Mary clutched his wrists as they parted and they smiled as John cheered. Edward nuzzled her nose and took her into his arms. They both laughed as John gave another loud cheer.

"I love you so much, my wife," Edward murmured and kissed her again.

Mary smiled joyfully, "I love you, my husband. I have never been this happy before. I did not know such happiness could exist."

The couple then turned and earnestly thanked the vicar for his services. They smiled and welcomed John, who eagerly shook Edward's hand and clapped his back and gave Mary a kiss on the cheek. After that, they returned to the hotel where Edward had requested a suite for himself and Mary. John had said farewell and wished them happiness. He was returning to London on a ship that evening. He bid them to visit once they returned to England.

Mary giggled as Edward carried her over the threshold and into their hotel suite. It was a gorgeous set of rooms. She could happily imagine spending the next few days here. Her stomach rumbling interrupted her musings and Edward chuckled before taking her hand and kissing it.

"Come on my lady," he grinned. "I have had a wonderful luncheon sent up for us in the dining area."

Mary smiled at him and nodded, "The rooms are beautiful Edward. You really did not have to spend so much on them, or my gown, or the jewelry."

Edward kissed her to silence and nipped her lip, "I enjoy giving you beautiful things. Although they do not compare with your beauty. Besides, we have plenty of money. You need not worry yourself over that."

Mary shook her head, "I just do not want you to think that I expect such finery. I am perfectly content with the gift of your embrace, your kiss, and your love."

"I know that Maria," he grinned with a small shake of his own. "Like I said, I enjoy giving you these things. It is the same way I feel. You do not need to ply me with gifts. Things are simply things. They mean nothing if I did not have you."

Mary nodded satisfied and smiled before moving to the heavily adorned table. Edward chuckled and pulled her chair back for her to sit and then moved to prepare her plate despite her protests.

He simply told her that he wished to serve her. Once he had filled his own plate, and they were both sitting, Mary eagerly bit into her food. She gave a soft moan of delight at the delicious taste of honeyed ham and cranberry sauce.

"You have out done yourself Edward," she smiled at her husband.

Edward grinned and shrugged, "I would not say that Maria. You know I have a habit of proving that I can go further."

Mary blushed despite the fact that her husband had honestly meant no innuendo. Edward's eyes widened in surprise at her reaction before a slow smile fit his lips. He moved to lace their free hands together over the table. Green eyes looked at him, a mixture of nerves, passion, and love in their jade depths.

"You are beautiful," he murmured next. "I promise, I will go no further than you are ready tonight Maria. Despite the fact that we are wed. I would only be able to make love to you when you are comfortable and willing."

Mary raised their hands to kiss the back of his in thanks, "I am grateful for that Edward... but I am comfortable and willing to make love to you. I am only nervous because I have no experience. What if I... what if I displease you."

Their meal was forgotten as Edward stood and pulled Mary into his arms.

He met her eyes, passion blazing in his sapphire orbs, "Believe me Maria, there is no way that you could displease me."

Mary gasped as he began to kiss her lips voraciously. Her hands came up to clasp around his neck. Edward moved and easily lifted her into the cradle of his arm and made his way to the bed chamber of their suite. He lightly kicked open the door and Mary gasped at the view of the sun filled room. Once again, Edward had had roses brought up to the fill their room. This time they were all white, as was the majority of their room, despite the gold trimmed décor. Mary felt she had been carried into a paradise as she inhaled the sweet perfume of the flora.

"Edward," she murmured as he kissed over her neck and slowly lowered her feet back to the ground.

His tongue tasted the skin over her delicate collar bone and then he moved to take her lips with his own again. He brought his hands up to release her hair from the elegant coiffure she had placed it in for the ceremony. Chestnut waves filled his hands and the scent of roses and warm woman filled his nostrils. He had been aroused before, but he knew that there was a possibility he would be unable to turn away from her.

He felt her hands leave his neck to move down his cloth covered chest and then to the buttons of his waistcoat. Mary worked to unbutton the garment and it quickly found a home in the floor. They separated for Mary to pull his shirt out of his breeches on over his head. It too fell to the floor. Breathless, Mary looked at the expanse of skin before her.

He was strong. She knew this, but it was never clearer before this moment. Her hands began a caress from each shoulder down the expanse of his strong and lightly haired chest, and then over his stomach. His muscles clenched at the feel of her soft questing fingers, when she had moved to the fastening of his breeches he forced himself to clasp her hands in his as he kissed her yet again.

He regretfully parted from her to turn her around. He gently pushed her hair over one shoulder and kissed her neck as he began the task of unfastening her gown. Once complete, he gently pushed at the fabric until it fell to the ground. He then made quick work of her corset as she slipped out of her pantaloons. She turned around when she stood only in her chemise and smiled softly at him.

Edward reached for the fastening of his breeches as Mary moved to slip out of the chemise. Moments later, they were bare before one another. Breath was quick and light as eyes took in the new sights before them. Edward reached and tucked a strand of hair behind Mary's ear.

"You are beautiful," he murmured, and she was.

She was all soft ivory skin over pleasant curves. Her breasts were pleasantly full and high on her chest, the areolas a dusky rose. They rose and fell with each quick breath. She did not have a blemish anywhere, it seemed; except a small star shaped scar over her left hip. He wanted to kiss it. He wanted to kiss, and touch, and lick, and taste every inch of her.

Mary breathed as she took in the sight of the aroused man before her.

"So are you," she finally responded to his previous statement.

He was beautiful, she thought breathlessly. Strong and fit as a man in his prime should be. His skin was tanned and smooth. He had hair lightly dusting his chest, arms, and legs and a small trail that led to root of him. His arousal was large, she had known that from their fumbled trysts before, but viewing it was a whole new wonder. She felt a slight twinge of apprehension at the thought of taking him inside of her.

Edward pulled her towards him softly and kissed her as skin met skin. They sighed into one another's mouths. Edward ran his hands reverently down the skin of her back and she did the same. He then lifted her by the backs of her thighs, causing her to gasp his name as her warmth bet his stomach, and carried her to the bed. He then slowly laid her back against the rose covered sheets.

It was only moments before Mary pulled him over her and their mouths began to duel once more. Their hands could not be idle, however. He settled his hips into the warmth of her thighs. He did not enter her, he simply rested against her. He carried his weight with an elbow as his free hand moved to take a breast in hand. Mary moaned as he began to play her body like a finely tuned instrument. She imagined she was a piano and he was hitting the keys to his masterpiece.

Mary's hands were busy as well. One hand was buried in his lush head of hair, nails scratching his scalp with each twang of pleasure that flitted through her body. Her other hand could only clutch at his shoulder as his lips left her mouth to travel downward.

His tongue laved the column of her neck and his teeth nipped gently to cause her continued gasps. His kissed over her collar and down one breast before he took his tongue around her turgid peak. A soft cry of his name and the clench of her hands upon him was his reward. He continued to suckle at her breast before moving to apply the same treatment to the other neglected orb.

Mary's body was on fire. Her hips were undulating impatiently beneath Edward. She had barely known such a fire could exist. Their furtive encounters had been nothing compared to this freedom and exploration of passion. She moaned his name as his mouth continued to explore down her body. He left kisses, soft nips, caresses, and licks down her stomach, over her inner thighs. Her breath caught as he settled between the 'v' of her legs and looked up at her.

His eyes were black with desire. His breath was labored and she could feel the slight tremor in his eager body. She had only a guess at what he was going to do in the next moment. Her guess could have never prepared her for the molten lava that would fill her veins after.

With gentle fingers he parted her folds. She was pink and dripping with desire inside, and he found the nubbin of flesh that could cause a storm within her erect and throbbing. He took a thumb to her at first, excitement coursing through him at his next plan. As her moans grew and deepened with her excitement, Edward bent and tasted the essence of her. The move jolted Mary, who clutched the sheets beneath her at the sharp pierce of pleasure.

"Oh Edward," she gasped as he swirled his tongue around her and then within her. "Oh...oh my god... Edward..."

She could hardly manage speech as pleasure began to mount with. A warm and beautiful pressure built within her womb as her lover continued his assault. Her hips moved restlessly until he moved a hand to press them down. His free hand he took again to the center of her. He eased a finger within her, another coil of pleasure tightened within. He gently thrust the digit within for a few moments before adding a second finger.

It was at this moment that Mary's body tensed. The tight pressured coil of pleasure snapped within and her body released. Her walls clenched and unclenched around Edward's digits continuously, and proof of her arousal flooded his tongue. She screamed his name in absolute abandon.

Edward rose and claimed her mouth moments afterward. She wearily laced her arms around his neck. Her body felt sated and lethargic after such a powerful release. She felt a shiver as her tongue tasted her own essence within her lover's mouth. It was not displeasing, simply strange. Her hips moved against his now in impatience. She wanted to be his completely, and she wanted it at that moment.

"Please," she murmured between fervent kisses, "please take me. Make me yours, Edward."

Edward groaned and reached between them. He took himself in hand and lined his arousal with hers. He lovingly smoothed the head over her to coat himself with her moisture. They both moaned at the feeling. Then the moment came.

Edward slowly eased himself into her opening. While made easier by his earlier attentions, Mary was still a maiden and it was difficult to take him in at first. She breathed heavily in his ear as he kissed her tears of pain away. She clutched his shoulders tightly as he slipped the first few inches in. Her breath caught as he met her maidenhead. He murmured a few words of regret for the next moment and snapped his hips forward until he filled her completely.

Her cry this time was that of pain and her nails had dug into the skin of his shoulder. Edward was still within her as he murmured his love for her, his sorrow for causing this necessary pain, and how beautiful she was. He kissed her softly and caressed her sides and outer thighs, willing her body to relax and accommodate him.

"Do you want me to stop?" Edward asked her softly, kissing her neck as her breath calmed.

"No, no," she murmured and pulled him up for a kiss. "Move Edward. I will be fine."

He kissed her again and then began to slowly glide in and out of her depths. Their breath was labored and Edward could not help the groan of pleasure that escaped him. She was perfect. Her walls clenched around him tightly, and she was so warm and wet. He would never get enough of the woman he called his own.

Soon Mary felt her pain fading away to pleasure. She felt the familiar tightening within her womb, only this time much stronger, and she locked her thighs around Edward's hips. She began to arch into Edward's thrusts causing the man above her to groan out her name. She buried her hands in his hair as she pulled him to her and kissed him hungrily.

Moans, groans, skin moving against skin, and a pounding of a headboard against a wall, were the sounds that filled the room. Edward felt the familiar tightening within that signaled his eminent release and held back, wishing Mary to find hers first. He reached between them as fire grew. His fingers found her nub and he began to circle it firmly.

Moments later, his goal was reached and he groaned into her shoulder as Mary cried out. The feeling of her walls milking him was his undoing and he felt himself release within her, filling her. Mary could hardly describe the bliss that filled her and continued to ransack her body almost to the point of pain as she lay their panting and moaning with the after effects. The same could be said for Edward.

It was several moments afterward that he finally removed himself from her and collapsed at her side. Mary moved and lay her head over his calming heartbeat as she breathed deeply to calm her own. He wrapped his arms around her and they moved to kiss one another deeply. He pulled away and caressed her cheek.

"Are you okay?" he asked reverently.

Mary smiled and bent to kiss him languorously. She parted several moments later, "I have never been better in my life. I love you."

"I love you. My god, Maria, you have no idea how much I love you."

Mary rested against him once more, "That was the most beautiful thing I have ever felt Edward. Thank you for giving that to me."

Edward felt himself shake his head at her words and moved to lie over her once again. He kissed her long and hard, his body cradled within the concave of her body. Her hands caressed the expanse of his well-muscled back and his caressed her sides. It was several minutes before he was able to respond.

"Thank you for giving that and yourself to me," Edward breathed heavily. "I will treasure this memory and you forever."

Mary smiled lovingly at him, "I will do the same."

Edward kissed her again and felt the embers of passion begin to well up again. Sighing, he moved and lay beside her again. Mary grinned and moved to lay over him in a reverse of the position they were in before. She kissed him softly and then rested her chin in her hands as her arms rested over his chest.

"Can we do it again?" she asked cheekily.

Edward laughed and wrapped his arms around her, his hands moving to cup her perfectly taught behind. He squeezed the firm flesh and shook his head.

"Not now love," he explained to her adorably disappointed face. "You need to recover. You will be sore undoubtedly later, and I do not wish to make your pain worse than it has been. I promise this will definitely not be the last of our lovemaking."

Mary nodded and kissed him soundly before asking, "Will you teach me things that please you?"

Edward groaned at the topic of conversation and lightly slapped her bottom, "We will learn what pleases us together. For now temptress, I am going to go ring for a bath and we are going to languor in steaming hot water and the presence of one another."

"I am entirely enchanted with that plan," Mary smiled and moved to lay back and then beneath the sheets of the bed as Edward retrieved a dressing gown.

He grinned at her and then moved to ring the service bell. He kissed her and then left the room. Mary fell back upon the pillows and smiled with a sigh. Her heart was still finding its way to a normal rhythm. She breathed in the scent of the room and giggled lightly.

Mary was nearly giddy with the slowly fading pleasure and the memory. She never knew that she could feel what she had felt. She had thought she her love for Edward could not grow larger, but she had surprised herself. The love she felt for her... husband, she smiled to herself, was infinite, unconditional, and had a never-ending capacity to grow.

She touched her lips and smiled wide at the remembered kisses. They had been feeding off one another, both giving and taking in a dance as old as time. Her limbs vibrated with a tingling energy. She felt as if she could do anything, be anyone, her dreams were endless opportunities.

In the next room, Edward was also reeling over the feelings consuming him. His Maria was finally his wife; he could not fathom life possibly getting more perfect. Then again, his dearest love had always surprised him. Each day spent with Maria held a moment that he could swear was the happiest he had ever been.

After bleak years of running from the past, and losing faith in the world, Edward thought he would never know true happiness. Mary Bennet had fallen into his life like the brightest explosion; a supernova of passion, beauty, loyalty, and so many more adjectives that were true of the wonderful woman in his bed.

Eagerly, he concluded his business quickly and made his way back to the bed chambers he shared with her. He smiled and leaned against the door as he watched her. She was lost in her own recollection of their communion. Her arms were stretched above her head, her eyes closed, and her beautifully body was exposed to the waist, as she had not bothered to cover herself any higher with the sheet.

"My God, you are beautiful," he murmured.

Green eyes opened and she raised unabashedly on her elbows. Her hair cascaded down her shoulders as she rose, tendrils coming to teasingly cover her breasts. She smiled brilliantly at him and patted the space beside her beseechingly. With a laugh, Edward shed his gown and climbed into bed beside her.

His lips traveled her shoulder and over her jaw, before meeting her lips in a passionate kiss; his hand lovingly cupping her jaw towards him. Mary leaned against him, her hands moving to caress his skin from stomach to chest. They parted with sighs from both lovers. Edward smiled and nuzzled his nose with hers.

"That bath will be ready within the half hour," he whispered lovingly, his arms moving to pull her into his embrace and leaning back.

Mary nodded against his chest, "What shall we do to pass the time?"

Her husband chuckled and kissed her forehead, "How do you wish to pass the time?"

Mary smiled and pressed a kiss against his skin, "I should like to pass the time just as we are; resting in on another's arms, skin to skin. I want to lie with your heartbeat sounding in my ear."

Edward gave a sigh of content. He tightened his arms around her and ran his fingers up and down the soft skin of her upper arm. It was a moment of incandescent bliss. Peace resonated within and around the couple.

"Perhaps we should send word that we are on our way home," Mary thought aloud. "I have only just realized that we have not. I know that Daniela and my sisters will be beside themselves with worry."

"Yes," Edward murmured. "I must admit, that whilst I am loath to share you; I am eager to see our daughter once more."

Mary nodded against his chest, "I completely understand your feelings. However, I do miss home."

Edward chuckled deep and kissed her forehead, "I do as well, but for perhaps more reasons then you are to expect."

Mary moved to rest her chin against his chest and looked into his eyes, "What reasons are these?"

Sapphire eyes gleamed and darkened and a slow grin spread over her lover's features. Mary felt passion fuel her blood once more as his fingers caressed over the contours of her back. He pressed a kiss to the fingers she reached to touch his face.

"I am eager to claim you in our home," he replied after a moment of passionate stares. "I am imagining all of the places we can celebrate our marriage... the list is long and promising indeed."

Mary laughed and placed an open mouthed kiss on the center of his chest, her green eyes twinkling with love and mischief.

"You, my dear husband, are very naughty."

Edward grinned and pulled her forward for a passionate tangling of tongues. They parted with panted breath and an eagerness to further pursue their passion.

"You do love me for it though," Edward whispered against her lips. "Do you not Lady Dodgewood?"

Mary beamed, her jade eyes darkening with passion and love, "completely and irrevocably, my darling."

Her husband moved to claim her lips once more. Fingers moved to tangle in her long chestnut tresses and clutch at the back of her skull. The wife's hands were not idle. Delicate nails scratched over his chest and Edward let out a groan as his lover moved to sit up. Her heat was settled on his lower abdomen. His hands were entreated to leave their place and move to grip her hips.

Mary moaned and parted from their kiss, "How the fire burns within us, love. I want you so very badly."

Edward nipped over her jaw line and moved to clutch her bottom possessively. Her hips undulated against him as sparks coursed through her. When his tongue traced the artery pulsing along her neck, and then his teeth gently bit; Mary called out his name.

A knock on the door separated them.

Mary rose above him, her bosom rising and falling with each rapid breath. Her hair was a wild halo. Her eyes glittered with unspent passion. Edward's breathing was also rapid and labored. He grinned before moving to tumble her to her back. Mary giggled before accepting his kiss.

He parted from her with a nuzzle of noses.

"How I love you," he murmured reverently.

Another knock sounded and her husband rolled his eyes before moving to grab his dressing gown and answer the call. He answered the door and let the hotel maids in to ready their bath.

Mary moved from the bed as well. She stood and donned a dressing gown. She left their bed chamber to find the maids setting up their bath. The new bride grinned at their knowing giggles at her appearance. Edward arched a brow and grinned at her. Mary smiled and made her way to the desk inside the small drawing room. She picked up a quill, pot of ink, and stationary.

"I felt it prudent to write my sisters before our bath, Husband."

Edward chuckled at her and nodded, "Very well, my love. The ladies should be done with our bath very soon. So don't take too long."

Mary nodded and retreated to their bed chambers. Her smile never wavered and she looked upon her rings with fondness. She sat at the small table within their broom and began to write.

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My Dearest Lizzie, Jane, and Daniella,

I have found Edward and he is safe with me. The journey has held a lot more adventure than I feel I have needed in my lifetime. We are returning to Dodgewood very soon.

I have some great news, but I wish to share it with you all once Edward and I have returned home.

Until we meet again.

All my love,

Mary

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Mary frowned at the brevity of the letter but couldn't find it in her heart to write more. She did not want her family to learn of her marriage through letter. It would seem so much like Lydia. Mary shuddered at that thought. Her marriage was nothing like Lydia's. It was one of mutual love and respect and two willing people entering such bonds.

"Darling," she heard her husband speak and then felt his hands on her shoulders moments later.

Mary smiled up at her husband and he kissed her nose, "Is our bath ready?"

"It is. That is a mighty short letter," Edward commented with a soft grin.

Mary shrugged sheepishly and caressed the hand on her right shoulder, "I did not have much to say, at least not much that I could say through letter. I have to tell them of our marriage in person. I will not be my sister Lydia."

Edward leaned in and kissed his worrying bride softly, "Hush now. I understand. Do not worry yourself over it. We will be home soon enough. Come, wife, let us idle in our bath together."

Mary laughed and let her husband lift her into his arms. The lord carried his lady to their bathing chamber. He stripped her of her dressing gown and gently settled her into the hot water. She let out a sigh and settled back until her husband was ready to join her. She scooted forward until he was settled and then then leaned back against his chest.

"What do you say about remaining the week here in Paris?" Edward murmured and wrapped his arms around Mary.

Mary turned her head, smiled, and kissed his cheek, "A short honeymoon for the newlyweds? I think that would be wonderful."

Her husband hummed his consent as his lips traveled over her neck and shoulder. His hands caressed her torso idly. The bath was heavenly, Mary felt almost drugged from the pleasantness of it. She ran her nails lightly over his forearms. He sighed against her skin.

Steam filled the room and gave the atmosphere a haze. Edward chuckled and his wife turned to look at him curiously. He shook his head and took her lips with his own. Her questions died with a deep sigh that passed her lips as the kiss deepened and the caresses grew bolder.

The next day the lovers spent their time much the same as their wedding day. They discovered one another in new ways for hours, called for their meals to be delivered to their room, and slept when their appetites had exhausted them.

There was still conversation. Mary told stories of Dodgewood whilst Edward had been away. Edward regaled her with tales of his sometimes misspent youth. They laughed until tears came to their eyes and their torsos ached with the effort.

They spoke about the future. Their wanton desires sated, Mary would lie with her ear to her husband's heart, their limbs tangled together. His fingers would trail and tangle in her long hair. Their lips brushed against skin as they spoke softly; hers against his chest and his against her forehead.

Sometimes Mary would feel overwhelmed by the love she felt blossoming within her chest. Every moment that she spent with her husband she felt her love grow even stronger than she thought it could. Her being was so entwined with his that she did not know if she could bear another separation as the one they had endured recently.

When such a panic gripped her, about what might have happened, Edward would hold her close and murmur that they were both happy and healthy. He would chase away the nightmares and soothe her fears. She would smile apologetically at him and tell them both that she was being silly.

It was suppertime before they decided to get out of bed. Mary laughed as Edward helped her dress. He called it helping, but she could almost deem it a hindrance. His lips would find her skin in the most distracting of ways. His fingers would leave a caress that left her shivering.

When he had finished lacing her corset she had shooed him away. Her husband laughed and gave her a sweet kiss before leaving to dress himself. Mary shook her head and fitted her dress on over her underclothes. She sat at the vanity in the bedroom and began to fix her hair. She watched Edward dress in the reflection of the mirror. She smiled at him when he caught her eye.

"Do you like what you see?" he teased her.

Mary shook her head and laughed, "Of course."

Edward grinned, "Alas, my lady, if you keep looking at me like a dessert I fear supper will have to be delivered to our room."

Mary felt a blush cover her cheeks, "As much as I would not mind such events… I feel we should allow ourselves some fresh air. I'm sure the maids would prefer to attend to our rooms without our occupying them."

Her husband laughed and nodded, "I am sure."

He finished clothing himself and ran a hand through his wild curls. He moved to look at himself in the mirror, his head over her shoulder. With a dismissive expression and shrug of his shoulders, he kissed her temple and moved away. Mary grinned and shook her head. She finished her hair and put on simple pearl ear baubles and chose only that and her ring to wear as jewelry.

She stood after putting on her shoes and looked at her husband.

"What shall we do after supper?" Mary murmured with an arched brow.

Edward smiled and took her hand into his arm and began to lead her out of the room.

"If we are able to stand the public for more than the time of our meal, I had planned to take you to the opera house. Would that please you?"

Mary smiled and nodded, "I am sure that would be most diverting. I have never been to an opera before. Papa hated the city."

Edward kissed her softly, "I am glad to give you the experience."

Mary smiled and leaned against shoulder, "You have given me so very many experiences."

Edward smiled and nodded, "And you have done the same for me."

Conversation fell to a comfortable silence for the rest of the journey to the dining hall of the hotel. They were sat next to an elderly couple only too happy to be sitting in the company of such a beautiful young wedded couple. Mary held a delightful conversation with the matriarch and the men discussed all manner of sporting things.

Only too soon Edward had to regretfully announce their departure for the opera. They bid their dinner mates a kind farewell and left the hotel in a coach Edward had procured for their use. The carriage ride was spent indulging in laughter, breathless kisses, and rather risqué touches. By the time they reached the opera house they were both hard pressed to turn around and retreat to the haven of their hotel suite.

Edward stuck close to his wife to hide the evidence of her effect on him. He had purchased seats in a private booth. They were very much secluded from the rest of the patrons. Mary was only too happy with the seclusion for it enabled her to bestow affection on her husband that would be deemed inappropriate by society. Such affections Edward had to halt once a servant became available to their booth. His color was high and his breath labored. Mary could not help the giggle that escaped her lips when he gave her a mock glare. Mary sighed and settled her head against his shoulder to watch the performance.

He smiled at her as he held her hand within his own. Her eyes sparkled and her smile would not quit. His grin would grow when a quick halted breath would escape her lips as a scene became more intense. Her fingers would tighten in his grasp as emotion filled her. He could almost feel the music coursing through her as she took it in.

The opera was set in a fictional mountainous kingdom. There was a princess who was fair and wanted by all the foreign princes. Edward had remarked, before being hurriedly shushed by his intently watching wife, that it reminded him of the fabled Helen of Troy.

Intermission came and the lamps were raised for the guest to clearly traverse through the hall. Mary turned to her husband and smiled happily. She rose with him and he led her on a slow walk to the refreshment area. He grabbed two glasses of champagne and handed one to her.

"How do you like it, Lady Dodgewood?" he asked with a smile before sipping from his own glass.

Mary took a slow sip of the bubbly drink and smiled sweetly, "Are you speaking of the production or the champagne?"

Her husband grinned at her and bent to kiss her softly.

"I know the champagne is delicious...or it is your lips that are so sweet. I was inquiring about your opinion of the production."

Mary laughed lightly, "I know that. I think it is a moving story. The soprano is slightly off pitch and the orchestra lost their place once or twice... but otherwise it is a beautiful performance."

Edward nodded and laughed slightly before handing their empty glasses to a server walking near. They were soon joined by other theatre goers and engaged in lively conversation. The couple had become the center of attention. They were young and attractive and vibrated with life and passion. The men secretly envied the duke his wife, and the women envied the duchess her husband. However, despite the jealousy, no one could help but like both Mary and Edward. They charmed the ton in the Paris opera house with incredible ease.

Intermission was soon at an end and Edward led his wife back to their seats. Mary smiled as she took her seat and Edward then took his before taking her hand into his own. Their fingers were interlocked and Edward's thumb caressed the soft skin of her wrist. His wife's breath gently hitched and he grinned softly without meeting her in the eye.

"Impertinent," he heard her whisper.

He leaned to kiss the soft shell of her ear and answered, "Always, for you."

Mary smiled, sparing a glance at him through the corner of her eye, "Behave Husband, or you shall find your wife cross with you."

"Hmm," Edward chuckled lightly. "Perhaps this husband likes when his wife is fiery."

"If you behave, I promise to be 'fiery' when the time and place is appropriate," Mary grinned and turned her head to his.

Edward's grin matched hers. He leaned in to capture a quick but deep kiss. Mary's breath caught and her eyes closed against the pleasant attack. Her husband pulled away and settled into his chair. His countenance was that of an interested patron. His appearance betrayed no errant thoughts or inappropriate action.

Mary blinked slowly as she regained her composure. She was speechless as Edward patted her hand and nodded toward the show. Her expression became a fond glare as words left his lips.

"Darling, if I am to behave, you must pay attention to the production. I cannot focus with you looking at me in such a way."

Mary shook her head and turned her head back toward the production. She tightened her grip on his hand just so. Her voice was sugary sweet, but Edward could not help the grin at the hidden ire. He was lucky to know her so well.

"I believe you have succeeded in drawing your wife's fire, dearest."

Edward chose to remain silent. A wise decision, as Mary could not quite take more of his teasing when she could not appropriately act upon it. Their attention was soon drawn toward the story and they behaved themselves for the rest of the assembly.

After an appropriate amount of applause after the curtain fell, the couple rushed away from the theatre without pausing to bid farewell to new acquaintances. They found their carriage and once again the lovers found themselves lost in one another.

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(Author's Note: Holy freaking Crap! I have been gone for so long. I apologize profusely. As always life... is an untamable beast. However, in good news, my boss is a writing fool like myself and we've been encouraging and pushing one another in our literary ventures. Without her camaraderie this would not be ready to post even now.

Also funny story, I got so lost while writing I didn't realize that I had actually finished this part and continued the plot like a goober thinking I was a chapter behind, when I was really a chapter ahead. (So whoops, you could have had this like two weeks ago) Don't mind the mistakes, I know they are there. I just wanted to get this up as quickly as possible. I hope you enjoy it, as I enjoyed writing it... and whew, the steamy bits were slightly embarrassing. May your lives be Blessed. Xoxoxo-Swtimperfection21)

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(Play-list for Part VIII (Chapters Fifteen & Sixteen))

"Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not" –Thompson Square

(Ch. 15) "Underneath Your Clothes" (Mary) –Shakira/ "Wanted" (Edward) –Hunter Hayes

(Ch. 16) "Speechless" (Mary) –Beyonce/ "Trumpets" (Edward) –Jason Derulo