Author's Note: Sorry for the delay! I have many reasons actually, the main one being that I'm just a lazy ass. I'm sooo sorry! Also, I blame my feels. I've been watching a bunch of sappy videos, mainly Auslly, Raura and Bemmet videos. Plus, R5's Heart Made Up on You EP just came out a couple of days ago. Anyways, this chapter is dedicated to two people; winkawinkamika for bugging me to update by threatening me and Louder4life for being a regular reviewer and this story's first reviewer [ I heard about your father, condolonces to you and your family. ] Thank you for the support you're giving to this story! (':

Also, I have posted a new oneshot. The title is Austin's Got Talent.

Warnings: somewhat OOC

Twitter and Tumblr: at yayiloveyellow/yayiloveyellow . tumblr . com

Favor: Want me to update quicker? Well, all you have to do is vote for Natsu x Lucy and Gray x Juvia in winkawinkamika's poll in her profile, or you can review this on her story, Just an Accident, "Natsu x Lucy and Gray x Juvia" At least 5 people, please. *hearts*

Previously on the Captive Bride...

Austin walked back into the ballroom to find Ally with her uncle. He watched her all night, but she managed to avoid meeting his eyes. He decided to keep his distance, for there was no point in making matters worse than they already were. He would give her a chance to calm down tonight, and start anew tomorrow. Oh yes, it was far from over.

Chapter 4

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Captive Bride

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The sun was high over the trees when Ally finally crawled from her bed. She slipped on her comfy slippers and put on her robe and looked over to the window, wondering what time it was. She had tossed and turned last night after she come home from the ball. Hazel brown eyes kept staring back at her all night. She wanted to slap Austin Moon's annoying, handsome face.

Austin Moon was tall, lean and muscular. She felt like a mouse compared to him with her 5 feet and 2 inches stature. The man was quite tan, standing him apart from the lily-white, London dandies. And his hair—oh his hair ; the way they were sexily tousled, completing his Sex God look, did things to her. Ally didn't know if she wanted to vomit or run her hands through those blonde locks.

What's the matter with you, Allyson? She scolded herself. Why can't you get that man out of your thoughts? He is rude and arrogant, plus he insulted you! But, you continue to think about him. Well, you won't be seeing that bastard again if you can help it.

Ally's growling stomach distracted her from her thoughts. She went to her wardrobe, picking a yellow summer dress then started getting ready.

Ally walked into the dining room to find Mrs. Williams and one of the downstairs maid, clearing away what looked like to be remains of lunch.

"Why, Miss Allyson, we were beginning to wonder if you were ill. Would you like me to prepare you some lunch?" Mrs. Williams asked.

Ally sat down and smiled. "Whip me up anything, please. I'm starving."

The older woman smiled and nodded at Ally then proceeded to make Ally's meal.

"Oh, Miss Allyson, I almost forgot," said Mrs. Williams, as she poured Ally a cup of tea, "there's been a gentleman whose been coming here—three times already. He's quite persistent. I believe his name was Mr. Austin Moon."

Ally scrunched up her nose in annoyance that the bastard had come for her. A knock on the mansion doors interrupted the moment.

"Oh, that must be him again," Mrs. Williams said, gazing at the manor's mahogany doors.

Ally let out an unladylike grunt and huffed out in annoyance, crossing her arms over her chest. "If it's Mr. Moon again, please tell him that I am not well."

Mrs. Williams gave Ally a hesitant smile and said, "Very well then, Miss Ally. But this Mr. Austin Moon is an awfully handsome gent." The older lady winked at the young Dawson girl and proceeded to answer the door.

Ally's face turned crimson at Mrs. Williams's comment. She had already admitted to herself that Austin was indeed a fine specimen, albeit grudgingly.

Mrs. Williams came back with the news, a sly smile present on her face. "Well, it was Mr. Moon. He told me to tell you that he hopes you feel better soon, isn't that sweet oh him, Miss Allyson?" She said, a look of adoration on her eyes. "Too bad, you aren't interested. But, oh well."

Ally flashed Mrs. Williams a grateful smile then thanked her for understanding, "Thank you, Mrs. Williams. Oh well, indeed."

Dez and her will be leaving tomorrow, so she wouldn't have to see Mr. Moon again. A short pang of an unidentified emotion hit Ally as she thought of never seeing the blonde man again. Shaking her head vigorously, Ally tried to rid of such thoughts. What the hell, she thought.

Ally heard the front doors of the house open then close, and Dez appeared in the doorway. "So, you finally managed to pull yourself out of bed. I waited for you this morning, but gave up at noon," Dez said, leaning against the doorway.

"I also ran into one of my friends in my regiment. He and his wife invited us for dinner tonight, along with their other friends. How does leaving at 6:00 sound?"

Ally nodded and absorbed all of the things her uncle said. She needed to get out of the Marano's house. It was her last day in London, after all. "That'll be fine, Dez."

"I also met Mr. Moon outside. He said he had called for you, but you weren't feeling well. Is anything the matter?" Dez asked, worry etched on his face.

"No, no, no, nothing to worry about, Dez. I just don't want to his face, is all," Ally reassured Dez, smiling cheekily at her uncle.

"Well, we leave tomorrow. This is your last chance to find a husband, Ally."

A look of disgust appeared on Ally's face then slapped her uncle's arm. "Dez, you know I didn't come here to look for a husband! The last thing I want is to be tied down and enslaved by wifely duties. When I find a man who will treat me as an equal, then perhaps I shall consider marriage." The frustrated girl then tilted her chin up high and huffed in annoyance.

Dez just looked at his niece in amusement and shook his head, "Okay, Ally, I don't know, knowing men of this time, I wish you luck in your search." He then gave Ally a playful wink then proceeded to head to his room, complaining about how he had fallen to a puddle of mud earlier during his walk to the park.

Ally smiled fondly at her uncle. She knew he meant well, but so far, marriage was far from her mind. Her family now consisted of Dez, Nana and her stallion, Pickles. They were the ones who were there for her; the ones who stood by her when her parents died. She loved them all so dearly. Now, with Dez's purchase of a commission in her Majesty's army, she planned on going with him. He was currently on leave and waiting for further orders. Ally knew that Dez didn't plan on making the army his career, he just wanted to do his part for his country before settling down.

Ally then asked Hannah, the upstairs maid, to prepare her a bath. Baths relaxed her and she needed some relaxing after the whole Austin Moon fiasco.

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Captive Bride

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Ally decided to take special care of her attire for the evening, since this would be her last day in London. She chose a dark-burgundy evening dress and piled her dark curls into an elaborate updo, with a few curls down, framing her face. She then attached a pearl and diamond studded comb in her hair then clasped a matching necklace on her neck. Ally then stared at her reflection in the mirror. She had to admit, she felt self-conscious a lot of times, after all, everyone had their own insecurities. But, looking at herself in the mirror and how grown up she looked, confidence surged in her body, leaving her feeling giddy. She then mentally repeated a mantra on her head; Just have a good time, Allyson. Deep breaths.

A knock on the door interrupted Ally's primping. Dez called out from outside her door, "I will be waiting for you outside the house, Ally."

She then replied an okay and that she was almost done. Ally stood up from the vanity chair and proceeded to go down stairs. She was greeted by awes and praises by the maids and the Marano's when she descended down the stairs. Ally thanked them all and opened the front doors and was met by Dez's admiring gaze.

"You look beautiful tonight, Ally, shall we go?" Dez gave Ally his right arm, which she accepted happily, not before doing a curtsy playfully.

Dez and Ally boarded the coach and had small talk on the way to the dinner. They arrived at the house and was greeted by the two hosts. Brandon and Joy Ensslinn met them at the door and and Dez introduced them to Ally. Joy Ensslinn was a friendly and sweet lady who had brown eyes and curly brown hair, and like her name, she had a joyous aura surrounding her. Brandon, her husband, was tall and quite lanky, but he looked mysterious with his brooding dark eyes and black hair. Brandon and Dez met in the army and were in the same regiment, which led them to become good friends.

"You two are the last guests to arrive, everyone is in the drawing room," Brandon said, leading the way.

When they entered the drawing room, Ally couldn't help but see him. He was the tallest person in the room. Oh damn, she thought, he would spoil her last evening in London!

Austin Moon saw Allyson as soon as she entered the room. She turned away with contempt when she saw him. Well, he didn't expect an easy conquest. She did seem to hate him last night.

It was sheer luck running into Dez Worthy this afternoon and learning from him that he and his niece would be here tonight. Kyle knew the Ensslinn's and was able to get himself and Austin an invitation. Austin also learned from Dez that this was their last night in London, so he had to work fast. He hoped that Allyson wouldn't be so affronted by his boldness, but he had no choice other than trying to win her over tonight. He would much rather take Allyson to his home and make her his wife whether she protested or not, in the manner of his father's people. But, he knew he couldn't do that, not here in England. He had to try to win her affections the civilized way.

He sighed, cursing the lack of time. But, perhaps Allyson Dawson would oblige to his request. He wasn't a bad catch, after all. Smirking at the thought, Austin was still annoyed. He still only had one day to win her over, the odds were against him. Damn, why hadn't he met her sooner?

Joy Ensslinn drew Ally towards Austin. "Miss Dawson, I would like to introduce—"

She was cut off abruptly.

"We've met," Ally said contemptuously.

Joy Ensslinn looked startled, but Austin made an arrogantly graceful bow, took Ally's arm firmly, and walked her out onto the balcony. She resisited, but, he was sure she wouldn't cause a scene.

When they reached the railing, she whirled to face him defiantly. Her eyes sparkled wildly, and her voice was cold and harsh.

"Really, Mr. Moon? I thought I made myself quite clear, last night, but since you don't seem to understand, let me enlighten you. I don't like you. You are a rude and conceited man, and I find you quite intolerable. Now, if you will excuse me, I am going back to join my uncle." She turned to leave, but he grabbed her hand and pulled her back to him.

"Ally, wait," he demanded huskily, forcing her to look into his brown orbs.

"I really don't think we have anything to say to each other, Mr. Moon. And please refrain from calling me Ally, only people I like are allowed to." She turned to leave again, but Austin still grasped her hand in his. She faced him once more, stomping her foot in fury.

"Let go of my hand!" She demanded.

"Not until you listen to what I have to say, Ally," he answered, pulling Ally's body closer to his.

Enraged and completely ticked off at this point, Ally let out a scowl and screeched, "How dare—"

"I dare anything I damn well please. Now, shut up and listen to me." He was amused at the look of disbelief written on her lovely face. "I spoke rudely about the young ladies last night simply to quiet my matchmaking brother. I never wanted to marry until I first saw you. Ally, I want you. I would be honored if you would consent to be my wife. I would give you anything you want—jewels, beautiful gowns, my estates."

She was looking at him with disbelief and and fury. She opened her mouth to say something but the words wouldn't come out. And then he felt the sting of her hand across his cheek.

"I have never been insulted in my—"

But, Austin didn't let her finish. He gathered her in his arms and silenced her words with a deep, penetrating kiss. He held her tightly against him, feeling her breasts pressed on his chest, crushing the breath from her body. She was struggling to free herself, but her efforts only increased his desire.

Then, unexpectedly, Ally went limp in his arms which threw he off guard. Austin thought she had fainted but winced when he felt a sharp pain in his shin. He released her instantly to grab his leg, and when he looked up, he saw Ally running into the drawing room. He saw her go to her uncle, who left to go say something to the hosts. Then, Dez escorted his niece outside the room.

Austin could still feel her lips on his. With desire still rushing through his veins, he ran to the balcony's railing, seeing Ally and Dez climb into their coach and drive off. He watched till they were out of sight, then went to Kyle and asked him to make excuses to the hosts. He was in no mood to suffer through dinner. Kyle started to protest, but Austin was already on his way out of the drawing room.

He should have know better, Austin told himself. He had pleaded to her like a fool. Well, that would be the last time. He'd never explain himself to a woman before, and he never would again. To think he actually thought to win her over in one night. She was not some scullery maid who would jump at the chance to be rescued from drudgery. Ally was a lady born to luxury. She didn't need the wealth he could give her.

He should have gone to her home, in the Dawson manor, and courted her slowly. But, that wasn't his way. Besides, he had never courted a woman before. He was used to getting what he wanted immediately, and he wanted Ally Dawson.

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Ally was shaking uncontrollably when she ran back into the drawing room. She could still feel Austin Moon's lips on hers, his arms holding her pinned against him. So that was how a man kissed a woman. She had always wondered what it felt like to be kissed. She hadn't expected the feeling Austin Moon has aroused in her; a feeling that both frightened and excited her.

Luckily, she had remembered what her mother had once told her; if a man forcefully took his way with her, pretend to faint and then kick him as hard as she could. It had worked, she then thanked her mother silently for that.

Ally calmed herself as her uncle talked to the hosts. She had told Dez that she had a splitting headache and wanted to depart from the dinner early. When he came back, they left for their carriage. Looking up, she saw Autin Moon on the balcony, watching them leave.

To think the bastard wanted her and asked her to marry him, knowing she hated his guts! Of all the nerve, the outright audacity!

Now, that she was safely away from Austin Moon, she was furious. She had only met him yesterday, and today he had asked her to marry him—without one word of love. He had only declared that he wanted her. He was even more impulsive tha Gavin Young and Elliot Sanders. They, at least were gentlemen.

Thinking about it made her angrier. Austin Moon was no gentleman, he was a barbarian! She wanted to go right back to the balcony and slap the arrogant bastard's face.

Ally's feelings showed on her face, and Dez, who had been scrutinizing her quietly, finally interrupted her thoughts.

"Ally, what's the matter? Your eyebrows are scrunched up and you're pouting, plus you're kind of red."

Focusing her attention on Dez, Ally let out another unladylike scowl and answered heatedly. "Headache! Yes, I had a headache, and I left him in the balcony. Dez, that insufferably cad asked me to marry him!"

"Who did?" Dez asked calmly.

"Austin Moon, that's who! And he had the nerve to kiss me—right there on the balcony, unwillingly!"

Dez was amused, his blue eyes shone with hilarity. "It seems to me, that you have now met a man who knows what he wants and goes for it, Ally."

Want.

That word triggered something in Ally's mind. "Yes, he wants me. He told me himself. His exact words actually. No mention of love, just want or lust!"

Dez laughed. It wasn't often that he saw his niece this flustered. She was angry as hell. Of course, if Austin had molested Ally he would've gone up to him and would bravely knock some sense into him, even though he knew he would most likely loose to a physical battle against the said man. I mean, the man had visible abs and quite muscled, Dez thought.

"You know what, Ally, more times than not, desire does come before love. Had Austin said he was in love with you, it probably would have been a lie. When a man finds a woman he can't live without, then he knows he's in love. I believe that love has to grow slowly and will take more time than just two days, or even two weeks. However, it seems that Austin Moon was prepared to love you, since he proposed marriage. Instead of getting so angry, maybe you should take it as a compliment."

Calming down, slowly, Ally leaned back on her seat and stared outside the window moodily. "Well, it doesn't matter now, anyways. I'll never see Austin Moon again and we're leaving tomorrow."

Dez smiled and took his niece's hand, rubbing soothing circles on her hand.

"Oh, Dez. I'm glad we're going home."

So that's for chapter 4! Remember, if you want me to update quicker, vote on winkawinkamika's poll! Or review on her story, Just An Accident, with Natsu x Lucy and Gray x Juvia.

I'm on twitter and tumblr, lovlies: at yayiloveyellow/yayiloveyellow . tumblr . com *heats*