Chapter 18: L'amour Vainc Tout
Summary: Each man should frame life so that at some future hour fact and his dreaming meet.
-Victor Hugo .~O~.
The conclusion to "A Gentleman's Wager"
Notes: -This site does not allow me to post a link to the gorgeous artwork drawn by panda-capuccino for the last chapter of this fic. You can find me on Tumblr under the handle nerdherderette to see it
~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~
Vivre sans aimer n'est pas proprement vivre
-Molière
The lake's glassy surface reflected the clear blue skies and verdant canopy above, its smoothness interrupted by the occasional darting of silvery bleaks, or the ruffling of feathers as groups of reed buntings and great crested grebes preened and dove. A pair of powerful steeds and their handsome riders slowed as the gravel path on which they rode morphed into the reedy outline of the water's edge.
"Look," Hux whispered excitedly, pointing to a pair of birds foraging in a copse of shrubs. "A couple of American Redstarts! They must have had one devil of a journey, to make it so far east."
The cock bobbed, an obtrusive figure draped in jet black from the top of his head to the tip of his tail with the exception of the occasional copper splash. He successfully gleaned a stonefly and proceeded to hop over to his companion, who remained nestled within the tall grass.
"The two look surprisingly domesticated, considering they are so far from their natural home," Kylo remarked.
Hux grinned. "It appears as if more than one Stateside bird has discovered something worthwhile enough in our fair country to pull up stakes."
Kylo snorted. "Yes, well, England does have her share of attractions," he remarked, rolling his eyes affectionately as he laughed. Despite the teasing nature of Kylo's words, the implications of Hux's statement did not escape him in the least.
It had been nearly two years since Rey barreled into the Earl of Alderaan's life, upending everything he had previously known. Kylo's handsome face pulled into a frown as he recalled how he nearly lost the woman who eventually captured his once-cynical heart, whether through his own inconstant and profligate behavior, or the malicious jealousies of others.
Hux spared him a knowing glance.
"Bazine is in Bedlam, Ren," he said gently. "She will not be able to hurt you, or Rey, any longer."
Kylo responded with a rueful smile. "Rey is endowed with a generous spirit. I would say that she is compassionate to a fault, were I not a recipient of her beneficence myself."
It was upon Rey's urging that Bazine now resided under the care of the staff at Bethlem Royal Hospital instead of sharing the cold walls of Newgate with the likes of Sir Tyran. Kylo's fury at the Duchess' treacherous behavior made him unreceptive to the suggestion at first, although Rey's appeal for mercy won him over in the end. Despite Bazine's cruel machinations, he was glad to have heeded Rey's advice. He had lived for too many years under the oppressive cloak of bitterness and scorn, and with this gesture of forgiveness, he was able to finally shrug its weight off his weary shoulders. He hoped that Bazine would eventually find some measure of happiness and acceptance, although he knew that he would not remain a participant in her life to witness it.
Bazine was his past. He was finally free of his demons, and on this propitious day, his only desire was for the future.
"And what of you, Hux? Now that Napoleon has been exiled to Elba, will you be remaining in London for awhile?"
Hux looked down at the band of gold which decorated his left hand. It shone warm and brilliant in the sun, and its heft proved both a welcome and comforting presence.
"Perhaps longer than you think. My next battle may take place not on the fields, but in rooms of St. Stephen's."
Ren's brow lifted fractionally at the information, only to be quickly replaced with a look of pride.
"You have a good heart, Hux, as well as an aptness for spurring passions and drawing men to your side. I think that a political position would suit you well. Not to mention the fact that you now have a certain someone who would prefer you to remain closer to the safety of home."
"Make that a certain someones," Hux clarified, as a blush worked its way up to the tip of his ears.
Ren stared, then whooped as recognition dawned. He reached over to clasp Hux's arm with glee.
"You and Isabelle! With a bantling on the way-" Kylo's voice held a trace of awe.
Hux laughed, his green eyes filled with mirth. "I have no doubt that you will have a similar announcement of your own, by year's end. But first things first." He gave Ren a wicked grin.
"We have a wedding to attend."
~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~
"The guests will be arriving within the hour, Miss Kenobi. The vicar is already here; he appears to be happily settled with a generously sized claret cup which has yet to leave his side." Mrs. Kanata sniffed as she surveyed the flurry of activity within the room. Her large brown eyes, so usually sharply observant, were suspiciously bright.
Rey looked at the older woman fondly. "I don't think I have ever seen the estate look more beautiful, Mrs. Kanata. Thank you," she said softly. "For everything."
Mrs. Kanata acknowledged Rey's gratitude with a slight nod. The staff had worked tirelessly with preparations for the impending nuptials following the couple's successful audience with the Archbishop of Canterbury. Although the future Countess of Alderaan had been aghast at the cost and influence required to obtain a special license, she was grateful that her fiancé embraced the idea of holding the ceremony at Caserta instead of the local parish church. The home's verdant hills and fecund grounds provided the most picturesque of settings, and its significance would be forever ingrained in their hearts. It was particularly magical today- the riotous colors of the blooming gardens were nearly out-matched by the tantalizing sights and smells of the elaborate feast, while the sweet sounds of minstrels and the arriving musicians lent a gaiety to the air.
The older woman watched as Jessika put the finishing touches on Rey's hair. Delicate strings of seed pearls were threaded through the loose strands of her artfully arranged locks, punctuated by sprays of gypsophila and their leaves. The bride's cheeks and lips were faintly stained, and her sparkling hazel eyes were highlighted with a hint of kohl. The beauty and radiance which Rey exuded, however, went far beyond such artificial enhancements.
"It was our pleasure, Miss Kenobi." Mrs. Kanata wavered, then broke propriety as she leaned forward to give Rey a quick hug. The kindly woman then stood, suddenly unaccountably fascinated by the threading of her own dress. When she spoke again, her voice was slightly gruff.
"Not bad for a Mistress Princum-Prancium, eh?" She allowed herself a brief smile before she schooled her features into an inscrutable expression and hurried out the door.
"Mrs. Kanata, a Mistress Princum-Prancium?!" Phasma asked with a laugh. "You will have to tell me the story behind that, one day."
Rey turned towards the statuesque blonde. Phasma looked resplendent in a fine cotton gown in ivory white, the sleek and graceful lines accentuating her tall and elegant frame. Her flawless complexion was highlighted by the flush of excitement in her cheeks, as well as the merriment which danced in her crystal blue eyes.
Phasma tilted her head as Millicent wove several white roses into a subtle design within the bridesmaid's platinum locks. Rey thought that she never looked more beautiful. The past year had taught Kylo's sister to embrace her femininity, and coupled with her gamine nature, had turned the youngest Organa-Solo into one of the most formidable and sought-after members of the marriageable ton.
Not that Phasma indulged in the numerous opportunities which were suddenly laid at her feet. Her attentions appeared to have already been captured by one.
"The Viscount looks particularly handsome today," Rey remarked slyly, her grin widening at Phasma's deepening blush.
"Pish posh," Phasma said dismissively, although not enough to hide the pleased smile which graced the blonde's lips.
Jessika and Millicent looked at each other knowingly.
"Forgive my boldness, Lady Phasma," Jessika said. "But you have always been particularly skilled in the hunt. You have managed to capture the heart of a rare knave-in-grain; perhaps you should allow him to bear the bell!"
"Aye! In fact, if you hurry, we are blessed to have the company of both the clergyman and the parish clerk at hand. I am sure the handsome Lord Thanisson would not be adverse," Millicent added with a smirk.
"Ahhh, the pair of you are no more than a pair of gossiping tibs! Enough with you," Phasma scolded fondly, amidst their peals of laughter.
A gentle knock interrupted the festivities at the door, followed by the imposing elegance of the Marchioness as she stepped over the threshold.
"Do not stop on my account," she smiled as she took in the abigails' guilty expressions . "I can not think of anything more appropriate for today than for our home to be filled with the sounds of happiness and merriment."
Jessika adjusted the silken hem of Rey's cream colored gown. It's ivory tone glowed against Rey's lightly tanned skin, and the bodice was trimmed in gold beading and tiny shells. She lifted a small veil made of an intricately patterned Point Brussel's lace, securing it to the back of Rey's hair with a diamond and pearl pin. The lace fell delicately from underneath the spray of flowers, in an tasteful yet beautiful statement matching the bride herself.
Phasma's breath hitched at the sight. "You look gorgeous, Rey."
"Indeed," Leia concurred. "It is easy to see why you have swept my son off his feet." She gazed at Rey, the lines at the corners of her eyes crinkling upwards. "I wonder if you would spare me a moment of your time?"
Jessika and Millicent acknowledged the Marchioness before quietly slipping away. Phasma gave her mother a meaningful look, standing and planting a quick kiss on her cheek before turning to Rey.
"The gardeners have been working until the last minute on your bouquet; they wanted to make sure that you had the freshest and most fragrant flowers that the gardens had to offer. I will collect it for you." She bit her lip, her normally composed face crumpling slightly under the weight of her emotions. "I am so happy you came into our lives." She smiled brightly, before exiting and shutting the door.
Leia sat down next to Rey. She clasped the younger woman's hand, her touch at once gentle and familiar, and speaking volumes of her acceptance and love.
"How are you feeling, Rey?"
Rey smiled shyly.
"Excited, my Lady-and despite the occasion, surprisingly calm. I have loved your son for so long. The events of today are a celebration and affirmation of my feelings, but it cannot make my love for him any greater, as I what I hold for him cannot possibly be expanded upon."
Leia smiled understandingly. "The Marquess and I could not have hoped for Kylo to find a more suitable match. He is passionate and at times tempestuous, and it takes a wise and equally passionate woman meet him head on. Your beauty inspires him, while your kindness grounds him. Most of all, you have brought a lightness back into his heart. It is something I have not seen in years, and once feared forever lost.
"Thank you, Rey, for showing him that the world is truly a wonderful place."
Rey watched, stunned, as Leia withdrew a small box and flipped over the hinged top. Inside sat a beautiful heart-shaped locket made of gold. The exquisite repousse work and chasing contained gems of turquoise and pearls which were nestled amidst the images of jasmine, ivy and larkspur.
"This necklace was passed down from the women in my family," Leia explained. "It is a symbol of our strength, and our ever-lasting love. The flowers represent the things we hold dear: spirit, fidelity, elegance and grace.
"You embody all these things, Rey. Today, you will become part of a long and honorable line of courageous and competent Organa women. This now belongs to you."
"My Lady..." Rey swallowed, overwhelmed at the magnitude of the gift. She fought back her tears, caught up in the swell of unconditional love which she had once thought forever lost. "You and your family have already showered me with your unspeakable generosity. Beyond that, you provided me with the opportunity to regain my pride and self-worth. I could spent the rest of my life trying, and would still be unable to repay the magnitude of my debt to you."
"You saved my son," Leia said simply. "There is no amount of jewelry, or money, or privilege in the world which could replace that. I would say that it is my family who owes you."
She held out the box once again, the locket winking against the folds of the soft velvet cloth.
Rey hesitated. Given the locket's familial significance, she was reluctant to accept such a priceless gift.
"Phasma.."
"Would like very much for you to have it. The two of us have discussed this; in fact, it was her idea. Phasma has always been fiercely protective of her brother, and she adores you. There are plenty of other trinkets which she may avail herself of stored in the family vaults. But when it comes to this particular piece, we both feel that there is no one more fitting to wear it, than you," Leia replied firmly.
The Marchioness leaned forward, her competent hands steady and reassuring as she placed the lavaliere around Rey's neck. The locket's weight nestled against comfortably against her chest, its jewels twinkling brilliantly against the metal's warm glow.
"Perfect." Leia pronounced. Her eyes misted over as Rey flung herself towards her, disregarding her wedding dress as she enveloped the older woman in a fierce hug.
"In the eyes of our family, you are already one of us," Leia said tenderly. "Shall we go downstairs and make it official? I believe the vicar and several guests are waiting."
~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~
Breathe.
The smell of early summer blooms filled the air, their perfumed splendor matched by the vibrant burst of color which decorated the surroundings. The gardeners had outdone themselves, plucking the freshest and most vivid bouquets of crysanthemum and hydrangea to fill the crystal cut vases, as well as the bride's delicate spray of freesia and orange blossoms which sat wrapped in ribbon and lace.
The early afternoon sun lazed high in the sky. Its golden rays were buffered by a gentle breeze, the warm current carrying the trills of the songbirds over the low murmurs of the guests. Rey's heart filled as she looked out over the intimate gathering of their family and friends, and she let out a contented sigh.
Kylo lent her an encouraging smile. He was dressed handsomely in a muslin shirt and silken cravat, the clean lines of his swallowtail jacket showcasing his imposing form. His dark breeches clung to the muscular curves of his legs, while his ebony locks cascaded out from underneath the brim of his hat.
His style of dress was quickly forgotten, however, when those topaz eyes met her own. They looked upon Rey with such passion and admiration, that their intensity nearly caused her to swoon.
Kylo's face suddenly lit up mischievously. Rey noted the subtle movement as his right hand appeared to toy carelessly with the pocket watch which lay secured to his waistcoat by a thin chain. It glinted briefly as the back caught the light, the engraved case angling slightly towards her with a deft turn of his hand.
Rey swallowed the laugh which threatened to bubble forth from her throat. She would never forget the shape or weight of that piece as it lay briefly in her pickpocketing hand, her prize thwarted by Kylo's lightning fast reflexes during their fateful meeting two years ago.
The vicar looked out over the assembled guests as he straightened his stance and cleared his throat. His jowls shook as his sonorous voice rang out over the countryside.
"Dearly beloved. We are gathered here in the sight of God to witness the joining of this man and this woman in Holy Matrimony. The union of husband and wife in heart, body, and mind is intended for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity..."
His booming voice words echoed all which Rey felt in her soul. Kylo had shown her a love which soared with passion and heady emotion, yet tethered her with its unwavering loyalty and support. It was a love which constantly challenged her mind and her spirit, filling her with humor, arousing her desires, and flattering her vanities. It was a love in which she discovered not only her equal, but her best friend.
It a love which in her soul, she had always yearned to find.
True love.
Kylo took her hands into his own as he gave her a reassuring squeeze.
"Miss Kenobi. Will you have this man to be your husband; to live together in the covenant of marriage? Will you love him, comfort him, honor and keep him, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to him as long as you both shall live?"
Rey's lips curved in a smile. Her voice was steady with her conviction as she spoke.
"There to I plight thee my troth."
Kylo's eyes gleamed. He withdrew a gold band, simple and pure. It encircled and hugged her finger as he slid it into place, caressing her skin, not letting go.
"Lord Ren. Will you have this woman to be your wife; to live together in the covenant of marriage? Will you love her, comfort her, honor and keep her, in sickness and in health; and, forsaking all others, be faithful to her as long as you both shall live?"
"With this Ring I thee wed; with my body I thee worship, and with all my worldly goods I thee endow. There to I plight thee my troth." His promise rang for all to hear, carried by such an onslaught of happiness that it threatened to bring him to his knees
"Now that they have given themselves to each other by solemn vows, with the joining of hands and the giving and receiving of a ring, I pronounce them husband and wife. Those whom God has joined together, let no one put asunder."
There was not a dry eye in the house as Kylo lowered his lips onto Rey's. They breathed each other in and sealed their commitment with a kiss.
~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~~O~
The sounds of revelry spilled out over Caserta's grounds as both the invited guests as well as many of the county folks gathered to congratulate the newlyweds. The musicians struck up a lively Scotch air, and soon the plaintive sounds of the strings and the delicate notes of the flutes joined the clinking of glassware and satisfied expressions of those who dined on the prize game and vegetables acquired from the grounds of the estate.
"It is good to see you again, ."
The kindly butler smiled at the handsome young man who greeted him. The years of running and hard work were evident in the muscular form which lay underneath the turn of his frockcoat and breeches.
"As it is to see you, Mr. Finn. Congratulations on your new position. Mister Kylo is certainly lucky to obtain your services as head for his new household."
Finn blushed faintly under his former mentor's praise. "Thank you, Mr. Daniels. I consider myself lucky enough to have learned from the best."
"And will you be accompanying the young couple to their new home as well, Colonel Dameron? I understand that the earl has been extraordinarily pleased with your work with the Lipizzan. The word is that he would like you to assist him in growing his stable of thoroughbred racehorses."
Poe smiled noncomitally. "Given Soult's agreement to the armistice, I believe the Battle of Toulouse to have been my last. I have spent many years of my life serving my country, and it is something I will always recall with honor and pride. But now I seek new adventures, and the other wonderful things which my future holds in store." The cavalryman's eyes twinkled in Finn's direction as his sensual mouth broke out into a wide grin.
"Oh, Mister Kylo has never looked happier!" Mrs. Kanata exclaimed to Daniels after the two men left to join the other revelers in their growing libations. She sniffled, furtively dabbing the corner of her eye. "It seems like it was only yesterday that he was racing around these gardens with Lord Hux and Lady Phasma in tow."
"Unfortunately for us all, time does not stand still. Luckily, he has grown not only older, but quite a bit wiser as well. He has grown comfortably into his role as the Marchess' heir, and a responsible lord." A wistful expression crossed the older man's face as he recalled the years which had flown so quickly by.
"Look at us. We've turned into a pair of maudlin tale tellers." He pulled himself up, as his implacable demeanor resurfaced. "Shall we see how the other staff is faring, Mrs. Kanata?"
Mrs. Kanata nodded, grateful for the companionship of her long time friend. The two spared the besotted couple one more glance. The guests who were not busy indulging in delicacies and sweet treats could be found dancing near the bride and groom in the area where the Great Hall spilled out from the French doors and onto the steps overlooking gardens.
Kylo drew Rey close. "A guinea for your thoughts, Lady Ren."
Rey blushed at how naturally the title spilled from his lips. She leaned into Kylo's tall frame, the warmth of his body and his masculine scent causing a tendril of desire to spiral through her belly and shoot to her toes.
"Certain thoughts would be better shared in private," she responded, smiling wickedly. Kylo's eyes darkened with her promise. She arched her neck as his lips furtively pressed along its graceful line, the tip of his tongue darting out to lick along the hollow of her throat.
"You are a terrible tease," he said huskily. "Don't ever change."
Phasma's laugh tinkled nearby. Rey noticed the Marchess and Marchioness watching their daughter, her happiness apparent as Thanisson twirled her around. His adoration of Phasma's beauty and eccentricities was well evident, and the ondits were expecting the declaration of the Viscount's intentions along with the announcement of yet another Organa-Solo wedding within the year.
Kylo inclined his head towards Hux. The redhead was dancing at a slower pace from the rest of the crowd. The dashing General placed his hand solicitously around Isabelle's swollen waist as he steered her protectively around the dance floor. Kylo knew that they would both be magnificent parents, due to their giving natures, as well as their determination to not repeat the wrongs bestowed upon them in their pasts.
"God help them if they have a son," Kylo laughed, thinking about the terrible pranks he and Hux pulled in their childhood.
"I think they would have their hands full with either a son or a daughter," Rey laughed. "Or have you forgotten that not all women are docile and demure?"
"I could never forget," Kylo whispered fervently. "You made sure of that. No amount of dirt or rags could ever hide the strength and spirit which you hold inside."
He drew her back into a secluded corner, tilting her head back as his lips slanted over hers for a kiss. She was sweet and pliant, and her mouth parted slightly as he delved in with his tongue. He licked the roof of her mouth and tasted the exhalations of her ragged breaths, before capturing her lower lip gently between his teeth.
He retreated, his pupils darkening as he gazed at her wet and swollen mouth. They remained in each others arms, only pulling apart when the the opening notes of a French waltz acted as an open invitation for other couples to spill into the Great Hall to dance.
Tonight, Kylo thought, tamping down his arousal. He held out his hand.
"Would you care to dance, my Lady?"
"The waltz happens to be a favorite of mine, my Lord."
Kylo pulled her close, their bodies slotting perfectly against one another. Rey was amazed at how the intimate position of the dance-one which had caused her to become so flustered at first-now felt so perfectly right.
Her lips suddenly pulled into a frown. Kylo looked at her quizzically; she gestured at the chalk drawing which decorated the floor, its lines becoming blurred as fine powder was kicked up under a herd of dancing slippers and swirling skirts.
Kylo nodded understandingly. "That particular chapter has ended. It is time for them to embark on a new adventure, don't you think?"
"Could it be a happier one than that which they already share?" Rey asked softly. "It would be hard to believe."
Kylo smiled. "I would be willing to bet on it."
Rey looked at him saucily. "A betting man, are you my Lord?" she teased.
"That I am," he said smugly. "Have I ever told you about the best wager I ever made?"
Rey laughed as Kylo nuzzled her neck. They twirled around the ballroom, lost in their own happiness, surrounded by the love of their family and friends and the warmth of the Caserta sun, the music cascading around them as the drawing of Pan and Selene side by side slowly dissolved into the ether of bliss underneath their feet.
~Fin~