Wolves of the Pacific

by greenpeach20

In 1902, Renesmee Cullen grew tired of the tedious life of moving around with her family and decided to make the journey west as a mail order bride. Yet a chance encounter with a reddish brown wolf would change her life forever.

58. Chapter 58

Chapter 58

As promised, Kevin and Kyle remained at home until the following Monday. After completing the wooden orchid, Renesmee packed it neatly in the box Jae had gotten and wrote a little thank you note to Amber in French. Kevin wrote the address to send to and Renesmee got the package to the post office by that Monday. Kevin knew Amber would love the little wooden orchid Jacob had made, even if only for the fact that they'd thought of her. After saying their goodbyes to everyone, Kevin returned to Connecticut and relaxed the remainder of the week. They got the opportunity to see Sgt. Stanley and go out for coffee with him. He was doing much better and he got a good chuckle about the little miracle Kevin had managed with getting one of the professors out of debt and getting that professor to pay his brother-in-law. Kevin just agreed it was luck. Alphonse, having come back from visiting his parents some time before, met with them too for coffee, yet Kevin realized he seemed rather bothered. Kevin asked about it, but Alphonse wasn't keen to discuss it: not in front of Kyle at least. So Kevin convinced Alphonse to join him for a walk so they could chat. Kevin treated him to a little club a few blocks from the school that had gotten a reputation for playing smooth jazz music.

"How are your parents?" Kevin asked while they walked to the club.

"They're doing alright," Alphonse said. "Most of their assets have been transferred here and father's gotten himself some partnerships with a few businesses, so the money's rolling in."

"That should make life a little easier," Kevin said. "Do they miss Austria or are they adapting pretty well here?"

"They're adapting alright," Alphonse said. "Mother's appalled by the 'lack of style' the homes have. She's used to our home in Austria."

"Do you still have that home?"

"Of course," Alphonse said. "We have that home and the summer home in Paris."

"Well, aren't we fancy," Kevin teased.

"Fancy is the life my mother expects to live. My father might be a Baronet but my mother came from a slightly higher rank. She was daughter to a Duke. So she expects the finer things in life."

"Expects, you say," Kevin chuckled a little. "Forgive me, but your mother sounds rather high maintenance."

"You don't know the half of it," Alphonse sighed. "I suppose I'm no one to talk. I was a bit of a snob too when I was home."

"What do you mean 'was'?" Kevin teased. They chuckled and Alphonse shoved Kevin just a little. "So what's bothering you?" Kevin finally asked.

"My mother," Alphonse said bluntly.

"How so?"

"She's demanding to know when I plan to get married. She says I'm 29 and it's about time I started thinking about marriage. But not just to anyone; certainly not. She wants me to find a girl from a rich family. Father says he's working on finding matches for me since he has some wealthy friends with marriage age daughters. Mother would prefer I marry within aristocracy, but that's not an option unless she plans to start writing to some friends of ours. In truth, I don't doubt she has every intention to."

"I see," Kevin said. "You can always look yourself I suppose. If you must marry, at least marry a girl you love."

"I don't want to marry at all," Alphonse said.

"That doesn't help," Kevin said. "I guess be open minded. All things considered, it's the best option. Maybe you'll be surprised and meet a woman that makes you happy."

"I doubt it," Alphonse sighed heavily. "If I did marry, it wouldn't be for my happiness. It would be to make mother happy and give her a grandchild." Alphonse shuddered Kevin noticed.

"You don't want children I assume?"

"I don't mind children," Alphonse said. "It's not having a child I'm opposed to."

"What are you opposed to?"

"Getting married," Alphonse said. "I've told you: the institution of marriage, perhaps not for you but for someone of my status, is purely business. Aristocrats don't marry for love; they marry for money and lots of it. Even if I wanted to marry, my options for a suitable wife are horrendously few."

"What did you say to your mother when she brought it up?"

"I said I'd look into it and that was that," Alphonse said. Then he sighed again. "I figure I'll just let them pick one and I'll tolerate her."

"Can I at least come to the wedding? I'm sure you'll enjoy it more if you have a friend there."

Alphonse finally smiled, "Yeah. I would much prefer it. I imagine now that mother has decided she wants me married right away I'll be married before summer next year. So keep your spring open."

"I will," Kevin chuckled and they continued to the club together. Kevin didn't bring up the matter again. Even though they'd ended the topic on a less somber note, it was clear it didn't last long and Alphonse was worrying over the matter once again.

The following week, classes finally began. Kevin returned to his studies with Alphonse in a number of his classes once again while Kyle started fresh; meeting new people and getting to know his professors. Shortly thereafter, back in Washington about three weeks later, Caevia was attending to Zephyr when she began to feel slightly ill. She ignored it initially, but eventually the ailments became eerily familiar, yet she convinced herself she must be mistaken. After vomiting early one morning before Embry had returned home, Caevia had Aidetzi look after the kids while she went to Renesmee's and Jacob's. Renesmee was just getting things arranged in her little medical back room when Caevia knocked on the door.

"Caevia?" Renesmee asked when she opened the door. "What are you doing here so early? Is everything alright?"

"I haven't been feeling well," Caevia answered and walked in. "I fear I might have caught something."

"Well, take a seat and we'll try to find out what's wrong."

Caevia sat on the little bed where Renesmee instructed and waited while she started with taking Caevia's temperature. Normal. Renesmee asked Caevia to describe her symptoms and they were as follows: nausea, vomiting, tiredness and achiness, and she felt bloated. After listing her symptoms, Renesmee stared at Caevia a moment before speaking.

"Caevia, when was the last time you and Embry slept together?"

"Yesterday morning," Caevia answered.

"Did Carlisle give him the okay for you two to resume your usual intimacies?"

"Yeah," Caevia nodded. "He told Embry just a few days ago that we were alright."

"Were you two having sex before Carlisle gave you that reassurance?"

At Renesmee's question, Caevia's shoulders slumped. Embry had said that he'd been told if he had masturbated a minimum 10 times that they should be alright. She remembered that Embry had made a point to get that done as quickly as possible. He'd even added five additional times to that just for good measure and after that, Embry had begun talking about how much he missed her and how he couldn't wait to be with her again and….one thing led to another and before Caevia could really even think about it, she and Embry had run up to their bedroom, locked the door and just went at it. After they'd finished and were just spent in one another's arms, they agreed that they would have nothing to worry about since Embry had done what Carlisle had suggested, but did agree they'd wait to resume their intimacy until Carlisle confirmed they were alright.

"It was only once," Caevia said, beginning to rationalize. "He'd already done everything Carlisle had told him to. It was the heat of the moment; we weren't thinking." Renesmee looked at Caevia a moment before placing her head closer to Caevia's belly. It was very faint, but she could hear it: a tiny heartbeat.

"Well," Renesmee said, pulling her head away, "it looks like there were still a few soldiers left." Caevia just stared wide eyed at Renesmee. "Is this a congratulations moment or an 'oh dear'?"

"I need to talk to Embry," Caevia said suddenly and walked out of Renesmee's house to return to her own. She didn't see Embry on the beach or among the rest of the tribe, so she hoped that he was at home still. When she returned to the house, Embry was sitting with the kids eating breakfast. "Embry, meet me upstairs," was all she said before running up the stairs to their bedroom. She waited a moment for Embry to finally get there. "Close the door," she said.

"What's wrong?" he asked after he shut the door.

"I'm pregnant," Caevia said bluntly. She looked around and Embry looked just as surprised as she had been.

"What? How? I thought-"

"Remember a few weeks ago when you and I had slept together before you were scheduled to meet with Carlisle?"

"Yeah...but…I'd done what he told me to. I thought we'd be okay. And Carlisle said I'm sterile."

"You are now," Caevia sighed and rubbed her face. "But, to put it the way Renesmee had, 'There were still a few soldiers left' when we were together a few weeks ago." There was a moment of silence before Embry finally spoke.

"One more child, then?"

"One more child," Caevia nodded with a sigh. "The last one, this time for sure."

"For certain," Embry nodded awkwardly. "Are you mad at me?"

"No," Caevia sighed. "It's as much my fault as it is yours. Even if it was only once, we didn't wait for Carlisle to confirm you were sterile before having sex, so we didn't follow directions. At least after this baby we really will be done."

"Exactly," Embry smiled. "One more baby won't hurt." Caevia looked at Embry meanly, albeit still unable to help a smile. "Well…you know what I mean."

"I do," Caevia nodded.

Embry walked over to Caevia and hugged her, once again apologizing for the oversight. Though it really was an oversight on both their parts. After their talk, the two of them went downstairs where the children were still seated eating breakfast together from Embry Jr. all the way through to Zephyr. Embry Sr. got all the children's attention and announced to them that, due to a misunderstanding (that was all the more he explained), Caevia was pregnant again and it would be their last child for sure. After Embry Sr. made the announcement, Embry Jr. snickered and then fell into a bout of full, uncontrollable laughter. Jae ended up joining and eventually most of the kids, at least the ones that understood the joke, began to laugh regardless of Embry Sr. telling them to stop laughing. They simply couldn't help themselves. The rest of the tribe, once word got out about what happened, had much the same reaction of uncontrollable laughter. Embry Sr. and Caevia did eventually receive words of congratulations for the final addition to the family, but only when everyone could finally breath again. When Embry arrived at the General Store and told Hailey, the man just rolled his eyes and said Embry Sr. and Caevia should start a little farm to make the absurd number of children they'd made acceptable. Later that same day, Bernadette rode her bike to the Quileute tribal grounds and looked frantically around for Aidetzi with a big smile on her face. She finally found her among another group of friends and ran over, sat down beside Aidetzi and hugged her tight.

"Oh, Aidie, you'll never guess what happened!" Bernadette said joyously.

"Based on your enthusiasm, I can guess, but what happened?" Aidetzi said and a few of the girls giggled.

"John proposed!"

"That's what I thought," Aidetzi smiled. "Congratulations, Bernadette. When is the wedding?"

"Not for another few weeks. It'll be during the fall, that much is for sure. He just wants his parents to come in from California for the wedding. I do hope his parents like me."

"I'm sure they'll adore you, Bernadette," Aidetzi smiled. "He'll be staying in Washington, right?"

"For now he is. He'll be transferred after about three years, so he has another two years to go. He won't be told where he's transferring to until it's closer to the deadline."

"You'll be moving around a lot then?" Aidetzi said.

"It seems so," Bernadette said but then smiled. "Oh, I'm sure I'll love it! Getting to see new places all over the country. It'll be exciting!"

"I certainly hope so," Aidetzi smiled. "Well, I'll miss you when you're gone."

"Oh, Aidie, don't bring that up now! It's too soon."

"You're right," Aidetzi said and they hugged again.

"Please tell me you'll be my maid of honor," Bernadette said.

"You want me to be your maid of honor?" Aidetzi asked, a little surprised.

"Naturally. I don't have any sisters or cousins to ask and I don't love the other girls in town so much as I do you. Don't tell them I said that, though."

"I'll not say a word," Aidetzi smiled. "And I would be happy to be your maid of honor."

"Oh, thank you Aidie!" Bernadette cheered and hugged Aidetzi tightly. "This will be so exciting! I'll have the most beautiful dress and you'll wear hunters green, I think. Oh! Navy! You'll wear navy! John will be in his most handsome uniform for the ceremony and you can wear a navy blue since my future husband is in the Navy. And I'll have to wear a navy flower in my hair. It'll be perfect!"

"By that logic, you should have the wedding on the beach," Aidetzi suggested.

"Daddy would not allow it," Bernadette sighed. "He wants us married in a church. The reception will be at the Inn. That's where everyone's reception is," Bernadette said sourly. "I shall beg for the reception to be here! I think the beach is a much better idea."

"Just check with Uncle Jacob and his dad first," Aidetzi said.

Agreeing to do so, Bernadette pulled Aidetzi with her to find William or Jacob. Jacob was occupied with Quil at the shoreline while they played with Henry, who was playing in the water. Once she'd located Jacob, Bernadette went right to his side and proceeded to beg he allow her family to have her wedding reception on their beach, leaving Aidetzi to explain that Captain Presley had proposed. Jacob told them to follow him to look for William and once he was located, Jacob differed to him to confirm if Bernadette could have her reception on their beach should her parents permit the idea. William wasn't terribly keen on the idea. He didn't mind Bernadette's family being there or Hailey and his uncle being there, but he was concerned about the rest of the town being on their beach. William said he would think about it and pulled Jacob aside so they could talk more.

"I know Leah's husband and his Uncle can be trusted. I know Bernadette's parents have grown more open. What I'm concerned about are the other people that would come," William said.

"That was my concern. That's why I went to you first."

"I'll be blunt: I don't know those people and I don't trust them. I fear even if I did give my blessing to have the celebration here, those people would spit at the gesture."

"I agree,"Jacob said. "Aidetzi is part of the ceremony, so maybe we can offer Bernadette the chance to have a private celebration with us, void of other guests that wouldn't be so eager to be here."

"That might be agreeable. Is Bernadette's husband so kind as she is?"

"He's a nice guy from what Embry remembers of him. He was generous when they went further north together and he was certainly more open than he had anticipated. I can't speak for his relatives of course, but then, they live so far away. I doubt they would be a problem."

"Ask anyway,"William said. "Tell Bernadette what we discussed. If she wishes to have a private celebration here, I am alright with that."

"I'll tell her," Jacob agreed and returned to Bernadette and Aidetzi, who were discussing other matters regarding the wedding. "Bernadette."

"Yes?" she asked eagerly.

"Father isn't comfortable with the whole town being here, but he said he is alright with you having a private reception here later on with strictly family if that is alright with you. Assuming your fiancé's family will be open to it."

"I would have to ask John," Bernadette said. "I can ask him but I wouldn't mind a private little get together here. Aidetzi, I could marry in the morning, have a reception lunch at the inn and for dinner, the family could come here for dinner. I think that sounds lovely!"

"It certainly does," Aidetzi smiled. "An all-day wedding celebration sounds like just the thing for you."

"Oh, I do think so! Come! Fetch your bike and we'll go into town. We need to start looking at fabrics so we can get dresses made!"

Bernadette led Aidetzi up the hill to her house so she could get her bike and once she had it, the two of them rode into town so they could go to the seamstress. While in town, Bernadette presented the idea of having a little family gathering at the beach to which her parents agreed that it would be best that party remain strictly between family. That night, Kevin and Kyle became wolves briefly to keep in touch and were finally told about Caevia's new baby. As Embry Jr. had done, Kevin and Kyle just laughed and laughed. They told Embry Jr. to forward their words of congratulations to Bernadette for her upcoming wedding but regretted they would not be attending.

It was weeks before Captain Presley's parents made it out to Washington. When they finally did arrive, Captain Presley convinced them to lodge at Forks so they could get the opportunity to get to know Bernadette and her family. John's father, being a decorated soldier himself, was a very strict and very put together man that stood up straight at all times and didn't talk all that much except to Bernadette's father. Mrs. Presley did the majority of the talking and it was almost entirely to Bernadette and her mother. Mrs. Presley adored Bernadette instantly and welcomed her to the family, congratulating her on being a soon-to-be Navy Wife. Sadly, Mr. and Mrs. Presley were abundantly apprehensive about Aidetzi and the prospect that a party would be on Indian soil. Mr. Presley, though he had never been tasked with fighting Indians, was none too fond of them, though he kept his opinions to himself upon his son's assurance that he'd gotten to know them well since meeting and being engaged to Bernadette. He spoke highly of Embry in particular given his history as a soldier at such a young age, going so far as to say he found the young man to be the bravest he'd ever met. Captain Presley's only complaint was that he'd not been able to meet Embry's dear friend Kevin who had not only been a young soldier, but had gone so far as to reach the rank of Sergeant at a mere 15 years of age and of course to win the coveted Medal of Honor. Upon Captain Presley's assurances and praise, Mr. Presley was far more open to the Quileutes and having dinner with them at the beach.

The remainder of what was left of summer was spent planning Bernadette's and John's wedding. Naturally, the ceremony would be at the church. A love woman in town, a Mrs. Dahlia Camp, was so kind as to lend Bernadette her 7 year old daughter as a flower girl. Aidetzi was relieved that the Cullens had returned to Alaska before they had heard of the wedding. Alice would have otherwise surely ensured that Aidetzi was exceedingly overdressed for the occasion had she known. The seamstress, as per Bernadette's instructions for her desired color pallet, made a dress for Aidetzi that was a deep navy color with navy lace around the neck. Aside from being, admittedly, very beautiful, Aidetzi detested that it went so high as to touch her chin. The collar made her feel as though she were being strangled. However, Bernadette adored it, so Aidetzi tolerated the abusive dress. The wedding finally was scheduled for late September.

Upon her wedding day, Bernadette was a glowing bride, wearing her mother's wedding dress, a bouquet of flowers dyed to be navy and a flower of the same color in her hair with her long vail. The ceremony at the church was tasteful as she had wanted. Captain Presley was dressed in his finest uniform and he had one friend from the navy stand by his side as best man. Aidetzi learned his name was Callahan, though she did not remember his name or rank in the navy. The man seemed ill-willing to walk her down the aisle and, having spoken a mere two sentences with the man, was just as ill-willing and looked forward to never speaking to the man again. She was happy to see Bernadette so happy. She became teary eyed during the ceremony and Captain Presley would gently rub the tears from her cheeks and smile. There were even moments Aidetzi was slightly jealous of Bernadette, but those feelings always passed quickly. As planned, lunch was at the Inn for the general reception, and later that evening, close family went to the Quileute lands for a reception on the beach for which an overabundance of food was made available for the occasion. Both having been invited to the wedding given they had joined Bernadette and Captain Presley in the city, Jae even worked up the courage to ask Natalie to dance a few times. When Natalie was hungry, they secreted away to the General store kitchen for potatoes and returned after eating together.

The follow up reception dinner on the beach was, at least in Aidetzi's opinion, much more pleasant and agreeable. They celebrated well into the night and danced for hours before Bernadette and Captain Presley left to begin their honeymoon and officially start their marriage. In Connecticut, by that same time, Bernadette was not the only one with marriage on her mind. Alfonse's mother was of much the same spirit and was constantly in touch with her son about the matter. As Alphonse had feared she would, his mother had written to every friend she had in Austria praising her son and his many marriageable qualities. They were, of course, still very rich despite the war. In fact they were more so since coming to America. It truly had proven to be the land of opportunity especially for those that had been wealthy to begin with which the Baronet was, regardless of his (and by virtue his son's) modest title. By November of that year, Lady Heidelberg had convinced no less than ten of her closest friends to make the journey to America with all their of age daughters, nieces, young cousins, whomever was available, of which there was not a small number. She made arrangements to throw a lavish and extravagant Christmas party for Alfonse to meet his vast collection of prospective wives. Upon Alfonse's insistence, Kevin and Kyle received an invitation to this lavish Christmas party which Kevin promised they would attend. Even though it was a Christmas party, the date of the party was demonstrably shy of Christmas. December 3rd to be exact: the first Saturday of the month.

"Are you excited for your party?" Kevin asked when Alfonse provided Kevin with his and Kyle's official, and far too flashy for Alfonse's taste, invitations to the event.

"Not in the least," Alfonse said. "You wouldn't believe who my mother invited to this circus of a party."

"Are any of them princesses?" Kevin asked jokingly.

"Three of them," Alfonse answered in a deadly serious tone, surprising Kevin.

"Are you serious?"

"Yes," Alfonse said. "Although, given their monarchy collapsed in a rain of angry Bolsheviks, they're not really in a position to call themselves 'princesses'."

"They're Russian? I thought the Romanovs were executed."

"They were," Alfonse said. "That doesn't mean everyone was killed. Most of the Russian aristocrats were either left alone and took advantage of the revolution as best they could and most, the three invited included, ran away to Paris."

"Huh," Kevin said mutedly.

"That's all the more consideration they deserve. The Russian aristocracy was and still is, to put it bluntly, disgustingly big. There are princes and princesses all over Russia many of whom don't even remember their relation to the Romanovs. And don't even get me started on how many of these broads are named Anna. It's such a common name in Russia it makes my head explode."

"Are all three of the women invited named Anna?"

"Yes," Alfonse said. "Their only distinction is their last names and, perhaps, their appearances."

"So you have three Princess Annas of Russia coming to this party. Who else?"

"At least 70 or 80 more women either of the European aristocracy, or what little remains of it following the war, and a number of my father's business partners' daughters."

"You'll have plenty to be introduced to at least. Maybe one of them will strike a chord with you."

"I highly doubt it," Alfonse sighed. "I feel you and Kyle may have a greater use of this party than me."

"I highly doubt it," Kevin chuckled.

"Just tell these airheads that you're a prince and they'll eat it right up."

"Prince of a Native American tribe," Kevin corrected. "I doubt they'll be so impressed, especially when they're at that party to converse with and possible marry a wealthy Baronet."

"I'm not wealthy until my father is dead," Alfonse said. "I had actually hoped mother wouldn't bring this up until after that. My father is of excellent health, especially for a man of his age. I'd hoped I would have an addition twenty years before mother would be jumping down my throat to get married."

"By then, you would be 50 and possibly near death," Kevin said.

"Exactly," Alfonse answered.

The two managed to share a laugh about the matter before Alfonse changed the subject to something far more agreeable: law. Kevin returned home later that day and presented Kyle with his invitation to the event and joked that perhaps he would meet his princess at the ball. Kyle shuddered and hoped otherwise. Based entirely by Alfonse's description of the women attending, Kyle found himself less than eager to attend. The date of the event finally came and after classes were completed on the 2nd of December, Kevin and Kyle collected their packed things and had planned on taking the train up to the Hamptons in New York where the party would be held. They were most surprised when Alfonse arrived at their door in a car telling them to get in so they could make the long drive. The trip was nothing less than tiring, taking them five hours of driving through cities, back roads and ill-paved woods until they finally reached his family's home in the Hamptons. Kyle and Kevin were invited to spend the weekend of course.

When they arrived, the house was nothing short of a marvel. Kevin remembered, upon seeing the house, that Alfonse had said Lady Heidelberg had complained the home was ugly when compared to their mansions in Austria and France. He couldn't understand the sentiment. The house was all white on the outside with blue doors and window doors. From the outside, the house almost appeared bigger than the town of Forks, though even if Forks was so small, that wasn't terrible likely. There was a massive garden in front of the house that, when it was summer, was filled with all manner of colorful flowers. At this time, however, it was not but bushes that were covered in snow. When they arrived, the doors opened and a man dressed in a suit greeted them.

"Welcome home, young Baronet. These gentlemen are your friends your mother had mentioned am I correct?"

"Yes, they are. Thank you Andrew. All our luggage is secured to the back, so have those taken to our rooms."

"Yes, sir," Andrew, a rather portly older gentlemen with a receding hairline, bowed and began the task given to him while Alfonse, Kevin and Kyle entered the home.

It was a greater spectacle on the inside than out. The house was bright with lights and what greeted them first was an almost ungodly large chandelier. There was marble everywhere and the walls were a white color that the light simply bounced off of. To their left was a humongous staircase. An unreasonably sized staircase in fact on which one of the maids was currently walking down on with a pot of poinsettias in hand. Kevin noticed there were poinsettias everywhere to help with the Christmas mood. Forward and to their right were entrances to other large rooms that, in turn, led to other rooms. Andrew walked past them with all their luggage in a carrier and called for other servants to assist him with getting the luggage upstairs while he alerted the Baronet and Lady that their son was home. Another servant walked over to them and took their heavy coats and gloves to hang in the coat closet.

"I don't know what you're mother's complaining about," Kevin finally said after his initially look of the house. "It's certainly not small."

"It's the largest home in the neighborhood so my mother claims."

"I hope so," Kyle said. "This is offensively big." Alfonse chuckled just as an older blonde woman in a dark purple silk gown covered by yet another purple coat that was also silk.

"Alfonse, Mein Liebling Sohn! Endlich sind Sie nach Hause!" (My darling son! At last you're home!) the woman yelled and ran down the stairs to greet Alfonse. She hugged him tightly and Alfonse returned the gesture.

"Guten Abend Mutter," Alfonse said. "Mother," he proceeded in English. "Please allow me to introduce you to Sergeant Kevin Black and Kyle Black. They are peers of mine from the University. I've told you of Kevin certainly."

"Yes," the woman answered in a thick Austrian accent. "I've heard quite a lot about you Herr Kevin. I've heard tale that you became a Sergeant and won a Medal of Honor at 15."

"That is correct milady," Kevin answered and bowed his head. "This is my little brother. He's not a soldier, but I assure you he's far smarter than I. He is attending the University to study medicine."

Kyle bowed his head when introduced and replied, "Milady."

"Oh," Lady Heidelberg blushed a little. "My goodness. For not being of high breading, they certainly behave above their station." While it was meant to be a compliment, Kevin and Kyle both felt a slight sentiment of irritation. Kevin hadn't felt quite this slightest since he'd begun schooling. He'd gotten used to being treated as an equal or even a superior, so this was a small shock. Regardless, Kevin chuckled.

"You're far too magnanimous, Milady," he said. Just then, another man walked through one of the archways. He was dark haired with grays prominent in streaks. He himself was very tall, yet still not quite Kevin's height, and he appeared nearly a twin of Alfonse save for accents of aged features.

"Alfonse," the man smiled and welcomed his son before looking to Kevin and Kyle and also spoke in a heavy Austrian accent. "These are your friends I trust?"

"Yes," Alfonse nodded.

"My lord, you simply must meet them!" Lady Heidelberg said before her son could continue with introductions. "If I'd not known better, I would think they're of proper breading. Why, they have manners to rival that of our friends! And young Sergeant Kevin Black here won himself a Medal of Honor at a tender age."

"Yes, Alfonse has told us extensively of you," the Baronet nodded. "Most impressive, young man. It is no small task to fight for God and country before you've even become a man."

"I wouldn't trade it for the world," Kevin answered honestly.

"Certainly not," Lady Heidelberg said. "I hear it's done nothing but offer you reward after ever-exulting reward."

"It certainly has, Milady," Kevin said.

"Oh, goodness, where is that devilish Andrew? Has he taken your things to your rooms?"

"He's doing that now, mother," Alfonse said, looking at the man work right behind her. "Forgive me, mother, but we are exhausted."

"Oh, of course," Lady Heidelberg said. Then she turned to Andrew. "Andrew! Tell the chefs to prepare something immediately. Shall my son and his friends starve before bed? I most certainly think not!"

"You're most right, Milady," Andrew stopped what he was doing and bowed his head. "I shall notify the chefs to begin a good meal for them this instant."

"Oh, Milady, you're generosity is unsurpassed, but you've no need to worry yourself so," Kevin said, trying to cut Andrew a little break. "My brother and I frequently cook for ourselves and I'm sure we could find ourselves something to eat."

"Nonsense. Complete nonsense! No guest of mine shall lift a solitary finger while in my house! Andrew, the chefs," Lady Heidelberg reiterated.

"Right away, Milady," Andrew repeated and ran in the direction of the kitchen to locate the chefs.

"Thank you, mother," Alfonse said.

"Mit Vergnügen, mein Liebling," (With pleasure, my darling) Lady Heidelberg answered. "Come! Come with us to the parlor room while we wait for your dinner. We can talk about the guest list for tomorrow. Oh, Alfonse, you will have no shortage of fair and quality ladies to choose from. I've ensured myself that every lady in attendance has an ample dowry that is of my expectations. Did I mention three of the ladies are our dear friends from Russia?!"

"Yes, mother, you did," Alfonse sighed heavily.

"Honestly, Helen, stop pestering the poor boy," the Baronet interrupted. "He's too tired for your nonsense now."

"Milord, this is hardly nonsense. This is our son's future wife we're discussing. Mother to our children, carrier of a good family name! Alfonse must have an idea of what to expect."

The Baronet said nothing, appearing to immediately tire of his wife's nagging, and they all walked through the archway to the front of them and made an absurdly long trek to the Parlor room which was clear on the other side of the house. The Parlor Room was enormous and had an equally grand Christmas tree in one corner that was, no doubt, professionally decorated. There was a large fireplace with a large family portrait above it that appeared to feature the Baronet, Lady Heidelberg and Alfonse with, for some reason, a German Sheppard dog. The room had a large glass door that looked out onto a huge garden that was covered in snow. The walkways had been cleared, but it was certainly at its finest when it was spring and summer. There was also a piano in the corner of the room. Kevin thought to offer to play, but Kyle beat him to the offer, desperate to not have to speak to Lady Heidelberg a moment longer.

"Milady, I see you have a piano," Kyle said, speaking just as charmingly as Kevin had before. "Please permit me to play it for us. My brother and I both were raised with exceptional music teachers and I'm eager to show off how well I can play."

"Oh, goodness, please do!" Lady Heidelberg grinned. "I'm a very big fan of waltzes."

"Then a waltz you shall have," Kyle bowed his head with a smile and immediately retreated to the piano and began to play a waltz. When he started, Lady Heidelberg immediately began to gush after they all sat down on some large couches across the room from the fireplace and piano. The room was heavily decorated and felt rather cramped because of it.

"Oh, my God in heaven, your brother plays as though he were a Greek muse, dear Sergeant," she said to Kevin.

"He was not lying when he said we were raised with exceptional teachers," Kevin smiled. "We may have been home schooled, but my mother's father is a gifted teacher. I dare say he gave us the education of royalty."

"Why, he most certainly did!" Lady Heidelberg agreed. "Alfonse, for shame on you for not introducing me to your friend sooner. He's simply a treat."

"For shame on him indeed, Milady. Not ten minutes of my brother and myself arriving, you've made me feel more welcome than ever I had in my entire life."

"Oh, stop," Lady Heidelberg blushed. "You're simply too much. Oh, my lord, surly one of your business partners has a daughter that could marry the Sergeant."

"They came expecting to marry a Baronet, Helen. Not a law student with little more than a military background and a sarcastic title of prince."

"Oh, you be quiet you horrid man," Lady Heidelberg grimaced and returned to smiling at Kevin. "Don't you dare listen to my husband. I promise, it's not you. He's sour by nature." Kevin noticed the Baronet grimace himself as he walked to a tray of brandy (obviously he knew the 'password') and poured himself a glass and lit himself a cigar.

"Shall any of you have a drink and cigar?"

"That's very kind of you, Baronet," Kevin said. The man poured more drinks and took out two more cigars that he handed to Kevin and Alfonse. Once the cigars were lit, Kevin instantly knew he hated it and would have a headache later, but he ignored it for the sake of being polite.

"As I was saying, my dear Sergeant. How old are you now?"

"I'm 18, Milady. Far too old for a gem such as yourself," Kevin answered and Lady Heidelberg blushed profusely and giggled.

"Oh, you devil, you," she smiled and then looked at her husband. "You had best be careful, my lord, or this young man will steal me right out from under you."

"He's welcome to," the Baronet jabbed. It was becoming abundantly clear to Kevin why the idea of getting married was so repulsive to Alfonse. He'd feel the same if he'd had to be raised with a couple so contemptuous towards one another.

"Well, regardless of what my husband says, I'm sure we could find you a nice lady. My son can't possibly marry all the women in the room," Lady Heidelberg giggled and Kevin smiled.

"You're far too kind, Milady," Kevin said, preferring to entertain the woman than flatly refuse her. "I hear he'll have a selection of at least 80. I certainly hope the task of choosing a wife doesn't become downright impossible."

"Oh, goodness, I hope not. Liebling, I can always host another party if you need more time to chose."

"No need, mother," Alfonse sighed. "I'm sure I'll find someone agreeable."

"I do hope so, mien Liebling. You're of an age where there's simply no reason for you to not be married. It's simply unbecoming."

"Helen, he's been attending University for the past eight years. What do you expect?"

"I expect my son to be married to a young lady of breading that will give him the heir he needs and the grandchild I so rightly deserve," Lady Heidelberg said harshly. "Anyway, Liebling, we will have time for a lovely breakfast in the morning, but after that the servants will be preparing for the Christmas party. I fear I shall be occupied most of the day with directing them. Perhaps you can take the Sergeant and his brother for a stroll in our garden and see the ocean view. Oh, Sergeant, our view is just spectacular! When it's sunrise, the sky just lights up."

"My family's home is on the water as well, so I've seen such a view. Yet I never tire of it, I assure you."

"Oh, and how could you? It's just too beautiful!"

"You needn't worry, mother. I'll keep them entertained while you get things ready," Alfonse said.

"Oh, good," Lady Heidelberg said. Finally, Andrew walked into the parlor room and bowed his head to Baronet and Lady Heidelberg. Kyle stopped playing once he say the man.

"Forgive the intrusion, but dinner for the young gentlemen is ready," Andrew said.

"Excellent!" Lady Heidelberg said and looked at Alfonse. "Liebling, show them to the dining room and have dinner. I'm sure you're famished. I fear I've already eaten so I will leave you three to eat. I'm off to bed. Now that I know my son his home safely, I can rest easy at last." Alfonse and Kevin said their goodnights, as did Kyle, and then Lady Heidelberg left the room. Baronet Heidelberg remained only a moment longer and stood only when he was sure his wife was gone.

"I shall be in my office if you need me," he said and finally walked out. Alfonse led Kevin and Kyle to the dining room, yet another room that was far too big for what could possibly be deemed necessary, and all three sat down to a quick yet fancy dinner and there was even a pie available for dessert.

"This looks delicious," Kevin complimented when they sat down.

"Thank you by the way," Alfonse said to Kevin.

"For what?"

"For flattering my mother," Alfonse said. "I know she wasn't exactly polite when you first met her."

"We are staying in her house. The least we can do is be polite," Kevin said.

"She certainly likes you at least," Alfonse said.

"Everyone likes Kevin," Kyle said between bites of food. "It's inevitable for most."

"It certainly seems that way," Alfonse chuckled. "With the exception of Professor-"

"Please don't even bring him up," Kevin interrupted. "I'm trying to enjoy my dinner."

They men shared a small laugh and continued speaking of other things until they finished eating. Afterwards, they all agreed they were exhausted and wanted to get to bed right away. Alfonse located Andrew and had the man lead Kevin and Kyle to their rooms. They were surprised to find they each got separate rooms and were even more so surprised by the size of the rooms, though they really should not have been surprised at this point. Each room was about the size of the first floor of their parents' family room and entrance to the home combined and the rooms both had a king sized bed. There really was no purpose for all this space other than to show off from what Kevin could tell. Kevin and Kyle said goodnight to one another and retired to their rooms and plopping into the too big, but admittedly comfy, beds.

The next morning, Kevin was awoken by a knock on the door before a young woman let herself into the room. She walked over to the window in the room and pulled it open, letting the sun in. Kevin grumbled just a little and sat up rubbing his eyes.

"Breakfast is served downstairs, Sergeant," the woman said with a bow. "Lady Heidelberg and the Baronet are waiting for you downstairs. Shall I lay out fresh clothes for you sir?"

"No, I'll do it. Thank you miss.."

"Diane is fine, Sergeant," the woman said with one more bow before leaving the room and going to Kyle's room ready to do the same thing to him.

Kevin took a moment to change into a fresh pair of clothes, as did Kyle, and the two of them met in the hallway outside their rooms and walked down the stairs to the dining room. Yet no one was there. A servant walked out and they asked where everyone was for breakfast. He then led the two of them to the drawing room where Lady and Baronet Heidelberg were already sitting with their coffee and some little tea cakes. Alfonse appeared to be reading the newspaper only drinking a cup of coffee. When Kyle and Kevin entered the room, Lady Heidelberg perked up immediately from staring discontentedly at her husband and stood from her chair to greet them.

"Oh, good morning Sergeant, dear Mr. Black," she said the Kevin and Kyle. "I say, I was beginning to wonder where the two of you were. You had me scared you were avoiding me."

"Avoid you, Milady?" Kevin chuckled. "I'd sooner avoid God himself."

"Oh stop, you devilish young man," Lady Heidelberg giggled.

"I am sorry for our tardiness. I admit, we went to the dining room and were surprised to find no one was there," Kevin continued.

"The dining room? Why-" she began, but immediately stopped and giggled again. "Oh, you silly boys. The dining room is strictly for dinner and parties. We always eat breakfast in the Drawing room."

"My sincerest apologies for the confusion," Kevin said, bowing his head.

"Oh, no worries at all. For shame , Alfonse. Did you not tell them to meet us here in the morning?"

"It slipped my mind," Alfonse mumbled while continuing to read.

"Well, no matter. You know proper procedure now. Please, sit down. There's plenty of coffee and cakes." Kevin and Kyle took their seats on a free couch and helped themselves to food and drink. Once seated, Lady Heidelberg continued.

"I fear we didn't get to speak nearly enough last night, dear Sergeant," Lady Heidelberg said. "Please do regale us with your tales of war. Even the Baronet is curious."

"I'd be honored to tell you," Kevin smiled kindly. "My good friend Embry and I joined when we were only 13. We lied about our age naturally."

"Oh, your poor parents. Was it your goal to kill them with worry?" Lady Heidelberg teased.

"Certainly not, Milady, I assure you. Of course, that does not mean they didn't worry. Our parents were obviously furious. In fact, my father and friend's father ran from our tribe all the way to the train station to stop us. It was too late, however, so we went to war like all the others."

"I'm curious as to your reason to do such a….let us say 'rash' thing," the Baronet asked.

"I wanted more," Kevin answered bluntly. "I don't know if Alfonse has ever told you, but my father is a Native American. Quileute specifically. He's son to the chief, but unfortunately outside our tribe that doesn't hold much water. As I recall, good Baronet, you referred to my title as 'prince' sarcastic."

"Indeed," the Baronet nodded. "I see you agree."

"I'm not necessarily a prince if I'm honest. I'm the eldest son to the next chief in line, nothing more. We only call ourselves such as a joke or to give some degree of understanding to those that ask. However, 'prince' is indeed an exaggeration of mine and my brother's role in the tribe. Until I inherit the Chief hood following my father, I am no better or worse than anyone else. That wasn't the reason I'd run away to join the army, though. I knew that there were a number of things I simply wouldn't be able to do unless I went out and made things happen, so that's what I did."

"Well, clearly, it has paid off in spades," Lady Heidelberg said. "Tell me about how you saved your commanding officers. I'm always happy to hear a story about heroes."

"You flatter me, Milady," Kevin smiled, but he wasn't smiling anymore when he began his explanation. In truth, the memory of that day, really the whole war, still left him feeling small and frightened. "I was stationed in the trenches near Chateau Thierry and the German forces were attempting to press through to overrun the town. My Lieutenant was shot in the hip and about to be stabbed by a German soldier, so I shot the man so my Lieutenant would live. I went to his side and grabbed some grenades from his pouch and threw them at the German Gatling guns to force the stream of bullets to stop. Then I realized my Sergeant had been shot in the shoulder. I feared for his life and ran to him with my Lieutenant at my side. Thankfully, my Sergeant was not dead, but he would have been if I'd left him. So I took both men with me back to the lines and get them to the medics as fast I could before we were ordered to go directly into town to stop the Germans."

"My goodness," Lady Heidelberg exalted with a bright smile. "Heroic! Simply heroic! Even Siegfried himself would be made to feel small by comparison."

"Siegfried?" Kevin asked. "I'm sorry, I don't understand."

"Oh, my apologies. It's a story of a hero that saved a beautiful princess from a dragon guarded tower. Though as I said, it is little to compare."

"He did save a little girl during the fight," Kyle spoke up on Kevin's behalf. "There was a child whose mother and grandparents were killed during the battle and Kevin found her and saved her."

"Oh, goodness, that's wonderful!" Lady Heidelberg said. "A hero! Such a hero."

"Thank you for your kindness, Milady," Kevin answered, finally smiling again.

"I assume it was after that you had been promoted to Sergeant and received your medal?" the Baronet asked.

"Yes, Milord," Kevin said.

"Oh, it's no wonder Germany lost the war, what with you in the trenches," Lady Heidelberg swooned. "Why, I imagine you ended the war all by your lonesome."

"You flatter me, Milady, but I would not dare make such a claim. I was not the only man in those trenches or the only one that fought bravely."

"Don't dare speak so flippantly, Helen," the Baronet suddenly said to his wife. "Those men abandoned their posts and refused to fight. Germany lost the war due to the cowardice of their soldiers."

"With all due respect, Baronet, the Germans fought a war on behalf of your assassinated Arch Duke. Desertion only happened when the war seemed to be a lost cause. Their supplies were dwindling and they were demoralized. They were surrounded on the eastern and western front and when America joined the fight with fresh men and supplies, all hope was lost. They still fought all the same."

"I see you sympathize," the Baronet said condescendingly.

"I sympathize for poor Wilhelm! Being overrun by his own people. Ungrateful barbarians. Simply ungrateful."

"As far as I'm aware, the Kaiser stepped down. The German Republic did what they thought was best for their countrymen. They can't be faulted for that," Kevin said. He could instantly see the Baronet and Lady Heidelberg's opinion of him changing drastically, but Lady Heidelberg moved on.

"I suppose it's inevitable that a soldier would see it differently," she said. "All the same, you clearly rose like a phoenix from the ashes as it were."

"Thank you for saying, Milady," Kevin said, trying to be polite.

For the first time since they'd come down for breakfast, Lady Heidelberg turned her attention almost entirely on Alfonse talking about the night's Christmas party. She returned to bragging about all the quality wealthy ladies he would be meeting with and even began trying to push him towards a few favorites of hers. Her favorites of the ladies being the richest ones with the best dowries of course. One simply must have their priorities straight when discussing such things. After breakfast, Lady Heidelberg left the drawing room and turned her attention to preparing for the festivities. The Baronet returned to his office which seemed to be the only place in the mansion he could tolerate being. Alfonse kept Kyle and Kevin in the drawing room with him. Kyle decided to play the piano they had in that room while Kevin and Alfonse spoke.

"I'm sorry about them," Alfonse said. "Even if they don't agree with you, they spoke to you condescendingly and it was unforgivably rude."

"No need to apologies," Kevin said. "I shouldn't have argued with them. They don't seem like the type to enjoy arguing."

"They aren't the types used to speaking to normal people," Alfonse sighed. "I haven't even met any of these women and I've already had my picks chosen for me."

"Have you met any of them before?"

"If I have, I haven't the vaguest memory of it," Alfonse said. "Most of them are no older than twenty, so I can't imagine they were very old when I would have met them. Perhaps I should ignore the ones my mother chose. It would certainly infuriate her."

"I've already done so for you it would seem," Kevin said.

"I will speak to her," Alfonse said. "Sadly, the opinions of the wealthy are fleeting to say the least. One minute they will praise you as a hero, the next they accuse you of being a simpleton for daring to sympathize for traitors."

"They didn't call me a simpleton."

"Believe me, it's what they were thinking," Alfonse said.

"As far as tonight is concerned, I say pick the woman that you can see yourself being married to for the rest of your life."

"The mere thought makes me sick," Alfonse mumbled.

"Forgive me, but have your parents always been like that?"

"In loathing you mean? As far back as I can remember. My father married mother because she had a good dowry and my mother married him because he was substantially richer than other suitors that she had courted. My father may be a Baronet, but he's much richer than most. He was richer than Arch Duke Ferdinand as I recall."

"At least she has her priorities straight," Kevin said sarcastically.

"Regardless, I don't think my parents even liked one another at any point. Marriage in high society has no business with love. It's only inheritance, status, titles, dowries and yearly income. If you happen to be of agreeable feelings with one another, you are lucky to say the least."

"It's so bleak," Kevin said. "No wonder you don't want to marry."

"I would rather walk through Hell on bare feet," Alfonse said. "I've no desire for marriage or the woman it comes with."

"All things considered, I can't say I'm surprised. I suppose I'm a tad more optimistic, but then, I never saw two people love each other more than my parents."

"I can scarce recall my parents having a pleasant thing to say about one another or to one another let alone love one another. They tolerate each other and that's what I'm doomed to: toleration."

"Is refusing to marry an option?"

"Don't be absurd," Alfonse chuckled darkly under his breath. "If I didn't marry, I'd lose my inheritance to a distant cousin. I'll be damned if I'm cheated out of that."

"I fear your mother may have had more an effect on you than is desirable," Kevin said bluntly. The two looked at each other a long moment without a word. For a moment, Alfonse looked rather offended, but it passed quickly.

"You're dreadfully accurate," he finally mumbled and looked out the window. "What must it be like, I wonder, to care for one another in a family? I love my parents, but even with that, I can't help but feel resentment to them. What must it be like to see two people love one another? To be married not for money, but for love?"

"It's something everyone deserves," Kevin said. "I hope one day to be in love as my parents are," he continued, immediately thinking of Amber. Naturally, it wasn't more than platonic at this point. But he knew his feelings would change eventually. He hoped hers would too when the time came.

"I hope the same for you," Alfonse said. "Yet I fear the likes of me will never be so lucky. All I could ever hope for is to marry well and perhaps have an affair with someone whose mere existence doesn't make my skin crawl."

"Would that be fair to your lover?" Kevin asked.

"It's not about what's fair, it's about what keeps me sane," Alfonse said.

"Well," Kevin said, trying to lighten the mood, "I'll do what I can on my part to keep you as sane as possible." Alfonse looked at Kevin when he said that, but didn't immediately answer. A strange, almost awkward moment of silence passed. It seemed as though he was contemplating something, yet he looked out the window again before answering.

"I appreciate your efforts," Alfonse said. "You are a better friend than I've had my whole life." Suddenly, Alfonse chuckled darkly. "Is that not horrid? 29 years of age, and my closest friend, maybe my only friend, is an Indian that would not leave me be until I taught him German."

"Is that an insult?" Kevin asked with a chuckle.

"Towards my life, yes," Alfonse said. "In all my life, I can't think of a single person I would consider a real friend until I met you." He looked over his shoulder and Kyle a moment then looked at Kevin again. "Your brother is pleasant enough, but I admit I prefer you. No offense meant to Kyle."

"None taken," Kyle said as he played. Kevin and Alfonse chuckled.

"And don't listen to my mother about trying to win one of the ladies tonight. I'd not wish those shallow bitches on my worst enemies."

"I'll not concern myself with it then," Kevin smiled.

Eventually, Kevin demanded Kyle allow him a chance to play the piano and Alfonse even played one or two songs. They remained in the drawing room for nearly the whole day until Andrew walked in with lunch and then again later on when Lady Heidelberg had dictated it was time to get dressed for the party. They were all dressed in their tuxedos at least an hour prior to the guests arriving. Alfonse spoke with his father here and there while Lady Heidelberg worked the servants to the bone ensuring everything was perfect. There was more food made available for appetizers than seemed reasonable given they would all be sitting down later for dinner. Several room had been converted into extended dining rooms, all the while Lady Heidelberg complaining how they didn't have enough room in the house. Kevin near had a brain aneurism when he heard her say that. Yet enough seats for every guest was made available. The largest table would seat herself, the Baronet, Alfonse, Kyle and Kevin, and five of the ladies Lady Heidelberg was particularly fond of. As Alfonse had complained earlier, he found it silly to even bother with such a large party given his mother had clearly already picked her favorites that she expected her son to choose from. By six in the evening, guests finally began to arrive. The first of whom were one of the Russian princesses, a countess hailing from Germany and three young women that were daughters to the Baronet's business partners. From there, the guests flooded in in droves to the house. Kevin had never seen so many people in one home before. Alfonse wasted no time speaking to the Russian princess, an Anna Malkovich, seeing as she was one of the young ladies his mother had favored.

Kevin and Kyle did their own schmoozing with nothing else to do but that. More often than not, Kevin would simply compliment and flatter the ladies and proceed to listen while they went on forever about little to nothing. He spoke to one of the Russian princesses for but a moment until he couldn't bear to speak to her anymore. All the woman wanted to speak of was the dreadful time she had finding a dress. He attempted with some to speak of books from Jane Austen. A small handful even knew what he was talking about and the ones that did seemed less than impressed with the novels he brought up. He managed to find one lady, a young woman from Italy with no title to her name but certainly plenty of money, that had any interest in novels at all. Dinner could not come soon enough and when it did, Kevin and Kyle sat beside Alfonse who appeared exhausted.

"How's everything going?" Kevin asked.

"I'm getting my languages confused," he said. "I spoke to four women in French and was about to do so with the Countess Strauss's daughter before I realized I could speak German to her. The woman doesn't speak a word of French, empty-headed child."

"So marvelously?" Kevin joked and, while Alfonse appeared as though he would be sour, he ended up smiling and nodding.

"Just as I expected," he finally said.

"Have you decided who you plan to pick then?" Kevin asked.

"It'll be the Princess Ana Kastorov," Alfonse said. "She has the greatest inheritance and the best dowry."

"Was she pleasant to speak to at least?"

"I don't know. I haven't gotten to her yet."

"How long have you known you were going to pick her?" Kevin asked.

"Since before the party when mother mentioned she has the best dowry and the greatest fortune of all the ladies here."

"Why didn't you just speak to her, then? She was one of the first to arrive wasn't she?"

"You're thinking of Princess Malkovich," Alfonse chuckled. "I believe they're cousins if I recall."

"I assumed most of the women in this room are related one way or another," Kevin sighed.

"If they're of the European aristocracy, then yes, they are," Alfonse said. "Hell, I'M related to all of them in one way or another. However, as to how, I wouldn't even begin to know."

"Probably for the best that you don't," Kevin agreed.

Shortly thereafter, the remainder of the table, that being the ladies and Alfonse's parents, finally sat and dinner was served. The Princess Kastorov was at the table and Alfonse used that time to speak with her a little. Kevin wound up being seated near the Italian woman he'd spoken to earlier and decided to continue the conversation they'd been having. The rest of the evening was nothing short of tedious. There were empty discussions of nothing, occasionally politics when the Baronet saw fit to be heard, and all manner of high society topics. Kevin and Kyle joined in the conversations as best they could, but found themselves rather disinterested most of the evening. Finally after dessert had been finished, everyone returned to varied places in the house for coffee. Alfonse and the Princess Kastorov went to the Parlor room for coffee with both their parents following closely behind. Kevin and Kyle stayed behind and did their best to entertain themselves.

"I can't think of a single time I've ever been so bored," Kyle sighed.

"Nor can I," Kevin said. "Even sitting through 6000 years of Japanese history wasn't this boring."

"Taking that stupid test wasn't this boring!" Kyle protested. "Miss Julieta is quite fond of you."

"You mean the Italian? Yes, she's pleasant enough."

"She seemed to enjoy reading at least," Kyle said.

"That's more than I can say for anyone else I've spoken to," Kevin mumbled.

"The fathers have all retreated to the drawing room I hear. Did you want to join them?"

"Sweet Christ, no," Kevin said. "I've had my fill of selfish people talking about selfish things, thank you."

Kyle was quiet a moment, opening his mind, then almost immediately closing it and looking at Kevin again, "They're talking about politics. The war came up already, so there's no fear of having to discuss that."

"It'll come back up if we go," Kevin said. "No doubt the Baronet would ask me to talk about my medal and status. Almost certainly to try and berate me I'm sure."

"Well, Lady Heidelberg wasn't lying when she said the man was sour by nature."

"If I had to be married to her, so would I," Kevin said. "I've already grown tired of complimenting that woman."

"You do it so well, though," Kyle teased. "Already, she's forgotten about this morning. She's already speaking very highly of you to the Princess's mother. Don't be surprised if you find the woman flirting with you come night's end. She's rather smitten with you. She even attempted to quote Othello."

"You're joking," Kevin said.

"Yes, she'd said, 'Oh, if only my husband could but learn to tell that young man's story. I would fall in love instantly'. Her husband had said, 'the boy's a hero, Katarina. Don't wish such a cruel punishment on him'."

"Christ, do any of these people like each other at all?" Kevin asked.

"About as much as a dog likes a cat," Kyle sighed. "If it's making you feel any better, no one's having any more fun than we are. They're all bored like we are. Most of the ladies here are already upset because they saw Alfonse walk off with the Princess. As far as they're all concerned, the evening is wasted."

"They're not wrong," Kevin said. "Do you suppose it would be rude for us to retire and go to bed?"

"It would be extremely rude," Kyle said.

"Excellent. I'll be going to bed, then," Kevin said and was about to leave, but Kyle grabbed Kevin's arm.

"If I have to stand here, so do you!" Kyle scolded.

It was another hour before guests had begun leaving. All of them said their goodbyes to the Lady Heidelberg thanking her for a most lovely evening before leaving, speaking bitterly of the wasted time. The only guests that stayed much longer was the Princess Kastorov and her parents. By the time they finally did leave, they were already discussing a wedding in April and discussing the joining of the assets and dowries. Her parents agreed that they would be returning to Paris and collect their daughter's things and be returning for the wedding with all the promised money in hand. The exchange had Kevin shuttering. After they left, Lady Heidelberg looked rather pleased with herself.

"Oh, Liebling, you made an excellent choice in dear Anna."

"It was all thanks to your guidance mother," Alfonse said. Kevin heard the sarcasm in Alfonse's voice, yet it seemed to go right over his mother's head.

"Well, thank you for the praise," she giggled. "We must start making arrangements right away. A wedding in April is a brilliant idea! The Hamptons are just lovely this time of year. You will be coming to the wedding, of course," Lady Heidelberg smiled at Kevin.

"I wouldn't miss it for the world, Milady," Kevin smiled. "Just tell me the day, and I shall ensure the day is free."

"Glorious," she smiled. "And don't think I didn't notice you and sweet young Julieta were talking. You seemed rather cozy with her."

"We had a shared interest in the same books, Milady. She was a lovely young woman to speak with to be sure."

"Well, she doesn't have a title, but she's certainly financially well endowed. Perhaps I could convince her family to stay just a little longer so you and she might be acquainted just a touch more?"

"You're generosity is unsurpassed, Milady. Though I fear she would have no interest in the likes of me. I am, as you know, a simple law student with little money to his name at the present time."

"Oh, I suppose you're right," Lady Heidelberg said. "Young Princess Ana's mother has a little crush on you too, Sergeant. It is a shame she is married, otherwise you might have a rather wealthy suitor."

"I would ne'er begin to dream of being worthy, Milady," Kevin bowed his head.

"Oh come, sweet Sergeant, don't be so modest," Lady Heidelberg said. "Are you being so coy because you already have a fair lady in your sights?"

"I fear you've found me out," Kevin smiled, desperate to get the Lady off the topic. Alfonse looked a little surprised, but said nothing. "My heart is already long stolen by a fair French woman in Germany."

"All the way in Germany?! Oh, goodness, how sad! You two met during the war I assume?"

"That is correct, Milady. She is not of noble blood or of high wealth, but her goodness far outweighs such matters."

"Unsinn," (Nonsense) the Baronet muttered to himself, obviously not realizing that 1) Kevin had heard him and 2) that Kevin understood German.

"Oh, good gracious," Lady Heidelberg blushed. "If only every man could be so wonderful as you are dear Sergeant. Every woman in the world would be happily married. Pray do tell me the fair lady's name."

"Amber, Milady," Kevin smiled.

"Well, Amber is a most lucky young woman indeed," Lady Heidelberg said. "I assume once you are employed in law, you will be sending for her?"

"Not a moment later," Kevin assured.

"How exciting," Lady Heidelberg swooned. "Liebling, make sure to take notes from your friend. Learn to be as romantic and wonderful as him."

"I shall," Alfonse sighed.

"Well, I don't know about the rest of you, but I can barely keep my eyes open. It's been such a long evening. I think I shall retire for the night. I will see you and your brother at breakfast I hope."

"Absolutely, Milady," Kevin smiled. Lady Heidelberg wished them all goodnight and made her way up the stairs to the master bedroom. The Baronet retired to his office leaving Alfonse, Kevin and Kyle alone.

"Correct me if I'm wrong, Kevin," Alfonse said. "But this 'Amber' you're referring to is only 13, no?"

"Your mother doesn't know that," Kevin answered and Alfonse began to laugh.

"That's a clever way to reject her attempts at matching you with the Italian. I'm sure it won't surprise you that out of everyone she was the poorest."

"What, does she have the nerve to live in a sensibly sized home?" Kevin joked.

"I can't speak as to her estate," Alfonse chuckled, "But she does come from more modest family. I'm a little surprised she was invited."

"All the same, she was a very nice girl. As far as I'm concerned, you should have picked her. She seemed the most pleasant and sensible out of all the ladies in attendance."

"I've no doubt, but she's not to mother's demands. She already picked the five she approved of. The rest were no doubt a simple formality."

"Well, that's rather rude to force her guests to make such a long trip only for them to be a 'formality'," Kyle said.

"My mother is nothing if not masterful in executing rudeness to others," Alfonse said.

"So does your father sleep in his office?" Kevin asked, unable to resist at this point.

"He has a bedroom secreted away on the other side of a bookcase in there," Alfonse said. "I've no doubt mother knows nothing about it. I'm sure she assumes father is stuck there and gets a sadistic pleasure from it. But father has comfortable accommodations."

"Did they ever share a room at all?" Kevin asked.

"Perhaps when they first married, though I'm sure the moment mother was pregnant, that went out the window. The moment I was born, it was set in stone. Father's always had his own room in which to sleep."

"Sounds miserable," Kyle said. "I would think one of the perks of being married is sleeping with someone. Sexually or otherwise."

"Well, as Kevin so rightfully mentioned, your parents actually love one another. I'm sure that makes sleeping together a far less demanding task."

"I suppose it does," Kyle said.

"Did either of you want more cake and coffee before we went to bed?" Alfonse asked.

"No, I couldn't bare eat another morsel," Kevin protested. "I'd best go to bed and stay there until Diane wakes me."

"Who?" Alfonse asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Diane. The servant that woke us."

"Oh," Alfonse said, then sighed. "The only one I know is Andrew and it's only because he's head of staff. The rest of them are just a sea of plebs."

"Only because we are friends, I'll gently tell you that's a vile, 'Lady Heidelberg'-like thing to say," Kevin scolded.

Alfonse smiled weakly, "My apologies. Far too often my prejudices come out before I even have time to think."

"In that case, you're forgiven," Kevin smiled.

The three of them finally said goodnight to one another before retiring upstairs to their assigned rooms. Kevin dressed more comfortably, as in he was hardly dressed in anything, and fell into bed snuggling under the covers. He was awoken the next morning much the same way he'd been the morning previous. Diane knocked gently, waking him, and let herself in going straight to the curtains and opening them so the son would come in. Kevin sat up, thinking nothing of his lack of dress, and rubbed his forehead.

"Good morning, Diane," Kevin mumbled while he rubbed his head.

"Good morning Ser-" Diane began, but suddenly stopped when she looked at Kevin. She blushed hardily. "Forgive me, Sergeant, I did not realize you were so ill-dressed."

Kevin looked at her strangely, looked down seeing only that his chest was bare, and then looked up. "I didn't realize I would offend you."

"Not at all, Sergeant," Diane started rushing, bowing her head up and down. "I'll leave immediately. I'm terribly sorry." Before Kevin could say anything else, Diane ran out of the room and closed the door behind her. Kevin just sighed and got out of bed to get dressed. He met Kyle outside and the two of them went down to the drawing room for breakfast. Alfonse wasn't there yet, but there was a guest they'd not been expecting: Princess Kastorov.

"Oh, Sergeant, there you are!" Lady Heidelberg said. "Oh, Ana, you simply must meet him. Were he my own son, I'd insist you married him instead."

"It's a shame he is not," the princess said in a thick Russian accent. "A lady always loves a hero."

"Sergeant, dear Mr. Kyle, please come sit," Lady Heidelberg waved them to come forward. Kevin and Kyle sat on the couch they had the previous morning, putting them right next to the princess.

She was a lovely looking young woman. She had fair skin, dark black hair, brown eyes and very delicate features. Her smile was quite enchanting and her giggles were breathy and ladylike. She certainly appeared the type of young woman that never lifted a finger in her life. She was wearing a deep burgundy gown that was more casual than her dress from the night before, yet she was covered from head to toe. Her hair was in a tight bun in which a diamond barrette rested and she was holding a little hat that she'd been wearing that had clothe flowers sewn in.

"I do apologize for my son's tardiness, dear Ana. He's not usually so late."

"No need to apologize, Lady Heidelberg. My appearance is rather early." Ana looked at Kevin. "Seeing as my fiancé is nowhere to be found, might I content myself with speaking to you, Sergeant? I've heard tales of your heroism and my mother was nothing short of smitten with you."

"You flatter me, your highness," Kevin smiled. "Allow me the pleasure of saying you look gorgeous this morning. You've not grown a single bit less radiant since last night."

Ana blushed, "He really is a charmer just as you said Lady Heidelberg."

"Isn't he though? He's simply too much," Lady Heidelberg teased. "Were I a widow, I would marry him tomorrow."

"The honor would be wasted on me, Milady," Kevin said. Lady Heidelberg giggled.

"Are you sure he's not a gentleman, Lady Heidelberg?" Ana asked, giggling herself. "Why, if all the men were so charming as him, I think I might fall in love."

"How I wish it were true, dear Ana, how I wish it were. But alas, he's not raised among high society. He's an Indian as a matter of fact."

"I would have never thought it," Ana said. "Are not Indians supposed to be tan and dark-haired?"

"When your mother is white, it tends to change things just a little," Kevin smiled.

"Oh, that explains it," Princess Ana smiled. "And to think you rose to such heights already coming from nothing. Given how well you've done so far, you'll have a good fortune to your name in no time. Such credentials alone would make you worthy of a proper lady to marry."

"There's only one I seek to be worthy of," Kevin smiled.

"Oh, gracious, that's right!" Lady Heidelberg exclaimed. "He's already promised to a young French woman he met during the war."

"No!" Princess Ana cried. "Please say it's not so."

"I fear it is, your highness," Kevin said kindly. "My heart has been stolen."

"Well, then, perhaps we shall have to reclaim it from the thief," Ana smiled back.

"Pray, do not," Kevin joked back. "I admit I am a willing victim of the theft."

"For shame," Ana sighed. "I'm horridly jealous of the young lady."

"Your kindness is second only to my lovely host, your highness," Kevin said and the two women giggled.

"See, Milord," Lady Heidelberg said to her husband who was ignoring the conversation reading the paper. "Why can't you be more like the Sergeant?"

"If I find a lady worthy of the treatment, I shall be," the Baronet muttered. Lady Heidelberg grimaced, but said nothing else and looked back to her guests with a smile.

"What is your father's and mother's names, Sergeant?"

"My father is Jacob and my mother is Renesmee."

"Renesmee?" Ana scrunched her nose. "What an odd name."

"My great grandmothers were Renee and Esme. Combining the names was my grandmother's inspiration."

"Interesting," Lady Heidelberg said. "Obviously your father is from this country, but what of your mother?"

"My mother was born in Michigan if I remember correctly. But her grandparents were from Scotland and England."

"Oh, I do hate England," Ana said. "Far too rainy."

"Oh, to be sure!" Lady Heidelberg agreed. "Simply a dreadful place. Though not everyone can be so blessed as to live in Austria. We have wonderful weather, though I admit Spain and Italy are by far the most lovely places to see."

"I would hold such an honor to Paris," Ana swooned. "Even after the war, it is such a beautiful place. It makes me so sad to leave it."

"No need to fret, mien Liebling, you will see Paris again! Why, if my son does not take you there every summer for the rest of your life, I will scold him myself."

"Oh, I wish you would," Ana grinned. "Have you seen Paris, Sergeant? Surely you have. Is it not the most beautiful city you've ever laid eyes on?"

"No other city can dare to compare itself," Kevin smiled. "My only regret is we were not able to be in Paris longer than two days."

"Only two days?" Ana nearly shrieked. "Unacceptable!"

"Indeed, your highness," Kevin smiled.

"Oh please, Sergeant, I'm too fond of you to be so formal. Please just call me Ana."

"You honor me, Ana," Kevin smiled and she blushed.

"Now you stop that this instant Sergeant," Lady Heidelberg teased. "At this rate, Ana will be meeting you at the altar instead of Alfonse."

"My apologies, Milady. I would not dare attempt such a thing."

"Oh, I do wish you would," Ana giggled. "Speaking of your son, where on earth is he? Surely the servants have gone to fetch him."

"I'm certain they have," Lady Heidelberg said. "Andrew, find out where that boy is. Tell him I expect him here in no less than two minutes. They've been engaged a mere night and already he's being terrible to her."

"Right away, Milady," Andrew bowed and walked away to fetch Alfonse.

"He could be freshening up, Milady," Kevin offered. "Such a gem as the princess deserves to see him in no less than his handsomest state. Surely he's not being terrible."

"Oh, how I hope you are correct," Lady Heidelberg said. "My apologies again, dear Ana."

"None required," Ana smiled. "The Sergeant has more than made up for it." Kevin chuckled with the princess and they spoke a moment longer before Andrew finally arrived with Alfonse, freshly dressed, following behind. He sat in his previous chair from the day before.

"This is a surprise, Ana," Alfonse said. "Had I known you were here, I'd not have taken so long."

"Your friend has made the time fly by," Ana smiled at Kevin. "I hear, as well, that you and your brother are gifted pianists."

"Hearing is one thing, but seeing is another thing entirely," Kyle said and hurried to leave the couch and go to the piano. He began playing music of famous composers that he knew they certainly enjoyed. Ana was immediately pleased.

"I don't think angels could play so well," she swooned. "Please say you play so well, Sergeant."

"I dare say I'm better," Kevin joked.

"I dare say you're equal at best," Kyle said from the piano and the two of them laughed.

"All the same, I'm pleased for him to play instead of me. I'd lament not being able to speak to all of you." Kevin saw Alfonse smile and even huff a sarcastic laugh under his breath.

"You must teach Alfonse to be half so charming as you or I swear I'll be miserable," Ana giggled.

"Fear not, Princess, for I will not allow it," Kevin teased and she giggled again.

"Now, now, Sergeant," Lady Heidelberg scolded yet continued to smile. "I order you to stop being so charming this instant. You're wooing my future daughter-in-law right out from under poor Alfonse."

"My sincerest apologies for my rudeness, Milady," Kevin smiled.

"Come now, Liebling, the Sergeant has spoken to the Princess more this morning than you have since you two met. Speak with poor Ana," Lady Heidelberg said.

"Of course," Alfonse said. "How long before you're returning to Paris? Your family was moving your things am I right?"

"My mother and I will be remaining for the year and returning in January. Mother thought it would be good for the two of us to become more acquainted."

"I see," Alfonse seemed less than eager from what Kevin could tell. "I will be free for that time, so I'm sure we could get to know one another."

"How long will you be staying, Sergeant?" Ana asked Kevin.

"My deepest apologies, dear Ana, but my brother and I leave Monday to return to Washington for the season."

"No," Ana cried. "Oh, how dreadful. I was hoping I would see you once more before I returned to Paris."

"Not to worry, fair Ana. We will see you on your wedding day. I've no doubt you will be so radiant as to knock the wind out of any man that lays eyes on you."

Ana blushed, "Oh stop."

Kevin and Kyle continued their breakfast with the Heidelbergs and the princess until, looking for any escape at all, Alfonse told his mother he needed to make sure Kyle and Kevin got back to Connecticut so they could be on the train for home the following day. With a great dismay on the part of Ana and Lady Heidelberg, they said their goodbyes to the brothers, particularly Kevin, and hoped to see them very soon. Once they were in the car and Alfonse was driving away from the mansion, he released a sigh of relief.

"I've never been so happy to leave home," Alfonse said.

"All the same, thanks for having us," Kevin said. "It was certainly an interesting experience being among such 'high society'."

"Indeed," Kyle said. "It were as though we were in a Jane Austen novel surrounded by rich people with disdain for 'lesser people'."

Alfonse chuckled, "You two were good sports about it. And you don't have to come to the wedding if you don't want to."

"I'll go," Kevin said. "I'll not force Kyle to go, but I will go."

"Thank you," Kyle sighed. "I don't know if I could stand to be there again."

"How do you think I feel?" Alfonse sighed. "I assume Ana will be staying with my parents once we're married. My current residence is not suitable. She's see it as a shoebox."

"Are you serious?" Kevin asked, a little surprised. The man lived in a three bedroom house a few miles from the school that was just as big as the house Kevin's parents had. "That's a perfectly good house! You don't even use all the space."

"Yes, but she'll expect a home like what my parents have. Even that is smaller than what she's used to."

"Does she want a home the size of a small city?" Kevin asked sarcastically.

"Yes," Alfonse said. "Before the war, if I recall correctly, her family home had at least 100 bedrooms, four kitchens, two separate drawing rooms, two parlor rooms, a huge garden, a ball room and an entrance the rival the white house. They had to downsize when they were driven out of Russia and went to Paris, but even that house is larger than my parents' house."

"I guess Americans have simpler taste," Kevin said with mild sarcasm. "I just assumed the reason you were going to have her staying with your parents is because you didn't want to be around her."

Alfonse smiled meanly, "That's part of it, yes. She certainly likes you at least."

"I would think so," Kevin said. "I did nothing but compliment her and your mother all weekend. I'm exhausted."

"Yes, I imagine you are," Alfonse chuckled. "My mother's vanity is a delicate flower that needs constant watering. I suspect the princess will be no different. Also, just so you're aware, I've no intention of flattering her as you do. There's nothing to her worth flattering."

"Perhaps you should just a little," Kevin shrugged. "It might make the arrangement less unpleasant if she doesn't think you to be dreadful. I know you didn't want to marry her, but if you have a marriage like your parents do then you'll be doomed to be that much more miserable."

"I fear that'll be inevitable no matter what I do," Alfonse said.

"I guess at least be cordial with one another," Kevin said. "The easier you two can make this for one another, the better."

Alfonse shrugged and kept driving. Several hours later, they finally arrived at Kevin's and Kyle's house and Alfonse drove back to his own home with no intention of returning to the Hamptons at least until the following day. Kevin and Kyle got more things packed that night and figured they'd start running that night. After they were packed, Kevin finally sat down to read the letter Amber had sent him. He sat at his desk and ready about how happy she was that she'd received a letter from Renesmee and how she adored the wooden orchid Jacob had made her. She talked about the little collage she had begun for her room that would host all the things he'd given her. She mentioned how so far, she had hung Kevin's dog tags (though they would be removable so she could still wear it), his old Corporal badge he'd given to her after his promotion and told her to look after, her star of David he'd saved from her mother hung there too since she now wore the star he'd given her for her Bat Mitzvah. The tiny statue of Handsome Dan and Kevin's picture with the character as well as other assorted gifts would be placed there along with the wooden orchid.

She spoke about finally finishing Pride and Prejudice and how she was embarrassed to admit it was now her favorite novel. She adored Mr. Darcy and felt terrible for ever thinking ill of him. She talked about how, looking back on it, Mr. Darcy wasn't being rude at the ball or being pompous, he was simply shy surrounded by people he didn't know and that immediately interpreted his lack of socializing as being self-centered. Kevin chuckled and the mention of it. He was now eager to write Amber and tell her all about the Jane Austen-esque experience he'd just suffered through. All the same he kept reading. She talked about activities at the synagogue, she talked about a charity that was ongoing when she'd written the letter and so on. After finishing the letter, Kevin searched around for the present he'd bought a few days prior.

He'd found a music box that played Canon in D and instantly thought of Amber. It was a plain music box that was just white marble. The material the box was made from alone had cost him a small fortune, or what little he'd had left over after that horse race from long ago, but he needed to get it for her. Just to make it personal, he'd asked the store keep he'd purchased it from if it could be engraved. The keep confirmed it could be and, upon further enquiry, Kevin discovered they could even engrave a flower. Kevin paid handsomely to have the left corner of the lid of the box engraved with an Orchid and, beside it, a message saying 'Um Amber Mit Liebe' (to Amber with love). At first he'd feared perhaps it was too much, but he decided to follow through with it. Days later, Kevin returned to collect the box from the shop and the flower and message were penned beautifully and they packed it for him securely.

Now, Kevin wrote the letter to go with the box. He even opened it to listen to the brief, one minute music box rendition of the Canon trying to imagine if Amber would love it. He sincerely hoped she would. He told her about the months since he'd last seen her, wished her a good Hanukkah and of course told her all about his brief stay with the Baronet and Lady Heidelberg and their lavish early Christmas party. He spoke of the size of the house they lived in and how he feared if he'd had a year he wouldn't be able to find everything. He didn't speak much about Baronet and Lady Heidelberg at all. Just being around the two had proved to be more than he could take for the time being. Rather, he did mention that Alfonse was now engaged to a Princess of Russia, a Princess Ana Kastorov, and that their wedding was to be in April if all went according to plan. He tried to keep as many matters on the topic as brief as possible. He didn't want to depress Amber with a letter about spoiled people. Once his letter was written, he tucked it in with her music box, sealed the package, ensured it was labeled properly and had it dropped off at the post office so it would ship out the following day.

Finally, later that night, Kevin and Kyle collected their things and made the run to Washington as vampires. Once they arrived, the tribe welcomed them home and they both enjoyed their time with the family. Poor Caevia was already showing and, having returned to Washington to visit from Alaska, the Cullens had quite the laugh at their expense over the situation. All the same, Caevia and Embry had grown excited for the new addition. Embry Jr. was referring to the child as an 'accident' and went so far as to try and claim the child should be named such. Caevia adamantly refused, though she hadn't the slightest idea what they would be naming the baby. At that point, all they knew was the baby was healthy according to Carlisle and the baby was due in Spring of 1922. All the children were excited for the new baby and often rubbed Caevia's tummy to see if they could get the baby to kick. Zephyr would frequently feel the baby kick his back while he was breastfeeding and often whimpered his complaints about it.

Kevin and Kyle, once they had arrived home and were having dinner with the family at the Cullen house, Embry Sr.'s family all dining as well of course, they recounted their time with the Heidelbergs and the 'ball' they got to attend. They spoke of all the people they'd met and how, by some miracle, there were at least 100 people at the party and only one besides Alfonse had been the least bit pleasant to talk to.

"So he's marrying a Princess?" Embry Jr. laughed.

"This April," Kevin nodded.

"I thought the Russian Monarchy had collapsed," Aidetzi said.

"It was overrun by the Bolsheviks," Kevin said. "But as far as I can tell, most of the royal families save for the Romanovs either made the best of the situation or they ran away to Paris. That's what Princess Kastorov and her parents did anyway."

"And Princess Kastorov is the Anna Alfonse picked?" Renesmee said and Kevin laughed.

"I'm sure there were at least twenty Annas at that party, three of whom were the Russian Princesses, but he ended up picking Ana Kastorov. According to him, she's the richest one and probably the one his mother was hoping he'd pick anyway."

"Sounds like an arranged marriage if I ever did hear it," Jacob sighed.

"Are they fond of one another at least?" Carlisle asked. "I know it's uncommon, but it's said Queen Victoria adored her husband Albert. He died in 1861 and it's rumored that after his death, Her Majesty would lay out Prince Albert's clothes on their bed every morning."

"It's so sweet a story," Esme smiled. "They had nine children between them."

"That is touching, but Alfonse and Ana are strictly a money match," Kevin said. "He didn't want to get married in the first place, but Lady Heidelberg insisted it was time for him to do so, so he picked someone she approved of and had that be the end of it. They met and were engaged within a few hours of each other."

"I suppose they can at least be cordial," Renesmee suggested.

"I hope they will be," Kevin said. "I've seen how the Baronet and his wife treat one another. I don't know how either of them haven't killed on another yet."

"She adored Kevin all the same," Kyle said. "You should have seen Kevin. He was flattering them from the moment we came to the moment we left."

"And would you prefer I'd not?" Kevin asked. "If I'd been any less than that, they would have made the stay even more miserable. If we have to stay there for such a long stretch, the least I can do is make the best of it."

"'Fear not, dear Ana, for you will see us on your wedding day. And I've no doubt you will be so radiant that you will knock the wind out of every man that sees you'," Kyle quoted mockingly and everyone laughed. "By the time we left, the Princess was begging Lady Heidelberg to adopt Kevin somehow and leave him their fortune so Ana might marry him."

"She was joking," Kevin sighed.

"Not really," Kyle said. "Your son's a charmer, mom."

"Oh, I know," Renesmee smiled and patted Kevin on the cheek.

"By the way," Kevin asked, directing the question more so towards Edward and Carlisle, "is it normal for the dining room to only be for dinner and the drawing room to only be for breakfast?"

"Depends on the family I suppose," Carlisle shrugged. "I can't say I remember much, but I do remember when I was a boy, we usually ate in the kitchen. We only used the dining room when my father had guests or was entertaining. That was also the only time we ever had servants was when my father was entertaining or holding a meeting. Well, no I'm wrong. We did always have my governess. Jacqueline was her name."

"You remember your governess's name?" Jacob laughed. "You can barely remember any other part of your life but you remember your baby sitter's name?"

"She was no 'babysitter', Jacob, she was a governess and an exceptional one at that and if you are to speak of her, you shall do so with the utmost respect," Carlisle said sternly, although there was a humor in his tone. "Did I ever tell you, Esme, that Jacqueline was my first love?"

"I don't believe you have," Esme giggled. She'd heard the story many times before, but never tired of it.

"Indeed she was! She was such a kind, good woman. If I remember correctly, she was born in Le Havre and came to England for work. I recall asking her once why she was not married and she only said to me, 'the only man I'd want in my life is you dear Carlisle'." Carlisle chuckled. "I'm sure there was more to it than that, but she did know how to make me feel special."

"Indeed," Edward chuckled.