The party is over!
Fran stared through the window of the limo at the lights of Manhattan. She leaned her burning cheek against the cool window. She was extremely tired and deeply depressed. The evening had begun so beautifully. The Dinner party had been wonderful at first. Maxwell had held her proudly in his arms and presented her to all his friends and acquaintances as his fiancée. There had been no more insecurity, no more denial, he acted on his feelings and showed them openly. Fran had been overjoyed and for the first time she had the feeling the higher society would like and accept her into their circle. But then she had overheard the conversation of the kitchen maids. Her bubble had burst into million pieces. She would never fit into his world. Never belong to his friends.
Suddenly, she felt two arms wrap around her shoulders. Maxwell pulled her to him, hugging her. "Are you exhausted darling?"
She just nodded and snuggled even closer to him. Mhhh this warmness of his embrace and the scent of Aramis.
"I love you darling and I am so proud of you. How you charmed everyone with your charm..."
Fran suppressed her tears. She couldn't bare to listen to him any longer. She put her fingers on his lips and kissed him to stop him from praising her further.
Maxwell returned her kisses tenderly and stroked her cheeks. As she snuggled back against him, he looked down at her irritated. He sensed, something was wrong with Fran. He had noticed the change of Fran's behavior at the party. All of a sudden she had been very quiet, rather reserved. She had only spoken when someone addressed her and even then rather briefly and short, quite contrary to her usually bubbly manner. Her smile now also seemed sad and forced.
He wondered if he should ask her for an explanation, but just at this moment they arrived at the mansion and the two climbed out of the limo and stepped into the house.
"Oyyy I just want to get out of these shoes" Fran took off her high heels.
"And climb into my bed."
Maxwell also felt a great fatigue and decided to postpone the conversation. He hugged Fran.
"Milady! May you allow me to escort you to your bedchamber?"
Fran winked at him mischievously. Since they were back home, she felt eased. She grinned.
"Oohhh Mr. Sheffield! You're not getting any inappropriate ideas?"
"Excuse me, I am a perfect gentleman.
He bowed, took her hand and led her up the stairs to her bedroom door.
"Here we are, my lady. If you permit, I will retire now." "Stop! Not so fast."
She pulled him to her, wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him stormily. Their kisses grew more intense, both breathing rapidly, their knees went week. Finally, their lips parted. Maxwell gave her one last kiss on the tip of her nose and broke free from her embrace.
"Sweet dreams darling! But only when they are about me!"
He strode to his bedroom, before disappearing he blew another kiss to her.
Fran pranced into her room, humming. She stepped out of her dress, untied her hair, put on her Queens College T-shirt, combed her hair and climbed into her bed. Oh this man was just adorable.
Suddenly a shadow slid across her face. The painful memories came back. Silent tears ran down her cheeks. Would he still love her even when he realizes she doesn't fit into his world? Would it hurt him if they get married? All these thoughts circled in her head.