"Do not marry"
was five in the afternoon, when Mary came to the home of Lankaster.
What he appeared to his eyes, was a huge house recently built, in fact, not even fifteen years had passed since they were developed in the works. During the reign of Elizabeth I, there was a widespread habit to renovate or even build from scratch, more and more imposing houses, often with three fronts of Lankaster like that, even if it was made up of two new fronts and built by a Previous accounts of Northon.
The ancient house, where he remained only part that was
been incorporated in a front side, were added two other fronts, a large central atrium, which included a huge, two dining rooms, three lounges and a grand ballroom, and a side that included the floor below, a huge library, study and a small art gallery, where they were exposed numerous paintings and family portraits, while the upper floors were bedrooms for family members. Those were actually arranged for guests at the top and sides of the central front in the old house.
The servants and kitchens, were placed in the lower floors of the wing of house oldest and most intricate.
Mary felt immediately in front of the huge discounts of residence, and all the doubts that assailed him since the day in which the viscount had made the proposal of marriage, they returned to assail her.
While his brother Michael helped her get off the coach and turned a look of encouragement before his apparent hesitation, the great entrance door was opened and the Count, alongside with the butler, is preparing to give hospitality newcomers.
Now, Mary jumped down from the carriage behind the little Anthony, the exclamations of surprise dell'imperturbabile between Dickinson and the count that he hurried down the stairs to greet the guests.
_ Gentlemen, I am pleased to welcome you to my home. I offer you greetings on behalf of my son, the Viscount of Dewey, who was detained in London by important commitments, but I'm sure we will reach by tomorrow. _Li Saluted the count, making deferential.
_Vi thank you, my lord, for your warm welcome and kind hospitality. Let me introduce myself: I am the Baron of Leicester, she is my sister Mary, and this statue is my nephew Anthony. _Disse Michael, putting in front of his grandson.
Count could hardly believe his eyes. Anyone would have sworn that the Child was the portrait of Khristian. His eyes s'inumidirono front of that pretty face, with a fierce look and the small emerald.
_Sono happy to meet you gentlemen, I hope you can feel at home.
_Milord are honored to be here, I'm sure we will be fine. _ Then, turning to greet the child suggested nonno._ Anthony On Good evening.
_Nice evening, sir. _ Greeted the child, imitating the obsequiousness of adults.
_Benvenuto to you young man. _ Answered the count ruffling his hair.
entered the house were served tea and pastries, then the guests went into the rooms that had been prepared for them, to rest and freshen up before dinner.
That evening, the Earl entertained the guests kindly, discussing various issues and not touching never questions that could somehow provoke embarrassment or burden the conversation.
At the end of dinner, Mary chose to retire, leaving the two men to discuss, the Baron and the Count invited to the studio to offer him a glass of his fine whiskey.
_Vi confess that until tonight, I really did not know who was the father of Anthony. Mary has always concealed his identity, he has always protected from any possible scandal.
_Scusate if I would, but I can assure you that your sister has made a huge mistake by hiding the identity of the father of her child. If only he had confessed his name dragged through the mud, as he deserved, my son would return immediately el'avrebbe married. Perhaps now would be here and not buried at sea, somewhere in some of the Channel, and your sister did not suffer all that happened.
_not_ have never been able to convince her to reveal that name, despite being the sole support for her, my father disinherited leaving only the clothes he was wearing. I've taken care of her until today, and despite the hand that your child has amazed me, I'm really happy.
_Voi know if Mary is going to marry him? _ He asked the count.
_Sinceramente him hope. Is something not very convinced and told me, and sorry if I would make this statement, that your son Viscount, the restless and perhaps makes a little 'fear. _E
why? _ Count asked curiously.
_Lo not know. I could not get her to say more. _Confessò Michael.
_If permit, tomorrow, I would like to talk privately with her. _Chiese The count.
_Certamente. As soon as I possibly can refer it to him myself. _Concordò Baron.
The next day, while the count was going to send Tomas Khristian the letter warned that the arrival of the guests at Northon House, Mary knocked on the door of the study.
_Avanti. _Invitò The count.
Mary entered.
_Prego lady, sit down. _The Invited the count, indicating the chair across the desk, behind which he sat.
_Nice day my lord. My brother warned me that you wanted to talk to me.
_Sì, ma'am. I asked your brother to be able to speak, because it is necessary that you come to the knowledge of certain issues. You see, Khristian there because I have not warned in time, because with him here I would have been difficult if not impossible, to speak with you. I think, be aware of the reason that led my son to propose marriage.
Mary nodded.
_Bene. I want to be completely honest with you. I do not want my son to marry you and not for the reasons you can imagine, but simply because makes your life a living hell. You will realize that marrying a woman because there has been imposed by a dying person is a reason no sense and is a very soft base for a wedding, especially since my son was already busy with another woman with whom on his return, he would have married. The point is that even if this lady does not officially exist in reality, the report continues, albeit secretly. You might not ever be happy, because he will always be tied to another.
_Milord what I have just said, I was upset. I do not understand why it is promised to another, your child has come to Scotland to interrupt the peace of my life, but I want the best for my son and I can not afford to refuse his proposal. I am accustomed to humiliation. One more will not make a difference.
_Vi lady not to give advice to my son for an affirmative answer, definitively. Regret it, I will never allow this marriage does not allow him to ruin his life. _Affermò With cold determination. _not_ Take it as a personal affront or as a threat, I have nothing against you. If my son loved you, you would be welcome. Khristian but does not love you and will end up hating themselves and you, when dormant grudges and grief for the loss of his brothers, will realize that it was not right to sacrifice his life and his love on the altar of honor, then honor if it is, because quite frankly I think it's guilt over not being able to save his brother.
_But I can not miss the opportunity to give my son the respectability of the name that is rightfully hers.
_Sposando Khristian not be equally a legitimate child. Can not afford to steal the title to his heir apparent, the son of his brother, except that, while married, she is determined not to share your bed to avoid generation of children. _ Insinuated the count.
Mary flushed to quell'allusione. He had never felt so humiliated. Knowing that her husband would not split his bed was never demeaning. Not that I aspire to share the bed of Khristian, the thought was frightening, but what hurt the same.
_Io not want to marry your child more than you want to do it, but I have no choice.
_Accettate its proposal, but not ready to marry him. I can only guarantee that you will get back equally strong reputation and your freedom. _Disse Mysteriously.
_But how is it possible? _Domandò Mary, more and more confused.
_not_ ask questions. Just trust me. I promise in the name of love I have for my kids, lady, you'll be part of this family, but not let you be the wife of Khristian.
Mary seemed very upset with this release, and the count hastened to allay his doubts.
_ I do not intend to propose marriage, if that's what you just thought. _ Clear the count.
_ I beg your pardon, but I just can not understand your speech.
_not_ matter whether you understand or not. Do not limit yourself to marry my lapidary figlio._ said the count.
_Va well. Do I have to trust you. _ He agreed. _Mi Only hope that my son did not suffer.
_not_ would never do anything that could even remotely damaging. It 'the only memory I have of my son Josh, were quiet. _The Reassured.
_Sinceramente do not understand, but I surrender to your will.
_When events are mature you will be the first to understand. _The Assured man.
What he appeared to his eyes, was a huge house recently built, in fact, not even fifteen years had passed since they were developed in the works. During the reign of Elizabeth I, there was a widespread habit to renovate or even build from scratch, more and more imposing houses, often with three fronts of Lankaster like that, even if it was made up of two new fronts and built by a Previous accounts of Northon.
The ancient house, where he remained only part that was
been incorporated in a front side, were added two other fronts, a large central atrium, which included a huge, two dining rooms, three lounges and a grand ballroom, and a side that included the floor below, a huge library, study and a small art gallery, where they were exposed numerous paintings and family portraits, while the upper floors were bedrooms for family members. Those were actually arranged for guests at the top and sides of the central front in the old house. The servants and kitchens, were placed in the lower floors of the wing of house oldest and most intricate.
Mary felt immediately in front of the huge discounts of residence, and all the doubts that assailed him since the day in which the viscount had made the proposal of marriage, they returned to assail her.
While his brother Michael helped her get off the coach and turned a look of encouragement before his apparent hesitation, the great entrance door was opened and the Count, alongside with the butler, is preparing to give hospitality newcomers.
Now, Mary jumped down from the carriage behind the little Anthony, the exclamations of surprise dell'imperturbabile between Dickinson and the count that he hurried down the stairs to greet the guests.
_ Gentlemen, I am pleased to welcome you to my home. I offer you greetings on behalf of my son, the Viscount of Dewey, who was detained in London by important commitments, but I'm sure we will reach by tomorrow. _Li Saluted the count, making deferential.
_Vi thank you, my lord, for your warm welcome and kind hospitality. Let me introduce myself: I am the Baron of Leicester, she is my sister Mary, and this statue is my nephew Anthony. _Disse Michael, putting in front of his grandson.
Count could hardly believe his eyes. Anyone would have sworn that the Child was the portrait of Khristian. His eyes s'inumidirono front of that pretty face, with a fierce look and the small emerald.
_Sono happy to meet you gentlemen, I hope you can feel at home.
_Milord are honored to be here, I'm sure we will be fine. _ Then, turning to greet the child suggested nonno._ Anthony On Good evening.
_Nice evening, sir. _ Greeted the child, imitating the obsequiousness of adults.
_Benvenuto to you young man. _ Answered the count ruffling his hair.
entered the house were served tea and pastries, then the guests went into the rooms that had been prepared for them, to rest and freshen up before dinner.
That evening, the Earl entertained the guests kindly, discussing various issues and not touching never questions that could somehow provoke embarrassment or burden the conversation.
At the end of dinner, Mary chose to retire, leaving the two men to discuss, the Baron and the Count invited to the studio to offer him a glass of his fine whiskey.
_Vi confess that until tonight, I really did not know who was the father of Anthony. Mary has always concealed his identity, he has always protected from any possible scandal.
_Scusate if I would, but I can assure you that your sister has made a huge mistake by hiding the identity of the father of her child. If only he had confessed his name dragged through the mud, as he deserved, my son would return immediately el'avrebbe married. Perhaps now would be here and not buried at sea, somewhere in some of the Channel, and your sister did not suffer all that happened.
_not_ have never been able to convince her to reveal that name, despite being the sole support for her, my father disinherited leaving only the clothes he was wearing. I've taken care of her until today, and despite the hand that your child has amazed me, I'm really happy.
_Voi know if Mary is going to marry him? _ He asked the count.
_Sinceramente him hope. Is something not very convinced and told me, and sorry if I would make this statement, that your son Viscount, the restless and perhaps makes a little 'fear. _E
why? _ Count asked curiously.
_Lo not know. I could not get her to say more. _Confessò Michael.
_If permit, tomorrow, I would like to talk privately with her. _Chiese The count.
_Certamente. As soon as I possibly can refer it to him myself. _Concordò Baron.
The next day, while the count was going to send Tomas Khristian the letter warned that the arrival of the guests at Northon House, Mary knocked on the door of the study.
_Avanti. _Invitò The count.
Mary entered.
_Prego lady, sit down. _The Invited the count, indicating the chair across the desk, behind which he sat.
_Nice day my lord. My brother warned me that you wanted to talk to me.
_Sì, ma'am. I asked your brother to be able to speak, because it is necessary that you come to the knowledge of certain issues. You see, Khristian there because I have not warned in time, because with him here I would have been difficult if not impossible, to speak with you. I think, be aware of the reason that led my son to propose marriage.
Mary nodded.
_Bene. I want to be completely honest with you. I do not want my son to marry you and not for the reasons you can imagine, but simply because makes your life a living hell. You will realize that marrying a woman because there has been imposed by a dying person is a reason no sense and is a very soft base for a wedding, especially since my son was already busy with another woman with whom on his return, he would have married. The point is that even if this lady does not officially exist in reality, the report continues, albeit secretly. You might not ever be happy, because he will always be tied to another.
_Milord what I have just said, I was upset. I do not understand why it is promised to another, your child has come to Scotland to interrupt the peace of my life, but I want the best for my son and I can not afford to refuse his proposal. I am accustomed to humiliation. One more will not make a difference.
_Vi lady not to give advice to my son for an affirmative answer, definitively. Regret it, I will never allow this marriage does not allow him to ruin his life. _Affermò With cold determination. _not_ Take it as a personal affront or as a threat, I have nothing against you. If my son loved you, you would be welcome. Khristian but does not love you and will end up hating themselves and you, when dormant grudges and grief for the loss of his brothers, will realize that it was not right to sacrifice his life and his love on the altar of honor, then honor if it is, because quite frankly I think it's guilt over not being able to save his brother.
_But I can not miss the opportunity to give my son the respectability of the name that is rightfully hers.
_Sposando Khristian not be equally a legitimate child. Can not afford to steal the title to his heir apparent, the son of his brother, except that, while married, she is determined not to share your bed to avoid generation of children. _ Insinuated the count.
Mary flushed to quell'allusione. He had never felt so humiliated. Knowing that her husband would not split his bed was never demeaning. Not that I aspire to share the bed of Khristian, the thought was frightening, but what hurt the same.
_Io not want to marry your child more than you want to do it, but I have no choice.
_Accettate its proposal, but not ready to marry him. I can only guarantee that you will get back equally strong reputation and your freedom. _Disse Mysteriously.
_But how is it possible? _Domandò Mary, more and more confused.
_not_ ask questions. Just trust me. I promise in the name of love I have for my kids, lady, you'll be part of this family, but not let you be the wife of Khristian.
Mary seemed very upset with this release, and the count hastened to allay his doubts.
_ I do not intend to propose marriage, if that's what you just thought. _ Clear the count.
_ I beg your pardon, but I just can not understand your speech.
_not_ matter whether you understand or not. Do not limit yourself to marry my lapidary figlio._ said the count.
_Va well. Do I have to trust you. _ He agreed. _Mi Only hope that my son did not suffer.
_not_ would never do anything that could even remotely damaging. It 'the only memory I have of my son Josh, were quiet. _The Reassured.
_Sinceramente do not understand, but I surrender to your will.
_When events are mature you will be the first to understand. _The Assured man.
_If all, my lord, I tried to reach my figlio._ leave.
_Naturalmente lady. _Concesse.
Mary turned to leave but, before he opened the door, the Earl spoke again. _No
ever, must be aware of our conversation. Less than ever Khristian.
_Perdonatemi, but who is the woman of your child? _ Taken by curiosity, asked Mary.
_Vi assure you that you do not need to know your name. You will know who you'll see them together soon. The air around them become inflamed. _ He assured.
Mary became very thoughtful and with a greeting just mentioned took his leave.
The count alone, he congratulated himself on the persuasion that he had done with Mary. Certainly more convincing had threatened her.
honestly did not know if the air around Khristian Diana and shoot out sparks, but Mary certainly would not have liked to share a husband with another woman, although many did.
Michael waited impatiently for his sister came out from the study in which it left almost an hour arguing with the count. He could not imagine what it might want to discuss with her.
As soon as Mary looked out the door, he joined her.
_What is Mary? You seem upset. _No
Michael, I'm just tired, you come with me? I go to Anthony. I have given to Tata Josh, has assured me that would lead to the nursery.
_Di what he wanted to talk to the count? _ Michael insisted, just as convinced that her sister wore a forced smile.
You could tell, that the Count had told her had made her nervous.
_Oh, nothing in particular. _Insurance. _Voleva Know me better, because I might become the future Countess of Northon._ Memphis with trying to have a lighthearted tone.
_Mary not fool me, I want to know if something is wrong.
Mary stopped and stared at his brother.
"How sweet, I can not even load this burden, "he thought." I gave him more reason to worry. At least this time I want to avoid. "
_Sta 'quiet there is nothing wrong, I'm just a bit' worried. Back in London scares me. _In End was not really a lie.
Michael had always been very protective to his sister, almost paternal, despite being younger than a couple of years, was much more mature than her. He was always very thoughtful, as a child, and her sister was a tomboy impulsively. You are carried away by emotions, Instead he seemed to rationalize them as well.
were poles apart, two diametrically opposed worlds, this worked perfectly agree, and also tied them a deep affection, one made up for the other and vice versa.
When five years before the scandal had dragged Mary into the mud, the only one not to turn their backs had been him who had turned against all but not to give his sister to a terrible fate.
had been disinherited, and thus had nothing to come was pregnant.
Michael had bought the house of the moon in Scotland, and ceded half their monthly income, so that he could live peacefully and keep his son.
Mary owed him a lot. Owed him everything.
_not_ worry. Even if you have sent away in disgrace, now come back like a queen. _The Reassured.
_Speriamo tu._ He finished and as you say hopefully. He knew he probably would never have been the wife of an earl, but he hoped not to cover his son's shame.
Michael hugged her and kissed her forehead, and promised himself that no one would look at his sister down, unless it were the queen in person. _Michael
, I do not want to see our parents. If I were to meet them, I'll pretend not to know. _Lo Warned.
_not_ worry about them now. Just think about yourself and your child. If the opportunity arose to meet them, I suggest you act as the heart, even if you do not recommend you do a scene. Try to get back on the crest wave passing almost unnoticed, the less you speak of you and we will not get the opportunity to slander.
_Sempre wise my little brother. Do not worry, my conduct is above reproach. _Lo Reassured.
_Naturalmente lady. _Concesse.
Mary turned to leave but, before he opened the door, the Earl spoke again. _No
ever, must be aware of our conversation. Less than ever Khristian.
_Perdonatemi, but who is the woman of your child? _ Taken by curiosity, asked Mary.
_Vi assure you that you do not need to know your name. You will know who you'll see them together soon. The air around them become inflamed. _ He assured.
Mary became very thoughtful and with a greeting just mentioned took his leave.
The count alone, he congratulated himself on the persuasion that he had done with Mary. Certainly more convincing had threatened her.
honestly did not know if the air around Khristian Diana and shoot out sparks, but Mary certainly would not have liked to share a husband with another woman, although many did.
Michael waited impatiently for his sister came out from the study in which it left almost an hour arguing with the count. He could not imagine what it might want to discuss with her.
As soon as Mary looked out the door, he joined her.
_What is Mary? You seem upset. _No
Michael, I'm just tired, you come with me? I go to Anthony. I have given to Tata Josh, has assured me that would lead to the nursery.
_Di what he wanted to talk to the count? _ Michael insisted, just as convinced that her sister wore a forced smile.
You could tell, that the Count had told her had made her nervous.
_Oh, nothing in particular. _Insurance. _Voleva Know me better, because I might become the future Countess of Northon._ Memphis with trying to have a lighthearted tone.
_Mary not fool me, I want to know if something is wrong.
Mary stopped and stared at his brother.
"How sweet, I can not even load this burden, "he thought." I gave him more reason to worry. At least this time I want to avoid. "
_Sta 'quiet there is nothing wrong, I'm just a bit' worried. Back in London scares me. _In End was not really a lie.
Michael had always been very protective to his sister, almost paternal, despite being younger than a couple of years, was much more mature than her. He was always very thoughtful, as a child, and her sister was a tomboy impulsively. You are carried away by emotions, Instead he seemed to rationalize them as well.
were poles apart, two diametrically opposed worlds, this worked perfectly agree, and also tied them a deep affection, one made up for the other and vice versa.
When five years before the scandal had dragged Mary into the mud, the only one not to turn their backs had been him who had turned against all but not to give his sister to a terrible fate.
had been disinherited, and thus had nothing to come was pregnant.
Michael had bought the house of the moon in Scotland, and ceded half their monthly income, so that he could live peacefully and keep his son.
Mary owed him a lot. Owed him everything.
_not_ worry. Even if you have sent away in disgrace, now come back like a queen. _The Reassured.
_Speriamo tu._ He finished and as you say hopefully. He knew he probably would never have been the wife of an earl, but he hoped not to cover his son's shame.
Michael hugged her and kissed her forehead, and promised himself that no one would look at his sister down, unless it were the queen in person. _Michael
, I do not want to see our parents. If I were to meet them, I'll pretend not to know. _Lo Warned.
_not_ worry about them now. Just think about yourself and your child. If the opportunity arose to meet them, I suggest you act as the heart, even if you do not recommend you do a scene. Try to get back on the crest wave passing almost unnoticed, the less you speak of you and we will not get the opportunity to slander.
_Sempre wise my little brother. Do not worry, my conduct is above reproach. _Lo Reassured.
The response of Mary
Khristian Northon House arrived at around five in the afternoon.
His mood was bad, but it was necessary to be able to mask it behind a facade of gentle kindness.
He led Mary in London, just as he had been ordered by the queen, not least because it would stand one more day away from Diana. Probably would have been together for the last time, but in London, as his guardian, he could visit them often.
he was not such an attitude, acting like a teenager in the throes of the first pangs of love.
How was he going to marry Mary and to live with her?
_Nice evening milord. Your father and the guests in the living room of your lady mother. _Lo Dickinson warned.
_Nice night Dick. I will be joining them as soon as repairs. Please do bring up water. _Ordinò.
_Sarà immediately made my lord.
Khristian climbed the steps two at a time, to avoid being seen by his guests.
He did not want to talk more than they would be there at that time, but unfortunately could not hold back.
It was stuck in that mess with his own hands, and would not come out so easily, probably would not emerge at all.
When they brought the water, took a quick freshen up and changed clothes.
would have preferred to wear his black suit when he returned from Scotland and Diana had tried to shore, but present in the estate would be nothing short of disgraceful. He should dress up at all points, even though he hated dress with laces, and for the same reason to shy away from being in court.
Thirty minutes later, mood blacker than when he arrived, he reached his father and his guests, while they were preparing to take tea.
_Nice evening to you gentlemen. _ Greeted entering the sitting room which had been the favorite of his mother.
were close to Mary, took her outstretched hand and started to brush her with a kiss. _Sono Happy to see you Mary. How are you? You are in great shape. And your son? _Disse And without awaiting reply, he turned to the man who was sitting beside presentandosi._ I am the Viscount. You, I suppose you are the lady's brother. Dewey
_Sì lord, are Michael Bishop, Baron of Leicester. _Si Introduced by saying his full name.
_Vi Please do not call me Dewey, I hate to ask you the name of a property.
_How favorites. _Assentì Michael.
Among them was dislike at first sight.
Khristian sat next to his father after greeting him and a maid served him tea. While sipping the bitter-sweet drink, began to covertly observe Mary.
seemed to him that had changed. He seemed more scared than in Scotland and blushed when he realized that he was watching. It would not be able to live more than a day with that woman. Could not find anything interesting to excessive shyness that seemed to have irritated him beyond measure.
would have to talk as soon as possible in private, just had to know what was decided in about their marriage.
no longer bear the sword of Damocles over his head.
The conversation held on neutral tones and Khristian noticed that Michael probably reciprocated his antipathy. How could he live with those people? He felt desperate, but also continued to keep the conversation going.
Michael, decided immediately that Mary was right to fear the viscount. There was something about him, which gave the impression of being faced with an imminent danger.
Not that he has raised concern, but to see her sister usually very impetuous, instinctive and become taciturn and shy in front of him was not something he enjoyed.
was clear, at least to him, the reason why Mary was not attracted by the prospect of marrying him. It certainly was a handsome man, as was the reality, but the viscount had the ability to put people in awe of just putting up their eyes, though it proves amiable and friendly. He was too arrogant and wild in appearance. Mary was in need of peace and sweetness, qualities that seemed to have no Lankaster.
Count preferred not to join the conversation in person, limited to small interventions and responses short and concise when he was asked a few questions. I'd rather watch
Khristian play its part. Those who knew him well as he could tell immediately that it was a representation and although conversations with his guests very brilliantly, to be honest, it was clear that she had her head on every other party. Would not hold for long.
Khristian not stand, just had to talk with Mary, wanted to know or would burst.
At one point, the conversation began to languish and Khristian take advantage of this to ask Mary a private interview.
_Vi ask to talk privately, if your brother has nothing against it. _The Asked, noting that Michael stiffened imperceptibly.
_not_ believe that my brother could have anything to say. _ He said, leaving no time to respond to Michael.
_ With your permission gentlemen I would like to bring the lady to visit gallery with paintings and family portraits.
_Adesso? _ Exclaimed excited.
_If postponed it no problem. _Concesse Khristian, noting his unjustified fear and even now prefer to close the question, he agreed not to speak the same now. The expression of awe Mary the very annoyed, did not seem he had done nothing to provoke such reactions in her.
_No. It's good enough now. _Acconsentì Even if reluctantly. _Vi Anthony mind if we brought with us? _Propose.
_ Absolutely. I'd love to review your child. _Rispose With sincerity. He really wanted to see his grandson, though he knew she had done that proposal to avoid being alone with him
_Allora, I'll take it and then visit the gallery.
_How want. Feel free at leisure.
His mood was bad, but it was necessary to be able to mask it behind a facade of gentle kindness.
He led Mary in London, just as he had been ordered by the queen, not least because it would stand one more day away from Diana. Probably would have been together for the last time, but in London, as his guardian, he could visit them often.
he was not such an attitude, acting like a teenager in the throes of the first pangs of love.
How was he going to marry Mary and to live with her?
_Nice evening milord. Your father and the guests in the living room of your lady mother. _Lo Dickinson warned.
_Nice night Dick. I will be joining them as soon as repairs. Please do bring up water. _Ordinò.
_Sarà immediately made my lord.
Khristian climbed the steps two at a time, to avoid being seen by his guests.
He did not want to talk more than they would be there at that time, but unfortunately could not hold back.
It was stuck in that mess with his own hands, and would not come out so easily, probably would not emerge at all.
When they brought the water, took a quick freshen up and changed clothes.
would have preferred to wear his black suit when he returned from Scotland and Diana had tried to shore, but present in the estate would be nothing short of disgraceful. He should dress up at all points, even though he hated dress with laces, and for the same reason to shy away from being in court.
Thirty minutes later, mood blacker than when he arrived, he reached his father and his guests, while they were preparing to take tea.
_Nice evening to you gentlemen. _ Greeted entering the sitting room which had been the favorite of his mother.
were close to Mary, took her outstretched hand and started to brush her with a kiss. _Sono Happy to see you Mary. How are you? You are in great shape. And your son? _Disse And without awaiting reply, he turned to the man who was sitting beside presentandosi._ I am the Viscount. You, I suppose you are the lady's brother. Dewey
_Sì lord, are Michael Bishop, Baron of Leicester. _Si Introduced by saying his full name.
_Vi Please do not call me Dewey, I hate to ask you the name of a property.
_How favorites. _Assentì Michael.
Among them was dislike at first sight.
Khristian sat next to his father after greeting him and a maid served him tea. While sipping the bitter-sweet drink, began to covertly observe Mary.
seemed to him that had changed. He seemed more scared than in Scotland and blushed when he realized that he was watching. It would not be able to live more than a day with that woman. Could not find anything interesting to excessive shyness that seemed to have irritated him beyond measure.
would have to talk as soon as possible in private, just had to know what was decided in about their marriage.
no longer bear the sword of Damocles over his head.
The conversation held on neutral tones and Khristian noticed that Michael probably reciprocated his antipathy. How could he live with those people? He felt desperate, but also continued to keep the conversation going.
Michael, decided immediately that Mary was right to fear the viscount. There was something about him, which gave the impression of being faced with an imminent danger.
Not that he has raised concern, but to see her sister usually very impetuous, instinctive and become taciturn and shy in front of him was not something he enjoyed.
was clear, at least to him, the reason why Mary was not attracted by the prospect of marrying him. It certainly was a handsome man, as was the reality, but the viscount had the ability to put people in awe of just putting up their eyes, though it proves amiable and friendly. He was too arrogant and wild in appearance. Mary was in need of peace and sweetness, qualities that seemed to have no Lankaster.
Count preferred not to join the conversation in person, limited to small interventions and responses short and concise when he was asked a few questions. I'd rather watch
Khristian play its part. Those who knew him well as he could tell immediately that it was a representation and although conversations with his guests very brilliantly, to be honest, it was clear that she had her head on every other party. Would not hold for long.
Khristian not stand, just had to talk with Mary, wanted to know or would burst.
At one point, the conversation began to languish and Khristian take advantage of this to ask Mary a private interview.
_Vi ask to talk privately, if your brother has nothing against it. _The Asked, noting that Michael stiffened imperceptibly.
_not_ believe that my brother could have anything to say. _ He said, leaving no time to respond to Michael.
_ With your permission gentlemen I would like to bring the lady to visit gallery with paintings and family portraits.
_Adesso? _ Exclaimed excited.
_If postponed it no problem. _Concesse Khristian, noting his unjustified fear and even now prefer to close the question, he agreed not to speak the same now. The expression of awe Mary the very annoyed, did not seem he had done nothing to provoke such reactions in her.
_No. It's good enough now. _Acconsentì Even if reluctantly. _Vi Anthony mind if we brought with us? _Propose.
_ Absolutely. I'd love to review your child. _Rispose With sincerity. He really wanted to see his grandson, though he knew she had done that proposal to avoid being alone with him
_Allora, I'll take it and then visit the gallery.
_How want. Feel free at leisure.
_With, ma'am. Please scusarmi._ And with a rustle of skirts came out.
The three men imitating Mary stood up when she went to take Anthony to sit down again as soon as she left the room.
Taking advantage of his sister, unable to resist the impulse, Michael Khristian asked the reason for which he had proposed marriage to Mary and with the utmost sincerity, Khristian explained how he had promised his brother to take care of his woman.
_Siete sure you want to do sir? _ Churches, not Michael without irritation.
_Io'm not sure of anything. _Declaration Khristian poorly hiding his annoyance in his voice. _ The only sure thing is that my brother was very concerned about your sister, and before his death made me promise to marry her. If it is my will to do so or not, it does not matter. I will not fail to keep my promise. _ He said annoyed. _
you plan to take care of her, just with your indifference? _Lo Attacked Michael.
_not_ think I know the point of being able to judge. In any case, I'm giving your sister a name, something that your family has removed the. _Ribadì Glacial Khristian staring as if dead.
_not_ allow you to speak so of my family. _S'infuriò Another.
_Ed I do not allow you to judge me, after having just met. _Replicò Khristian standing up to address it, not hide his anger.
go on like this would surely come to blows.
_Calmatevi. Please gentlemen. Calm down. I do not think it is appropriate to do so, nor to warm up much. Arguing will not do some good for Mary. _ Chimed in the count trying to appease the souls of those young people too proud and arrogant.
_Avete reason my lord, excuse my behavior, but I can not stand you slander my family in spite of how she behaved with my sister. _Ribadì Addressing the count. Neither
Khristian or Michael apologized to the other, merely askance. They were certainly not left with the right foot.
Shortly after Mary, unaware of all the three men arrived together at the small and Khristian Anthony immediately got up to go with her to visit the gallery. Please take
_Vi excuse. _Disse Khristian with feigned friendliness.
_ Gentlemen ... with your permission. _ Mary took his leave.
Khristian left the living room and guided her in the art gallery of the house, taking the little Anthony in her arms.
The gallery was bathed in the dim light, this only served to intimidate most that Mary did not know what to do with the man who had the side. He seemed not to notice his discomfort, perhaps because it was not at all interested in her.
Khristian, in fact he did not notice anything, intent as he was talking to Anthony. _
Watch. This was your grandmother. Do you like this lady? _The Asked, showing a portrait of his mother.
The boy nodded, pointing at the same time the portrait of the young Count. _No
small, not me. That's my father, the Count. _Spiegò.
_Milord, the resemblance to your father is impressive. You can not understand that the picture is not yours. Mary _Esclamò surprised.
_Sono many people support it, and it is the truth. _Ammise Khristian. They went
visit the gallery in the direction in which it was hung a portrait of Khristian and his brothers, made shortly before it sailed.
Mary froze and his eyes began to fall silent tears as she contemplated the face of his beloved Josh.
was as he remembered her! It was as if her heart would break into a thousand tiny shards. All the pain of his loss was poured on him in an instant, overwhelming.
Khristian did not know what to do in the face of this unexpected, a real pain. He put Anthony on the floor and tried to comfort her.
_Mary, please do not do this. Scare your child, do not be seen in tears. _The Chided gently.
_Oh My lord, this is the first time you see him again, albeit in a picture from when he left. You can not imagine how I suffered for your brother, knowing of his death devastated me. _ The confessed.
_Lo know, for me it was. _Ammise
_Vi Please tell me about him. _ Mary Church.
_Cosa I can tell you that you do not already know?
_Cosa killed him? How died my Josh?
_not_ want to talk. _Ribadì Cold.
_Vi please. Tell me. I need it. _Insistette.
_E 'was hit by a musket shot. The only time left to make me promise that I would take care of you, get married. _Mentì Khristian. It was not
need you to know what terrible agony he had consumed his brother, nor wanted to tell him.
_ He suffered a lot?
_No. _ Answered simply, while the memory of what had really happened assailed him emptied of all force. _To
Why do you think you have asked to marry me? _The Asked
_not_ know Mary. I do not know how to respond to your question.
_Siate honest, you want to get married? _Chiese-Blank.
Silence. Khristian stared at her and then spoke.
_No, but I'll do it too if you accept my proposal. _Declaration
Sincere to the end, even if it means hurting people. He did not have the courage to ask him if there was someone else in his life. He preferred not to hear it from his lips.
_Accetterete? _ Khristian asked with bated breath.
Mary wanted to take a little revenge.
She felt humiliated when, with too much sincerity, confessed that he had clearly not wanted to marry her.
_Cosa you want me to say? _Domandò Holding the rope.
_ I was asking for too much lady, and I guarantee that my response would be appreciated. I just want to have yours. Now.
I think to answer "yes my lord, and added _rispose, _ if this was the will of Josh.
Khristian, believed to suppress. After a moment, however, unable to hide their disappointment and their sorrow, Mary made it clear what they should do.
_Allora get ready to leave tomorrow morning at dawn, the Queen awaits us at the court before the end of the month. I will leave immediately on horseback you can reach me in London in a carriage with your brother and son.
Khristian's face was a mask of stone, as was his heart. He could have said goodbye to Diana. Now it's all over.
Mary noticed the shift in Khristian and he was sorry a bit ', but it was the only way to go to court and recover his dignity.
After all, he had been to her marriage proposal.
_If let Mary, he drove you from your brother. Leave immediately after. Mary
made no further questions. When
Khristian her back in the living room, there was only Michael. His father told him this, he had been away for a moment.
_ Gentlemen, with your permission, I salute you. Leave as soon as my horse will be saddled and I changed my clothes.
_How games ever? Leicester looking _Domandò Khristian and sister. What happened?
_ Your sister can answer any questions that you think they ought to be. If you'll excuse me ... _E vanished.
Mary said, omitting many details, the situation and although Michael was not very convinced, preferring to settle for what she said.
_not_ like me. It does not for you. He said frankly to her sister.
_Lo know, but it is the only one who can give me respectability. _Ammise Even if reluctantly.
_If is what you want, I can not help but ritirami aside, after you have married, of course. _Tenne To clarify.
Khristian, left the living room went to find his father. He found, as usual, in the study with intent to sip his whiskey taste.
_Padre, I speak to you. _Annunciò Khristian
_Cosa happened. You seem very worried.
_Preoccupato is nothing but a euphemism father. Mary marry me. He accepted my proposal. _E
what is it? It was not what you wanted? _
_Padre not take me around. I want to keep my promise, but I allowed myself to hope too that Mary refused to marry me.
_Cosa accounts do now? _Continuò To ask. _The
marry as soon as the Queen decides. Then he will take up the sea route. I can not stay here. For me it would be impossible to live in London with Mary desiring Diana. Resume my life as a pirate, it will be easier to stay away. If I ordain in London, Diana would end up covered with disgrace. I have already made too many mistakes with her. _Confidò Khristian mechanically as if the matter did not concern him at all.
_not_ let you set foot on a pirate ship. Do not take the sea, at least as long as I live to prevent it. _ Roared the Count.
_Padre, you know that I'll do what I want, that you are agree or not. _Ribadì Unruffled.
_Quello I ask you is to think of it, Khristian. You can still refuse to marry her. _search To convince him.
_not_ talk nonsense, you know that I can not. What would become of Mary and Anthony?
_Troveremo some other solution. They could also live here. Would be respected if we knew who the father of the child.
_Padre I promised Josh. You were not there when he died, otherwise you'd understand.
_Io I understand you're just all wrong. You'll be sorry. The day will come to regret this decision.
_Vi Wrong, Father. The regret already. _E Closing the door, he went. This page was
clothes got out and made saddle again Satan and another bay. His was too tired, worn down did not want to risk, and then with two horses could travel non-stop.
He left without saying goodbye, he was too upset by the turn of events. Now he had to say to Diana, could not bear to see her again prostrate in tears, but was inevitable.
would still have been together for a while, with the arrival of Mary would have to stop their relationship.
traveled incessantly day and night, stopping to rest for a few moments when felt too tired to continue. But he had to run if he wanted to be with Diana at least two other nights.
galloped like a madman, came to London at dusk after two nights and two days of travel.
He felt a rag, but he had to and wanted to go to Diana. He took a bath and rested for a few hours, and ordered his valet to wake him before going to bed with the excuse that was to meet with friends at a club.
slipped like a shadow in the garden of Diana, going straight to the door of the living room window was usually open.
That evening, with great disappointment that instead Khristian was closed and the curtains drawn. He walked around the house and tried to enter the door of the servants, that immediately gave way when he tried to open it with the knife he always carried in his boot. He walked the dark corridors and kitchens, even holding my breath, until he found himself safe in the room of Diana, who was sleeping.
He approached the bed and sat on the edge of sleep, observing the light coming in through the window. He stroked my hair with infinite tenderness and called her.
_Diana. Diana. _ Whispered.
hearing the voice of the beloved Diana awoke suddenly.
_Khristian. Already here? How did you come back so quickly? _The Asked hugging him. _The
want to be with you made me fly. I had to talk to you soon. _Terminò Deep voice.
_Adesso Khristian no. I do not want to hear what you have to say. Embrace only. Diana _Chiese knowing what was the response of Mary.
The three men imitating Mary stood up when she went to take Anthony to sit down again as soon as she left the room.
Taking advantage of his sister, unable to resist the impulse, Michael Khristian asked the reason for which he had proposed marriage to Mary and with the utmost sincerity, Khristian explained how he had promised his brother to take care of his woman.
_Siete sure you want to do sir? _ Churches, not Michael without irritation.
_Io'm not sure of anything. _Declaration Khristian poorly hiding his annoyance in his voice. _ The only sure thing is that my brother was very concerned about your sister, and before his death made me promise to marry her. If it is my will to do so or not, it does not matter. I will not fail to keep my promise. _ He said annoyed. _
you plan to take care of her, just with your indifference? _Lo Attacked Michael.
_not_ think I know the point of being able to judge. In any case, I'm giving your sister a name, something that your family has removed the. _Ribadì Glacial Khristian staring as if dead.
_not_ allow you to speak so of my family. _S'infuriò Another.
_Ed I do not allow you to judge me, after having just met. _Replicò Khristian standing up to address it, not hide his anger.
go on like this would surely come to blows.
_Calmatevi. Please gentlemen. Calm down. I do not think it is appropriate to do so, nor to warm up much. Arguing will not do some good for Mary. _ Chimed in the count trying to appease the souls of those young people too proud and arrogant.
_Avete reason my lord, excuse my behavior, but I can not stand you slander my family in spite of how she behaved with my sister. _Ribadì Addressing the count. Neither
Khristian or Michael apologized to the other, merely askance. They were certainly not left with the right foot.
Shortly after Mary, unaware of all the three men arrived together at the small and Khristian Anthony immediately got up to go with her to visit the gallery. Please take
_Vi excuse. _Disse Khristian with feigned friendliness.
_ Gentlemen ... with your permission. _ Mary took his leave.
Khristian left the living room and guided her in the art gallery of the house, taking the little Anthony in her arms.
The gallery was bathed in the dim light, this only served to intimidate most that Mary did not know what to do with the man who had the side. He seemed not to notice his discomfort, perhaps because it was not at all interested in her.
Khristian, in fact he did not notice anything, intent as he was talking to Anthony. _
Watch. This was your grandmother. Do you like this lady? _The Asked, showing a portrait of his mother.
The boy nodded, pointing at the same time the portrait of the young Count. _No
small, not me. That's my father, the Count. _Spiegò.
_Milord, the resemblance to your father is impressive. You can not understand that the picture is not yours. Mary _Esclamò surprised.
_Sono many people support it, and it is the truth. _Ammise Khristian. They went
visit the gallery in the direction in which it was hung a portrait of Khristian and his brothers, made shortly before it sailed.
Mary froze and his eyes began to fall silent tears as she contemplated the face of his beloved Josh.
was as he remembered her! It was as if her heart would break into a thousand tiny shards. All the pain of his loss was poured on him in an instant, overwhelming.
Khristian did not know what to do in the face of this unexpected, a real pain. He put Anthony on the floor and tried to comfort her.
_Mary, please do not do this. Scare your child, do not be seen in tears. _The Chided gently.
_Oh My lord, this is the first time you see him again, albeit in a picture from when he left. You can not imagine how I suffered for your brother, knowing of his death devastated me. _ The confessed.
_Lo know, for me it was. _Ammise
_Vi Please tell me about him. _ Mary Church.
_Cosa I can tell you that you do not already know?
_Cosa killed him? How died my Josh?
_not_ want to talk. _Ribadì Cold.
_Vi please. Tell me. I need it. _Insistette.
_E 'was hit by a musket shot. The only time left to make me promise that I would take care of you, get married. _Mentì Khristian. It was not
need you to know what terrible agony he had consumed his brother, nor wanted to tell him.
_ He suffered a lot?
_No. _ Answered simply, while the memory of what had really happened assailed him emptied of all force. _To
Why do you think you have asked to marry me? _The Asked
_not_ know Mary. I do not know how to respond to your question.
_Siate honest, you want to get married? _Chiese-Blank.
Silence. Khristian stared at her and then spoke.
_No, but I'll do it too if you accept my proposal. _Declaration
Sincere to the end, even if it means hurting people. He did not have the courage to ask him if there was someone else in his life. He preferred not to hear it from his lips.
_Accetterete? _ Khristian asked with bated breath.
Mary wanted to take a little revenge.
She felt humiliated when, with too much sincerity, confessed that he had clearly not wanted to marry her.
_Cosa you want me to say? _Domandò Holding the rope.
_ I was asking for too much lady, and I guarantee that my response would be appreciated. I just want to have yours. Now.
I think to answer "yes my lord, and added _rispose, _ if this was the will of Josh.
Khristian, believed to suppress. After a moment, however, unable to hide their disappointment and their sorrow, Mary made it clear what they should do.
_Allora get ready to leave tomorrow morning at dawn, the Queen awaits us at the court before the end of the month. I will leave immediately on horseback you can reach me in London in a carriage with your brother and son.
Khristian's face was a mask of stone, as was his heart. He could have said goodbye to Diana. Now it's all over.
Mary noticed the shift in Khristian and he was sorry a bit ', but it was the only way to go to court and recover his dignity.
After all, he had been to her marriage proposal.
_If let Mary, he drove you from your brother. Leave immediately after. Mary
made no further questions. When
Khristian her back in the living room, there was only Michael. His father told him this, he had been away for a moment.
_ Gentlemen, with your permission, I salute you. Leave as soon as my horse will be saddled and I changed my clothes.
_How games ever? Leicester looking _Domandò Khristian and sister. What happened?
_ Your sister can answer any questions that you think they ought to be. If you'll excuse me ... _E vanished.
Mary said, omitting many details, the situation and although Michael was not very convinced, preferring to settle for what she said.
_not_ like me. It does not for you. He said frankly to her sister.
_Lo know, but it is the only one who can give me respectability. _Ammise Even if reluctantly.
_If is what you want, I can not help but ritirami aside, after you have married, of course. _Tenne To clarify.
Khristian, left the living room went to find his father. He found, as usual, in the study with intent to sip his whiskey taste.
_Padre, I speak to you. _Annunciò Khristian
_Cosa happened. You seem very worried.
_Preoccupato is nothing but a euphemism father. Mary marry me. He accepted my proposal. _E
what is it? It was not what you wanted? _
_Padre not take me around. I want to keep my promise, but I allowed myself to hope too that Mary refused to marry me.
_Cosa accounts do now? _Continuò To ask. _The
marry as soon as the Queen decides. Then he will take up the sea route. I can not stay here. For me it would be impossible to live in London with Mary desiring Diana. Resume my life as a pirate, it will be easier to stay away. If I ordain in London, Diana would end up covered with disgrace. I have already made too many mistakes with her. _Confidò Khristian mechanically as if the matter did not concern him at all.
_not_ let you set foot on a pirate ship. Do not take the sea, at least as long as I live to prevent it. _ Roared the Count.
_Padre, you know that I'll do what I want, that you are agree or not. _Ribadì Unruffled.
_Quello I ask you is to think of it, Khristian. You can still refuse to marry her. _search To convince him.
_not_ talk nonsense, you know that I can not. What would become of Mary and Anthony?
_Troveremo some other solution. They could also live here. Would be respected if we knew who the father of the child.
_Padre I promised Josh. You were not there when he died, otherwise you'd understand.
_Io I understand you're just all wrong. You'll be sorry. The day will come to regret this decision.
_Vi Wrong, Father. The regret already. _E Closing the door, he went. This page was
clothes got out and made saddle again Satan and another bay. His was too tired, worn down did not want to risk, and then with two horses could travel non-stop.
He left without saying goodbye, he was too upset by the turn of events. Now he had to say to Diana, could not bear to see her again prostrate in tears, but was inevitable.
would still have been together for a while, with the arrival of Mary would have to stop their relationship.
traveled incessantly day and night, stopping to rest for a few moments when felt too tired to continue. But he had to run if he wanted to be with Diana at least two other nights.
galloped like a madman, came to London at dusk after two nights and two days of travel.
He felt a rag, but he had to and wanted to go to Diana. He took a bath and rested for a few hours, and ordered his valet to wake him before going to bed with the excuse that was to meet with friends at a club.
slipped like a shadow in the garden of Diana, going straight to the door of the living room window was usually open.
That evening, with great disappointment that instead Khristian was closed and the curtains drawn. He walked around the house and tried to enter the door of the servants, that immediately gave way when he tried to open it with the knife he always carried in his boot. He walked the dark corridors and kitchens, even holding my breath, until he found himself safe in the room of Diana, who was sleeping.
He approached the bed and sat on the edge of sleep, observing the light coming in through the window. He stroked my hair with infinite tenderness and called her.
_Diana. Diana. _ Whispered.
hearing the voice of the beloved Diana awoke suddenly.
_Khristian. Already here? How did you come back so quickly? _The Asked hugging him. _The
want to be with you made me fly. I had to talk to you soon. _Terminò Deep voice.
_Adesso Khristian no. I do not want to hear what you have to say. Embrace only. Diana _Chiese knowing what was the response of Mary.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
These two new chapters are my gift to you readers ... I hope you like ...
See you next year!! KP
