The Marriage of the Viscount's Virgin Daughter (Closed)

[karnelman]

(Closed for AmbrosiaCaress and myself, Others feel free to read along and comment in PM.)

OOC: Giles Coston, second son of the Earl of Grymenhull
Mid 30’s, 6’ 12 ½ stone, Jet black hair and dark piercing eyes.
Well respected barrister often appearing before the King’s court
Currently in the employ of the Viscount of Farringdon.

IC: Upon arriving at Farringdon Hall, I was immediately escorted to my new employer’s plush study. I had of course investigated the Viscount and found him to be respected at court and amongst the lesser nobles. Though his wealth certainly did not equal that of the upper tier of the nobility, he did command a vast estate that was known to offer some of the finest hunting in the realm. When he entered the room, I found him to be a small unassuming man. Had I met him in London I would have mistaken him for a merchant. He seemed to possess none of the airs of superiority I was accustomed to with noblemen. However, this did not stop me from rising to show the proper respect for my host.

“My Lord, I am Barrister Coston and I am at your service,” I said politely as I bowed in greeting.

“Yes, yes, please I am not the King, relax Giles,” he said in a friendly tone.

“As you wish, my lord.”

With the brief introduction out of the way, he proceeded to explain what services he required. He told me about his daughter. She was a maiden of 19 years and it was past time that she should be married. I found it odd that a girl of her age had not yet been betrothed. The Viscount explained that she had been promised as a child to the son of the French Marquis de Aquitaine. Unfortunately, the young man died of consumption before she came of age and the wedding could take place. The Viscount had been searching since that time for a suitable replacement. He had recently learned that the wife of the Baron of Northumberland had died in childbirth. The child, the baron’s first had also perished. This meant that the still young baron would be anxious to find a new bride to bare his heir. It was to be my task to negotiate the union. It seemed an easy enough task and the Viscount was willing to pay handsomely for my services so I readily accepted the commission.

I told him that I could easily arrange an audience with the Baron. Although I had not met the current Baron, I had known his father well. I knew the current Baron was very young, probably not yet past his twenty-third year; having only assumed his father’s estate recently after a hunting accident took the older man’s life. I explained that I needed to conduct an investigation of his daughter’s habits so I could be honest in my dealings with the intended groom. The Viscount assured me that I would have complete run of the estate and that he was certain I would be proud to offer such a fine girl for marriage to the Baron.

“After all, Giles, it is rare for a widowed man to have the good fortune of finding such a mature and lovely virgin as a second bride,” He boasted.

I had to agree it was rare to find a virgin of his daughter’s age. I wanted to see this claimed beauty for myself and then I could be off to convince the grieving Baron of her virtues. I proposed to the Viscount that the first thing should be for me to meet his daughter. He readily agreed and suggested I wait in the garden for the Countess and their daughter. He showed me to a side door which led to a charming garden. The lilacs were blooming and the fragrance overwhelmed the senses. I sat upon a small bench enjoying the sunshine as I waited for the ladies of the house to join me.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ Her Father, the Viscount, had left the private suites, only a few moments before, to greet the incoming Barrister.. His departure gave her the needed freedom to quickly sneak out of those very suites, easily eluding her mother, the Countess Livia, and her private maid, Constance.. or so she thought.....

She had done this so many times in her young life, she had learned to sneak out at the tender age of 12, when she would monkey down the vines that snaked along the outter wall of her chamber, descending the 10 feet to the ground, and make her way to the stables to see the horses. She was 19 now, no longer a child, but she still felt the need to sneak, well, it was more than a need... She could come and go from the Manor as she desired, she was the Viscount's daughter after all, but she had to sneak behind everyone's back to those very same stables, but not to see the horses, even tho the animals remained a love of her, but instead to see Stephen, the stable boy, a servant of her Father's...

The story, actually began back at that tender age of 12, Stephen had been all of 15, and already a servant to her Father, working the stables, he was proficient with the horses, in both breaking and training, as well as care and was a valued servant the Viscount's eyes. Stephen's quarters resided in those stables, and on one of her nightly forays, she had awakened him.. the 2 became fast friends.. he looking forward to the child visiting...

On her 13th birthday, she was promised to the son of the French Marquis de Aquitaine... not a happy prospect for the girl.. she wanted nothing to do with being betrothed and refused to understand why it had to be so, and her attitude fostered many an arguement between she and her parents, but in the end, they won out, she knowing she had no other choice, that the marriage would take place upon her 18th birthday.. a day the 13 year old did NOT look forward too..

That very night she cried in the arms of now 16 year old Stepehen.. and that night they shared their first kiss, an innocent kiss by adult standards, but a kiss none the less..

For the next several years, she lived her life, becoming more beautiful by the day.. spending more of her day at the stables with Stephen and the horses than in the Manor attending to more, diplomatic matters... she and Stephen became closer, and closer... even as her 18th birthday approached.. and wedding plans began in earnest...

That is until the news came of the death of her Husband to be... He had contracted Consumption and had died in a matter of weeks. He had not wanted to trouble his bride to be nor her family, so news of his illness was kept secret until after his death... the Viscount was not happy, but his daugther was estatic, not over a death, no, but the fact that she would not have to marry after all, at least not to that boy....

She wanted to marry Stephen, the stable boy, and that night, just weeks short of her 18th birthday, upon hearing the news of the death of her promised Husband, she went to Stephen and professed her love for him... that night, she did not return to her suite... instead spending the night in his bed, in his humble room at the stable.. her cries of passion silenced by the kiss of a servant as He took her virginity, and her heart...

That was all about to fall apart upon the visit of this Barrister...

Emma Fairlynn Farringdon was about to be promised again in marriage, to another perfect stranger in a land so far from her home.. She was now 19 years old, and her affair with Stephen the Stable boy was still secret, even tho now he often snuck into her suite of rooms after all were asleep... She knew it was wrong, she knew that if found out, Stephen would more than likely be sent away, or worse, beheaded... she knew that if found out, her Father would loose any and all respect and nobility that he currently enjoyed, she was putting her family's life and home and name in danger with her trysts with the stable boy, yet she could not seem to stay away... her family would be shamed, their lands sold, and they would be imprisoned, if it were found that the Viscount were promising his daughter to be virginal when in fact she was not.. Emma knew all this, and vowed to keep the affair secret....

After her Father had left to greet the Visitor, she had indeed snuck out of her chambers once again.. and as she made her way down the long hall to the side door that she now often used to get out of the Manor, she thought she was home free to go to the stables and at least go for a ride, seeing Stephen during the day, other than a hello, was out of the question... but...she was summoned, and to not answer would only arouse suspicion...

"Emma Fairlynn" came the call, from Constance, her mother's maid...

Emma turned, seeing her mother and maid come around the corner at the other end of the hall, she stopping in her tracks, not wishing either to know where she had been heading..

What did they want????

"Daughter" chimed in her mother, Countess Livia, "come, you are to be prepared to meet the Barrister.. for it will be he that will take your virtue to the Baron of Northumberland for marriage, it is time that you had a husband, and the Baron is in need of a new wife to bear his heir.. my dear" She spoke as if love had nothing to do with it, and Emma supposed that to her mother and father, love did not, for her own mother had been promised to her father as a child, and had married him without the benefit of a meeting the day she turned 18.... Emma had been born within a year after that, their only child to date, a fact that was not lost on Emma... for it was up to her to carry on the bloodline and the name if possible by having a son to at least carry the Farringdon blood... and perhaps rebirth the name...

She was not supposed to fall in love with the stable boy.. a fact that became all the more clear as she had gotten older.... it was a disgrace she could never let anyone find out...

"yes mother" she quietly answered, following the 2 women back into her chambers...

(to be continued.............)

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

"Constance, see that she is adorned in her finest dress short of a gown, I want her cleaned and bathed and perfumed... I will retire to my chambers to prepare".. and with a sniff her mother was gone, leaving Constance and Emma alone...

Emma knew the drill, she had been thru it many times with Constance, ever since she were young.. she supposed she should have her own servant but did not want the responsibility of one.. so Constance served both her mother and she...

Drawing a heated bath, Constance readied the soaps and perfumed oils, letting Emma disrobe on her own and climb into the large bathing basin.. it was large enough to fit 2 or maybe even 3, and many a time Constance had climbed in with her to cleanse her, as she did this time, taking off her simple dress and settling in with Emma...

"you know Constance, I can bath myself" she muttered, but the maid would have none of that.. "Mistress, you know I must bath you ... please let's not argue.." she said pleasantly... dipping her small hands into the water and then soaping them up with the liquid, before gliding those sudsy fingers over Emma's pale skin... Emma let her eyes close as Constance washed her, the maid's hands were soft, gentle, and Emma found her touch to be relaxing..

The last to be washed was Emma magnificent long golden blonde hair, the maid always commenting on how beautiful it was.. "You have hair like an angel's halo, Mistress Emma" ...she would always say... as she rinsed it free of the sudsy bubbles...

Once done, Constance rose first and fetched a towel for Emma, helping the girl dry... then alighting her with a caress of the perfumed oils... the sultry, yet subtle scent curling around her... only seeming to accent her natural beauty...

"You heard Your mother, pick something pretty, light, to accent that gorgeous golden halo of Yours... Mistress Emma"...

"yes.. yes.. Constance.. all to meet some... Barrister..." she stopped there, knowing that once she met this man, and he went to the Baron... she had to quiet the soft sob that wanted to escape... but she had to do this... she had no choice....

a naked Emma

She chose a deep emerald green poet blouse and a long black gypsy skirt, which was her preferred style, she hated the stiff, tight clothes of nobility and much preferred to be comfortable... yet her choice, on her, looked stunning.. she finished the look by tying back her long golden hair with a emerald hued ribbon.. the honeyed tendrils brushing the mid of her back....

A knock on her door announced that her mother, Livia, was ready as well, dressed a bit more... noble.. than her daughter.. she gave Emma a slight shake of her head, but did not argue her choice of garments... her daughter's beauty and intelligence would win anyone over, even this Barrister... she was sure if it...

By nightfall of the 3rd night, when the Barrister would return, Livia was sure He indeed would have the Baron's conscent to marry her daughter.. sure of it..

**************************

"Barrister Coston, I trust You have been enjoying our beaitiful gardens, on this wonderfully warm afternoon, I hope we have not kept You waiting too long... but You know how it is being a woman" she smiled...

"I am Countess Livia Farringdon.. but it not I that You are hear to meet.... may I present my daugther.... Emma Fairlynn Farringdon... "

She stepped aside and Emma stepped into veiw.. with her beautiful golden blonde hair... deep chocolate brown eyes, creamy pale skin, and moist deep dusky pink lips.. which curled into a smile, altho perhaps a bit forced...

"I am pleased to meet You Barrister Coston.. " she said, her voice soft, warm, fluttering on the breeze like the wings of a butterfly... ~

 

[karnelman]

I stood as the two women entered the garden. Both were quite beautiful in their way. The Countess’s face did not yet show the deterioration of age I have become accustomed to in the faces of noblewomen. Though her clothes hid her womanly charms and her hairstyle and makeup somewhat disguised her looks, I could see that the beauty of her youth was still with her. I thought the Viscount to be a most lucky man to have at his age and looks such a woman in his bed.

Her daughter was ravishing though rather simply adorned. Her golden hair sparkled in the sunlight and the green of her ribbons complimented her yellow tresses perfectly. I knew instantly it would not be a chore to sell this maiden to the Baron.

"Barrister Coston, I trust You have been enjoying our beautiful gardens, on this wonderfully warm afternoon, I hope we have not kept You waiting too long... but You know how it is being a woman"

"I am Countess Livia Farringdon.. but it not I that You are hear to meet.... may I present my daugther.... Emma Fairlynn Farringdon... "

“It is my pleasure to meet such charming ladies,” I said with a smile as I turned toward the Countess.

She may have suggested that it was her daughter that was of chief concern, however I knew better than to not treat this regally dress lady with the proper respect. I bowed slightly and took the older woman’s hand. I pressed my lips to her knuckles and was surprised to discover that her skin was still as soft as a maiden’s. Then I turned to the daughter. To my surprise she was dressed more like a gypsy peddler’s child than the daughter of the Viscount. However, her beauty, complexion and general countenance clearly showed that she had been raised a lady. As I took the girl’s hand in mine I made a note to correct her wardrobe before she was presented to the Baron.

Her fingers were delicate and felt like they were covered in silk. I perhaps tarried a bit too long before raising her hand to my lips. But this creature was almost irresistible. As my lips brushed lightly over her soft skin, my nostrils were filled with the delicate scent on her perfume. Realizing that the Countess was staring at me, I quickly released her daughter’s hand and stepped back. After looking the girl over I turned back to the Countess.

“She is ravishing my lady and I am sure that the Baron would be proud to take her as his wife. Now with your permission, perhaps Emma and I can take a walk. While she helps me learn my way around your beautiful estate, I can get to know her better. The Baron will want to know that his bride is more than a porcelain doll, ma’am.”

I had no doubt that the Countess would feel comfortable leaving her daughter with me. I was a man of considerable reputation and even the Kind would likely find me a suitable chaperone for his daughter. As I suspected she would, the older woman agreed to leave us alone and retired from the garden.

“Shall we walk, my lady?” I asked with a warm smile, offering my arm to Emma.

As I waited for her to respond images flashed into my mind. I imagined what my new charge looked like under her simple clothing. It was not hard to have such a vision as the green material of her blouse was rather more revealing than most women of title of wore. I began to feel just a little envious of the Baron. The second son of nobleman, like myself could never hope to be offered such a stunning virgin as his bride. Still I had my duties in this matter and the successful completion of those duties would lead to additional wealth and prestige. Of course wealth and prestige served me well with the ladies of court as well as with my noble clients. Perhaps someday I would even be able to obtain a small estate and title of my own.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

“She is ravishing my lady and I am sure that the Baron would be proud to take her as his wife. Now with your permission, perhaps Emma and I can take a walk. While she helps me learn my way around your beautiful estate, I can get to know her better. The Baron will want to know that his bride is more than a porcelain doll, ma’am.”

~ Emma said nothing, but to look in her eyes one would see how she seethed at being spoken about as if she were not there, when in fact, she was ... she would never subject her own daughter to this, she vowed right then and there.... but she knew to keep silent as her mother and the Barrister spoke... she instead letting the pretty fragrances of the liliacs, and the hushed flutter of bird's wings take her mind away from the conversation... she already thinking about another tryst with Stephen that very night..

“Shall we walk, my lady?” He offered her His arm, smiling... her mother having left them in the garden... perhaps she had looked as if she were not paying attention, but indeed she had heard everything ....

"yes.. Barrister Coston.. as You wish, and please, call me Emma... and as You must suspect, I am far from a proceline doll"... she quipped, pleasantly, offering Him a warm smile as she slipped her arm within His and they began to stoll thru the magnificent gardens...

Her mother and maid were so proud of these gardens, and in truth, Emma too loved walking, sitting, relaxing within the beauty that surrounded them... she remembered when little, when sneaking out, she sometimes went to the gardens... pretending there were demons in the darkness, or dragons... and she was a slayer there to save everyone.. that had been before Stephen had occupied her time, altho even afterward, her then new friend had joined her in playing there... creating worlds of fantasy and wonderment...

Emma had seen the Barrister's look within those intense dark eyes, having more than likely expected as regally dressed daughter as her mother, and that sparkle of surprise that had flickered there when He saw her.. Emma had to admit she liked that flicker.. that sparkle.. the man was handsome... with His midnight black hair and those intense eyes... most of the men she met, with the exception of the servents, Stephen included, most of the Noblemen she met, were flabby, pale, pasty, weak, and jsut downright homely men... she wondered if this Baron she were to be promised to.. were one of those and that thought made her cringe...

"I suspect You wish to know about me, know me, and that can be gained by conversation, but I too wish to know about this... Baron... Baron of Northumberland ... at least what You may know about Him... please" she turned her dark eyes to Him... not shy about peering into His own.. ~

 

[karnelman]

"yes.. Barrister Coston.. as You wish, and please, call me Emma... and as You must suspect, I am far from a proceline doll"...

“As you wish, Emma and please call me Giles. We shall be spending quite sometime together before your betrothal to the Baron. It is only natural that we should not be so formal. As far as whether or not you are a porcelain doll, though I suspect not, I must still learn just who you are myself.”

The look of sadness in her beautiful eyes puzzled me. She should be elated to have the chance to marry a baron and bare the heirs to his estate. We strolled without speaking for a few minutes as I attempted to take the measure of her. I needed to gain a clear understanding of who this girl was. There were so many contradictions in this one. A lass of noble birth and yet she seem to eschew the trappings of her position. She exuded a sensuality that I had only seen in girls of the servant class previously and yet she seemed distressed at the thought of marriage. I pondered exactly how to start my questioning as she showed me more of the gardens. The estates gardens were some of the loveliest I had ever seen. In fact I would have to say that they rivaled the Kings formal garden in Kent. Before I had a chance to formulate my first question she spoke to me in a timid, but still rich and alluring voice.

"I suspect You wish to know about me, know me, and that can be gained by conversation, but I too wish to know about this... Baron... Baron of Northumberland ... at least what You may know about Him... please

I was surprised by the way she looked directly into my eyes. She must know it isn’t proper for a maiden to be so bold. Yet here I was with her amazing dark pools riveted upon me as if she was trying to read my thoughts. It would take some work on my part before this one could meet the Baron. Surely he would not accept a girl for his wife who dressed so simply and had not learned to cast her gaze downward in the presence of an elder man. At the same time I was nearly mesmerized by the beauty of those eyes. Damn my wicked thoughts! I allowed myself to look at her for a moment as a woman. Though I knew it was wrong I imagined what it would feel like to press my mouth to her luscious lips as I gently caressed her silky cheek. I cast my eyes lower for no more than a second and took in the shape of her breasts. They were perfectly proportioned to her lithe body, neither overly large nor too small to be interesting. It seemed a shame that I would have to insist that she hide them in more proper attire. Somehow I managed to quell my lustful thoughts return to reality and address her as my charge once again.

“Now, Emma, I will be happy to tell you all I know of your future husband, but that will wait. Today, I must learn more about you. On the morrow I will travel to Northumberland to meet the Baron for the first time. Upon my return I will tell you of him and your future home,” I replied in a stern and officious tone.

My tone had the intended effect. She softened her gaze and assumed a more demure posture. I studied her for a minute still trying to formulate my line of questioning. I felt she was going to be a tough one to get to know. I decided that I would need to interview others on the estate.

“Now, Emma, perhaps you will be good enough to walk me down to the peasant’s village where your father’s servants live. I will need an introduction so that they know they may answer my questions. Also, it will give you time to tell me about yourself, so that I can know you and properly represent you to the Baron.”

The tone of my words offered her little choice but to comply. Beside she knew that if she did not cooperate with my inquiries her parents would be quite cross with her.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

“Now, Emma, I will be happy to tell you all I know of your future husband, but that will wait. Today, I must learn more about you. On the morrow I will travel to Northumberland to meet the Baron for the first time. Upon my return I will tell you of him and your future home,” I replied in a stern and officious tone.

She lowered her eyes, beneath a veil of golden pale lashes that lit her eyes up as of on fire... Most of the men in her Father's manor, on the estate, the servants especially, were easy to.... manipulate with a smile and a wink.. flirting had been something that Emma perfected.... she had learned to put that wink and smile under wraps when meeting her Father's more, noble, visitors, and had not realized she was trying it with this Barrister until she heard the tone in His voice..

“Now, Emma, perhaps you will be good enough to walk me down to the peasant’s village where your father’s servants live. I will need an introduction so that they know they may answer my questions. Also, it will give you time to tell me about yourself, so that I can know you and properly represent you to the Baron.”

She sighed softly, not looking up this time.. the idea of this man selling her to the Baron, made her feel like a servant herself... a common slave...

"Yes Sir" she answered, not offering any more information this time.. she erecting that wall about herself for the moment, trying to keep away the hurt she knew would be coming... when she was taken away from her home, her Stephen, and married to some wretched Baron to be used as nothing more than a breeding cow...

She lead Him down the path, a path she knew so well.. purposely she avoided the stables, instead leading him to the quarters that housed the land servants, the ones who took care of that very magnificent gardens... and performed the maintenance on the Manor... she knew them all by name, and told each that they were to answer any question He had, and show Him the utmost respect...

"The cooks and the maids reside in the Manor with us.. Sir.. I can bring You there and introduce You... if You wish" she almost looked up at Him again, but remembered not to, instead she made the mistake of glancing at the Stable...

Of course that was where He wanted to go next..

As they approached, Stephen appeared, along with her Father's prize Stallion... Emma avoided looking at the stable boy, and the introduction was quick and curt to say the least..

"This is Stephen, the stable hand, Father trusts him and only him with all his horses, including WindRunner here, his prize stallion.." she reaching up, her small hand coming to rest upon that Stallion's great, thick, neck.. gently patting as the animal snorted and thumped a hoof...Stephen calming the beautiful animal.. "he just came from stud, so he is a bit... excited" he sheepishly explained, trying not to look at Emma, knowing this man was some sort of Noble man and not wishing to arouse any suspicions... ~

 

[karnelman]

I was growing quite annoyed at the way Emma was evading my inquires about her. When she introduced me to the estate’s stable boy I thought I saw something odd in her countenance. I dismissed it as another indication of her stubborn nature.

“Emma, you do ride?” I said more than asked. “Stephen is it? Perhaps you would be good enough to saddle us a couple of less spirited animals so that the lady and I can tour the estate.”

I knew that the daughter of a noble family surely did ride and therefore needed no answer to my question. She would have been on horseback as a child. Then later she would have been taught to ride sidesaddle like a proper lady. Though soon enough the majority of her travel would be in the Baron’s splendid carriages, today she would ride with me. Stephen quickly led the beautiful stallion away after assuring me he would be back soon with a pair of suitable mounts for us.

“Now, Emma, while we wait perhaps you will be good enough to comply with my earlier request and tell me about yourself. I am sure your father will be quite cross if I am forced to delay my travels to see the Baron. You of course understand I can not go to him without knowing who it is I am proposing he marry. You are a beautiful young woman and any man would be proud to have you on his arm. However, you will soon enough learn that beauty is not enough for the wife of such an important man.”

My tone was quite insistent this time. I had no idea why she was being so reticent nor did I understand the sadness I saw in her eyes. The only time they had lit up since we left the garden was upon seeing her father’s beautiful stallion and his groom. I was determined to break through and discover who the Viscount’s daughter was so that I could earn my commission.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

“Now, Emma, while we wait perhaps you will be good enough to comply with my earlier request and tell me about yourself. I am sure your father will be quite cross if I am forced to delay my travels to see the Baron. You of course understand I can not go to him without knowing who it is I am proposing he marry. You are a beautiful young woman and any man would be proud to have you on his arm. However, you will soon enough learn that beauty is not enough for the wife of such an important man.”

~ She met His gaze again, the slightest cant to her head, as if deciding just what she was going to tell this man, who was nothing more than a stranger to her...

"what is it You wish to know... Barrister?" she turned from Him, walking into the sun and turning her face up to it, enjoying the warmth on her skin... she could hear Stephen within, saddling the horses.. she guessing it would be Gabriel the Gelding for the Barrister and HoneySun the mare for her...

"You know my name... Emma Fairlynn Farringdon.. only daughter of the Viscount and the Countess... 19 seasons old.. did they want more children, surely yes, for my father often bemoaned the lack of a Son to pass the estate, lands, manor onto.. and I was told from early on, in no uncertain terms that I will produce that Son.. more than likely a second Son, to be heir that estate... the first of course would be heir to my.... Husbands... " she paused... shaking her head... "I was promised in marriage at the age of 13... but my groom passed on, having contracted Consumption... so I have been shopped around to others... from the Viscount of the neighboring estate.. " she shivered thinking of that horrible man, older than her by 2 dozen years and just downright disgusting.. having not attained a wife, he was that disgusting.. her Father had actually entertained the thought of obtaining more land by marrying her to this man... "To the current Baron that You will be presenting me too... "

She turned and looked at the handsome Barrister... but did not meet His eyes this time...

"I guess, as You more than likely can tell, the trappings of nobility that I have managed to be born into is not something I am.. comfortable with... perhaps that is why my Father so often wishes that I were male... as You know.. men can be as brash and rude as they desire and none see that as a problem, it is seen as strength and power... my Father is not that way, thank the Heavens above, and hence He owns one of the smallest estates, but... He manages to own it on the lushest peice of land in the Kingdom.... even the King hunts here..."

Stephen appeared then, the 2 mounts saddled and ready... she easily hopped up onto the mare, it was evident that she had ridden this horse often and was comfortable.. she absolutely HATED riding side saddle, but she did in the prescence of the Barrister... but it was obvious she did not prefer it...

"thank You Stephen... the Barrister and I will be riding the lower route, that takes us down to the valley lake and back... in case Father or Mother is looking for us... "

She offered a smile to the Stable boy, before looking to her escort...

"I always tell him where I am riding, in case something happens and I do not return, he will know my route and where to look, unfortunately You know as well as I that there are wolves here, as well as bears... and of course there are the..... rogues... that often roam these lands..."

With a soft sound from her lips, she urges the Mare .. HoneySun ... to move forward, the animal gliding along at a very smooth gait....He following, and Stephen watching from the stables....

Emma already knew she would be sneaking out to those stables tonight... it had been 3 long nights since she had been with Stephen.. and she longed to lay with him again.... ~

 

[karnelman]

Her words told me little I did not already know. However her tone and demeanor spoke volumes. Emma clearly would have been happier had she been born a servant. She of course would have to learn to embrace the life of a noblewoman. None of us had the luxury of choice in our birth. I for example would have preferred to be my father’s first son. Had it been so, I would not be groveling at the hand of the nobility for my living. Instead, I would be as my brother, preparing to be master of an estate. It also occurred to me that were I my brother, I could be the one to share my bed with the Viscount’s vivacious daughter.

Her lack of embrace of the trappings of nobility would not bother me. I know from experience that noble airs do not usually hide fiery passions. It is the unassuming open women that most heat up the conjugal bed. This one who would rather be a man could someday with the right mate ignite a passion to rival the rebirth of the Phoenix. A momentary sadness came over me upon realizing that that passion would likely never be released. The foolish Baron would plant his seed in her womb, but likely save his passions for a whorish servant girl. Noblemen were so predictable in that regard. They simply did not understand that their wives were warm blooded vixens with carnal desires. That is why their wives were often such easy prey for men like me, men who knew how to ignite the kindling in their loins. Once awakened, the flames of their neglected passions were easily fanned into a conflagration of ecstasy.

I thought that perhaps Emma might someday become such a woman. Due to the inattentiveness of the Baron she would take a lover; perhaps a man like me or some young noble visitor to her husband’s estate. It would likely start innocently enough; a flirtatious glance over dinner or a walk in her garden. Friendship would blossom into desire. Her husband of course would be too busy to even notice his bride’s dalliance. Then again with this one it was more likely to be a servant, perhaps a strong handsome young man like Stephen the stable boy. Who had just returned with two fine animals saddled and ready for our ride.

Emma jumped upon the back of the mare as if she was born to sit astride the animal. But she looked uncomfortable sitting sidesaddle. I imagined when she was alone she rode like the young man she wanted to be like. I realized she was a beautiful woman who was trapped in a world that would never let her have the life she wanted. She gave some instructions to the stable boy in a tone that seemed a bit too friendly and gentle for addressing a servant. There was so much more I needed to learn about her I thought as I followed her along the path to the lake. As soon as we were out of site of the stables I rode up along side her and grabbed the reins of her mount bringing us both to a sudden halt.

“Emma, you look most unnatural riding sidesaddle. If you wish, when we are alone you may ride as you usually do. I will of course not be inclined to tell the Baron and we will certainly never speak of it with anyone else.”

I wanted to let her know that despite her reticence I was learning about her and that I genuinely want her to be comfortable. That was not something I had to fake. I did want her to be happy and comfortable. But I also felt I knew better what was best for her. The life of a spinster living out her days on her father’s estate as she dried up was the only alternative she had to marrying properly. She would never be allowed to live a common life. Her father would sooner see her dead. Soon not even her looks would overcome her advancing age. There were rules to the game and soon there would be no decent eligible nobleman who was not committed to another for her. She did not seem to understand this or maybe she simply did not care. That was of no consequence however. Her father wanted her betrothed to the Baron and I was the one charged to make that happen. So no matter my concern for her feelings, I was going to make the bargain, even with the devil himself if necessary.

I reached for her hand to help her remount as I held her horse steady. I smiled warmly as I looked into Emma’s eyes beckoning her to bring her leg over the back of the honey colored animal. The mare looked back at us; its eyes seeming to be warning me. I ignored the odd thought and instead noticed the way Emma’s glistening locks reflected in the horse’s dark vacant eyes. The mare shook her head causing her braided mane to bounce around her crest. She whinnied a further warning and her whithers rose up causing Emma to slip slightly in the saddle. I instinctively reached out and took the girl in my arms. Our eyes locked for a minute. Once she was steady in the saddle again she accepted my offer to ride more comfortably. As she brought her leg over the horse’s back her skirt slid up of course exposing more of her leg than was proper. Regrettably I made no effort to avert my gaze or hide the fact that I had indeed seen the milky flesh of her thighs.

“Now, that you are in a more accustomed position, shall we ride on? Oh and please tell me more of your life here and your hopes for the future. How was it growing up here? The Viscount and your mother both seem to be very kind. I imagine they are good and loving parents.” I asked, hoping that the bit of friendship I had shown her would get her to open up. The only other option I could think of to get her to talk to me was dunking her in the cool waters of the lake. However, that course of action would very likely cost me my head.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ There was a slightly surprised look in her dark eyes when He offered to, well, overlook her wishing to ride a horse proper and not side saddle. At first she thought He was kidding or daft, but He actually reached out and held the mare, something that was not needed, for this was her mare and very accustomed to Emma riding her, either side saddle or mounted, and was very accustomed to her changing position as well, for whenever Emma began her rides, she always had to start at the side until out of sight of the stable, servants, and any other prying eyes. But the Barrister did not know this, even tho the mare gave Him the most evil of looks, and in her agitation.. stomping the ground with a hooved thud.. she lifting as if to rear, then her hind end came up as if to kick, the mare was spooked, perhaps feeling her rider's stress level...

Emma, for perhaps really the first time in her life, almost lost her balance on the horse and fell, due to her nerves at the situation at hand. If it were not for the Barrister catching her, she surely would have hit the ground, and hard. Instead, she found herself in His arms, if only for moment, her dark, sultry, nearly smoldering eyes caught within the intensity of His.. time for that moment seemed to stand still, then continue on as He helps her to attain her mount once more, legs wrapping about the animal as was more, natural, and comfortable for her.

"Thanks.. Giles" she said, looking down and away for a moment, her cheeks slighlty colored from her little slip.. and being held so close to a man, the only male she had ever let touch her was Stephen. All the flirting she did never, ever, involved touching.

She was settled again, and so much more comfortable, never matter that a goodly expanse of her supple, silken, thigh showed on either side, tight about the horse's middle, or that as the animal moved in it's natural gait, her hips and body, so atune to riding, rocked with the motion, allowing her nether regions to lightly brush the saddle even thru the undergarments she wore.

“Now, that you are in a more accustomed position, shall we ride on? Oh and please tell me more of your life here and your hopes for the future. How was it growing up here? The Viscount and your mother both seem to be very kind. I imagine they are good and loving parents.”

She nearly choked on those words, as they came up upon the lake that dominated the center of the valley. The water cyrstal blue, reflecting the puffy white clouds above upon that mirror like surface.

"good and loving parents?" she nearly spit, but then wisely stopped herself., or at least she tried..."I grew up basically alone. The only other children in the estate were servant kids, and Father refused to allow me to play with them. As for loving, not sure what You mean by that. I know what goes on in their bedroom, absolutely nothing... Father entertains himself with the same servants I can barely even talk to.. I guess it's ok to fuck a servant but heaven forbid you play with a servants child.. I think he is desperately trying for that *son* he never had.. Mother, well, she is only here because You are, more than likely for 2 reasons, to make sure I get married off, and to seduce You, so Giles, keep that in mind.. but don't let Father catch You with her, He has a hell of a temper beneath that noble exterior "

She stopped, literally slapping her hand over her mouth. She had let her emotions get to her, and that was not something she could let happen again.

Turning the mare, away from the Barrister, she stayed quiet for many minutes before finally saying "Mother will leave again once You are gone, and be back for the wedding, my wedding, I am sure. Father on the other hand, hopes, again, to get that son He so desperately wants, thru me. I am sure the Baron is a suitable stud, for this breeding cow. But in the end, I have no choices. I can not disgrace my family, so I will be sent to a foreign land to sleep with a man I do not know, and live a life I do not want, all to keep my Father and His name in the good graces of the King.... if... if He only knew.. that I......."

SHIT... she had almost said something that indeed would seal her fate... what the hell was the matter with her.. and why the hell was she babbling to this man. Perhaps it was because He was the first one in a long time to actually ask about her, even if He were being paid to do so, Stephen was the only other one whom ever seemed interested in anything she said or did.

"I'm sorry, I am so sorry" she whispered. "This is not the way for a proper lady to behave and I apologize. Please do not take offense at anything I said or the tone in which I said it. For what they were, my Father and Mother were fine. I was not beaten or starved. I was given the best of everything, educated... and prepared for the life I must lead, to carry on at least the Farringdon blood line if not the name. That is what would please Father, since a Son for him was not to be. "

"I think it would be best to head back. I want to check on the other horses before dinner, I love horses and that is my one, pleasure, that I am allowed. If I desire I may groom and feed the horses, instead of leaving it to Stephen"

She loved her horses, and hoped the Baron would allow her this same indulgence after marriage.. without it she would be lost, for it was there she did her most thinking, and relaxing, when not with Stephen of course.

It was true that she wanted to get back to the horses, and away from all the questions. But the more nervous she became, the more she wanted to be with Stephen, in his arms, away from all of this. ~

 

[karnelman]

The shock of hearing her speak in that manner left me unable to bring voice forth from my throat. I had never heard a young woman of nobility speak so plainly and use such language. In fact no female had ever spoken that particular word to me so casually. Only when impaled upon my manhood and approaching the rapture of carnal joy had a female felt free enough to give voice to such a word. I knew instantly that she indeed hated the life she was doomed to live.

"I'm sorry, I am so sorry, This is not the way for a proper lady to behave and I apologize.

Though she was trying mightily to control it her rage had clearly boiled over. But there was more. Something she was hiding. Something I feared if known would not only ruin my commission but her life as well. I felt for the girl, but there was little I could do to change her lot in life. A lot every peasant girl on the estate would have killed to have. I jumped from my horse and went to her as she went on about what to her was a sad start to a hopeless existence. Just as I reached her side she changed her tone. She was again the young mistress of the estate not the pitiful daughter who wanted things she could not have.

"I think it would be best to head back. I want to check on the other horses before dinner, I love horses and that is my one, pleasure, that I am allowed. If I desire I may groom and feed the horses, instead of leaving it to Stephen

My feet being on the ground and she still being astride her mount, I was left looking up at the young beauty. Her eyes were dark and sad. I had not realized how sad earlier. I felt in her speech a genuine desire to be with her horses. Perhaps they were the only true friends she had. Then again there was also a sparkle in her eyes that I did not understand. I knew woman who were quite found of the beasts of the stable, however, the light in Emma’s eyes did not seem to the kind of reaction a girl has to caring for her horse. In any event, I sensed a moment of discovery would be lost if I let her return without further discussion.

“Emma, I am sorry you are so unhappy, but I assure you I will do all I can to make sure this will be a good marriage for you. I did not know of your parent’s situation. I knew the Countess kept apartments in London and Paris and was a frequent visitor at court but I had no idea she did not favor your father’s bed. I assure you that I have no intention of bedding her however. I would not want to do anything that would cause you more pain. I know you have no choice in the matters I have been hired for and I am sorry for that but still you must know that neither of us truly have any options. We have time yet and I still have much to learn if I am to travel to see the Barron. The shadows are not yet long, you will have plenty of time to visit with your horses before the light leaves us. Please, join me for a walk by the lake, and you can tell me what you want me to learn about the Barron.”

I reached up and placed my hands upon her hips to aid in her dismount. I doubted any man on the estate had ever been so bold as to touch her in such a manner. The servants at most might offer their shoulders for her to hold onto when she dismounted. I knew I was being too bold and perhaps taking a dangerous chance. But this too was a test. I needed to gauge her reaction at being touched by a man in that way and I knew my actions were easily enough explained. She was upset and I feared she might fall if I did not offer the help. I felt her body quiver a bit at my touch. It was not the reaction of a woman that minded being touched. I was somewhat surprised that she did not object and in fact seemed glad for me to have been so bold.

She slid off the horse and into my arms as if she had done so before with a man. As I was quite close to the mare her body was trapped between the horse and my own body. I had not intended to get her into so inappropriate a position, but once there I found myself unable to step back as I should have done. She giggled just a bit as I stared into her eyes smiling with my body pushed against hers. I assumed it was a nervous reaction and managed to come to my senses.

“Pardon, my intrusion, my lady. I did not mean to stand so close…er..” I was practically stuttering my apology as I backed away with a slight bow.

I hoped she would not mistake my actions as an attempt at seduction. Though if she had I doubt I could have resisted if she was willing and be damned the consequences. Offering my arm I asked her to show me the charms of her lake.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ She could not help but sigh at His words. Sorry that she was not happy. Do His best to make it a good marriage for her. What did He care, this did not involve Him in the least. He was getting paid to sell her to the Baron, He was nothing more than a Vendor, peddling His wares. Perhaps in modern times He would be called a pimp. Emma had heard it all before when she was 13 and her Father had managed to arrange the marriage with the French Marquis that had then, in turn, died. All she wanted to do was go back, back to the stables, back to Stephen, where she could forget all about this, at least for the few hours she would be in his arms.

"The shadows are not yet long, you will have plenty of time to visit with your horses before the light leaves us. Please, join me for a walk by the lake, and you can tell me what you want me to learn about the Barron.”

She turned her gaze down to Him, her bared leg so very close to Him, yet she made no move to cover herself upon that horse. She did not see Him as a, suitor, she barely saw Him as anything other than another stuffy Nobleman, well, perhaps a bit more handsome than most, but that was about it. He reached up to her, and without thinking, as she had done so many times with Stephen when she returned from riding and found herself alone in the stables with Him, she slid easily off the mare and into His arms, her body lithe and sleek, slowly sliding down, almost brushing His as she gained her feet. Her eyes met His, gazing up into those intense pools, she could feel His breathing He was so close to her, and she to Him, and she could not help the soft laugh that slipped from her lips. She had been in this position so many times with Stephen, that she almost.. *almost*.. reached up to pull Him to her, to pull Him into a kiss.

“Pardon, my intrusion, my lady. I did not mean to stand so close…er..”

He backed away and Emma realized that she never should have let that moment last as long as it did.

"Giles " she stammered, "Barrister Coston, it's ok, I... just never mind. I needed help off HoneySun, You were very gracious to be there for me" .. enough of an excuse, she turning and patting the mare on the rump.

"The horses will not stray, especially not Honey, so they can remain untethered while we walk." A walk by the lake no longer sounded all that bad, and maybe He would tell her about the Baron. She was really not sure she wanted to know, but guessed that she had to. She could not see herself getting out of this marriage unless..... but there was no way she could tell Him about Stephen, that would be... disasterous..

She took His offered arm and they began to walk, she pausing for a moment to pull her hair down from the ribbon that held it back, fingers quickly stroking thru to send that golden mane cascading down her back.. "much better" she mused, taking His arm again, and continuing to walk. For a few moments, there was nothing but silence between them before she finally turned to Him ...

"I have to ask, and please, forgive me for being so forward, but how can You do this. Just peddle me off to a Baron You Yourself have never met, for a man, my Father, whom I doubt You know beyond the pleasantries of court. I know it means money for You, but You stand here, acting as if my friend, telling me Your sorry, that You will try and get me a good marriage, please. The Baron could be a torturor for all You know. All you and my Father care about is carrying on tradition and the family name.. Farringdon... which my Father seems to think will happen if I can manage to bear this Baron 2 sons, something that is very expected of me. " she turned, pulling away from Him... the situation obviously getting to her, and showing in her reaction.. "stop acting as if You care and just be done with it. Go and tell the Baron that if He choses me, He will be nothing short of satisified. I know my place, trust me, I can act the dumb noble woman in a heartbeat. All I need to be happy is to find another stable and stable boy... " she stopped dead when she spit that out, her face going completely pale ~

 

[karnelman]

I was saddened that she was angry with me. Why didn’t this stupid girl understand that what I was doing was in her best interest? Yes I was getting paid, but I was not lying when I said I cared about her. Then suddenly her frustration got the better of her and she pulled away while verbally lashing out.

"stop acting as if You care and just be done with it. Go and tell the Baron that if He choses me, He will be nothing short of satisified. I know my place, trust me, I can act the dumb noble woman in a heartbeat. All I need to be happy is to find another stable and stable boy... "

I could not believe my ears. I heard her words, but fervently hoped that I had mistaken her meaning. My compassion for her was turning to anger. I moved toward her and grabbed her wrist, yanking her back around to face me. It no longer mattered how she felt about me. With the words she had just spoken she had to know it was I who held her life in my hands. How could it be that it was that peasant stable boy that she wanted? She could have everything any woman of the realm might want. Then again perhaps she was just taunting me.

“Emma! How dare you speak of such things! Once you have married the Baron and given him a proper heir what you do with your peasants will be your own business. But you stupid child if you do not keep such thoughts inside your head and off your tongue you will ruin your father! No man would ever be welcome at court that has a harlot for a daughter. Now tell me that you are in fact still a virgin and have not lain with that filthy stable boy!” I demanded as I attempted to shake some sense into the girl.

I was certain that the Viscount’s beautiful daughter was in fact not a virgin, while at the same time I was desperately hoping she would lie to me. We both needed her to maintain the illusion, her more than I. She had to know her father might well throw her to the wolves for fucking one he would not allow her to even play with as a child. As for me, well my purse would certainly be much lighter if I did not carry out my commission. On the other hand if I misrepresented her to the Baron and was caught my shoulders might not be carrying such a heavy burden any longer. I would soon find the truth of the matter anyway. Such information would be power for me. Stephen could be easily dealt with; I had many powerful friends at court. A charge could easily be found which would lead to either exile or execution. I knew Emma would keep her counsel if I managed to make this all work somehow. She could not ever tell the Baron that his bride had rolled in the hay with a peasant. Well at least not if she wish to keep her pretty head.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ Her emotions had gotten the better of her, and she had let her mouth run off. Not a good thing, something her mother had vainly tried to surpress in her willful daughter. Even at 13, when first promised to the now dead French Marquis, she had fought viciously with her parents before accepting it, only then she had managed to keep that fighting behind closed doors. She had been threatened with censure before, with being sent away, her father, in a fit of rage once, had threatened to behead her, somthing her mother managed to talk him out of, after calming him down.

No she was not the Son he had always wanted, and it seemed she wanted to make him realize that every chance she had. Was that why she let herself mouth off to this Barrister?

She gasped when He grabbed her and turned her around, the startled cry even spooking the nearby horses...

"Emma! How dare you speak of such things! Once you have married the Baron and given him a proper heir what you do with your peasants will be your own business. But you stupid child if you do not keep such thoughts inside your head and off your tongue you will ruin your father! No man would ever be welcome at court that has a harlot for a daughter. Now tell me that you are in fact still a virgin and have not lain with that filthy stable boy!”

She took a moment to weigh several options in her head, to lie and tell him of course not, of course she, a noble daughter would never have lain with a common servant, a stable boy... But to be caught in that lie would only increase the disgust, and the punishment, 10 fold. To admit the truth, that she had slept with Stephen, but that would get Stephen in deep trouble, and more than likely beheaded, in fact, both options presented that problem. Stephen would be blamed, perhaps even moreso than she. His punishment would be horrendous, and she felt herself shudder at the thought. She could blame Stephen entirely, and say she had been forced, no, no, she could never do that to Stephen. She stared up at the Barrister, eyes wide. She had never planned out a story for when she got caught, because she, foolishly, thought she never would be caught.

Her mind took a slightly different turn then. If her father had indeed caught her, Stephen would be excuted before her own eyes, no matter what may have happened between them, be it rape or love. She would be exiled. The thought hit her like a ton of stone, a thought she had never entertained. She truely had been naive, thinking she could get away with this forever.. The Barrister called her a stupid child, and that was exactly how she had been acting! What had she been thinking, not realizing she would get caught, either thru her own mistakes, or Stephen's....

"don't scream at me" she demanded, albeit in a soft voice, knowing that she held no weight here. In fact, this man, this Barrister Giles Coston, held her life in His hands at this moment. She would have to trust Him, she had no choice.

"Can You...." she paused, taking a deep breath and stilling her slight trembling "can You make sure that Stephen is niether blamed or punished for.... for.... laying with me?... Please?" she looking up at Him with those dark eyes, dark eyes that had just realized how deep she had gotten herself because of her attraction to the stable boy... she never affirmed HIs question of laying with the stable boy, not in sooo many words, but what she asked told Him what He needed to know...

She was shaking again, even in the warmth of the day, her eyes falling ... not wishing to look into His any longer. She waited for what she was sure would happen, a slap across her face, knocking her to the ground, then the demand for money, or power, or worse, the laugh that would tell her that she had first picked the wrong person to sleep with and now picked the wrong person to slip up in front of, the wrong person to trust. ~

 

[karnelman]

"Can You.... can You make sure that Stephen is niether blamed or punished for.... for.... laying with me?... Please?"

I stood there stunned holding her in a tight grip with both hands. Not only didn’t she lie to me to save herself, she wanted me to help a peasant that was stupid enough to fuck his master’s daughter. She was amazingly beautiful but I had not yet met a woman that was good enough in bed to lose my head over. Surely Stephen could have had his pick of hot blooded servant girls. As I stared at her in disbelief, I went over my options silently.

The most obvious course of action open to me was to mount my horse and head straight to the manor to inform the Viscount of my discovery. However, I could not stand the thought of the lash being laid to Emma’s delicate flesh. I knew that would be the very least she could expect as punishment. I had seen men kill their daughters with their bare hands upon learning such news. Of course the Viscount would demand proof which I could not provide. This would lead to the stable boy and possibly the girl being tortured. The truth would be admitted by both in short order.

Of course I could choose to simply ignore the knowledge, swear the girl to secrecy, dispose of Stephen and proceed with my commission. That of course would put me in peril with both the Viscount and the even more powerful Baron. Though I felt certain I could easily instruct Emma on ways to fool the Baron into believing she was a virgin. Some crying during the deflowering and a little goat’s blood on the sheets would be enough to fool him. Noblemen are such peacocks they want to believe they have taken a woman’s virginity.

But even if I could do all of that successfully, there was the matter of her wanting me to protect Stephen. That was out of the question. I could not simply let the boy continue to care for the horses without consequence. The two of them surely would not stay apart. If anyone else found out about their tryst I would be ruined. He had to go and he had to go believing it was to save her. However, I knew the foolish girl wouldn’t cooperate if it was at the expense of her lover.

“Help a peasant that deflowered his master’s daughter? The two of you have risked your heads and now you asked that I risk mine? Why couldn’t you have lied to me and absolved me of such horrid decisions girl?”

As I went to push her away and continue my tirade, her head turned and her golden locks shimmered in the rays of the setting sun. I once again locked my eyes with hers. Her beautiful eyes were filled with tears. My heart ached because I knew no matter my decision I would have to cause more tears to fill the vivacious young woman’s eyes.

“Listen to me very carefully, Emma. I think I can still fix this so that Stephen can keep his head and you can be presented to the Baron as his virgin bride. But you must agree to do as I say without question and you must never see that stable boy again,” I said sternly as I looked into her sad eyes.

As I waited for her reply, I examined why I had agreed to help her. I knew that I indeed felt sorry for the sad beauty and as I had told her I did care for her happiness. But I also knew there was more. I had been attracted to her from first sight. Now I was feeling lust toward her, a lust that somehow was ok now that I had the knowledge she was not virginal. A lust that I would satisfy before she wed the Baron if all went according to plan. Surely she would be so grateful for my help she would acquiesce to my desires.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ She had never meant for any of this to happen, that night she had first snuck out of her suite, when she was all of 12 years old... the friendship, the trust, the attraction, and finally, the first night she slept in his bed... She had sought a companion, she had been soo lonley, if only her Father had allowed her child companionship, perhaps this may never have happened.

She saw the look of utter disbelief in the Barrister's eyes. But truth be told, Emma was glad the secret was out, to some degree. The stress of keeping it, the absurd idea that she would never be caught, weighed alot heavier on her mind than she realized. But now, as she stood there before Him, He staring down at her like she were nothing more than a filthy whore, she wondered if she had picked the wrong moment, and the wrong person, to let her guard down around.

“Help a peasant that deflowered his master’s daughter? The two of you have risked your heads and now you asked that I risk mine? Why couldn’t you have lied to me and absolved me of such horrid decisions girl?”

She listened to His ranting, knowing that to try and explain how and why it had happened would only exasperate Him further. It was not like He made it sound.. Stephen was so much more to her than a peasant. He was her friend, something she desperately needed... and their being together had been beautiful and magical, not some disgusting act done on the floor of the stables. Sighing slightly, she decided the best course of action would be to stay quiet, until she knew what He was going to do. If He indeed did ride off to tell her Father, she would have be beat Him back to the stables, which she could do, she knew the shortcut, and leave with Stephen. There would be no other way around it. It would mean death to both her and Stephen if caught, but that would be better surely than the beating both would endure, before he was killed before her eyes...

He had gone silent, but had not let go of her as of yet, a moment later and she felt His eyes on her, she turning hers up to Him, filled with fear, fear for herself, fear for Stephen...Perhaps one would think shame would show in her eyes. She was not ashamed of her feelings for Stephen, nor of laying with Him. She was more ashamed of the fact that love did not come into play when a daughter is promised for marriage... yet deeper in those eyes, as she gazed back at Him, was the little lonely girl who had turned to a stable boy for friendship, companionship, and whose touch had filled those horrible lonely nights.

“Listen to me very carefully, Emma. I think I can still fix this so that Stephen can keep his head and you can be presented to the Baron as his virgin bride. But you must agree to do as I say without question and you must never see that stable boy again,”

Her eyes widened, and she actually allowed herself to breath again....

"Can You, can You keep Him safe?" she asked again, for that was the most important thing to her? "I'll do anything You want if You can keep Him safe and not tell my Father" she promised, unsure just what she was promising...

The sun was just starting to set, the light beginning to dim. She would not be missed, her Father and Mother knew she was with the Barrister, altho Stephen would worry, there was nothing he himself would be able to do. She was trembling as the Barrister held her, unable to stop the quivering of her form. She knew she was in trouble, deep trouble, and now, this Man, this Stranger, held the key to keeping her safe, and Stephen. The thought of losing Stephen saddened her, which showed in her dark eyes, a sadness, a lonliness. She would be alone again, but at least, Stephen would be safe. ~

 

[karnelman]

She looked so forlorn that I instinctively gathered her in my arms the way a guardian would hold a child that had a great disappointment. I pulled her tightly to me and stroked her golden hair as she pressed her cheek to my chest. No doubt her tears were dampening my waistcoat, but it was of little consequence. Somehow, it felt right to hold her and comfort her at that moment, even knowing I planned to hold her in a much different way later. It was clear that she cared a great deal for the stable boy and though it likely would break her heart she would do anything to save his life. I knew that someday the heartache would ease and she might even love again, but she would not know that for a long time.

“Yes, Emma, I believe I can make it so that he will be safe but only if he agrees to leave your father’s estate. If he cares as much for you as you seem to care for him I am sure he will agree to any terms I offer,” I said gently as I gave her the hug that I believe her father should have given her long ago.

Perhaps had he been warmer with his daughter all of this ugliness would have been prevented. Wanting to be sure she understood the instructions I needed to give her, I reluctantly released her and stepped back. I looked into her eyes as I began in an officious tone, in order that there be no mistake that she had to do exactly as I said.

“Now, this is what we must do. It will soon be dark and we both are expected at the evening meal. We will return to the stables and you will dismount and head immediately to the house without a word to Stephen. If you care to write him a short note I do have quill and parchment with me, but you only have a few minutes. When you get to the house tell your parents that I am delayed in the village interviewing the servants. I will talk to Stephen and make him understand that he must leave. I will send him to a place where he will be safe until I can find him a position far away from here. I will of course also need a story for your father that will keep him from sending the Sheriff’s militia after the boy, but don’t you worry about such details.”

I wanted to hold her tightly again. The look of despair on her pretty face was almost too much to bear. However, I knew she would have to get herself together if my plan was to work. I handed her my portable writing kit that previously had only been used for note taking in court and continued my instructions as she wrote a note that I would soon have to burn

“Come on now, dry those tears and try to smile. Your parents will expect you to be happy that your nuptials will soon be set. It will be most suspicious for you to appear sad,” I said in a truly compassionate tone as I handed her my silk handkerchief. I could almost feel the girl’s heart breaking as I continued.

“Once I finish with Stephen, I will be along for the evening meal. After the meal you must tend to your normal evening duties. I presume that would mean retiring to your chambers. At any rate you are only to pretend to sleep. Once the house is quite you must meet me in the garden where we were first introduced. We will need to talk and be certain we both are clear on everything. Do you think you can manage to meet me undetected? You know Emma, after tonight you and I are bonded forever. We together have made a pack with the devil and I pledge to you to see that it is a very long time before he collects either of our souls. That pledge includes assuring that the Baron is a good husband to you and never does you any harm.”

I wasn’t sure if she had heard all that I said. She was after all furiously writing the last words she would ever communicate to her lover. I touched her soft cheek lightly and told her it was time to go. I was still searching her eyes for a sign she was ready to make the deception work. I wondered if I was ready to do what I had to do with the stable boy. I knew it would be easier just to kill him then to convince him to leave this girl forever, but I could not bear causing that kind of pain to Emma. So I would keep my word to the girl to keep him safe and convince him to go away.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ She sighed, letting her head and eyes drop for a few moments. This was the way it had to be.. her pairing with Stephen was going to have to end sooner or later, she had always known that. She would be married off, and alone again. Emma had no delusions about a nobleman loving her. From all her expierences, wives were nothing more than breeding stock. Servant girls were the ones who enjoyed the love of the noblemen. Or so it seemed. Oh yes, she could have married, and once she produced the heir, or heirs, she could have dallied with any servant she chose, including Stephen the stable boy. But who would want her then, after having childern... she would older, wore out from raising those kids, bitter and angry. She would be like her mother, something she did NOT wish to ever be. But it looked now, as if she indeed were about to walk the same road. Oh well, at least she had known some kind of love once, with Stephen, if one could call it love.

Her note to Stephen was basic, and sweet...

My Dearest, the time has come. We both knew it would. Your friendship and love has been a beam of light in my dark world, a light I shall never forget. For You to be safe, and it is your safety that matters most to me, please do exactly as Barrister Coston tells you, for He has promised me that He will see You to safe grounds, and hopefully a happy life. And know that You will always hold a place in my heart. Friends always.....

Em

She handed the note to Giles, nodding at His indication that it was time to go. Her eyes met His, and as He searched hers for the understanding and committment to make this work, she in turn was searching His for the trust and honesty she desperately needed for Him to make sure Stephen was safe...

“Once I finish with Stephen, I will be along for the evening meal. After the meal you must tend to your normal evening duties. I presume that would mean retiring to your chambers. At any rate you are only to pretend to sleep. Once the house is quite you must meet me in the garden where we were first introduced. We will need to talk and be certain we both are clear on everything. Do you think you can manage to meet me undetected? You know Emma, after tonight you and I are bonded forever. We together have made a pack with the devil and I pledge to you to see that it is a very long time before he collects either of our souls. That pledge includes assuring that the Baron is a good husband to you and never does you any harm.”

She had to smile at His question about meeting undetected

"Giles, remember, I have been sneaking from my chambers since I was 12... and yes, I know that we will be sharing a bond, much like Stephen and I, only You....." she paused, taking a deep breath... "hold my life in Your hands. For surely yes, I will go to hell at the side of the devil should You decide to send me there... I hope to be able to pay You handsomely someday for what You are doing for me now... Barrister Giles Coston.."

Of course Emma meant monetarily, not physically, she not realizing what thoughts the Barrister Himself was entertaining. For in all her flirting and laying with Stephen the Stable boy, she was naive in the ways of the older male, this older male, who now had the beautiful Viscount's daughter in His debt...

A soft whistle brought her mare to her, she offering a smile to the Barrister before easily mounting the horse.. "I will see You at dinner, Barrister" she said formally, before turning the mare and galloping off down the well traveled path... She took the shortcut she knew so well, and arrived at the stables within 20 minutes. Stephen was waiting. Emma took a deep, trembling breath, looking at Him as she slid off the horse. There were too many people bustling about, other riders returning for the evening, for her to even entertain the thought of talking with Him, and the Barrister had specifically said not to, so with a sad smile she turned away from Him, and not looking back, she left the stables, making her way back to her Father's manor.

Her mother was within the great dining hall when she entered, seeing to the details of the evening meal, of course she was, she wanted to impress the Barrister. Emma was well aware of her mother's motives.

"ahhhh my sweet daughter, and were is our honored Guest?"

"He is currently speaking with some of the servants, Mother, and enjoying a warm evening. He did tell me that He will be here in time for our planned dinner... I wish to go and freshen up" Emma just wanted to get away from her Mother and her approaching Father as soon as she could..

Rushing to her own chambers, she fought the tears that threatened to erupt. She had to get a hold of herself. She was good at lying, and hiding her emotions... she needed to do both now. She decided to change, and chose one of her favorite dresses to wear to the dinner. Since they were entertaining a Guest, the Barrister, she was expected to dress appropriately..

Her dress for the evening

Constance came calling for Emma some time later, as the meal was approaching and the Barrister had returned. Emma opened her door and nodded to the maid, stepping out in the stunning dress, her long golden hair carefully braided, a black satin ribbon entwined within the long, golden silk braid that now lay over her left, bare shoulder, the pale color a sharp contrast to the black dress she now wore. She stepped into the great dining hall, feeling all eyes suddenly focus on her, including the many guards and servants who could only dream about the beautiful Viscount's daughter...

Emma lifted her eyes, searching for her confidant, the Barrister, and seeing Him standing aside her Father. ~

 

[karnelman]

I felt sad as I watched her ride away. She was doomed to a life that she did not want and in fact quite dreaded. I could not give her the life she thought she wanted but I could do my best to make the one she was destined for a good life. I knew that even if by some miracle her father was compassionate and would allow her to follow her heart society would not let it happen. A child of noble birth could not simply cast off her finery and become a peasant anymore than that stable boy could become lord of the manor.

As soon as she was out of sight, I headed for the stable and my meeting with Stephen. I hoped that the young man would be reasonable though I knew if I handled it wrong he would simply go to Emma and try to take her away with him. That of course would seal both of their fates and perhaps mine as well. When I arrived at the stable the boy was inside tending to the horses. I was glad to find him alone in a place where our exchange would not be overheard.

“Stephen, come here, please! I have a message for you,” I ordered while holding forth Emma’s note.

He quickly stopped what he was doing and approached me. As he read the note he looked stricken. His eyes darted around as if he was seeking an escape route. Finding none, he chose to try a bluff.

“My Lord, I do not understand. What devil has caused such strange words to be delivered to me?” He protested in a most earnest voice.

“Do not dare lie to me now that your harlot has confessed all!” I yelled as my anger boiled over.

I struck him with the back of my heavily gloved hand. Though a strong lad, the surprise of my assault sent him reeling. He fell back upon a bale of hay where he lay not daring to move to defend himself against one so far above his station. I stepped forwarded and lorded over the boy. I could see both fear and resignation in his face as he clutched the precious note from his beloved Em to his chest.

“Now the question is what is to be done with you? By all that is proper I should deliver you up to the Viscount, who surely will demand your head!”

“Please my Lord! NO! Take me to the Viscount’s justice. But I pray thee choose another charge, spare Em,” He begged.

“Silence boy! I have no intention of causing your whore to fall in disfavor with the Viscount!”

His face clearly showed his anguish in hearing his lover spoken about in such a crass manner. I was glad to see his reaction. I was testing him. I had to know that eh would do exactly as told before I left him and time was short. I saw by his not raising up against me when I spoke so crudely about his beautiful young lover that I thoroughly defeated him. I saw in tears that ran down his cheeks and his willingness to die in her place how much he loved her. I felt sorry for the young couple, but still I had to do as planned. It was no longer only the heads of Emma and Stephen I had to protect now.

“I have decided at the behest of young Lady Farringdon to handle this matter without troubling the Viscount. But in order for this to be so, you must agree to do exactly as I say.”

A look of total relief came over his face and he quickly and eagerly pledged his total obedience. As I had told Emma, I told him that they could never again meet. He said nothing but his tears betrayed his pain. I instructed him to write two notes to the Viscount. The first was a confession of his seduction and rape of Emma. That one would be held by me in the event I ever needed it to save the girl. The second note, which I would deliver to the Viscount, was a cover for Stephen’s disappearance.

After that we burned Emma’s note together. I gave him instructions on a safe place for him to wait for and provided a letter of introduction. Barristers fortunately have many resources we keep private. He was to leave immediately after I left him. The Viscount would know of his departure within the hour and there could be no chance of his being stopped. I had made my second bargain with the devil within the same evening. Not that it was the first day I had made such a bargain, nor would it likely be the last. Power and position do not come easily. A man must use anything he can to gain his status. Unfortunately, I had so little to gain and so much to lose in this particular bargain.

 

[karnelman]

As I listened to his blubbering thank you and additional pledges of obedience, I contemplated the final act in the charade between Stephen and I. He had to know that I could and would see him severely punished. This meant he could not walk out of the mess he had made with a free pass to a good life. Besides how could I condemn Emma to a life in the Baron’s cold bed while sending Stephen off without consequence to most likely seduce other young women.

“There is still the matter of your punishment. There is of course your exile, but that is simply not enough.”

“My Lord, I stand willing to accept anything that is appropriate in your lordship’s judgment as long as my Em is kept safe.”

I was a bit surprised when he mentioned her so informally. I suppose with the game being up he had nothing more to lose. Unfortunately, I still had much to lose and I was about to lose something precious. Though I had seen many men physically punished, tortured and even put to death, it had never been my hand causing the pain. This time there was no servant or hooded executioner to do the dirty business.

My voice trembled as I ordered him to strip to the waist. I gagged him with a piece of leather tack to stifle his anguished cries. He gripped the huge timber that held the stable roof above us, assuring me that it would not be necessary to bind him in place. Lacking a proper whip I used a heavy riding crop. When I was done, I left silently and walked alone with my shame toward the manor. Stephen would carry the fifty marks upon his back, but not the pain for the rest of his life. I would carry the wounds and pain of my savagery upon my soul past the grave. I knew I would never speak to anyone of what had happened in that stable, nor would I ever again raise my hand to another man unless in peril of my life.

Upon reaching the manor I was greeted by the Viscount, who was anxious for my report. I decided to leave the matter of Stephen for later. Instead I told him how proud I was to be presenting his lovely, charming, virginal daughter to the Baron. The Viscount’s broad smile told me all I needed to know. The marriage meant his grandson would be a Baron. It also meant should Emma be blessed with a second son that the future master of Farringdon would not only carry his blood but also that of a great Barony. Unable to stand to make small talk, I was relieved when Emma appeared in the hall. She looked radiant in her evening finery.

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ She could not help but wonder what had happened in the stable, for when she met eyes with the Barrister, a brief glance, for she would be chastized for staring at a Nobleman if caught, she saw a haunted look, glaze over His dark, intense eyes. She had to pull her eyes away a moment later, and her own gaze fell upon her Father, whom looked to her with the widest of grins.
Emma had the urge to march over there and slap that grin from his face, but that would only get her beaten before the dinner guests...

Her mother approached leaning to whisper to her daughter "it seems you have won over the Barrister with your charm, and beauty my darling daughter, and such a handsome Barrister He is. He will be presenting you to the Baron, your Father is most pleased" Her mother was practically frothing at the mouth as she stared at the handsome man, Emma glancing back at Him and wondering just what her mother was all aflutter about. Not that He was not handsome, for most certainly He was.. Emma just did not look at men the way her Mother did.

"Your Father has proclaimed that you will be offered to the Baron of Northumberland as soon as tomorrow evening, and, you will be accompanying the Barrister to Northumberland, leaving this very evening after dinner"
Emma's jaw nearly hit the floor. Accompanying the Barrister? She was to be presented and offered in person? She looked from her Mother to her Father, who was at this very moment, telling Barrister Coston the very same thing, for His look almost mirrored her own. Emma knew the reasoning behind it. Her Father did not want to waste any time in getting her married and with child. This way, the Baron would see his beautiful future bride and things would quickly come to fruition, a wedding could take place as early as the next new moon. Emma knew her Father well, and could only sadly shake her head, looking at her Mother who was again staring at the Barrister.

"Perhaps, I can join you in the trip to Northumberland" she mused.. and that made Emma smirk. Sure, she wanted to come along, so she could have some alone time with the handsome Barrister. Father would never let her go, at least that was Emma's thinking. He knew well of sexual appetite of the Countess, and would forbid her from going just to be evil. Oh yes, Emma knew her Father well.

The bell rang for dinner, and soon they were all seated at the large, ornate table. Emma happened to be seated across from the Barrister, and as she sat down, she looked up and into His eyes. His held that same surprised hers had at the travel arrangements, and in fact, that was the talk of dinner... Her Father already raving about the breautiful, ravishing bride his daughter would make, and the strong, handsome sons she would bare for the Baron.
"The Farringdon blood will live on" He proclaimed, looking first at his wife, then to his daughter ~

 

[AmbrosiaCaress]

~ For Emma, dinner was long and drawn out. She ached to talk to the Barrister, about Stephen and the travel arrangements, but she had to suffer thru the meal of venison, which she detested and wine, again which she detested. She having to listen to her Father and Mother raving about the Baron, the trip, the wedding. And she had yet to even be presented.

Once the dinner was consumed, the deserts were brought forth. Bread puddings, and tea cakes, fresh baked pies and honeyed muffins. Emma had lost her appetite long before this, and quietly sat, nibbling on a honeyed muffin. Her parents took no notice of her, so she had dropped the happy, smiling, pretense. They explained it away as nerves.

"Constance" her Father bellowed "Bring on the musicians and dancers"

Her mother, seated next to the Barrister of course, leaned in close and whispered to Him "these are the finest musicians and servant dancers in the land, brought here especially for You, Giles" she smiling seductively at Him...

The music started, the melody gliding into the room, quickly silencing the talk.. a moment later and the dancers followed, scantily clad, silken scarves, skirts, warm flesh showing as they moved.. each motion designed to seduce, to please the eye.

Emma watched for a few moments, retreating to the back of the hall, out of site of most. She moved slightly to the music, letting her eyes close.. the long braid caressing the soft curve of her spine.. ~

 

[karnelman]

The Countess was floating around the room like the may queen. She was giddy with the prospect of marrying off her only daughter, not to mention a bit drunk on the sweet before dinner wine the Viscount’s servants were pouring. I had never had a woman of such high station flirt so openly with me in front of her husband. It seemed Emma’s assessment of her mother was correct. Fortunately the Viscount was far too puffed up to notice his wife’s foolishness. Clearly visions of little barons and viscounts were clouding his eyesight. I was very relieved when the Countess left my side to go speak with her daughter.

My relief was short lived. When I was informed that I was to take Emma to Northumberland that very evening it felt as if I had been punched in the stomach. Having already felt quite sick from my trying day, the last thing I needed was to be required to ride through the night, so the Viscount could have his grandchild a few days earlier.

"Perhaps, I can join you in the trip to Northumberland"

The Countess’s words just made matters worse. I could hardly turn down her request to chaperone her daughter. But I had no intention of spending the next week fending off the sex crazed woman and even less intention of bedding the old cow. I was about to protest to the Viscount that it was quite impossible to set off in the night when the bell rang for dinner. I did manage to whisper to him that I needed to speak with him about a matter of some urgency after dinner. There was still the matter of explaining Stephen’s sudden absence and now I had to convince him to allow me to delay my journey. I was determined not to give Emma to the Baron until I had sampled her favors and I had to make some additional arrangements for the stable boy before leaving the county.

The meal was plentiful and I am sure under different circumstances it would have been delicious and quite pleasant. However, the way I felt I could scarcely taste what I was eating. As I was lost in thought I was glad the Viscount and his wife were content to prattle on about the Baron and the upcoming nuptials. How foolish of them to speak of a thing in the future as if it had already happened I thought. I am sure I was frowning, but again they were too wrapped up in their selves to notice much about anyone else at the table. I being one who made my living by observation took notice of everyone especially the forlorn young Emma. Dessert came and I partook of a small portion out of politeness as I watched Emma nibble daintily on a muffin.

Her luscious, red lips looked incredibly sensual pressed against the warm honey tones of the muffin. I imagined kissing her and tasting her sweetness. I stifled a sigh as I drank in the hint of cleavage her elegant gown allowed me. I briefly drifted into fantasy with a vision of the fullness of her breasts pressed against my bare chest as we lay together. All too soon my daydream evaporated as the deep bellow of her father echoed in the room.

"these are the finest musicians and servant dancers in the land, brought here especially for You, Giles"

I managed to regain my composure upon the realization that the Countess was once again flirting with me. I decide the best course of action was to respond politely and formally, ignoring her move to make the conversation casual.

“My Lady, it is most kind of you and the Viscount to be so generous in your entertainment. I am truly honored that you went to such trouble, Countess Farringdon.”

The musicians and dancers little held my interest. I watched Emma watching the seductive peasant dance. In her eyes was not the lechery one sees in the adults at such entertainments. I have long been convinced that the nobility bring such entertainers into their homes to make up for the lack of fire in their loins. Emma was still an innocent in many ways but not in the way that her foolish future husband would find most important. I watched her as she retreated into the shadows of the far wall. There she allowed herself a bit of freedom to be her own person. Her lithe body moved gently to the rhythms of the music. I wondered when she closed her eyes what she thought of in her heart. Her slight smiled gave me my answer. No doubt her thoughts were of Stephen and the happy times my coming to Farringdon had destroyed.

I longed to go to her and hold her; to carefully untangle her braid and release her golden locks and her passionate spirit; to kiss her deeply and wantonly. I wanted to lift her in my arms and carry her off to my bed chamber. Even more I wanted to shout to the assemblage that it was wrong to send such an amazing creature off to spend her days in a loveless marriage. But I could do none of those things. I could no longer stand the merriment or the Countess’s flirting so I reminded Emma’s father that we had matters to discuss. He looked a bit cross at having to end the entertainment early, but nevertheless suggested we retire to his study.

 

[karnelman]

The Viscount offered a glass of a rare French cognac to toast his daughter’s nuptials. The fine liquor was a gift from the father of Emma’s first fiancée. Although I wanted to get on with our business I had little choice but to drink with the proud man. However, I did stop him at one glass. I had decided that a direct and firm approach was the best way to handle the situation. The Viscount was a slight man and not of great importance at court. In fact I likely commanded more status with the King.

“My lord, I regret to inform you that it will be quite impossible for me to leave for Northumberland this evening. I have a previous matter I must attend to in the morning. Therefore leaving before noon is out of the question,” I stated confidently.

Without giving him a chance for rebuttal I continued to make my argument as if I was standing before the bar.

“In addition, I am not sure it is wise to set out after dark with a vulnerable maiden like your daughter, Sir. There have been reports of highwaymen on the high road. I would fear for her safety. Surely a single day’s delay will not cause any harm?”

When I mentioned his daughter’s safety I could tell I had won him over. He agreed to a noon departure and poured me another glass of the French ambrosia. There was still the matter of Stephen’s odd departure from his estate. Peasants did not travel with their master’s permission and the Viscount needed to be convinced of the reason or there would be a search. I drew in a deep breath and began to spin the fanciful tale I had concocted to free the boy of the estate.

“My Lord there is another matter I need to discuss with you. When I was in the village, I became aware of a rather serious matter. Due to the urgent nature of the activities I witnessed it was not possible to seek your consul. Therefore I took the liberty of dealing with the matter as your agent,” I began choosing my words carefully.

“Yes, yes, please get to the point Giles. I can not image whatever could have happened amongst my people that you fond to be of such importance,” he said in a tone indicating he was most annoyed at his celebration being annoyed over a matter involving peasants.

“Well, My Lord, it seems one of your servants a stable boy, Stephen I believe his name is, was having an altercation with a visitor to your lands. Apparently the man was a member of a gypsy tribe that passed through your lands some weeks back.”

“Yes, indeed, such a band spent a few days here around the time of the last frost. They seemed pleasant enough folk and as far as I know they stole nothing and worked well in return for our hospitality. Why would Stephen have had a problem with such people?”

“My Lord, it seems as young men are apt to do, Stephen kept time with one of their young women. I understand their women are most hot blooded and free with their favors. In any event it is the lad’s misfortune that this particular woman was ripe when he lay with her. Today’s visitor was the girl’s brother who had come to insist that Stephen return with him and take responsibility for his child.”

“This is outrageous! A band of travelers can not come upon my land and demand one of my people leave with them!” The Viscount bellowed.

“Yes, Sir, this is exactly the position I took. However, after interviewing several of your people, I learned that your stable boy is know to be lusty and quite the lothario. Under those circumstances it seemed to me that the maidens of your estate were better off with Stephen no longer about. Therefore on your behalf I sent him off to marry the girl and save the land from caring for yet another bastard.”

With that I handed the Viscount the note Stephen wrote apologizing for abandoning the estate and confessing to planting his seed in the girl. My employer had a sad look on his face. Clearly he would have preferred Stephen to have renounced his duty to the child I had invented.

“But this can’t be, Stephen is far too valuable to my stables.” He railed

“My Lord, I spoke with about that very thing and he assured me that his apprentice, Andrew was ready and would serve you as well and faithfully as Stephen had.”

This seemed to satisfy him. The Viscount was clearly not a man who dwelled on such things. Few noblemen gave any thought at all to the people who populated and served their estates. With our business concluded the Viscount and I returned to the hall to give the ladies the news about the change of plans. Somehow, I needed to find a way to signal Emma that our garden meeting was back in the plan.