When Wine Meets Cheese: A Love Story
Before she even had time to
think, Annabelle was whisked out of the church and into a coach. A hurried
goodbye to her aunt, who kissed her through the carriage window, and she was
off on her honeymoon. The Duke sat across from her gazing at her with a smug
expression, like a spider that has just caught a fly, and is thinking what fun
it will be to wind her web around it.
Annabelle watched him warily.
"Where are we going?" she said at last.
"What, wife? Am I to have no
kind words on our wedding day? Must my love be so abrupt with me?" he teased.
"I have in mind a solitary spot, for lovers to enjoy each other's company. You
have been there before -- you came from there last night. I told your aunt there
was no need to send your maid. My sister-in-law will attend you. We three will
bear each other happy company, I am sure," he said with a devilish smile.
Annabelle would not dignify such
cruelty with a response. She turned her face away from him and stared out the
window. The scenery of this road was familiar to her now, but she had no
pleasure in recognizing her surroundings. It was almost more than she could
bear to be in the same carriage with him for five minutes, let alone the hours
and hours that this journey would span. The few cruel deeds that she knew he
had committed were enough in themselves to spark her hatred of him, and her
imagination provided many more to increase it. If this carriage ride was so
intolerable, how would she tolerate the coming years and years she would have
to spend as his wife? His wife! She shuddered and felt suddenly sick. A thought
came to her. He was older than she -- perhaps he would die soon? A smile crept
over her face as she imagined him gasping out his last breaths.
"What are you smiling at, my
love?"
She glanced at him, but did not
answer, and turned her eyes back to the window. Older, yes, but quite healthy
and certainly not at death's door. The mile markers marched on. She
contemplated a sudden leap from the carriage -- she was a fast runner; she could
be into the woods or down a slope before the horses even stopped. He would
never find her. She trailed her hand along the windowsill, inching it closer to
the handle of the door. But any insurrection would bring Richmond's death. To
protect him she had given up her freedom, and she would not go back on the
bargain now. She put her hand back in her lap.
The Duke continued to watch her
and smile. She knew his eyes were on her though she did not look at him, and
she twitched and shifted uncomfortably under his stare.
"Patience, my love," he said, in
a tone that made her want to scratch his eyes out, "I too am all aflutter with
anticipation, but we will be there soon."
So they rode on, Annabelle
hoping at once that the horrible journey would end, and hoping that they would
never reach that house, where she knew another master bedroom was waiting, like
the one she had stumbled into at the Duke's other house. She prayed that the
carriage would overturn, or that the horses might go mad and pitch them into a
ravine.
But the pleasant promise of the
Duke proved true, and they reached the great old forbidding house. Lady Julia
came to meet them at the door, and her eyes filled with tears when she saw
Annabelle.
"Congratulate me, Julia," said
the Duke briskly, "and greet your new Duchess. Is supper ready?"
"Yes," she replied quietly.
"Come, my love," he said to
Annabelle, taking her by the arm, "I will show you to your room. I expect you
to be freshened up and down for supper in ten minutes, at the most." He led her
up to a cold and cheerless set of rooms. "I'll have your things sent up."
Noticing that she was shivering, he said, "Yes, it is cold in here, but I've
ordered no fire set for tonight. You will not need it." With that, he left her.
A few minutes later, the footmen appeared with her trunks, and set them down. A
moment after they were gone, there was a knock on her door.
"Please! I am almost ready," she
cried, thinking it was the Duke come to hurry her along, but a soft voice answered
her.
"Annabelle, may I come in? It is
Julia." Annabelle opened the door to her friend.
"Oh Julia!" she cried, falling
into the woman's open arms. "This has been the worst day of my life! I wish I
was dead!"
"Hush, poor child," said Lady
Julia, smoothing Annabelle's hair. "Put on a brave face. You will come through
these hard times, I know it."
"I wish he was dead! That is the
only way I can think of that this will end well."
"Poor girl." She paused, patting
the girl's head. "He tells me my son is free."
"Yes, I saw him today, but I
could not speak to him. I could not make any sign." She began to cry.
"Hush, Annabelle. He may yet
come for you, now that he has his freedom. There may yet be a happy ending."
"I don't believe in happy
endings anymore," said Annabelle wretchedly. "I don't believe I shall ever be
happy again. But I hope he will. Oh, I hope he will."
"Do not despair, Annabelle. That
is the worst thing you can do."
"But I am so very frightened,
Julia!"
Lady Julia smiled. "The Duke thinks
he has broken my spirit, and he has come pretty near succeeding, but I still
have a trick or two up my sleeve. I can get you safely through tonight, at
least. Who knows what may come tomorrow?" She stopped Annabelle before she
could reply. "We must go downstairs. He will be suspicious."
The Duke was in fine form at
dinner. It had been a happy day for him, a day of plans fulfilled and obstacles
surmounted. He had a bright future ahead of him -- a pretty wife with plenty of
money for him to spend, an unchallenged claim to the throne, and a stranglehold
on the black market that would make him even richer. He loved power, and
besides dominating land and money, he especially loved to dominate a stubborn
mind. And so he was quite garrulous in the dining room, with two people whose
wills he believed he had broken -- his bride, who could only stare into her
plate and could not eat, and Lady Julia, who served them.
He was as charming as ever, and
Annabelle was completely disgusted -- even more sickening, she felt herself
being taken in by his charm again, as she had in the beginning, before
everything had gotten so out of hand. ‘What a snake he is!' she thought to
herself in horror. Lady Julia brought out the dessert wine. She caught
Annabelle's eye as she placed a glass in front of the Duke.
"To many, many years of joy
together," he said smiling, raising his glass in a toast. Annabelle would have
thrown hers in his face if she had dared, but she did not dare -- she was
terrified of him, especially in this mood. She did not drink, but only stared
into the cool swirling liquid.
"Upstairs, love," he said, when
he had finished his wine. "I'll expect you in ten minutes." He left the table,
and Annabelle slumped over with her head in her hands.
When he was safely gone, Lady
Julia came forward from her place by the sideboard. "Do as he says, my girl,"
she whispered gently. "He'll be asleep before he has a chance to touch you. And
he won't remember a thing. But don't forget, tomorrow morning you'll have a
certain amount of acting to do."
A few minutes later, she came
into his room and shut the door behind her. He was sitting up in bed, glancing
over a newspaper. "Annabelle, my love," he said, and promptly fell asleep.
Annabelle's knees buckled, and she almost collapsed herself in relief.
The next morning, the Duke awoke
with a pounding headache, and greeted the new day with a long string of curses.
He smiled, however, when he rolled over and saw Annabelle. "Awake, love?" he
said, touching her shoulder.
She started at his touch and sat
up.
"Modest little thing -- you have
your nightgown on again already."
Annabelle trembled and was
silent.
"What a night that must have
been," he mumbled. "How much wine did we drink?"
"A great deal," she answered.
"Mmhmm," he said, wincing. "I
wish I could remember it." He ran his fingers lightly over her arm. "But I'll
remember it now." He tried to pull her toward him, but she let out a piercing
shriek. "Good God!" he cried. "What on earth is that about?"
"Please, your grace!" she begged,
and he saw with some surprise that there was real fear mingled with the tears
in her eyes.
To her astonishment, he paused,
then smiled, then said, "All right, have it your way. I don't want you to be
frightened of me here. You'll learn soon enough." Annabelle was shocked, but
not shocked enough to lose much time in running out of the room and straight to
her own chamber, where she locked the door behind her.
The Duke spent a good part of
the day, when he was not engaged in business, playing the lover to his wife,
and Annabelle spent the entire day feeling wretchedly sick. The scene at dinner
was much the same as the evening before, and the night passed in much the same
way. Annabelle was up and leaving the room when the Duke awoke. He did not try
to stop her, but looked after her with a grim and thoughtful expression.
The day after, Lady Julia was
not to be found. Annabelle was dismayed, not so much for the loss of the
sleeping potions -- she knew the little ruse could not have worked much longer
anyway, but she was concerned for her friend.
"My sister-in-law," the Duke
told her coolly that evening, having followed her to her room, "is ruminating
on the error of her ways in the privacy of her own chamber, and she will not be
joining us today. I had not thought I would need to take such action, but you
have driven me to it. I need not tell you, my love, that it is not wise to play
games with me. I know many more tricks than you do, I assure you. You can rest
assured that I will not allow the two of you alone together ever again." He
looked her in the eye, and stepped towards her. "You do not want to arouse my
anger, my dear."
Annabelle saw him coming closer,
closer, and she was terrified. With a sudden gasp, she fell to the floor.
"Oh, get up," said the Duke
impatiently. He tried to pull her to her feet, but on closer examination, he
saw that she really had fainted. He sighed, and lifted her up, and put her to
bed. He ordered a housemaid to look in on her and bring her water, and he left
her alone for the rest of the night. It was not his habit to force himself on
women -- he had never found it necessary -- but no matter how angry he was he
would not do so with Annabelle. He could not quite account for it to himself,
but he felt that he wanted to win her completely -- body and heart. Perhaps it
was only another manifestation of his greed for power; perhaps it was something
nobler, if there was any true nobility in him. Whatever the reason, he resolved
to have her, and to smash anyone that opposed him.
Meanwhile, in Romagnola, things
were astir. Immediately following the wedding, Mr. Stern asked Miss Charbray,
Mr. Richmond, and Mrs. Brown to meet him at his lodgings in town. They all
appeared at the appointed hour, and sat down in Stern's drawing room. They had
neither the time nor the spirits to fuss for very long over Richmond, and
express their happiness that he was restored to the world. Eleanor and Stern
told him what they had found out over the last few days, and Richmond listened
very somberly.
"And, Mrs. Brown?" said Mr.
Stern.
"Yes," said Richmond. "Will you
explain what you were saying to me in the church? About great secrets coming
undone? What does it mean?"
"It is a very great secret,"
said Mrs. Brown. "And I was charged to take it to the grave. But these are
dangerous days, and the truth must be told." They all looked at her
expectantly. She paused, and continued, "You are not an orphan, David. Your
parents are alive."
Richmond started, and turned
pale.
"I was a widow, living quite
alone outside a village just outside the city. One night, a woman from the
great estate that the village belonged to came to my house. I had seen her many
times before. She often walked in the fields near my home, sometimes alone, and
sometimes with a young man. When she was alone, she would often speak to me.
That night, she was carrying an infant. She asked me to raise it for her -- she
was going to marry the Duke of Chambertin -- that was the brother of the present
Duke, you know, who died after falling down a flight of stairs -- and she could
not keep it. She broke down in tears, and said that to keep me from being
troubled by curiosity, she would tell me the whole story. She trusted me to
keep it secret forever, and not tell a soul. Especially not to tell the child, or
his father, who wasn't aware of him. But I believe I have good reason to break
that oath now." She paused again.
"Well?!" cried Eleanor.
"That baby, David," continued
Mrs. Brown, just as placid as before, "was you, of course. The woman, your
mother, was Lady Julia Chambertin, who became a lady in waiting to the Queen,"
here Richmond gasped, remembering what an interest she had always seemed to
take in him.
And the man involved, your
father, David, was King Lorenzo." They all three gasped then, and barely heard
her remark, "Prince Lorenzo he was then, and before his marriage to the poor
late Queen. But David," she spoke up, and gained his attention again. "This
means that you have a claim to the throne. A nearer claim than the Duke of
Chambertin has."
"He must know about you,
Richmond," said Eleanor. "He was so quick to imprison you."
"And the Queen..." Mr. Stern
began, and looked horrified. They were all silent for a moment, comprehending
the possibilities.
"Mrs. Brown," said Richmond,
embracing her, "I don't know what to think, let alone what to say. But I do
know there are very serious matters at hand, and your revelation will have very
great bearing on them, I think. I would rather my parentage not be known as
long as it is possible to hide it. I must save Annabelle, I must. He threatened
me with harm to her, if I did not let her go. I curse myself for doing it. I
did not know then what danger she would be in. We must prove our suspicions, my
friends, for her sake."
They talked on for a long time,
discussing their resources, their options, and their chances. At last they went
their separate ways, to discover the truth and bring the Duke to justice.
Eleanor was sitting in her
parlor fretting over the current situation. They needed a lead in order to help
Annabelle and Richmond come together. Her poor friend would need all the help
she could get. To have to spend the night with such a man was not even
imaginable, but it had been two days since they went away. Poor Annabelle must
be distraught. She only hoped that she had thought of some way to get through
her duty. Eleanor got up and went to the window. The sky was gray, and the
clouds were threatening to unleash their wrath upon the people of Romagnola.
She sat in the window seat and tried to take her mind off the current situation
by reading, but she just threw the novel aside. There was nothing that could
raise her spirits.
Admiral Charbray came into the
parlor and saw his daughter sitting at the window. He knew that she mourned the
loss of her friend, but even she must see the good fortune that caused the
split. After all, The Duke and Duchess would not be away forever. They would
surely return to town for the season. The Duke had many responsibilities to the
state, and the murderer of the queen was still at large. He knew that Mr.
Richmond could not have been responsible for such a heinous act. "My dear, you
must come away from the window. Looking out into the rain will not bring her
back. You must be happy for the new Duchess." Eleanor looked up and tried to
give her father a smile. She knew that he did not know what the Duke really
was, but she feared telling him. If the Duke found out, Annabelle would be
killed.
"Oh father, I know that she is
now a great Duchess, and she has responsibilities, but I still miss my friend."
The Admiral hugged his daughter. If only he really knew what was really
bothering her.
"I must go out on some business.
There is a threat to our fleet from the north."
"Oh father, it is not serious is
it?"
"No, nothing to be too troubled
about. It turns out that there has been some heavy piracy. Somebody has been
operating a smuggling ring. We are trying to find out who it is. This is a
dirty business, so I may not be back for dinner. Take care of yourself and try
to smile. Her Grace will be back soon and you two can be just as silly as you
ever were."
"Thank you father, and be
careful." The Admiral kissed her on the forehead and left the room. He only
hoped that they could find the leader of this smuggling band. They had captured
one of the ships, thanks to Lord Barrett who had been the one to discover this
ring, but all of the crew refused to speak. The spy they had placed in the
operation could not get any information to them because he said only the
captain of the lead ship knew who was funding the missions and there was no
hope of getting information from him. There must be someone quite powerful
behind this operation. They had already lost one spy and did not want to lose
another. Bingham was their only hope now of finding any new information because
the smugglers never went to the same place twice. It was luck alone that they
found them that first time.
Once her father had gone,
Eleanor went back to the window. She still did not know what to do. A carriage
pulled up in front of the house and she immediately recognized it. It was Lord
Barrett. Eleanor couldn't help the smile that this visitor brought to her face.
Maybe he could be of some service. Eleanor sat on one of the couches and picked
up her needlepoint to await his arrival.
"Lord Barrett for you mum," the
butler announced as Eleanor stood and curtsied. Lord Barrett smiled and bowed.
"Lord Barrett, it is so good to
see you. It has been far to long since you have called. Please be seated."
"Thank you Miss. Charbray. It has
been far too long, but I fear that business has kept me away. You must forgive
me."
"There is nothing to forgive.
How have you been?"
"I am well now that I have seen
you again." Eleanor blushed and turned her head.
"Oh, Lord Barrett, you mustn't
say such things."
"Why mustn't I when I only speak
the truth." Eleanor became a deeper shade of red. If it was possible she loved
this man even more. The next thing she knew was that her love stood up from the
seat on the couch that he had recently occupied. Eleanor looked up at him and
he began to pace the room.
"Is there something wrong my
lord?" Eleanor was confused at his actions. Lord Barrett stopped pacing, and
turned to her. He took both of her hands and knelt down on one knee. Eleanor
drew in a breath. Was this the moment she had been waiting for all her life?"
Miss. Charbray, Eleanor, I can
go no further without telling you the real reasons that I have stayed away. I
love you. I have loved you from the first time I laid eyes on you I believe. I
was speaking the truth when I said that it was business that kept me away from
you, but that was not all. For the past week, I have been trying to determine
the perfect moment to do what I am doing now, but you were always out or busy.
I know that your friend was just married, and I did not want to take away from
the excitement of that wedding, so until now there was no right time. I was
sitting in my room this morning and I realized that there was no real reason,
but my fear at your refusal that I have not made my intentions known. Eleanor,
would you do me the very great honor of being my wife?" Lord Barrett finally
looked up from the their clasped hands, and when he did, he saw the tears on
her cheeks. At first he was alarmed, but when he saw her smile, he could not
help but smile himself.
"Oh my lord, of course I will
marry you. How could you fear my refusal when you know that I love you? I have
been miserable without your company this past week." More tears fell down her
cheek. Lord Barrett wiped them away with his handkerchief and then stood up
bringing Eleanor with him. He put his hands on either side of her face. A piece
of hair fell from one of her pins and he brushed it aside.
"I love you Eleanor."
"And, I love you." Lord Barrett
brought her lips to his. Their first kiss was magical. Everything in the world
disappeared to the lovers. When they broke apart, Eleanor threw her arms around
his neck and he drew her in for an embrace. "Lord Barrett you have made me so
happy."
"Please, call me Henry."
"Henry," she said in a voice
barely audible.
They spent the next half an hour
talking of the happiness that was to come. Eleanor had almost forgot all of her
troubles, but when Henry mentioned how the wedding went, they all came crashing
back.
"My darling, whatever is the
matter?"
"Oh Henry, everything. The Duke
is evil and the only reason that Annabelle married him was because he was
threatening to kill Mr. Richmond and her. He was the one who had framed Mr.
Richmond. I believe it was he who poisoned the queen. Now my friend is in a
hopeless situation, and Mr. Stern, Mr. Richmond, Mrs. Brown, and I have been
trying to find a way to help them. If the Duke finds out that we know, he will
kill them both. They watch us all the time. I have seen men following me when I
go out. He has eyes everywhere. I fear that Annabelle will be stuck in this
loveless marriage with a killer for her whole life. If only there was something
I could do."
"Maybe there is something I can
do. Let me look into this matter and see if I can learn anything. As you
probably know, your father and I are trying to root out a smuggling band. It
wouldn't surprise me if he were the man behind all this. There were some things
that led me to believe that he was, but I dismissed the idea thinking that it
couldn't be true. With this information, I may be able to help your friends.
Actually, I will go talk to your father now. I was supposed to be at his office
ten minutes ago, but I could not bear to leave you so soon. I will call on you
tomorrow morning with anything that I have found out. Have faith. I will help
your friend and the Duke will be made to pay for his crimes." With that, Lord
Barrett kissed her one more time and made his farewell. "Till tomorrow then"
"Goodbye Henry." Eleanor felt
better now that she had another ally. She still was worried to death about her
friend, but she could not help but feel joy at her new situation. She twirled
around and sat back down on the couch. She hugged her arms to her chest and
remembered what it felt like to be embraced by his strong arms.
Lord Barrett made his way to the
Admiralty office. He wished now that he had listened more closely to his
instincts and pursued the information against the Duke. When he entered the
office, he was told that Admiral Charbray was expecting him. He followed the
man into the office and took a seat behind the Admiral's desk. "Please forgive
me for being tardy, but I believe I have some new information that will
surprise you and you will be shocked even more at the source."
"There is little that shocks me
at my age. I have lived through many a time, from the Beefling Wars to The
Great Stampede. I don't expect there is anything that you can tell me that will
shock me."
"Well, I have just been to call
on your daughter, and she has told me the most shocking information that has
led me to believe that the Duke Chambertin is the one behind all of this
smuggling. She has informed me in the strictest confidence that the Duchess
only married the Duke because he threatened to kill her and Mr. Richmond. It
turns out that he is an evil man who is quite possibly the murderer of the
queen. A few weeks ago, I was told that the Duke was seen talking to one of the
men whom we suspected was involved in the smuggling, but we dismissed it as
impossible that he be involved. If you will allow me, I will look into this
further. I would not put it past the Duke now that he is involved in something
of this nature. Everyone knew that he lost all of his family's money gambling,
but he never seemed to be at a loss for cash. Perhaps this may be the lead we
are looking for." The Admiral sat in silence for several minutes.
"This can't be true. The Duke
loved the Queen and was always a faithful subject. Everyone knew how much he
mourned at her death, but if what you say is true, I believe this must be
looked into further. Now, I have another question. How is it that my daughter
told all of this to you, but has not told her father?" Lord Barrett blushed at
this.
"Well sir, that brings me to
another matter which I would like to discuss with you. Your daughter has given
me the very great honor of accepting my offer of marriage, and I wanted to beg
you most humbly to give your consent and blessing to our marriage. I promise
you that she will never want for anything and that I will attend to her every
happiness." The Admiral knew that this man was clearly in love with her, and he
would have had to be a fool not to notice the affection Eleanor had for him.
Lord Barrett was a very respectful man and he was glad she had found such a
person. The Admiral stood up and Lord Barrett stood as well. He noticed the
young man's obvious nervousness. He chuckled to himself and remembered the day
he had asked for his darling Mary's hand from her father. He had been scared to
death.
"Lord Barrett, let me be the
first to welcome you to the family." He held out his hand and saw the obvious
sense of relief suffuse his face.
"Thank you sir. You do me a
great honor."
"Now that this is out of the
way, what do you say to getting started on the investigation? We cannot allow
the Duke to be on the loose if all that Eleanor says of him is true. I have had
some information from Mr. Bingham today. He says that there is to be a drop
tonight at midnight off the coast in the north. I have sent some men to try and
catch them in the act, but only time will tell. In the meanwhile, I want to you
to look into Eleanor's information. Try and find out what you can about the
Duke's accounts. Remember, you must do everything with the greatest secrecy. I
know the Duke has spies in Romagnola, so make sure you are discreet. Check in
with me when you have more information.
"I will, and thank you sir. I am
supposed to call on your daughter tomorrow. I believe I will be quite busy with
this investigation, so would you be so kind as to make my excuses to her and
tell her that I am doing everything in my power to help her friend."
"Of course, now off with you.
The hour is growing late." Lord Barrett left the office and the Admiral sat at
his desk thinking. His little girl was getting married. How could she have
grown up so fast? It was just yesterday that she was sitting on his knee while
he told her of his great adventures at sea. He was sorry that he had missed so
much of her childhood while away at the Beefling Wars. If only his wife Mary
had been around longer. He regretted that Eleanor had spent the majority of her
childhood with her governess. Now she was all grown up and soon to marry. Where
had the time gone? Instead of daydreaming, he knew there was work to be done.
The men had been dispatched to the north and he was awaiting a report. They
would camp out in one of the caves on the coast and make their move when the
time was right. He only hoped that nothing happened to disrupt his carefully
laid plans.
The Duke sat at his desk in his
study. He knew that something was up, but he couldn't make out what it was that
was going on. Annabelle had been very attentive, and each morning he had awoken
with her in his arms, that is until she ran from the room. The problem was that
he could not remember going to bed either night. Annabelle told him that she
never knew that making love could be that way. She still seemed nervous around
him during the day, and when they awoke together, she did not remain long
enough for him to discern what she was thinking, but there was something in her
eyes that he could not make out. He knew that the women had been plotting in
some way; he just wished he knew how. He got up from his desk and went to the
drawing room where the ladies were sitting. He motioned for his man, who had
been watching them, to leave. Annabelle smiled at him, but the smile did not
reach her eyes. Julia glared at him and went about her needlepoint. If only
Annabelle wasn't so beautiful, he wouldn't be in the situation he was now. She
was his Achilles heel. These past three days he could not keep his mind on any
task because the image of her curls falling across his chest as she slept kept
coming to his mind. After she had given him his heirs, he would send her away
so that she would not distract him. He knew that he could not be distracted at
this time. There was a major shipment coming in tonight that he could not risk
losing. He sat across from Annabelle and watched her as she read her book. Her
lashes were all he could see of her eyes. At that moment, she never looked more
desirable. Her curls were pinned up, but several had fallen down on her neck.
His breath quickened and when she turned the page, a piece of paper fell to the
ground. When she bent over to pick it up, the Duke knew that he was lost. He
knew that he wanted her and he wanted her right then. "Annabelle, come with me
please." He said with desire obvious in his eyes. Annabelle looked up and
didn't know what to do. She was scared at the look in his eyes. He walked
toward her and took the book from her hands and then caressed her face.
Annabelle shivered at his touch and goosebumps sprung up on her arms. He pulled
her out of her seat and she looked over to Julia with a questioning look. What
was she going to do? Julia shrugged and prayed for her. They walked down the
hall and Annabelle feared that he would hear the beating of her heart. How was
she going to get out of this? They reached the bedroom and he allowed Annabelle
to go in first. He shut the door behind him and walked over to the bed.
Annabelle was sitting there playing with one of the ribbons on her dress. She
had a look of fear in her eyes, and he wondered why she looked like someone who
had never done this before.
"There is no need for fear my
dear. I thought you enjoyed this act."
"It is still so new to me.
Forgive me husband." Annabelle reached up and caressed his cheek. She tried not
to sneer in disgust. Well, at least he was a handsome man. She knew that her
trickery could not last forever, so she tried to turn her mind to other things
as the Duke started to undress her.
"Look at me, I want to see how
you respond. Every time that we have been together, I cannot remember it at
all. It makes me think that we have not been together at all. Well, I assure
you that this time I will remember all," he said as she turned her eyes to him
in fear. He had removed her dress, and she lay shivering on the bed in only her
chemise. The Duke pulled the covers aside, and helped her to get under them as
he removed his jacket and vest. He then took off his shirt when there was a
knock at the door. "Grrr....we are not to be disturbed when behind closed doors.
I thought I made that perfectly clear."
"I know, your grace, but there
is an urgent business matter that needs your attention immediately. You know
that I would not bother you otherwise."
"Very well. Forgive me my dear.
We will have to finish this later. Don't move from that spot." The Duke got out
of the bed and put his shirt back on. He left Annabelle in the room alone and
she didn't know what to do. She thanked her lucky stars for the interruption.
Her situation had gone from hopelessness to anticipation. She was so close to
having all her plans destroyed.
The Duke followed his man to his
office. "What is it that is so important that I had to leave a woman to hear?"
"Sir, the authorities know about
the shipment tonight. I need you to give me more men to protect your assets. We
are going to change the drop off point, but I still would like more men. Carson
saw the troops headed north and informed me."
"How did they find out? We were
careful every step along the way. Take the men I have here. Nobody knows that I
am here and I don't think there will be any problem with them gone for a few
days. I want to be kept abreast of the situation. You may take the men now and
send one back with any new information. I will try and think of a new plan. Go,
I have to go excuse myself from that lovely piece of flesh lying in my bed.
Shame to have to let that go to waste." The Duke went back up to the bedroom
where he found Annabelle where he had left her. The sheets were covering her to
her chin and she looked at him as he came over to her. He kissed her lips then
sat on the edge of the bed. He drew the sheets down and took in her body. The
chemise left little to the imagination, and he knew he was torturing himself,
so he threw the covers back over her body. Annabelle looked at him in
confusion. "I am sorry my dear, but urgent business matters do not allow me to
continue what we started. We will have to leave this for later. I have an
urgent matter that will take up my time, so see to it that supper is sent to my
study and that I am not disturbed for the rest of the night." He left her then
and she put her clothes back on. She went to see about supper then went to find
Julia to tell her of what happened. She had come very close that time, and they
needed to figure out a plan.
Eleanor sat in the drawing room
daydreaming about her future with Lord Barrett when Mr. Richmond and Mr. Stern
were announced. "Mr. Richmond, Mr. Stern, what a pleasant surprise. Have you
learned any new information?"
"Yes, we have come to tell you
that we are riding north within the hour. Lord Barrett came to see us and gave
us some information. It turns out that the Duke sent all his men away from his
estate to deal with his smuggling. We are riding north to challenge him while
he does not have his goons to protect him." Mr. Richmond explained.
"Is that wise? I am sure his men
are not far. What if they didn't all leave? You must not put yourselves in such
danger."
"We have made our decision. I
cannot allow the Duke to hurt Annabelle one more day. In fact we must leave
now." Eleanor pleaded with them to stay and to act rationally, but it was no
use. She watched them ride off and prayed that they would be safe. If only
there was some way she could help them. She was about to give up when she saw a
soldier pass by the house. "That's it. I will go to the king. Surely he will
want to stop the Duke." She grabbed her coat and called for her carriage. She
only hoped that the king would see her.
The carriage arrived at
Ayershire Court and she was ushered inside by one of the guards. She explained
that she must see the king. She mentioned that her father was Admiral Charbray,
and because he was so well respected among the soldiers of the palace, they
managed to get her an audience. She walked into the court where several people
were in attendance. The normal courtiers and lords were standing around while
the king held his assembly. She walked up to his throne and bowed. "Your
Majesty, forgive me, but I must speak to you of a most dire situation involving
the Duke of Chambertin. If you will allow me I will tell you all. I fear
though, that he may have spies at court, so please, if it is your wish, could
we go to a more private area." The king examined the woman before her. He knew
that she was the daughter of one of his Admirals and he felt that she really
was in distress, so he acquiesced to her request. In one of the side chambers,
Eleanor told him all that she knew. The king was shocked that the Duke, his
relative and subject, could be so terrible and all the time had operated under
his nose.
"Thank you for telling me this.
I assure you, I will send reinforcements north immediately. You do your country
great honor by coming to see me."
"You are most kind and generous
Your Majesty. I will leave you now to make the arrangements. Thank you for
everything." Eleanor curtsied and left the room. She knew that she had done all
that she could do. She only hoped that they wouldn't be too late.
Meanwhile, Richmond and Stern
had arrived at the Duke's north estate. The sun was beginning to set and the
grounds were quiet. He hoped that nobody was lurking around to prevent them
from their mission. They were greeted at the door by a butler. "Tell your
master that two friends are here to see him on most urgent business."
"May I have your names sirs?"
"Our names are not necessary, he
will know us when he comes." The butler knew that the Duke often had mysterious
visitors, so he let them come in. "Are the ladies at home?"
"Yes sir, would you like me to
take you to them?"
"Please, they will be surprised
to see us I am sure." The butler announced them to the ladies and both of the
women stood in shock. Annabelle ran to Richmond and threw her arms around him.
"Oh David, I am so sorry. I am
so happy that you are here." Julia stood as well. It was her son come back to
her. She could not believe it. Annabelle released him and greeted Mr. Stern.
"What are you doing here? It is
too dangerous. The Duke will know you are here."
"You are correct wife. I don't
think it was wise for them to come." Annabelle gasped when she heard the Duke's
voice. He stood in the doorway and the gentleman glared at each other.
"Duke Chambertin, I have come to
settle the matter once and for all. Choose your second."
"A duel is it? Is that wise? I
am much older and more experienced than you in the matters of fighting."
"I believe we shall see if what
you say is true. Choose your weapon." Richmond motioned for the Duke to leave.
"Let us go outside, I wouldn't want to mess up the furniture."
"Very well, let us go outside. I
hope your pistol is ready."
"No!!!" Annabelle screamed. "Do
not do this. Please David. He will kill you."
"Annabelle, there is no other
choice. I must deal with this now."
"David, please rethink this."
Lady Julia stood and said.
"Lady Julia, what are you doing
here?" Richmond looked at the woman.
"Please listen to her and do not
act foolish. I must tell you something that I should have told you a long time
ago. I am your mother." Richmond stared at her, then spoke.
"I know," he stated simply. Lady
Julia looked at him in shock. She didn't know how to respond.
"You know? When? Who?" Julia had
so many questions.
Richmond smiled at her and said,
"All in due time mother. You don't know for how long I have wanted to call
someone by that name." Richmond walked over to Julia and they embraced. Never
had two people held each other more closely. It was as if they were trying to
get all that they had missed into one embrace. Tears poured down both of their
cheeks as they held on to each other.
"As lovely as this is, if you
want to get this done with Richmond, I suggest we leave the family reunions for
later. That is if you are still alive." Richmond turned to leave with the Duke.
Everyone in the room followed.
They gathered in a field behind
the house. Stern and the Duke's man agreed to the terms and they were made
ready for the fight. Annabelle and Julia gripped each other's hands from a
distance. The two gentlemen began their walk of death.
"One, two, three, four..." The
Duke turned and made ready to shoot while Richmond continued to walk. Annabelle
screamed and both women ran closer to try and prevent the Duke, but a shot was
fired.
A piercing shriek rang out in
the still, cold air, as the bullet reached its mark. Lady Julia, with an
instant's desperate determination, had leapt in front of her son, and saved his
life by sacrificing her own. With the world fast fading from her eyes, she
collapsed into his arms.
"Forgive me, David," she
whispered, looking up into his stricken face. "Forgive me for leaving you to
fend for yourself all these years. I wanted the best for you, and loved you,
always." She read her answer in his eyes, and closed her own for the last time,
with her heart at peace.
Richmond knelt there on the
bloodstained grass, holding her, struggling to make sense of what had happened,
and make sense of his own feelings. Annabelle stood a few feet away, reeling
with shock and horror. She trembled with grief and rage at the injustice of it
all -- the untimely death of her friend, who had been kind to her in her darkest
moments; the terrible burden of sorrow suddenly put upon the man she loved, who
had been the innocent cause of his mother's demise. She saw the scene before
her, with swiftly rising fury, and then turned her eyes to the Duke.
He too had been frozen with
shock at first, but was quick to recover himself. He cursed under his breath at
seeing his plan go awry, and cursed his sister-in-law for foiling him at last.
What could be done now? His one shot was wasted, and Mr. Stern had already
pinned his second to the ground. There would be no assistance there. Richmond still
had his pistol, of course, and he well knew how his act ought to be repaid. In
the distance on the road, he descried a troop of soldiers marching quickly
toward the house. So the King had found him out as well. Seeing no other
alternative, he turned on his heel and ran away as fast as he could.
"Richmond!" cried Stern. "He
flees! You will not let him get away?"
Richmond looked up and with
steely eyes watched his opponent racing over the field.
A well-placed blow left the
Duke's man unconscious at Stern's feet. "I will go after him. He must answer to
you for what he has done."
"No, Stern," said Richmond. His
voice was still and steady, and absolutely terrifying. "There is no place on
this earth that he can hide from me. Let him run, now. We will meet again."
Looking up at his friend, he said, "Help me, Stern. Help me carry her inside."
Annabelle was deeply touched at
his unselfish avowal of where his first duty lay. But she had a sense of duty
as well. The sight of Richmond's nobility only increased in her mind the wide
chasm between his and her husband's. She would never be able to live with
herself another day if she knew the Duke had attempted another murder and
committed yet one more, and still went unpunished. His selfish cruelty, his
treachery, had brought so much sorrow to the people she cared about, besides
making her own life miserable. She had witnessed too many of his successes to
believe that Richmond could catch him in the near future. Her eyes were wide
with fury. Why had she been so passive to him in the past? Why had she not seen
what would happen? Why had she not prevented the dreadful occurrences of the
day? Annabelle sprang into action.
It was but the work of an
instant -- there was no time to stop her. As the two young men bent over the
lifeless body of Lady Julia, Annabelle snatched up Richmond's pistol, and took
off in pursuit of her murderous husband.
The Duke looked around
periodically as he ran, to see whether or not he was being chased. He slowed a
little when he saw Annabelle running after him. His first thought was that she
followed out of love, and that she wanted to go with him. Even at such a moment
he was not unable to notice how pretty she looked, with a flushed face and
shining eyes. Watching her rather than his path, he lost his footing and fell
to the ground. She was upon him in a few seconds, and immediately, with great
dismay, he realized his error. There was no love for him in her bright eyes.
Hatred shone there. For a moment he saw not his wife standing over him, not sweet
little Annabelle, but instead a wrathful Fury, a dark angel, come to bring
heaven's justice down upon him.
He had underestimated her, and
now he feared her. This girl, who had been his weakness since he first saw her,
would be his downfall. Lying on the ground, he looked up into her terrible
eyes, and crept backwards, like a snake. He pleaded with her, told her he loved
her, that he had meant her no harm, that he would have made her a queen. But
Annabelle, in her rage and grief, heard none of it, as she emptied her only
shot into the corroded black hole where his heart should have been.
Annabelle dropped the gun and
began to weep bitterly. She did not hear the footsteps running up behind her,
but in a moment, a group of soldiers were hovering over the body of the Duke,
and Richmond had put his arms around her. Blinded by tears, she allowed him to
lead her away. He brought her into the house and into a drawing room, and
ordered one of the bewildered housemaids to bring her some wine. He sat with
her on a sofa, holding her hand, and speaking softly to her, putting aside his
own grief to comfort her, who had killed for his sake.
"Oh, David!" she sobbed at last,
burying her face in his coat. She poured out her heart to him, and on both
sides all misunderstandings and confusions gradually were cleared away. With a
subdued and muted happiness in the midst of their sorrow, they remained there
on the sofa wrapped in each other's arms. Shortly, however, a cough from the
doorway caused Richmond to look up, and see Mr. Stern. He looked at him
inquiringly, and Stern, who had been outside speaking to the captain of the
guard, came forward.
"Due to the circumstances," he
said, in a low voice, "there will be no charges against either of you. But we,
and the bodies, must appear before the King right away. We must leave for
Romagnola at first light." Richmond nodded, and repeated the information to
Annabelle.
The remainder of the night
consisted in going over the house and collecting all Annabelle's and Lady
Julia's belongings, which were not numerous. Both Richmond and Annabelle had
difficulty in maintaining dry eyes as they went through Lady Julia's room,
packing up her things. The thought of his mother known too late and lost too
soon was a very heavy one for Richmond, and Annabelle knew not what to say to
him. Her face conveyed her sentiments, however, and they worked in silence.
While clearing out a bureau, Richmond came upon two letters, neatly folded up
and sealed. They were addressed in Lady Julia's hand, one to him, and one to
King Lorenzo. Judging by the color of the paper and the ink, he guessed they
had been written recently. He brought them to Annabelle's attention, and then
opened the one addressed to him. He read it first silently to himself, and then
out loud to her. It contained a thorough explanation of his origins, her
motives in keeping him concealed, and an account of the events in which they
had all been concerned up until Annabelle and the Duke's arrival at the house a
few days before. The closing read:
And so, David, I swear to you that I have had only your
interests, your safety, at heart. I am deeply sorry for the suffering you have
endured because of me. I beg you to seek out Lady Annabelle Touraine, and to be
reconciled with her. I pray for the success of your love -- may you be happier
in yours than I have been in mine. I have written a letter to your father
containing the same information I have given you, and I hope he shall receive
it at the same time as you have received this. It is my dearest hope that you
should be known to one another at last. I wish you happiness, my dear, with all
the sincerest wishes of a mother's heart. Farewell. - Julia Chambertin.
They were quiet for a moment,
and Richmond picked up the other letter. "We shall bring it with us to the
palace, then," he said. He did not have the heart to speak about it any more
with composure, and so he remained silent. Stern found them packing up the
remaining items in Lady Julia's room and suggested they get some rest before
their early day tomorrow.
The next morning Stern awoke as
tired as he was when he went to sleep. He had only managed to go to sleep three
hours ago, and the short hours were quite restless. He wondered if any of the
others had been able to get any sleep. Richmond had been distraught ever since
the duel, and Annabelle walked around like a person who was sleepwalking. He
did not want to interrupt the couple. They had had so much tragedy in so short
a time, but he knew that they must prepare for the journey south. The troops
were anxious to leave and the bodies had been loaded onto their respective
carriages. Lady Julia had been placed in a makeshift coffin until a better one
could be fashioned once they reached Romagnola. Richmond and Annabelle gathered
her things together to make the journey. Annabelle was off packing her own
things now while Richmond took a few minutes to himself in Lady Julia's room.
This had been a day of shock for him and he was sorry for his friend. After
gaining a mother, he quickly lost her. Must one person bear so much tragedy?
The Captain of the guards entered the room. "Sir, we must depart for Romagnola.
His Majesty is expecting us. If you could, please round up all the servants.
They too will have to come with us for questioning." Stern nodded and then went
to find the butler. He knew that many of the servants had probably already run
off.
He found the butler in the
kitchen talking to some of the kitchen maids. "Sir, the Captain has asked me to
have you round up all of the servants. You will all be coming with us to
Romagnola. We are leaving within the half hour, so please make haste." The
butler nodded and began rounding up the servants for the journey. Stern knew
that he would now have to go get Richmond and the Duchess. He walked up the servants'
staircase and almost knocked over a woman coming down the steps who was not
watching where she was going. "Pardon me madam. Everyone is assembling in the
front hall. If you will please make haste there so that we can leave as soon as
possible." Richmond wasn't sure about this woman. She didn't look like a
servant because she was finely dressed. "Who are you if you don't mind me
asking?"
The woman sneered at him. "If
you were anyone, you would know who I am. I am Marguerite Duperie, a former
lady of the Queen."
"Forgive me madam, but I must
insist that you come with me to the front hall. Everyone must come to Romagnola
with us."
"I will do no such thing. Who do
you think you are? I am not to be ordered about by the likes of you."
"You won't will you? You are
coming with me if I have to drag you every step of the way." Stern was getting
fed up with her. The nerve of her to think herself so superior. He took hold of
her arm and escorted her down the steps.
"Let go of me. How dare you
treat me in this manner? When the Duke learns of this, he will not be happy and
you will wish you had never come here. Who are you anyway?"
"I am Mr. Stern, and I am sorry
to inform you that your poor Duke is dead. He has been revealed as the man he
truly is and is going back to Romagnola in a body bag. Marguerite screamed and
then fainted, and Stern caught her before she fell down the steps. He picked
her up and carried her the rest of the way down the steps. He deposited her on
a couch in the front hall and then poured her a glass of wine. He found some
smelling salts in her purse and waved them under her nose. Her lashes fluttered
and she finally opened her eyes. Stern helped her drink a few sips until she
regained her composure enough to sit up.
While Stern was administering to
Marguerite, Annabelle came into the room. When she saw Stern with Marguerite
she went over to her and slapped her across the face. "Duchess, what is the
meaning of this?" Stern asked, even though he had been resisting the urge to do
the same thing ever since he came in contact with her.
"This tramp is the reason why
Lady Julia was deceived. She was working for the Duke while all the time Lady
Julia thought she could trust her. She is a traitor and deceitful. Her last
name even means deceit in French. Did you really think you would get away with
such a thing Marguerite?"
"I would have if you hadn't
meddled. I told the Duke that you would be trouble, but he wouldn't hear
anything of it. He was in love with you and I hated you for it. After he married
you, it was like I didn't exist. How do you think that made me feel? Now he's
dead and all because of you I'm sure." She burst into tears, but she got no
sympathy from anyone in the room.
"Duchess, we really must prepare
to depart. Please go tell Richmond it is time. I know he is having a hard time,
but maybe you can persuade him to come." Annabelle nodded and left the room.
She walked up the stairs to Lady Julia's room where she knew she would find
him. When she arrived at the door, it was open. David sat on the bed with a
letter in his hand, and Annabelle realized that it was the letter from Lady
Julia. There were several things strewn about on the bed. She walked over to
him and kneeled down at his feet. He made no motion to indicate that he saw her.
His mind was in another place. Annabelle took his hands, and finally he looked
at her. She saw the pain in his eyes, and wished she could wipe it away.
"David, Mr. Stern says we must
leave. I know it is hard, but we must go back to Romagnola. We will see the
king and tell him all that has happened. Also, that will give you a chance to
meet your father as your father. I know you feel the loss of Lady Julia, I do
as well, but you must be strong. There is still a lot that must be done. I wish
there was someway that I could take away the pain, but I cannot." David looked
at her and squeezed her hand.
"Annabelle, I know that I am
being selfish. For the first time in my life, I had a real family, only for it
to be taken from me again. I know that I have no right to speak when you have
suffered much more than I have. Here I am wallowing in my own pain when I
forget how much you have had to endure. You are so strong and so brave. I don't
deserve your love."
"David, promise me you will
never say that again. You are my strength. Without you I am nothing. It was
thinking of you that kept me going when I thought all hope was lost. The only
reason I am alive today is because of you." David threw his arms around her,
and they embraced so tightly. They were trying to squeeze out all the pain, but
it would take a long time before the wounds were all healed. Annabelle released
him and helped him gather together the rest of Lady Julia's things. They left
the room together and made there way to the front hall. Stern was there
watching Marguerite to make sure she didn't escape and when he saw them, he
motioned for one of the soldiers to secure Marguerite in the carriage. He took
the things from Richmond and then showed them out to the carriages. Annabelle
turned to look at the house that for several days had been her prison. It
really wasn't that bad of a house. With the Duke gone, the evil that resided
there seemed to lift and she admired for the first time how well it was
situated. After one last look, she walked over to the carriage and David helped
her in. He followed her and took the seat next to her. Stern sat across from
them, and then the long parade of carriages began their journey south. They
rode in silence, as nobody really felt like talking. Annabelle looked at the passing
countryside and saw it for the first time in a new light. From this point on,
she was going to start a new life. As the fields passed by, she looked at all
of the cattle grazing. They also passed the vineyards and Annabelle thought of
her uncle. From one tiny branch sprouted the liquid that merged with the
cheese. She determined that she was going to become that branch and embrace all
that came with it. It was a new beginning for her just as it was for the grape
vine that her uncle had brought from across the sea. She had been given a
second chance at life, and she would not make a mess of it. She now had David
to support her and nothing that threatened them would ever beat them. She had
turned a new leaf.
They arrived at Ayershire Court
early in the afternoon. All of the servants and Marguerite were escorted to a
place for questioning while Annabelle, Richmond, and Stern were taken to the
Assembly room to see the King. Richmond brought along the letter he had found
addressed to the King. This was his moment of truth when all would be revealed.
Inside the Assembly room, the
King sat on his throne at the end of the room, and there were only several
other people in the room. When Annabelle saw that Eleanor was among them, she
smiled to her friend who looked relieved to see that she was ok. The group
approached the throne and all bowed and curtsied.
"Please, please stand straight.
I am so happy to see you all safely returned. Miss. Charbray here warned me of
the Duke's plotting, so I was glad to have sent reinforcements in time. I am
also pleased to inform you that the smugglers, thanks to Admiral Charbray and
Lord Barrett, have been captured. Their captain confessed that it was the Duke
behind everything, so I am pleased to hear we no longer have to worry about
him." Annabelle noticed that Lord Barrett was standing next to Eleanor. He
blushed at the King's compliments and bowed. Eleanor's arm was threaded through
his and Annabelle hoped that he had finally made his intentions known. Her
friend deserved all happiness. "Now, Lady Annabelle, I want to personally
commend you for all you have done. My Captain informed me of all that happened
and such bravery on your part should be rewarded. I am sorry you had to suffer
so." Annabelle curtsied as her cheeks became red. Next, the King addressed
Richmond and Stern. He thanked them as well, and when Richmond handed him the
letter from Lady Julia, she could have sworn she noticed a tear on his cheek.
He opened the letter and read it. The paper shook in his hands and when he
finished, he looked up at Richmond who bowed again. "You are my son?" The King
looked confused then stood. Richmond remained with his head down and the King
walked over to him. The King placed his hand under Richmond's chin and motioned
for him to stand up straight. They stared at each other for several minutes
until finally Richmond spoke.
"Your Majesty, I learned the
truth just recently myself. I am happy that at least I got to speak to my
mother before she died. I understand if you do not want to acknowledge me as
your son."
"Not acknowledge you? If I had
only known that Julia was pregnant, I never would have left her all those years
ago. I can't believe it. You have the look of her in you eyes. I am surprised
that the truth was not revealed before. Julia made sure that your cheese was
the royal cheese. I thought it was just because she cared for the taste. I
never knew the real reason."
"Your Majesty"
"You must not call me that. I am
your father and I want all to know. Who would have guessed that the creator of
my favorite cheese turned out to be my son? Who else but a prince would be so
successful? Like father, like son I suppose." The King laughed and then
embraced his son. Everyone in the room cheered and Annabelle felt tears come to
her eyes. Finally David had a family.
The King, once he had collected
himself, turned to everyone else in the room. "I am sure you are all tired from
your journey and wish to see your friends and family. I would like to thank you
all again for all that you have done. The Queen's murderer is no longer at
large, and all are happy and safe. Please go home for now. I would like to
invite you all back to the palace tomorrow so that we may discuss this matter
further. I believe my son and I have some acquainting to do." They all bowed
and made their way out of the room.
Once outside of the assembly
room, Annabelle ran to Eleanor and embraced her. "Oh Elly, I am so happy to see
you. Thank you so much for everything you did to help me."
"Annabelle, you are the best friend
a girl could have. In fact, you are more than a friend. I consider you to be a
sister. I am so happy that you are safe now. I was so worried. Thank God you
are home." The two girls embraced again.
"Now Elly, I believe there is
something you have not told me." Eleanor blushed and looked at Lord Barrett who
was standing nearby looking on.
"Oh Annabelle, I am so happy.
Lord Barrett, I mean Henry, has asked and I have accepted. We are to be
married."
"Elly, I am so happy for you. I
knew that it would all turn out in the end. When is the happy occasion?"
"We have not yet set a date. We
wanted to wait until we were assured that you were safe."
"Well now that I am, I hope you
will be married soon. I am so happy for you. You deserve all happiness." Lord
Barrett joined them and Annabelle offered her congratulations to him.
"Thank you your Grace. Would you
do us the honor of allowing us to escort you home to your aunt? I am sure she
will be thrilled to learn that you are safe."
"I don't believe she knew I was
ever in danger, but I suppose it is best to go home." They all walked to their
waiting carriage and after bidding farewell to Mr. Stern they began the short
journey to the Sainte-Maure townhouse.
Lady Sainte-Maure gave every
appearance of being happy to see her niece returned to her, but Annabelle knew
that there was some disappointment beneath her happy façade. Lord Barrett and
Eleanor were invited to stay for tea, but they declined, saying that it had
been a long day and they were expected by the Admiral. Annabelle made her
farewell and then prepared herself to face her aunt.
"Annabelle dear, I am happy that
you are safe. There have been so many rumors going around town, I must insist
on hearing the whole truth. What happened?" Annabelle told her aunt everything
that she thought necessary. She did not mention the fact that it was she who
fired the gun that killed the Duke, nor did she mention the fact that David was
the king's son. She figured it would be best to let her find that shocking news
out on her own."
"Aunt Sophie, I am very tired,
so if you don't mind, I believe I would like to rest now. I am expected back at
court tomorrow morning, so I would like to retire. It has been a very long
day."
"Surely you should eat something
before you go to sleep."
"I am not very hungry. Good
night Aunt Sophie." Annabelle left the room and went upstairs to her former
bedchamber before her aunt could make any more protest. She was too tired to
ring for her maid, so she went about her night preparations alone. Besides, she
didn't feel like company at that moment. Once dressed for bed, she sat down in
front of her vanity and looked in the mirror. There were dark circles under her
eyes and she was pale and thin. She walked over to the basin and splashed water
on her face. She looked down into the water and became fascinated by the
ripples. Tears fell from her eyes and into the water causing patterns to flow
across the surface of the water. Before she knew it, her emotions were out of
control. Sobs welled up in her throat and she could not fight them. All the
emotions of the past few days were poured out and she just let them come. She
made her way to her bed and cried as she had never cried before.
The next morning, she awoke and
felt somewhat refreshed. She walked over to her mirror and saw that her eyes
were red and puffy from a night of tears, but some of her color had returned.
She rang for the maid to come prepare her bath as she was expected to be in
court in two hours. Clara knocked on the door and when she was admitted
Annabelle smiled to her. "Oh Clara, it is good to see you."
"Your Grace, I am so glad that
you are safe. I was so worried for ya."
"Thank you Clara. It is good to
be home. Would you please have a bath prepared for me? I am expected at court."
Clara went about the preparations as Annabelle tried to gather her thoughts for
the upcoming meeting with the King.
Annabelle arrived at court and
was ushered this time into a more private room where the King, David, Mr.
Stern, Eleanor, Lord Barrett, Admiral Charbray, the Captain of the guard, and
several other people were already waiting. The King greeted her when she came
in and David smiled in her direction. Annabelle made her curtsy and then
approached the King's chair.
"Thank you for coming again my dear.
I know these last few days have been very hard for you, so I hope to make this
business brief. The King motioned to one of the servants and the door and he
opened them. Marguerite was brought in with two guards. Her dress was torn and
dirty, and her hair had fallen to her shoulders. She sneered at Annabelle as
she passed her.
"Marguerite Duperie, you have
been charged with aiding and abetting the Duke of Chambertin in murder and
intrigue, and for this, the only punishment is death. What do you have to say
for yourself?" Annabelle saw that the sneer was now gone from her face as she
stood in front of the King.
"Your Majesty, I never meant for
anyone to be killed. I did not know that the Duke would go this far. You must
believe me. I beg of you to be merciful." Marguerite knelt down as tears
streamed from her wild eyes. Annabelle could see that she was not herself.
Perhaps she really had been in love with the Duke and only acted out of love
for him.
The King considered her plea for
a moment and then spoke. "Marguerite, I do not believe that you have knowingly
aided in the murder of anyone, so you shall not be sentenced to death, but I
want you to leave Romagnola. I will arrange for your travel and you will be
sent to the country to atone for your sins. You are never to return to town
again. Do you understand?"
"Yes, Your Majesty. You are most
kind and just." Marguerite rose and turned. The wildness that Annabelle noticed
before was even more pronounced. She left the room with the guards.
"Now that that is over, I want
to get on to more important matters. I am holding a state funeral for Julia
tomorrow. I know she was close to many of you, so it will be a sad day, but I
want to lay her body to rest." The King continued with his questioning of
everyone and when they finished, lunch was served to all in attendance.
Annabelle felt out of place dining with the King in such intimate settings, but
she was happy to see David and the King talking with each other. David still
had sadness in his eyes, but he did smile every now and then.
The next day, the funeral was
held for Lady Julia. Many of the people that had known her were there, as well
as many other people from all around Kalebeth. Annabelle was allowed to sit
right behind the King with her aunt, who was thrilled at the privilege that
Annabelle's rank had given her. The mood of the room was very sad. Several of
the people Lady Julia had known spoke of her and her contribution to the court.
Finally the king stepped up to the podium to address the congregation. His
speech was eloquent. He spoke of how he had known her and loved her when he was
younger. At the end of his speech he said that there was something that he
wanted his people to know. "Lady Julia was loved by all who knew her, and
unfortunately there was one person whom she was not able to love openly. A long
time ago, I had a relationship with Lady Julia. We were both young and in love.
She was to be married, and my parents did not favor our match. We decided to
spend one night together before we were separated." The King's voice shook and
he paused to collect himself before continuing. "When we parted, we agreed to
never look back because it would be too painful. What I did not know, was that
Lady Julia gave birth to a son. We both later married and I had no knowledge
that I was a father. Lady Julia, because of her family, was forced to give her
son up at birth, which I know was the hardest thing she had to do. Just two
days ago, I was finally introduced to my son. Ladies and gentlemen, many of you
have known this man for a long time, and I know there has been much gossip
about him. Son will you please come up here." The congregation waited and
watched as David got up from his seat and walked over to the king. There was a
collective gasp from the people. Annabelle looked at her aunt who seemed on the
verge of hysterics. To think, the man whom she thought not good enough turned
out to be the King's son. "My son has a few words he would like to say."
"Ladies and gentlemen, I did not
have the chance to meet my mother until just a few days ago, and even so, I was
only able to say a few words to her. Although I did not know her, I know she
looked out for me always. On this sad day, I want everyone to know the love
that Lady Julia had for all people. Although her life ended prematurely, it was
full of love. I know she will be looking over me from Heaven." The last few
words were barely audible. David could not speak anymore. He was visibly
distressed, and Annabelle wished she could run up to him and comfort him. Her
own tears ran down her cheeks. The King embraced his son and they both returned
to their seats. The minister spoke a few more words, then David, and several
other men rose to carry the coffin from the chapel. The King followed, and
stopped at Annabelle's pew.
"Lady Annabelle, please walk
with me." Annabelle was in shock, but she took his offered arm. Lady
Sainte-Maure was frozen in her seat as Annabelle stood and followed the coffin
with the King. The coffin was loaded onto a carriage outside, and the King
helped Annabelle into his own open carriage. David also joined them. He sat
next to her and she took his hand. The King smiled at them.
Just as they were about to leave
for the graveyard, there was a shriek heard. All turned to see Marguerite
running toward them. Her eyes were wild, and she was dressed in tatters. She
was pulling her hair and had the look of a madwoman. Several guards ran to
control her, but she avoided them. She ran around screaming. "Leave me alone.
Lady Julia, I am sorry. Please do not hurt me." Marguerite was crazy. She
seemed to think that Lady Julia was haunting her. She ran to the carriage that
held Annabelle, Richmond, and the King. She grabbed Annabelle's arm and looked
at her. Her eyes did not focus and she seemed to have lost her mind. "Tell her
to leave me alone. I am sorry. I never should have broken her trust. She was
only good to me. Help me please. I'm so sorry." Annabelle looked at her and
felt pity for her. She had lost her mind. The guards grabbed her and pulled her
away from the coach, but they could not hold on to her. She twisted and kicked
at them until she was free. She ran for the cliff that overlooked the river. "I
am coming Lady Julia. I will always serve you." With that she jumped. Her body
fell the hundred feet and hit the rocks below. Annabelle looked on in horror as
she got the last glimpse of Marguerite's blonde hair as it dipped below the
edge of the cliff.
"She will now be at peace," the
King said as he motioned for the driver to start their journey. They made their
way for the graveyard that was just outside the city walls. They all said their
final goodbyes as Lady Julia was placed in her tomb. There was not a dry eye as
the stone was put in place. As the bard sang the Kalebethian song of mourning,
all were silent. The notes traveled through the air and embraced all the
onlookers. Annabelle knew that it was Lady Julia's spirit trying to comfort
them. The sun set and the torches were lit as everyone made their way back to
their carriages. All left but Annabelle, David, and the King who stayed to have
one more moment with Lady Julia. The King told the guard to wait by the coach,
and Lady Sainte-Maure said that she would wait for Annabelle in the carriage.
The King told her not to worry about waiting that he would see her home.
"Thank you Your Majesty, you are
most kind. You show us great honor." The King cut off her compliments and Lady
Sainte-Maure curtsied and then departed. The three who had loved Lady Julia as
a lover, mother, and friend remained. David put his arm around Annabelle as the
last tears fell down their cheeks. Annabelle didn't think she had any more
tears in her, but she did. The King stood off to the side and stared at the
great tomb. David and Annabelle decided to give him some time, so they left him
to his solitude. The King ran his hand over the cold stone and then placed a
kiss on it. He stood there for a few more minutes then joined David and
Annabelle by the carriage. None spoke while they made their return journey to
the city.
As they crossed the gate, the
King finally looked up at them. They all looked at each other in understanding.
They stopped at the Ayershire Court and were given refreshments, though none
felt any hunger. The three of them felt too much sorrow to eat. After a little
while, David offered to escort Annabelle home. The King kissed her on the
forehead and told her that she would always be welcome at court. Annabelle
curtsied and left the room with David.
In the carriage, David held
Annabelle close to him. "Annabelle, I am sorry for all that you had to suffer.
If only I could have been able to rescue you sooner. To think of all that you
must have suffered, and all because of me. How can I live knowing that the Duke
had his way with you and I was not able to prevent it?"
"Sshh ... you are wrong. He never
did what you are referring to. Lady Julia drugged him each night. I am as pure
as the day I was born. He almost did have his way with me, but he was called
away on urgent business. I want you to know that I could never blame you for
any of this. If you could have come sooner, you would. It is my fault for being
so stupid and not seeing the Duke for who he really was."
"Annabelle, it is not your
fault. How could you have known? He would have killed you if you didn't marry
him. This is my fault not yours."
"No David, we must both realize
that the blame really rests elsewhere, and that person is never going to hurt
us again."
"Oh my love, you are right."
"Let us never speak of this
again, and start our life anew."
"Yes, that is a wonderful idea.
There is something that I should ask you first, however."
"What is that?" Annabelle said
in confusion.
"Annabelle, I should have done
this a long time ago, but I will not bring up those unhappy events. Will you
marry me?"
"Oh David, of course I will. You
know we belong together." They kissed each other and held onto each other for
the rest of the ride home. "Unfortunately, I fear our engagement will have to
be a long one. We must wait the proper mourning time."
"I would wait forever."
Annabelle smiled
About a month later, Eleanor and
Lord Barrett were married in a large ceremony. All that turned out for the
ceremony wished the couple well. Annabelle smiled in happiness as she watched
her friend marry and wished that it were she instead, and with David. They
would have to wait, however. After Lord and Lady Barrett departed on their
honeymoon, Annabelle returned home with her aunt. She smiled to herself as
Clara helped her to prepare for bed, and had dreams of her wedding day to come.
She knew that it would be very different from her first one.
Several months passed, and
finally Annabelle's wedding day arrived. All of Romagnola had seemed to show up
to watch the prince, as he was now accepted, marry his princess. The King was
full of pride and happiness as he watched his son marry. There was neither a
bride more beautiful, nor a groom more handsome. As they left the church, many
people called out their congratulations to the happy couple.
The wedding banquet was a joyous
event. There was not an unhappy person in the room, except perhaps for all
those who had admired David and wished to be in Annabelle's place. As the feast
drew to an end, the King touched his fork to his wine glass that was filled
with Sainte-Maure wine of course. All grew silent as they waited for the King
to give his toast. He stood up and lifted his glass. All followed in suit.
"Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in drinking the health of the happy
couple. Although their courtship was tough at times, happiness was at the end."
The King reached for a piece of cheese that was on his plate. "After all, when
wine met cheese all those years ago, there was a match. We see proof that this
fact still holds true." With that he took a bite of Richmond Cheese and drank a
sip of Sainte-Maure wine. Annabelle and David looked into each other's eyes.
"Annabelle, let me be the first to bestow a gift upon my new daughter," the
King said. "As you know, the former Duke of Chambertin had a large amount of
property and assets, I would like to bestow them on you Annabelle." Annabelle
stood and walked to the King. She kissed him on the cheek and he embraced her.
All cheered, and the festivities were allowed to continue.
As it grew time for the meal to
end, Annabelle looked around at all the faces at the table. There were many she
only knew by sight, but there were also many who had helped her along the way
and always been there for her. She saw Eleanor and her husband, and Admiral
Charbray. Mrs. Brown was there as well, with happy tears in her eyes. Annabelle
smiled at them as they raised their glasses to her. On the other side of the
table was Mr. Stern. Mr. Stern was sitting talking to one of the former ladies
of the Queen. Annabelle smiled and thought back to the time when Mr. Stern had
been in love with her. She wished him only happiness and hoped that he would
one day find love. She continued to scan the crowd and finally her eyes came
back to her husband. They looked deeply into each other's eyes and their love
passed between them. David took her hand and brought it to his lips.
The Prince and Princess of Kalebeth spent many a year in happiness. Their life was always full of love and all of the events of their past were put behind them. They saw their future generations grow and prosper and always lived their life to the fullest. After all, when wine meets cheese, a beautiful love affair is born.
© 2004 Copyright held
by the author.