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Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 01

By: peaches07



To readers of my other stories: This one is different. It started out as a short story in my 'fairy tales' line, but I quickly realized I had much more story to tell here. The build-up is slower and longer, the character development more in depth, and the sex scenes, once you get to them, are more 'flowery' than my other works, although still rooted in non-con. The resemblances to REBECCA are quite intentional, and I hope you enjoy the melding of the two stories. Feedback and constructive criticism would be welcome.

*****

The day my father lost our family fortune is the day my life truly began. I'd grown up rich and fairly spoiled, though I like to think it didn't corrupt my personality completely, as it had my elder two sisters. A merchant who had found success early on, my father was eager to take risks, and in large they paid off for him. His wealth increased, and with it his ability to take larger risks which paid off in larger and larger profits. A single streak of bad luck turned out to be his downfall. One small misfortune led to another and another, and he threw his funds at the issues with abandon in an attempt to recover. Jealous competitors took the opportunity to turn his creditors against him, and paid off other merchants to avoid doing business with him. The whole debacle culminated in his largest gamble of all - a game of cards. He'd always been lucky and he risked too much - everything we had, in fact. 

We three sisters knew nothing of his troubles until the night he came home, broke and desolate, to tell us that we were now poor and must give up our fine things and our stately home. Where we would go, he did not know. My sisters sobbed uncontrollably, beside themselves with grief over the loss of their beautiful dresses and the luxurious lifestyle they'd become accustomed to. I attempted to console our father, though my own head was reeling from the shock and worry of it all.

"I'm glad your mother never lived to see this, Beauty," he cried into my shoulder. "I should die from the shame." I started slightly at the use of my childhood nickname. When I was a young girl, I had been unimpressed with the name Belle, likening it to the giant bells in the church tower that were always waking me up far too early every Sunday to summon the faithful worshipers. My father had explained that Belle meant beautiful woman, not the bells of the tower. Unimpressed, I scoffed that I'd rather be called Beauty so no one else was confused. It became something of a family joke and the nickname persisted throughout most of my childhood, though its use tapered off as I began to mature.

"Where are we to go? What will become of us?" My eldest sister Margaret was inconsolable. She snuffled into her silk sleeves and even used her finest lace handkerchief to actually dab at her eyes, a sure sign of her deep distress, for she never used those articles for anything but show before. Mary, our other sister, clutched her handbag to her chest tightly, as if the answers to all our problems lay inside and must be protected. Tears streamed down her face and she silently sobbed, a peculiar wheezing sound coming from deep in her throat.

"I shall write to our cousin," said Father, "I have been kind enough to him when I had the means, perhaps now he can return the favor."

**

We were allowed to remain in our home for a time, although solicitors were in and out all day long, and most of our belongings were removed. We girls were given simpler garments that had once been set aside for our servants. This sent Mary and Margaret into fresh horrors, though with any choice in the matter removed, they soon learned to sullenly adapt to the coarser, more modest dresses. I bemoaned the loss of my own things; my books, my lovely little herb garden I'd so carefully cultivated for years, the china tea set that had once belonged to our mother that was my special prize. I tried not to let Father see my distress, and to put on a brave face for him and my sisters.

Father did hear back from our cousin before very long, and the news was somewhat of a relief to us all. There was a small farm in the next village over from where he lived, and he was willing that we should move in and take it over, with a break from the usual rent he charged until we were settled in and turning a profit from the farm. The prospect of farm life horrified my sisters, who had never cleaned or cooked a day in their lives. Privately I had my own concerns for myself, but a small hope that I could begin my gardening again and make it useful to us, somehow. We packed up the few belongings we'd been allowed to keep and began the arduous cross-country journey to our new village, Eastwatch. 

The journey was long, and dirty. We learned more about ourselves and each other in those weeks spent cramped together in a small wagon than we had previously our whole life. We learned to cook - not well, but enough to eat - and to wash our own clothes, with help from other kindly passing travelers. Margaret sobbed when her first finger calluses began to form, the loss of her lady's hands hitting a new low for her. I missed my soft, comfortable shoes and my warm bed, but I never complained to Father. He heard enough of it from my sisters.

We reached our new home and settled in as best we could. Farm life was difficult to adjust to, but we tried. The neighboring villagers were curious, our unusual circumstances drawing in their questions as well as their kindly advice. Small gifts were made by the most generous; a pat of butter here, a morsel of salt pork there. What with one thing and another, we began to develop a routine and to actually grow comfortable in our new life. 

Rumors abounded throughout Eastwatch of the mysterious Lord of the province. It was whispered that he was a monster, cruel and hideous, who stayed in his castle and never came out. 'He's disfigured' whispered the girl in the marketplace. 'he eats small children who don't obey their parents,' chided the old ladies. 'he's an immortal monster, sent to terrorize us' jawed the old men around their hearthfires. Monster or no, he was a recluse, and we never saw him.

Months after our new life began, Father received a letter from the city. A ship that had been presumed lost had come into harbour, and Father was summoned to the city to take account. There was great excitement in our home that evening. My sisters fairly drooled over the prospect of having money again, and even I began to think with longing of how some money could ease our burdens. My father began to prepare for the journey.

"What can I bring back for my girls?" he asked us over our last dinner together.

"Finer dresses!" Piped up Mary immediately, then had the grace to look slightly abashed. "Or perhaps some new fabric, to make a new dress," she amended.

"Please Father, some gloves," pleaded Margaret, casting a glance at her callused, freckled hands. "at least I could protect them from the sun."

"The finest lady's gloves," promised Father, "and of course new fabric. Rolls of the most beautiful I can find. But Beauty, what about you?"

"I don't need anything, Father. Just for you to return safely."

"Please, dear, there must be something you desire." I thought for a moment. My little herb garden was flourishing and I had learned to care for other food bearing plants as well, but I longed for something pretty to look at sometimes.

"Rose seeds?" I asked. "If it's not too much trouble. I'd love to see them in full bloom around our house."

"Of course!" Father smiled, and we were all filled with hope. We settled into bed early that night, and Father left the next morning at first light. Our lives went on more or less the same without him, and before we knew it two months had passed and we began to anticipate his return. The weather turned cold and we feared that a snowstorm might keep him from us longer, a fear that unfortunately turned out to be true, and the very thing that would tear me from my family.

A blizzard struck the town of Eastwatch. As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but whiteness. The snow swirled all through the night, building higher and thicker as we fervently prayed that Father was safe somewhere, and warm. Margaret swore she would not mind forgoing the gloves, if only he would return safely. In the morning, the snow had stopped, but the world seemed empty, too quiet. We couldn't hear anything or see anything but snow. It felt as if we were the only people left in the world, as if the blizzard had wiped out all traces of the human race save our little home. Through the silence and the white, Father appeared on the horizon.

We ran to him, eager to relieve him of his burdens and bring him in to warm by the fire. Upon reaching him, we drew back in concern. He looked so haggard, he appeared to have aged years, and it wasn't just his unkempt traveling beard. His eyes lit up briefly when he saw us, but quickly the joy turned to something else... sadness perhaps. We hustled him in to the hearth and plied him with hot tea and a biscuit, anxiously awaiting his news, whatever it might be. In time, as his hands warmed and steadied, and his tea cup was emptied and refilled, the story came out.

The ship, as it turned out, had already been plundered by pirates and was nearly stripped bare save a few items the crew had hidden. The trip had been almost worthless for him. After paying the crew what he owed them and covering his lodging, he had barely enough for the return trip, let alone fine silks and gloves. 

"It pained me to return without the gifts for you girls," said Father, looking at Margaret and Mary. For some reason, he had avoided eye contact with me since returning, but I was too concerned over him to give it much thought. Margaret and Mary instantly shushed him, making the proper noises over concern only for his health and well being.

His return trip had been uneventful until yesterday. When the snow had started, he had foolishly thought that he was close enough to home to beat the worst of it and attempted to put extra speed into his mount, spurring the nag on through the whiteness. Before long, he was lost. He found himself wandering in circles through unknown woods, and began to despair of ever finding his way home, when he came upon a castle gate. Expecting it to be locked, he wheeled the horse around and pushed on it anyway, surprised when it silently slid backwards, baring the path to the castle to him. He pressed onward, unsure what to expect, but willing to risk danger for a chance to live through the blizzard. 

Upon reaching the castle, he found the stable, warm and inviting, and left his horse there. Hoping to meet with a friendly host and hospitality, he continued to the castle. Again he pressed against the doors, and again they fell open, so he proceeded forward, hallooing as he basked in the warmth from the fire of the Great Hall he found himself in. There was a table laid before the fire, and when he lifted a cloche a plate of steaming food greeted him. His stomach growled and he fell on the food before he stopped to think, only realizing after he'd finished what he'd done. He called out again, but still received no response. His stomach full, his body warm, he soon began to feel sleepy. The chaise lounge nearby was equipped with a warm fur, and before he knew it he was passed out.

He swore he woke up and heard rustling, saw the glimpse of a shadow, but when he called out there was no response, and sleep quickly reclaimed his exhausted body. In the morning he woke to the roaring fire, a sure sign that someone must have been there and tended to it while he slept, and the table laid out again for breakfast. He ate with gusto, a rasher of bacon and fresh eggs washed down with copious amounts of strong tea. When he'd eaten his fill, he stopped to look around again, hoping to thank his host. He saw and heard no one, so with resignation, he began to attach his cloak and make ready for the journey home, when the table decoration caught his eye. A single rose had been placed in a bud vase in the center of the table. In his hunger, he hadn't noticed it earlier, but now it stood out to him. Thinking of his daughter's plea for rose seeds, he thought that perhaps he could take her a single rose, and at least that would be something. He plucked it from the vase and tucked it carefully inside his jacket lapel to protect to it from the cold. As he made for the door, he heard footsteps behind him - heavy ones. He turned to face one of the largest men he'd ever seen.

The man was tall, well over six feet and probably close to seven. He had broad shoulders and a large, muscular build, but what stood out most was his face. The right half was scarred horribly,a string of gash-like scars stretching from forehead to beneath his shirt collar. It looked as if he'd been mauled by an animal.

"How dare you!" fumed the man, and Father stepped back in fear. "How dare you, to take one of my roses, which I value above all, after I fed and sheltered you for the night! I hope it was a peaceful sleep, for it will surely be your last." He had nearly reached father at this point, and Father fell to his knees to beg for mercy. His story came pouring out: the ship, his daughters, the journey home through the blizzard. He explained his desire to bring his daughter a rose only, not to offend his most gracious host. The man pressed for details of the daughter, and after he appeared to have received information to his satisfaction, he introduced himself. 

This was no ordinary rich gentleman, this was the lord of our province, Lord August. After proper introduction, Father begged his lord for a boon, for forgiveness. Lord August gazed into the distance.

"I know they speak tales of me in the village. Do they speak of my marriage?" he asked.

"Marriage?" stammered Father, for this was the first he had heard of it.

"I was married. My wife, rest her soul, was obsessed with roses. I built a magnificent greenhouse for her, so she could have them year round. I keep them in her honor." Father blurted out more apologies, condolences for the loss of the lord's wife, but they fell on deaf ears. "The penalty for stealing roses is death." Father fell to the ground in misery. "However," Lord August spoke again. "you have intrigued me with your stories. I will let you go, and let you live, on one condition. You send your daughter, this one you call Beauty to me. I will let her work off your debt. Long has this castle been without feminine charms, perhaps it is time we changed that."

"Surely you don't believe I would subject my daughter to such debasement!" objected Father, and the lord laughed.

"Rest assured, I will not force myself on the girl. I mean only that she may work off your debt in my greenhouse, by caring for the flower you would have stolen from me. She will not be mistreated." Father tried to voice objections again, but the lord cut him off. "Go now, before I change my mind. My squire will escort you to the edge of the forest and point you towards the village. Send me your daughter within the week, or I will come and mete out your death sentence myself in front of your girls." A young boy appeared, seemingly from nowhere, and helped Father off the floor. He guided him firmly out the door by his elbow, Father still looking back and begging that his daughter be spared. The lord turned his back and left the room, and Father saw no choice but to go with the squire. He tried asking the boy questions about his master, but the lad only shook his head and pointed at this throat, indicating his muteness. It was a fairly short journey to the forests edge, and the boy pointed to father which way he must continue. Father thanked him and went on his way, scarcely able to believe the events of the morning.

"And that brings us up to now," Father finished his story sadly. "Of course, I will return, before he comes for me and receive my punishment."

"You will do no such thing," I said. "I will go. This sentence of caring for roses is not so harsh. Certainly it's better than your death! How long can it take to work off one rose anyway? A few months, perhaps. You will hardly have a chance to miss me." Father objected, but after my sisters took up my part he found himself without a leg to stand on and resigned himself to my fate. I put on my brave face and declared that I would set forth the next day, for the sooner I started working, the sooner I would be done. I brooked no argument on this point from my family, and we spent a close, if quiet night as a family together again.

*

In the morning, I slipped out before my sisters or father awoke. I couldn't bear the long, tearful goodbyes I knew were imminent. I left a note on the kitchen table, put on my best walking shoes, ans set out on the path Father had detailed for me the night before. It was still chilly from the snow, and I wrapped my cloak about me tighter. Soon came sunrise and the cold in the air abated slightly. The sky was lit up in glorious shades of pink and orange, which I decided to interpret as a good omen for my new circumstances. The path was still broad and easy to find despite the snow, and all too soon I arrived at the castle gates. As they had for Father, they swung open easily at my touch. It was but a short walk to the castle, and I braced myself as I pushed the door open. What would I find on the other side?

There was a blazing fire in the Great Hall, as there had been for Father. I nervously called hello, wondering if there would be anyone around or if I would be expected to take care of myself. To my relief, there was a scuffling and a large woman appeared from behind a screen.

"We didn't expect you so early," she said, coming toward me. "You are Beauty, aren't you?"

"Actually, it's Belle," I corrected. The woman smirked slightly and came to a halt in front of me.

"You may call me Mrs. Delver," she said. "I'll show you to your room." I followed her from the Great Hall as she set off at an impressive clip for a woman of her size and age. We went through twists and turns and up staircases till I was completely lost. Finally she stopped in front of a set of double doors. She opened them to reveal a fine estate room, complete with a four poster bed and a magnificent window overlooking the grounds. 

"There must be some mistake," I stuttered. "I'm here to work off a debt..."

"His lordship was very specific about your room," said Mrs. Delver. "I trust you can get by without a lady's maid, a common girl such as yourself?" The snide tone of her voice told me exactly how she felt about me being given such quarters. 

"Yes, of course," I responded, still in awe of the fine room, and wondering what kind of work I was going to be doing exactly that merited such a room. Surely pruning and weeding a few roses didn't earn a girl a place like this.

"His lordship expects to see you at dinner. Down the hall to your right, second set of stairs, then right again. You'll find a suitable dress in the wardrobe." She sniffed a little at my plain dress as she spoke, and wheeled and was halfway down the hall before I could ask what on earth she meant by dinner with his lordship. Lords did not dine with girls from the village. I was filled with trepidation. What did this all mean? I stepped into my new room to look around. The coverlet on the bed was a masterpiece all on its own, covered with intricate embroidery of flowers and birds. It was one of the most beautiful things I'd ever seen. The four poster frame itself was impressive, made of some dark, sturdy wood I didn't recognize. It was smooth and cool to the touch, and I marveled at the thought of sleeping in such a bed. 

I opened the wardrobe and it was indeed full of beautiful gowns, most finer than what I'd worn in the city even when we had money. This lord was obviously very well-to-do, to waste such garments on well, a gardener. I pawed through them, wondering which one would be suitable for me to wear to dinner. I settled on a deep crimson gown that was lovely and lush to the touch but also quite modest. All the dresses appeared to be slightly too long for me, and as I changed into the crimson dress I wondered who they had been made for originally. Was it possible these were his lordship's wife's dresses? Or a mother, or sister perhaps. I picked up the overlong skirt and examined myself in the mirror. I didn't know what to do with my hair, so I left it in the messy bun that had become habit for me since we moved to the country. In the city my lady's maid would pin and curl and tuck it for me, but it was all I could manage to pin it up off my face and hope it stayed there. To my surprise, the window showed me the shadows outside had grown long and dark, and I realized it must be nearly time for dinner. How quickly the day had passed!


Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 01



I left my room hoping to allow extra time before dinner in case I got lost. I followed Mrs. Delvers directions exactly and they did indeed lead me to what appeared to be a dining hall. The enormous table was laid for two, at opposite ends. How lonely to eat here alone every night, I thought. The grandiose hall must make eating alone all the more unbearable. Perhaps that was why his lordship had invited - well, required really - my presence at the table. I suppose eating and making conversation with a gardener is better than another night alone again. I fingered the fine linen napkins at one end, fondly remembering the parties we used to throw in the city, the extravagance we took for granted. The glasses I was sure were cut crystal, a set of two wineglasses and two other glasses were at each end. What kind of banquet was his lordship expecting tonight? I hoped my city dining manners were well remembered enough to not shame me. 

"Are you in the habit of touching other people's drinking glasses before a meal?" boomed a voice behind me, and I jumped back, guiltily snatching my hand back from the rim of the glass I'd been admiring.

"I'm so sorry, sir, forgive me, sir!" I turned to face the voice. There was no mistaking his identity from the description I'd been given; the scarred face, the near giant stature, and the scowl all declared him to be Lord August. "I was just admiring it, the workmanship is so fine..." he cut me off with a wave of his hand.

"Yes, yes, enough. So, you are Beauty?"

"Belle," I hastened to correct, and hoped he hadn't been too deceived by the nickname. I was still unclear as to what his full expectations of me were. I dropped into a quick curtsey. "I am at your lordship's pleasure." A wry half grin pulled at one side of his mouth and he in turn dropped me a small bow.

"Welcome then, Belle. I trust you have found your accommodations acceptable?"

"If you please, sir, I fear there must have been some mistake. The rooms I was shown are far too fine for the work I have come to do."

"There was no mistake. The rooms are correct. I live alone you see, Belle, and have no use for a fine room, so there is no reason for you to not be as comfortable as possible during the duration of your stay. If you require anything special Mrs. Delvers will see to it." I grimaced inwardly at the thought of asking that woman for anything, but said nothing. "Won't you be seated?" asked Lord August. "Or are you accustomed to eat standing up?"

"Of course, sir." I hastily sat down, feeling my face flush with red. What a terrible first impression I must be making! Lord August followed suit, and Mrs. Delvers appeared with a jug of wine. She filled Lord August's glass first, then mine. I didn't normally drink wine, not at all since our fortunes changed, but I thought it best not to object. We sat silently after she left, and I wondered if every meal was to be like this now. A servant I had not met yet came in a moment later with our food. 

"I hope you weren't expecting a full bevy of courses. The servants set the table as they have been trained to do, but I have not the patience for the elaborate dinners that would match. I find one course perfectly adequate." Privately I was relieved and said it was fine, of course. At least I would not make a fool of myself by screwing up which fork to use. The tray of food was placed before me, and After Lord August began to eat I did too. I couldn't tell you what the food was, it was all dry and tasteless to me, as I wondered what my future here beheld. The wine was very good, and in my nervous state I finished the glass quickly. As if he'd been watching, the servant appeared at my elbow and refilled my glass. His lordship hadn't said a word since we started eating, and he merely observed as the second glass of wine disappeared nearly as quickly as the first one. I began to feel heady and light-headed, but also worked up the courage to ask my new employer - or host - a question. 

"I was wondering, sir, what exactly my duties might be here? To cover my Father's debt?" the wine emboldened me to look up and make eye contact with him. "I have some experience working with plants, but not roses."

"You will learn." Lord August stood and walked around to my side of the table. He offered me a hand to help me up from my chair, correctly assuming I was done eating. I accepted his hand and rose, my crimson skirts falling to the floor. His eyes followed their trail. "I see you are a bit shorter than her ladyship was." So these were his wife's gowns! "She did have excellent taste." His eyes looked pained and I felt sad for him for a moment, for his loss. "I will escort you to your room." He placed my hand in the crook of his arm, which was nearly level with my shoulder, so great of a man was he, and we left the dining room. 

"So it will just be plants, then? No... other duties?" The wine had loosened my tongue. Lord August stopped in his tracks.

"Other duties?" He growled. "What other duties do mean?" He turned to face me, and I nervously backed away. "What other duties?" he persisted. 

"I just... sometimes you hear of girls being taken in and forced to do... things" I stammered. I backed away further, until I felt the cool stone of the wall on my back.

"So, this is what you think of me. That I need to force a peasant to give me his daughter to sate my carnal demands?" He stepped toward me and I cowered into the wall. "If that was my desire I could find any number of willing girls who would eagerly spread their legs for me in hopes of earning a trinket or even those foolish enough to think I would debase myself by marrying them." His fist pounded the wall above my head and I flinched. "I merely wanted companionship. If I wanted you, I would have had you by now. You have no status, there is no need to wine and dine you." He grabbed my shoulder roughly, his fingers digging into my flesh. "If I wanted you, you wouldn't be able to offer me any resistance." His fingers slipped from my shoulder, grabbed the fabric of dress, and tore. The modest neckline was stripped away, and the tops of my bosom, spilling out from the corset-like undergarment I had found, were on display. I gasped and made to cover myself but his hands grabbed my wrists, pinning them to the wall. He held them above my head with one hand, while the other reached out and cupped my breast. Wordless, I gasped again. "Hmm, perhaps I should reconsider." His thumb rubbed across my nipple through the thick fabric and sent an unwanted tingle down my spine.

"Please." I begged. "Please, no" His hand froze. The leer on his scarred face slowly reformed itself into a look of horror, and he drew back from me, his expression one of shock.

"Apologies. I am not myself tonight." He turned and fled, leaving me exposed and frightened against the wall. My hands shook as I tried to cover myself with the scraps of fabric that were all that remained of the neckline of the ruined dress. I didn't know whether to cry or to laugh with relief. Another part of me, something new, was sorry things hadn't gone further. Deep inside there was a new aching, empty feeling. I brushed that thought aside, and slowly made my way down the hall to my room. To my immense relief the door had a lock. It didn't seem to be a very sturdy one, just a simple hook and eye latch, but it was enough to help put my mind at ease.

Mrs. Delvers or another servant had been busy in my room, and there was a hot bath waiting for me. Hands still shaking, I stripped off the crimson gown, balled it up, and threw it in the corner, as if it was the dress itself that had betrayed me, and not Lord August. I removed the undergarments and climbed into the steaming bath, and for the first time since learning of my fate, I cried.



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 02



The morning dawned crisp and clear, and I watched the sun rise from the comfort of my bed, a luxury I couldn't afford anymore at home. I didn't know what to expect from today. Would his lordship attack me again, or was he thoroughly shamed from his behavior, sufficiently enough that he might even avoid me? And when was I to begin my actual work? My stomach growled, and I decided to brave venturing from my room. I'd been too nervous to eat yesterday morning, and then I'd barely touched my dinner last night. Despite my nerves, I was ravenous. I put on the simplest garment I could find in the wardrobe, a brown, stiff fabric that draped softly over me without hugging too closely. Best not to put any thoughts in Lord August's mind, should he happen to be about.

Not knowing where else to go, I made my way to the dining room again. It appeared I was expected, for there was a steaming kettle of tea and a hearty breakfast laid out on my end of the table. I tucked in with gusto, lingering over my last cup of tea as I put off whatever might be next. Mrs. Delvers came in as I was nursing the dregs. 

"Ah, you're up. We didn't know what sort of thing you might prefer for breakfast. Her ladyship never ate heartily in the morning, she was so conscious of her figure." Her eyes roved over the meager remains of the food and I felt like a pig at trough. 

"It was perfect, very delicious, thank you. Please don't trouble yourselves, whatever his lordship eats for breakfast will be fine for me." Mrs. Delvers nodded, her lips pursed.

"Very well then. Mr. Browne will be waiting for you in the greenhouse to begin your lessons in rose care. If you've quite finished," she said haughtily and I instantly set my teacup down and stood up. 

"Yes of course," I gestured. "Please lead the way." She set off at her speedy pace, through the corridors and halls and I tried to memorize the route. In a minute she stopped at a set of doors.

"Through there." She turned and left without another word. I grabbed the door handle and pushed my way in, then stopped and stared in awe.

I'd never seen such roses. Great, fat buds of scarlet, petite blooms of the palest pink, blossoms of white as pure as snow all vied for the position of most beautiful rose. The scent was heady and thick and I inhaled deeply. The green of the leaves and stems varied in color nearly as much as the flowers themselves, setting the background perfectly for the pops of color the roses provided. A tall bush of fat peach roses waved its fragrant blooms in my face, and I plunged my nose in.

"I like to see appreciation for my work!" a cheerful voice called out from behind a clump of bushes. A head popped up, grinning. "Name's Browne, but I expect you'll have been told that." I smiled back at him.

"I'm Belle. I expect you know all about me though."

"Oh a fair bit. Master says you're to work with the roses, and I could use a hand now and then so I'm in no position to object." He stood and came over to me, and began explaining the different varietals of roses, starting with the peach beauties I'd admired first. The pride in his voice was obvious, and as I asked questions, he grew more excited, going into greater and greater detail. By the time we'd reached the last bush, a white blossom tipped with red, I'd learned more about roses than I'd ever thought possible. Producing a pair of shears, Mr. Browne went over the finer points of pruning with me, and after I'd demonstrated skill and knowledge to his satisfaction he left me to one half of the greenhouse while he worked on the other. He whistled while he clipped and snipped, and I found the rhythm very soothing. We stopped for a small lunch at midday, which was brought to us by the same servant who'd served dinner last night. After lunch I started to go back to work, but Browne stopped me.

"No, miss. You're only to be here in the mornings. Master's orders." I tried to persuade him to let me stay, but he was firm. With a sigh of resignation, I headed back to my room, unsure of where else to go, or what Lord August had in mind for my afternoons. I wished I had a book, or a horse to ride. Anything to do, really. I flopped onto my bed, staring out the window. To my surprise, there was movement on the grounds. Lord August was striding across the lawn, cutting quite an impressive picture, and in spite of myself I couldn't help admiring the way he filled out his breeches, and his broad, powerful shoulders. He was a man by every definition, and even the marring of his face didn't detract from his physical appeal. My thoughts wandered back to the previous night, when he'd held my breast in his hand, the way his thumb had splayed over it, caressing...

Shaking my head to clear it, I decided the best thing to do was to go explore my new home. Surely there was a library, or parlor where I might find embroidery materials to occupy my time. Clearly my thoughts needed the distraction. I set out of my room, turning left down the hallway instead of right this time. Most of the doors opened onto spare bedrooms or storage areas. A few were entirely empty but for dust and cobwebs. At last I found the library. It was warm and bright with all the large windows. Sighing with pleasure, I ran my hands over the spines of the books, greeting them like old friends. There was a settee in the corner, just right for reading on, and I'd soon selected a book and settled in. Hours passed and as the sun began its descent below the horizon I knew it was time to make my way to the dining room. 

The brown dress was covered in streaks of dirt, and I fretted about ruining the cloth. Obviously I'd have to change before dinner. I couldn't bear to think of Mrs. Delvers' face if I wore a dirt smeared dress to dinner. Fortunately I remembered the way back to my room, and I made a selection from the wardrobe, this time a deep green shift of silk. The sleeves slid over my arms, almost sensuously. I admired my reflection in the mirror for a moment. Surely even Mrs. Delvers would approve. I steeled my nerves, preparing myself to face Lord August, and set off for the dining hall. 

He wasn't there. There was no place set for him, only me. Had last night been an exception, then? Perhaps he'd only dined with me as a courtesy on my first night. I wondered where Lord August was taking his meal this evening. There was no shortage of options in so large a castle. The servant poured a glass of wine for me as I took my seat, and tonight I sipped it slowly. I enjoyed a quiet dinner and then retired to my room. 

Over the next week, a routine developed. I had breakfast, worked in the garden with Browne, then after lunch I would read in the library until dinner. I never saw Lord August even outside, though I did occasionally glance out the window to see if he was on the grounds. Mrs. Delvers made a few remarks on my wardrobe choices, usually to inform me how much better her ladyship had looked in the same garment. I learned to smile and take her comments with grace. I began to think perhaps I would work off the debt without ever having to see Lord August again, but it was not to be.

*

About two weeks after I came to the castle, I began to grow restless with my routine. Instead of spending my afternoon in the library I decided to resume my exploring of the castle. Again I mostly found spare rooms. At one point I came across the kitchen, startling the chef and I hastened out, making my apologies. Near the Great Hall where I'd first come through I found a hunting trophy room. The walls were adorned with the stuffed heads of stags and wild cats, but it was the bear in the middle that was obviously the centerpiece. Standing tall on its hind legs, it was posed in a menacing fighting stance, teeth bared in a soundless growl. I stepped closer, looking at its long, sharp claws. 

"My prize trophy, but I almost became his." I whirled around to find Lord August behind me. He raised his hand and indicated his scarred face. "It nearly killed me. The scars go further than you can see." His hand trailed down his neck and chest, and I had a sudden fleeting image of what his powerful chest might look like without his shirt, the scars angry and red atop his sinewy muscles. "It was just a glancing blow to my face," he continued, pulling me back to reality. "The real, deep wounds were here." His hand stopped over his chest.

"How did you survive?" I asked.

"Pure stubbornness, or so the doctor told me." He grinned. "That, and I killed him before he could inflict any more damage." When he smiled like that, you could almost forget about the scars on his face. I wondered at what a handsome man he must have been, before. As if he could feel my thoughts, his smile faded and he asked, "I am very ugly now, am I not?"

"No, my lord," I responded automatically, but I realized it was true. On a lesser man, the scars might have that effect, but on him they just added to his rugged quality. His masculinity could not be marred by a few claw marks. "Is this-" I gestured at the animals "-all you?"

"Mostly, though my father hunted too. It used to repulse my wife. All the blood and mess." He looked pained again, as he had the last time he spoke of her, and I thought how very much in love with her he must have been. Without realizing it, I stepped forward and took his hand in mine. 

"I'm so sorry for you loss," I said. He said nothing, but gazed down at his large hand dwarfing my small one. "It must be very difficult for you. What was she like?"

"Like? She was nothing like you." He laughed bitterly, then dropped my hand as though it burned him. "I will be joining you for dinner tonight." He turned and left abruptly, leaving me confused and slightly hurt. I never knew where I stood with this mysterious man. I wondered what he was like before he lost his wife. Was he always so touchy and quick to overheat, or had the pain of emotional loss made him this way? I would probably never know.

Despite our rough start, I was looking forward to having company at dinner again. The days of quiet monotony made me welcome even an unknown quantity. He was volatile, but at least he was another person, who was not Mrs. Delvers. Browne was friendly, but never talked of anything but roses. I took extra care in dressing for dinner, lest I attract his physical attention again. He pulled a slight face when I walked into the dining hall wearing the button-up-neck dress, but whether it was a smirk or a grimace I could not say. Our dinner conversation was stilted at best, small talk about the weather and the niceties of linen napkins versus others, but I was grateful for the banal topics. When dinner had ended, he stood and offered me his arm again. I reluctantly accepted, hoping he didn't intend to walk me to my room, as he had last time. He steered me down the hallways, and as we neared the spot where the debacle had happened last time, he slowed. 

"I feel I must apologize again for my actions the night you first arrived. You are very beautiful, and I must admit my desires got the better of me." I objected that I was not beautiful, but he stopped me, and turned me to him. "You are," he said again. "Quite lovely and I have not been around... lovely women in some time." He stared into my eyes and the intensity made me squirm a little. He reached out and held my face tenderly with one hand, turning it up towards his, and my heart began to pound with - fear? Excitement? Both, perhaps. Was he going to kiss me? Did I want him to kiss me? But the moment passed and he removed his hand, turning us to face forward again as we set off down the hall. We reached my door with no other incident and wished each other a good night. After he left I leaned against my closed door. What was wrong with me? Did I really want to be kissed by the man who had groped and assaulted me only two weeks earlier? I wasn't sure.

*

Another week passed much the same. Lord August became a regular fixture at the dinner table, and once he learned of my passion for books, our conversations improved. He joined me in the library one day to gather an armful of recommendations he said I must read. I spent a happy few minutes teasing him over his choice of a novel about fairies, which hardly seemed the sort of thing a rugged hunter would read, and to my surprise he had the grace to laugh at himself, explaining it had been one of his mother's favorites, and as a young lad he'd developed a fondness for it. The book did indeed look slightly worse for the wear, as though it had been read many, many times. The laughter never lasted very long with him though, he always grew serious again quickly. There was no further mention of the incident of the first night or the near kiss of the other night. Every time he walked me to my room he was the perfect gentleman, and I came to look forward to seeing him. 

One night over dinner he suggested we go riding. When we'd lived in the city, I'd been quite fond of the exercise and I readily agreed. After my usual morning in the rose garden, I thumbed through the wardrobe till I found a suitable riding habit. It was a touch long, as were all the dresses, but once I was mounted it would hardly matter. I met his lordship in the Great Hall.

"You look well in riding clothes," he commented, and I felt myself blush like a schoolgirl. 

"Thank you, my lord." He extended his arm to me and we began our walk to the stables.

"I don't keep many horses. I'm sure you've noticed I don't keep many servants either, and horses require a lot of care. I prefer a quieter existence in general, and my page is capable of caring for a few horses on his own." I nodded. The lack of servants did seem strange for such a large and obviously wealthy castle. I'd assumed as much, that he liked the solitude. Aside from the servant who brought me dinner and lunch, Mrs. Delvers, Browne, and the cook I'd startled, I'd not seen any. I knew of the page boy's existence, but had yet to see him. I tried to subtly avoid tripping over my overlong skirts while trying to match pace with his lordship. Large men take large strides. At the stable door he paused, frowning down at the skirt hanging over my boots. "We must get your skirts hemmed," he said, almost to himself. Hem the skirts? Was I going to be here that long? I'd thought surely another month or two at the most, and that was not so long to put up with holding up my skirts when I walked. I said nothing, though, out of fear of angering Lord August. We'd been getting on so well lately. 

The stable smelled as all stables do, of horse and hay and manure. It was a comforting scent. The page boy rushed forward upon our entrance and Lord August told him to saddle Blitz and Jasper. A large black stallion was soon brought forward, and I hoped that his lordship did not expect me to ride such a beast. My experience had been mostly ladies' riding horses. Fortunately a grey gelding was also brought out, and he seemed quite a docile beast, blowing his horsey breath onto my forehead as he was saddled. 

"I think you'll do well on old Jasper. He's yet to throw anyone." Lord August passed me the reins. "Her ladyship always preferred her show mare," he indicated a proud white head peering over a stable door, "But I think you will do well on Jasper." I insisted that yes, of course the horse would suit me well. 

I would never expect to be given an expensive horse, particularly one that had belonged to his wife. How it must pain him to see that horse, to think of her! I mounted Jasper with some assistance from the page, and Lord August sprang onto Blitz in one fluid movement. He grinned at me and I thought again how handsome he was when he smiled. Then he spurred his horse forward and Jasper was eager to follow suit. We set out at a lively gait, and Lord August began to point out fixtures of the grounds.

"That fountain there," he pointed, "Was installed by my great, great uncle Hampton August. Some passing stone masons convinced him that anyone who bathed in the water from a fountain with an angel would be cured of their skin afflictions. Of course, they were gone before he set foot in it. As the story goes, he climbed in buck naked, then went tearing off after them on his horse, still naked, when he realized he'd been deceived." He laughed, and I did too, picturing the spectacle. He told me other stories as we roamed the castle grounds, laughing and smiling. He could be incredibly charming when he tried. Upon reaching the edge of the grounds and the beginning of the forest, Lord August slyly suggested a bit of a race.

"I don't think poor Jasper and I have much of a chance," I laughed. His impressive mount pawed the ground, as if he too expected a race.

"We'll give you a head start." His lordship had a glint in his eye, and I found it hard to resist his boyish enthusiasm.

"To the stables?" Lord August nodded. Without another word, I turned and spurred Jasper forward, laughing as I looked back at Lord August's startled expression. He had promised me a head start after all. About halfway back I heard the thunderous footfalls of Blitz behind us, and squeezed Jasper tighter with my legs, urging him to go faster. The stables were in sight. My hair was whipping back and round my face, and the my cloak streamed out behind me. We were nearly there! Just as we were closing in, there was a blur of black motion to my right, and Blitz and Lord August, his face set in determination, were now neck and neck with myself and Jasper. I leaned forward, flattening myself across Jasper's neck to reduce wind resistance, and gave him once last squeeze. He sprang forward as if the hounds of hell were chasing him. Perhaps he relished the chance to beat Blitz as much as I wanted to defeat Lord August. We pulled ahead and reached the stable, Jasper turning in a tight circle as he slowed. I smiled as Lord August slowed and came in behind us.

"Now tell the truth, did you let us win? I can't believe a gelding like this could defeat your stallion." Lord August didn't say a word, but pulled his horse immediately next to mine, and before I could react he was leaning down and then his mouth was on mine, hot and wet and demanding. My lips parted in surprise, and he slipped the tip of his tongue between them, softly caressing my own while his hands wound themselves through my hair. I was lost in the kiss, my lips moved of their own accord, my hands reached up to his chest. I found myself grabbing his shirt and pulling him in closer. What was I doing?!

I pushed against his chest with my hands, jerking my head back from him, and stared in shock. What had just happened? Hastily I swung my leg over Jasper and dropped gracelessly to the ground, stumbling as I attempted to run away. Damn these overlong skirts! I didn't know what I was doing, only that I had to get away. I heard Lord August calling my name, but I didn't stop. I couldn't stop. I'd been a fool to believe that someone in his position wouldn't take advantage. I reached the castle door and began the ascent to my room. I heard heavy footfalls behind me and Lord August called after me again. I ran faster, I was nearly there. I reached my room and was closing the door just as he came into view. His face was set in a scowl again, but there was something else there... something hungry. I pushed the door closed and fumbled with the simple lock. My hands were shaking so badly I missed the catch twice before it took. I retreated from the door in terror. Lord August laughed through the door.

"Do you really think a lock could keep me out?" he bellowed. There was a heavy thud and the sound of splintering wood, and then he was in my room. I backed up until I felt the bed behind me and could go no further. Lord August advanced. I squeezed my eyes shut and turned my head, as if I could block him out entirely if I could no longer see him. He was standing in front of me, and he grabbed my shoulders and turned my head to face him. "Look at me," he hissed, and I obediently opened my eyes, afraid not to. "You can't run from me. You are mine now, you've promised to stay, and there's nowhere on these grounds that you can hide from me. Why did you run?"




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 02



"I was afraid," I stammered.

"You should be," he responded, and then he was kissing me again, more urgently than before, his mouth grinding down on mine, his hands pulling my body close. My knees felt week, and I was lightheaded. I thought I might collapse. Before I could sink to the floor, Lord August pushed me onto the bed behind me. He was on top of me in a moment, his hands roaming down my bodice as he fumbled at the laces in the back. In a minute he was lifting my top over my head and my breasts were bared. He cupped them in his hands, squeezing and kneading them, and then lowered his head to them. His mouth was on my nipple, warm and wet as he sucked, and a tingle of pleasure shot through me. His hand quested downwards until he reached between my legs, his fingers feeling me through the skirt, and I gasped at the feeling. I should push him away, but my nether regions suddenly felt hollow and I had a strange yearning to press against him, to explore his scarred body with my own hands, or my mouth. He lifted his head and stared at me, the glaze of lust unmistakable in his eyes even to me. 

Abruptly I found myself clear headed again, and I pushed him away, weakly and ineffectively, but the action seemed to bring him back to himself. He rose up, and my body felt cold without his warm weight pressing down on me. For a moment he said nothing, just stared down at me. I groped about for the shirt he had cast off, trying to cover my chest with my other arm.

"You seem to have an ill effect on me, Belle," he said, then he was gone. I found the shirt and dressed myself, wondering why I felt a little bit sorry that he had stopped.

*

In the morning I was awakened by Mrs. Delvers rummaging through the wardrobe. She was muttering angrily to herself, but I couldn't catch what she was saying. She must have heard me stirring, for she turned to face me, frowning. She had several of my dresses slung over her arm.

"Master says you're to have these hemmed. Her ladyship's fine gowns, made over to suit you! A nobody!"

"Please, I'm sure it's not necessary. I won't be here so long, after all."

"It was Lord August's orders. Her ladyship must be turning in her grave!" she spit out her words like arrows. "She was a proper lady of fine breeding, not some noveau riche gone to seed." I flushed with shame, though why it should matter what Mrs. Delvers thought of me I did not know. She stalked from the room, still grumbling. I wondered if his lordship meant the hemmed gowns as an apology for last night. After selecting a dress for the day I went downstairs for breakfast. To my surprise, Lord August was also there, at his end of the table. He greeted me with a good morning, then returned his attention to his food. I took my usual place and began my own breakfast, waiting to take my cue from him on how we were to act after last night. 

"Will you ride with me again this afternoon?" he asked.

"Of course, my lord," I agreed before I had time to think about it. My brain caught up with my mouth and I wondered what I had agreed to. Would he force himself on me again? And why was that thought exciting?

I met him in the stables, Jasper saddled and ready for me. Lord August was already mounted on Blitz, and he made sure to maintain a suitable distance from me. Presently I was up on Jasper again, and we set off for our ride. Why was I drawn to this brute of a man? Despite his rough nature, I was curious to know more. Perhaps underneath his gruff exterior he was actually a gentle man. After all, he had stopped himself from taking me completely, and I obviously was no match for him physically.

"What was your wife like?" I asked, hoping it wouldn't anger him.

"She was... very beautiful. She was loved and admired by all who knew her. Her taste in clothing was lauded by the other fashionable ladies." He seemed hesitant to say too much.

"You must miss her terribly," I said. He gave me a look I couldn't interpret, then spurred Blitz forward and away from me. I urged Jasper forward as well, but Blitz and Lord August were long gone. I should have known to hold my tongue. I couldn't help but be curious about his late wife, and how he had acted toward her, but Lord August would of course be overcome with grief at me bringing her up. I wondered briefly if he compared me to her when he saw me in her clothing, or atop a horse. How far short I must fall from his last female companion. I rode Jasper about aimlessly for another quarter of an hour. I might as well let the poor beast get some exercise; it certainly wasn't his fault his master was a man of such moodiness. We eventually made our way back to the stables. Blitz wasn't in his stall, so it was safe to assume Lord August hadn't come back yet.

I made my way inside and back to my room, where I read for a time before changing for dinner. Would Lord August be there tonight, or had my questions pushed him away as surely as my hands had done the previous night?To my surprise, and relief, he was sitting in his usual spot, drinking wine. So he wasn't angry enough to stay away, after all. We exchanged pleasantries, and over dinner he brought up books again, a safe enough subject that I latched on to greedily. I hadn't realized how much I would miss my dinner companion until threatened with losing him. After dinner, he escorted me to my room, as was our custom. 

"I would ask of you not to bring up my wife again," He said on our walk upstairs. "The subject is not a pleasant one for me." Mortified, I agreed. "You're so different from her. You could never understand a woman like that." I flushed, silently thinking that he was right. Even in the city, I'd never bothered much with the niceties of clothing and dancing, much preferring my books and little garden. Had I really thought he would be comparing the two of us? There was no comparison. I would always fall short. I silently prayed he'd never guess I had even thought there might be one. At the door of my room, he paused, and I wondered, half nervously, half excitedly, if he planned to come in. He leaned his face toward mine and my heart began to pound, but he only brought up my hand and planted a chaste kiss on the back of it. "Good night, Belle," he said, and then he left. I went inside and laid upon my bed, slightly disappointed, and largely ashamed of myself for feeling so. 

In the morning, Mrs. Delvers appeared with a few of the gowns she'd taken yesterday, and a new one, a beautiful, frothy thing of creamy lace that appeared to dance by itself even though there was no breeze. It seemed better suited to a ball than to the quiet life I led here, but I admired it nonetheless. She sourly insisted I try the dresses on to make sure the hemming was suitable, and I complied. They fit perfectly now. They might have been made for me, and I smiled with pleasure at the freedom to take steps without fear of tripping. Mrs. Delvers looked on with a frown. 

"Thank you, Mrs. Delvers," I said, hoping to appeal to her better nature. "I very much appreciate it." She sniffed in derision, but I pressed on. "I know you must miss her ladyship. I am sorry for your loss, however it must be some consolation that at least her things won't go to waste."

"Go to waste?" There was fire in her eyes. "Go to waste?! I've kept her things pristine, just as she left them. I care for them as if they were my own. The Lady Regina's things should be revered, not parceled out to commoners. Even her room I keep just the same. His lordship never goes in there. Too painful for him, but I clean it and honor her memory." Her voice grew thick and syrupy as she leaned in closer to me. "Would you like to see it? Her ladyship's room is the finest in the castle. She had the most impeccable taste, she picked it all out herself." I sensed a trap in her sudden gesture of seeming goodwill, but didn't know how to reject it.

"Well, yes, I suppose so," I said reluctantly. "If you think Lord August won't mind." She smiled a cold little smile.

"Not at all. Follow me." She led the way from my room to a wing of the castle I'd never explored before. Behind a set of intricately carved double doors was Lady Regina's room. The windows were large and expansively covered most of the outer wall, save for where another set of double doors opened onto a small balcony, bathed in the morning sun. The enormous four-poster bed put even the magnificent one in my room to shame, the cover, embroidered with red roses and shining golden stems. I wondered if the thread was in fact gold, so brightly did it twinkle from behind the crimson roses. The closet was massive, and I realized that not even a quarter of her ladyship's gowns had made their way to my room. They were all beautiful, as was the furniture in the large room, a true testament to the lady's taste which had been so admired. Her dressing table was carved from what appeared to be the same dark wood as the bed frame in my room, and I admired the intricate designs. On the table lay a gilded mirror and a lady's comb and brush. Upon closer inspection, I realized there were still a few strands of hair caught in the bristles of the brush. Mrs. Delvers smiled when she saw me noticing.

"I keep everything - everything- exactly as she left it." Feeling unnerved, I turned to the door and made to leave. Mrs. Delvers stayed behind, pulling imaginary wrinkles out of the folds of the bed cover, still smiling and humming softly to herself.



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 03



A big thank you to everyone who's generously provided me with feedback, even those of you who didn't like it still took the time to comment. You can't be everyone's cup of tea! ;) Rest assured though, even if only one person wants to see this series finished, I would finish and post it for them. Off I go to work on chapter 4...

*****

Lord August made no further moves on me over the next week, save the kiss he now placed on my hand every night. I began to wonder if I had imagined the other encounters, or somehow made them into more than what they really were. We spoke of literature, we rode, we dined twice together every day, and he was always the perfect gentleman. Occasionally I could make him laugh, with a comment or witty observation, and I took an inordinate amount of pride when I did, for he was so austere and serious most of the time. I asked no further questions of the Lady Regina, either from him or Mrs. Delvers. He never suggested we race our horses again, and I made sure not to run from him for any reason, though there was scarcely cause since his behavior was so perfect. 

Perhaps it was the loneliness that drove me to him. I realized how much I missed the companionship of my sisters, silly though they were, and my father, or even the villagers. Lord August was the most constant human fixture in my life now, and I felt a certain kinship with him. Despite his unwanted advances earlier in our acquaintance, I could not help but consider him a friend now. It seemed as though it was just he and I against the heavy mantle of solitude that hung round his castle, each the other's only solace from the dark brooding of loneliness. I realized he probably thought very little of me, certainly not with the importance I thought of him with, but I could not help the way I felt. I began to wish for more of his attention, a silly, childish desire on my part. Like an infatuated girl I spent far too much time on my dress and attempting to fix my hair, hoping to draw his attention and please him. Of course, I could never compare with his wife, but perhaps he would notice an improvement from when I had first arrived, at least.

On one such occasion as I was pondering which of the lovely dresses might turn Lord August's head, Mrs. Delvers came into my room. It wasn't terribly uncommon for her to bring me newly hemmed dresses or to repair the ones I wore that suffered minor damage through riding or standard wear. She glanced over my shoulder into the wardrobe and plucked forth the creamy lace garment that she'd brought me a week ago.

"If you're looking to make a good impression, this was always a favorite of his lordship's," she said. 

"Oh, it's far too fine for an ordinary dinner, especially on me," I objected.

"Nonsense," said Mrs. Delver, holding the dress out to me. "Where else would you wear it? Perhaps you were right, perhaps it's better her ladyship's clothes aren't wasted. It would be good to see the Master smile at seeing this dress again." Hesitantly I accepted the gown. It was hard to believe that Mrs. Delver was willingly helping me, perhaps even being kind, but if she loved Lord August as she had loved the Lady Regina, maybe she was making an effort on his behalf.

"It is beautiful..." I held the airy lace up to my body, admiring the effect. 

"I'll help you get dressed," she said, and she was actually quite helpful, lacing me up and even suggesting I wear my hair parted to the side in a low bun. "Most becoming," she assured me, and I felt a burgeoning hope swell inside me, that she and I might be, if not friends, at least less of enemies. I felt quite elegant as I made my downstairs, if a tiny bit foolish at being so overdressed for dinner. Hopefully Lord August, if he noticed at all, would be impressed, or at least see the humor in the situation. I entered the dining room with my head held high and shoulders back, the better to carry off the dress. 

Lord August stood as I entered the room, as was his habit, and his face froze when he saw me. So he'd noticed! Demurely, I gazed at the floor, hoping for a compliment. 

"What. Are. You. Wearing." It was not a question, it was a demand. Every word was punctuated with a growl. Shocked, I looked up at him. "What the HELL do you think you are doing." His voice was low and angry, angrier than I'd ever heard him before. 

"I - I don't understand," I stuttered. Was the dress so atrocious on me? What had I done? He crossed the room in three giant strides and was in front of me before I could even think.

"This was the dress my wife wore when we danced together the night of our wedding. How dare you! What were you thinking!?"

"Please, my lord, I'm so sorry, I didn't know... please," I sobbed, genuinely scared. He was so angry. How could Mrs. Delvers do this to me? She had to have known. 

"Take it off! Now! Take it off!" I turned to flee the room, but apparently that wasn't fast enough for Lord August. "Now!" he demanded again, and his hand reached out, grabbed the straps, and ripped. Rip, rip, rip, he continued, my body jerked left and right as he removed the offending clothing. Within a minute I was standing half naked in the middle of the dining room, the tattered remains of my undergarments hanging loosely from my frame, and the once beautiful dress in bedraggled piles around me. I couldn't help myself, tears welled up in my eyes. With a cry, I ran from the room, not caring if the servants saw me in my indecent state, only desiring to reach my room and hide. 

"Belle!" He called after me. "Belle!" I heard his footsteps, and I quickened my pace, as if I could escape the inevitable. What more could he possibly want from me, after he'd ruined what could have been a lovely evening? Tears blinded me and I tripped and fell to the ground. I glanced behind me to see Lord August running up the stairs behind me, and I launched myself upwards into a standing position, foolishly trying to outrun him. "Belle!" His voice was furious, and I put on extra speed, reaching the doors of my room just seconds before him. I slammed them closed behind me and dashed to the far side of the bed, desperate to put something between me and him. He crashed through the doors as if they were nothing, and I screamed. 

"I've told you not to run from me," he hissed, crossing the room. I pressed myself against the wall next to the bed, willing myself smaller, as if that could hide me. With one swift movement, his hands grabbed my waist and threw me onto the bed, face down. I tried to squirm away, but he held me down with one hand, while his other tore at my corset laces. In mere moments what was left of it fell away, and he rolled me roughly onto my back. "This is one night you won't be running away," his voice was dark and menacing. He produced the corset string and drew a knife from his boot, slicing it in half. Grabbing my wrists, he lashed one of the strings tightly around it, securing the other end to the bed post. As I struggled to free my hand, he did the same to the other wrist. I tugged in vain with my arms, desperate to break free. I was well and truly trapped, there would be no escaping. Lord August's eyes were locked on my breasts, which jostled left and right with my efforts to escape the bindings. Conscious of his eyes on me, I stilled. 

"Please... no." I whispered. I had to get through to him. My pleas fell on deaf ears, as his hands were suddenly on my underwear, tugging it down, and I was left completely naked and helpless on the bed. For a moment he simply took in the spectacle, his eyes roving up and down my unclothed body. I couldn't even find the words to speak to him. I'd never felt so exposed and vulnerable. I made a half-hearted tug with my wrist again, beginning to accept that I was completely at Lord August's mercy. He swung his leg over me, his massive form now seated atop me. Perhaps he'd realize what he was doing. Perhaps he'll stop, I thought. He bent down, and his mouth found my nipple. The sensation shot through me, radiating out in tingles that reached from my nipple to the area between my legs. His rough face rasped against the soft skin of my torso. He continued suckling my nipple, rolling it in his mouth and ever so gently biting it. I inhaled sharply, fighting the urge to arch my back into him.

Surely no decent girl would ever find this pleasing. I should be begging him to stop, yet the only thing coming out of my lips was a shaky sigh as his hand found my most sensitive part and his thumb began to rub small, delicious circles. I'd never felt anything like this before. I bit back a moan. What was wrong with me? What was I doing? His teeth were softly nibbling me again and I tilted my head back, my body moving of its own accord and pressing my breast upward, just as his finger slipped inside me - inside me! I could feel those muscles tightening and squeezing his finger as he slowly slid it out, and then back in again.

"Ohh.." I couldn't hold back. My hips pressed my sex against his hand. Lord August lifted his head and gazed into my eyes without saying a word as he slipped a second finger inside me. The feeling intensified, and I moaned my pleasure. My body was on fire with the sensations, my bound wrists and everything else forgotten as he moved his fingers. I'd never realized how empty I felt without them. To my dismay, he withdrew them and rolled off of me. I wanted to beg him to continue. He moved further down the bed, and kneeled between my legs. What was he doing? He leaned down and suddenly his head was between my legs and then... his tongue was on me. I was nearly up off the bed at the touch. If his thumb and fingers had been pleasurable before, they were nothing compared to this. His tongue lapped broad strokes at my inner folds, and just when I thought I'd grown accustomed to the feeling, he intensified it by slipping his fingers inside me again. 

Strange, guttural noises were coming from my throat, and my pelvis seemed to have a life of its own, bucking and jerking against his face. The feelings seemed to be building toward something, but I didn't know what, only that I felt I should die if he stopped now. My legs wrapped themselves around his head and shoulders as if to draw him in further and prevent his escape. He was doing strange things with his tongue, as if he were tracing something onto my intimate area, but it felt amazing. Every swirl of his tongue seemed to take me to new heights, and the feeling kept building, and building till suddenly it crested and pleasure washed over me, like water breaking from a dam. I may have screamed, I know something came from my throat, but I couldn't focus on anything but the waves of intense pleasure. As they slowed, my body twitched and jumped, my legs shaking around Lord August's head as he slowed his ministrations, then stopped. He raised his gaze to meet mine, a queer half smile on his face. 

He crawled upward then, resting his pelvis over mine, and as he pressed downward, I could feel the hardness of him through his trousers. My body seemed to know what to do, and my legs fell open wantonly as I pushed back against his rigid length. At that moment I didn't care about anything but the pleasure. I imagined him driving that hardness into me, and desire swept over me. My legs curled around his middle, pulling him yet closer to me.

"Belle..." he groaned, slowly rubbing himself up and down against me. 

"My lord..." I didn't know how to put into words what I wanted. He stiffened at my words. 

"You don't even know me." He pulled back, and my body cried out over the loss. He slid off the side of the bed. "I shouldn't have put you in such a position. I'm sorry, Belle." he turned to the door, and I ached with unfulfilled needs. 

"Wait, please..." I couldn't finish, couldn't say what I wanted. To my relief he turned and came back to the bed. My hips practically lifted off the bed in anticipation, but apparently he thought I'd only meant the bindings, for he produced the small knife from his boot and slashed through the ties that had held me. He paused at the doors to bid me goodnight and then he was gone. 

I lay naked on the bed, frustrated, wanting things I didn't understand. Aware of my unclothed body, I climbed under the mussed bed covers. I was confused at the torrent of feelings. Part of me was disgusted with what had just happened. I'd never dreamed of a man doing THAT to anyone, let alone me. At their peak, my romantic fantasies had topped out with intense kissing and then retreating behind closed doors with a husband to perform my wifely duty. Though I'd heard the servant girls giggle and swoon over their bed mates when they thought I wasn't around, I'd never bothered too much about it myself. I was capable of recognizing and appreciating a handsome man, but this longing, this... lust, was new to me. Was I no better than a common peasant after all, willing to couple with abandon with any man who looked my way? I'd understood the basics of it before, the man coming to his wife's bed and "climbing on top and huffing and puffing and generally making you uncomfortable," as my old governess had educated me. She'd told me it was best to lie back and think of the children that would come from the unpleasantness, for children were the best thing. I'd expected an arranged marriage to a suitable man of fortune, who would be pleased to accept my sizable dowry and hopefully treat me well while I produced an heir for him. I'd never dreamed of the gratification waiting behind those closed doors.

The thought that I still had much left to experience made me squirm with excitement and nervousness. I was still a maiden, for we had not been joined in the way a man takes his wife. The aching, emptiness I'd felt when he'd pressed his masculinity on me was enough to make me believe that it could feel just as good as his other activities had. I allowed myself for a moment to imagine Lord August, unclothed atop me, driving deep into me as I ran my hands up his muscular arms. Imagined him whispering my name and tender loving words... The thought drew me from my reverie. He'd drawn back when I'd addressed him by his title. Surely he couldn't expect me to call him by his given name, even in such unusual circumstances? Every ounce of propriety in me rebelled against the idea, even if I had known what his name was. I wondered what his wife had called him in bed. In spite of being alone, I blushed, feeling indecent imagining a couple at their most intimate. Then again, everything that had happened this evening had been indecent. 

I laughed a little at myself then. What was I doing anyway, getting caught up in those thoughts? I'd probably fallen far in Lord August's esteem now. To him I must seem a common trollop, to welcome him in my bed that way. No doubt if he saw me now, it would be with derision and disgust. It was expected of men to be somewhat wicked, but a lady of character would never lose her composure or control as I had. Even if he might have looked at me with desire before, my shameless behavior would put him off now. Perhaps he would even send me home,quietly aware that I would never be able to come to a husband's bed with the girlish naivete I'd once had. At what point did a woman become damaged goods? I doubted any husband would be tempted by one compromised as I had been, though my maidenhead was still intact. Then again, I doubted Lord August would be bothered to tell anyone, and I certainly would keep it secret. Conceivably, there was still every chance of me making as fine a match as my station would allow. 

It was all too much to think about. I would know soon whether Lord August would send me away, and in the meantime there was no use in fretting. So I told myself, but nevertheless I slept very poorly, waking often and longing for him to return to my bed. 

In the morning I lingered long over my dresses. What had my life disintegrated to, that garment choices took so much of my time now? I suppose when there is little else to do, the smallest things take on new meaning. Would I still find as much pleasure in dressing for breakfast or dinner when it was always the same few dresses, turned and then turned again? I doubted it. I would miss the afternoon rides, and the quiet mornings in the rose garden. At home the gardens were productive, but not beautiful, which somehow seemed to make the work easier. It is difficult to regard a squash with much enthusiasm. With one last look in the mirror, I picked up the hem of the sapphire blue dress and made my way downstairs. The neckline was slightly immodest for the time of day, but I supposed at this point in my disgrace in made no difference. 

Lord August was there, as expected. I took my usual spot, anticipating at any moment he would stop me and inform me that my services were no longer needed. He offered me nothing but a good morning, and carried on with breakfast as if nothing was amiss. I was too nervous for food, and settled for breaking my fast with a cup of tea. I glanced up at him, but he seemed engrossed in his toast. Should I bring up my departure, or hope against hope that he still wanted me with him? I decided it would be impertinent of me to broach the topic myself, as if I had any say in it. I must have been staring, for he looked up at me, one eyebrow quirked as if to ask what I was looking at. I blushed and looked down at my food, biting into a wedge of toast without tasting it. Lord August rose from his seat. 

"I'll see you for our afternoon ride," he said.

"Of course, my lord," I replied. His mouth twitched at the 'my lord' but he said nothing, simply nodded and left the room. I scarcely know how I spent the rest of the morning, so focused was I on the afternoon with Lord August. My hands bore the result of my preoccupation in the form of half a dozen thorn pricks. Browne chided me for my carelessness, and insisted I take the rest of the morning off. I spent the hours in my room, a book in my hand that I couldn't pay attention to. Time dragged by, but eventually I changed and walked to the stables. Lord August was trotting Blitz around the courtyard and demanded I hurry and catch up. Jasper was saddled and ready for me, and I climbed up with minimal help from the page boy, and we were soon apace with his lordship. We rode comfortably to the edge of the forest again, and as before Lord August proposed a race. My heart leapt, recalling how our last race had ended, and I readily agreed. 

"What's a race without a wager?" asked Lord August, slyly grinning. He looked devilishly handsome, and I longed to reach up and cup his face in my hands. "Now, let's see, if I win, what will you give me? Something... personal?" My heart skipped a beat. What did he mean? Was he suggesting that I wager my virginity? My face must have shown my concern, for he heaved an exasperated sigh and said, "A kiss, Belle. If I win, you'll give me a kiss." I felt relieved and disappointed and excited all at the same time. 

"Agreed," I said. "And if I win?"

"What would you like? Jewels? A fine tiara?" The last part he spit out bitterly. I didn't understand the resentment, for my desires were far less material. 

"I - I'd like to write my family, and have a letter delivered, if that's not too much trouble."

"Belle." He looked guilty, and reached out to hold my face. "Despite what you may believe, I am not a monster. You could write your family at any time, you don't need to ask permission or place a bet to do so." His scars furrowed as his face knit into an expression of concern. "Are you very miserable here?"

"No my lord, not at all. Only, I miss them sometimes. If I could write to them, it would help, I think."

"Write them today. I shall see to it they receive it."

"Thank you," I whispered, trying not to cry. A tear escaped my eye anyway.

"Here now, none of that!" He gently wiped his thumb across my face, removing the tear. He leaned in and kissed my cheek, once, twice, three times, tracing the salty track of the tear. "You shall write to your family whenever you like, and any letters they have for you will be delivered as well." I smiled my thanks. "Now. Nothing like a brisk race to lighten the mood. Off you go, Blitz and I will give you the head start." He removed his hand from my face and slapped Jasper on the rump, setting him off at an ungainly gait that nearly jostled me from the saddle. I quickly found my balance again, and leaned over Jasper, urging him onward. I wanted to win, though we'd not yet agreed what my prize would be if I did. I wondered what I should ask for. To be tied to the bed again? I quickly turned my thoughts away from that, trying to focus on the race. The wind stung my cheeks, and Jasper and I flew over the ground, the stables drawing closer. I was dimly aware of the footfalls of Blitz behind us, and I felt a thrill at the thought of Lord August gaining ground. I wanted to win, yes, but I would happily part with a kiss.




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 03



Poor Jasper never stood a chance. Blitz flew by him like lighting, Lord August triumphant as they passed. He reached the stables and swung down to the ground. Moments later Jasper and I reached it, and as we slowed, Lord August grabbed Jasper's reins, bringing him to a stop. He grinned up at me. 

"I seem to have won," he said. His hands were about my waist and he was lifting me off of Jasper. My arms went about his shoulders and he held my legs up with one hand, and my waist with another. Our faces were mere inches apart. "Now to claim my prize," he murmured softly, and our lips met. His tongue slid gently into my mouth, swirling and teasing mine. I kissed him back, eager for more, and he tenderly sucked my bottom lip, giving the softest hint of teeth as he lightly bit down. My hands were clinging to his neck, the scarred portion strangely smooth beneath my fingers. He stepped forward, carrying me into the stable. 

The dark of the stable made it impossible to see for a moment, after the brightness of outside. I hoped the page boy was nowhere near, but couldn't see for sure. Swiftly he turned us to the wall, and in one deft maneuver he had my back against it and my legs up and about his waist. He was hard and warm between my legs. 

"Oh, Belle," he said, burying his face in my neck and trailing kisses down to my shoulder blade. I arched and leaned into it, my legs wrapping ever tighter around him. He groaned and pressed his length against me, grinding it into my pelvic bone. His hands were tight under my thighs, and he squeezed them, his fingers digging into my soft flesh. Leaning even closer, he used his body weight to trap me between the wall and him, freeing his hand to delve deeper under my skirt and touch me at my core. Even through the undergarments I could feel the heat from his hand, his fingers stroking up and down as I angled myself to give him better access. His hand worked tirelessly to get closer, and he managed to tweak the underwear to the side and touch my flesh. I was surprised at how damp it was, and he was able to slide his fingers inside me with no resistance. I whimpered with bliss. He worked them in and out of me, gently at first, then faster and harder. My breathing was heavy, little whining sounds escaping without my bidding. 

"Call me Adam" said Lord August. "Oh Belle, Belle." He was throbbing against my thigh, and I ached for him. I hesitantly reached a hand down and cupped him through his trousers. His grunt of pleasure told me it was the right thing to do, and I began to stroke him up and down as he'd done to me. He inhaled sharply, and I paused, unsure if I'd done something wrong, but then he began to rub his hardness up and down my open palm and I resumed the action. His hand left my inner thighs, much to my dismay, then was on his breeches, unlacing them swiftly and then his bare member was in my hand, warm and stiff. I stroked up and down, gripping it firmly, and I could tell from the way he leaned into it with his eyes closed he was enjoying it. I felt satisfied with myself for being responsible for his pleasure. After a minute he shoved my hand aside, and then he was at my entrance, large and solid and questing. 

"Adam, please... not here." I was so ready for him, I felt empty and incomplete, eager to have him inside me, but I was so conscious of our surroundings. At any moment the page boy might appear to round up the lost horses and intrude upon us in the stable. I cringed at the thought of being seen like this. It was bad enough I was behaving like a strumpet, but to be witnessed in such a position would be the final straw. 

He growled and pressed against me again. 

"Please, not here!" I begged. He pressed harder, the girth of his shaft providing the only resistance, and I panicked. "Stop!" I cried, and beat my arms against his chest. His face was determined and I thought he would keep going, but then something flipped, the intensity in his eyes disappeared, and he withdrew, slowly letting me slide to the floor until I was on my feet again. My womanhood was dripping and felt hollow and unfulfilled. Adam - or Lord August, I wasn't sure if the invitation to be so informal extended beyond the times of physical pleasure - nodded and seemed to gather himself, though he appeared to be on edge. 

"Not here," he agreed. "But soon." He left me alone in the stables, ashamed and lustful and confused.

I made my way back inside, my head dizzy with thoughts. Did Adam's continued interest mean he hadn't lost regard for me, or merely that he wanted to see this thing through to completion and once he had my maidenhead he'd have nothing more to do with me? I allowed myself to fantasize about a continued life with him, one where he wanted me by his side always. It was a foolish daydream, I knew, but just permitting myself to think about it gave me a small smidgeon of hope. He was a great lord and even when we'd had money such a match would have been a stretch. Now we were little better than peasants. Farmers, at best. Was I completely wrong to hope? I couldn't believe that a man who showed such a gentle playful nature at times was all hard to the core. Then again, even if he had a softer temperament underneath, he might still be grieving for his wife too much to look to the long term. I might be merely a distraction from his sorrow, one of whom he was fond, but not overly attached. 

Could I go on like this? One more encounter like today and I would doubtless be compromised, a fallen woman. Could I really live with myself after that? It would be a wonderful time, no doubt, but when it was over, and I was forever tainted, would the joyous memory of our time together be enough? Could you put a price on sexual pleasure, and if you could, did that price have to be my future? I spent most of the afternoon mulling over it, and before I went downstairs for dinner, I'd made up my mind.



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 04



I wore a tight-fitting gown of plush scarlet to dinner, an appropriate color for me of late, I thought. I greeted Adam warmly as I entered the room, and then we were silent as Mrs. Delvers poured us each a glass of wine, nearly the same color as my dress. I took a large gulp to bolster my courage. No point in waiting around all night, I might as well say what I'd come to say. I cleared my throat. 

"I wondered, my lord, if we might discuss my sentence of service. I have labored in your gardens for almost two months now, and surely the price of one rose must be near to being paid off. I wish to know how much longer I am expected to stay." 

"Your sentence of service? It shall be as long as your lord commands it!" He rose from his seat, clearly irritated.

"If you please, my lord, even an indentured servant is given a set limit. By all rights I should have been informed of it before I began." My voice quavered slightly, and my hands shook, but I stayed my ground. I could not, would not, become Adam's plaything, despoiling myself for a future husband. My head had been turned by this handsome giant of a man, but it would end now. I owed myself that much. 

"Indentured servant?" His mouth hung open. "Have you been treated so cruelly? Have I not fed you from my own table, given you fine garments to wear, and entertainments to pass your day? Has the easy work in the garden been too taxing for you?" His sarcasm was palpable. "Do not pretend this is about the night on your bed, or today in the stable. Your body would make a liar of you if you say you did not want it." I flushed with shame, and he crossed the room to me, kneeling by my chair as I sat. 

"Please, I cannot..." I began, but was too embarrassed to deny that he was right. It was true, my body wanted, but my mind was firmly against it. For my own self-preservation, I had to be strong, and remove myself from this situation. 

"Belle," he said softly, taking my hand in his. "You would leave me?" His voice was strained, almost hoarse, and I looked up to see genuine sadness on his face. 

"My lord, I must maintain my integrity! You have such an effect on me as makes it nearly impossible to do so. How can I have a future with another man if I give everything to you? You cannot tell me it doesn't matter, you know it does! Should I sacrifice everything to bring you - and me, yes - a moment of fleeting pleasure? Would you ask this of another girl, not bound to your house and to serve you? How can you ask me to give up a future for an afternoon or an evening with you? Please, my lord, you must see the practical side of this." 

He sat back on his heels, his face registering a look of surprise. 

"This is what concerns you? Belle, my Belle, my beautiful Belle..." His voice trailed off as he raised a hand to my face, softly caressing it with the back of his hand. Despite myself, I leaned into it, adoring the display of affection. 

"I would never have cast you aside. What you must think of me... I cannot apologize enough for my behavior. The sight of you, the very smell of you, drives me mad. From the moment you came here, so scared and sweet and nobly protecting your father, you've bewitched me. The feelings you've brought back to my life, Belle, I thought were long gone. I was in the dark, and you brought the light. You ARE my light." He brought my hand to his lips, placing a kiss in my open palm and holding it against his face. "I didn't know how bleak my life was, till you came. Please Belle, please don't leave me now."

"But - but -" I sputtered. My head was spinning. Could this be true? 

"What? What reservations could you have left? Your honor? Your integrity? Marry me. Marry me and be mine forever, Belle. I'll make a respectable woman of you. I couldn't bear the thought of another man taking you. You are mine, always."

Marry him? My heart leapt, but my head was still reeling. Feelings of joy mixed with disbelief. Was he jesting with me? Perhaps this was an elaborate ploy to get me to bed after all. How could a great lord like he possibly be intrigued by a plain girl like me? For that matter, surely he couldn't marry a commoner. There had to be rules and restrictions against that sort of thing. I had no title, barely a penny to my name. There would doubtless be an uproar among the wealthy citizens, or his fellow lords and ladies. 

If he truly held such feelings for me, why had he said nothing before? I'd never seen any indication that his intentions spanned beyond the purely physical, and pleasurable as that was, it was not a serious commitment. He was so mysterious, always giving me only a taste of an answer before pulling back. How could I marry this man, a man I hardly knew? And yet - how could I marry anyone else? My body responded to him, yes, but my mind also did. The conversations we'd had about books, the laughing and the long rides spent talking about so many things had earned him esteem in my thoughts. Though I might try to deny it to myself, my heart also longed for him. It had latched on to his proposal as a drowning man latches to a raft. Could I break my own heart over the niggling hint of doubt in the back of my mind?

"I hardly know you." It was barely a whisper, but it was the closest I could come to voicing my inner turmoil. 

"Then learn to know me. Ask me anything Belle, and I will answer you now. I know I haven't been forthcoming, but I cannot lose you." Leaning in, he pressed a kiss to my forehead, and my resistance melted away a little more.

"Well..." I was reluctant to begin. He'd responded so poorly to my questions before. I had many, I was burning with them, but where to begin? "The greenhouse - you said you built it for your wife, but you never visit it. Why make such a fuss over the roses you never even bother to see?"

He sat back again with a small sigh. 

"Regina - my wife - loved roses. She had almost an obsession with them really, always insisting on great bunches of them being placed throughout her rooms, even wearing their scent. Before we were married, I was young and eager to impress. I was captivated by her. I wanted to make my bride the happiest she could be, so I built the greenhouse for her as a wedding gift, so she could have her beloved roses year-round." He paused to rub his forehead, no doubt thinking of his sorrow at her loss. Dropping his hand, he continued. "Before the wedding, I brought her there, and she adored it. After we were married, she would spend hours in that greenhouse, basking in the scent of roses till it permeated her very pores." He paused again, as if unsure how to proceed. 

"I keep the greenhouse, make sure it's taken care of, to remind me of her. I keep it so I never forget." His voice grew bitter. How tragic to have lost such a love! "I keep it to remind me, but I never visit because I can't bear it." 

I felt guilty for asking such painful questions, but I had to proceed. He'd promised to answer my questions now, and I might not get another chance. 

"What happened? How did she... die?" I winced as I said the word.

"Drowned. In the lake. She took her little rowboat out often. She liked to sit in the middle of the lake, in her boat, away from everyone else. She used to say that it was only when she was there, alone, that she was truly herself." He cast his eyes to the side and his voice took on a rehearsed quality. "One day her boat came in without her. It was drifting near the shore, empty, and the groundskeeper found it. We searched for days, but never found her body." 

I wondered how many times he'd had to tell the tragic story. He must distance himself from it emotionally, to remain so stoic.

"You are so curious about my wife," said Adam. "Come with me. I'll show you her room, and perhaps you will get a better picture of her. Perhaps I will be reminded of her as well, and my folly." His folly? He must mean being unable to find her body, or inability to save her. I longed to comfort him, to tell him he mustn't blame himself, but right now I had to focus on the answers he was providing, and the offer to visit her room. 

I couldn't tell him that Mr. Delvers had shown me the room already, not now when he was being so forthcoming and open, so I merely nodded and stood. If he wanted to show me the room, I would follow, and try to see it through fresh eyes. Surely seeing it through the eyes of the man who loved her would be different than the eerie, near worship of Regina shown by Mrs. Delvers. 

He took my hand and placed it in the crook of his arm, and led the way to her room. I let him guide me, giving no indication I knew where we were headed in terms of direction. Despite my misgivings about his motivations, I savored the intimate contact. His other hand was placed warmly over mine, his thumb gently tracing absent-minded circles over it. He held my hand close to his body, so it brushed against his massive ribcage with every step, reminding me of other times when our bodies had been so close. I quickly turned my thoughts from that course. Now was not the time. 

Adam seemed pensive as we mounted the stairs, not looking at me or saying anything. I left him to his own thoughts, as my head was quite full enough on my own. Lady August. He wanted me to be his wife, to be a proper Lady. He'd asked me to be mistress of this castle, of the land, and yet all I could do was ask about his late wife. Was something wrong with me? Before I knew it, we had arrived at the doors of Regina's room. Adam drew in a deep breath, then cast the doors open and led me over the threshold.

The room was exactly as I'd remembered, of course, as Mrs. Delvers would never let anything stray out of place. Adam seemed frozen with shock, and I remembered that Mrs. Delvers had said he hadn't come into Regina's room since her death. It was different, being here with him. I tried to imagine how he must see it. There, a gown his wife had worn, here, the hairbrush she'd used every night. Perhaps he'd brushed her hair for her when he'd come to her room. I could imagine the two of them, cozy and laughing together as they prepared to share their marriage bed, and grew jealous. It was silly to be jealous of a dead woman, but there it was. I began to realize the depth of my feelings for Adam. How could I ever leave him, even if he wasn't sincere in his offer of marriage? My heart told me to trust him, to believe the best. This woman, Regina, could have no effect on me now, for Lord August was now mine.

Curiosity still burned within me, even though I wanted to dismiss her from my mind. I stepped forward and admired her fine bed covering again. The roses were so intricately designed, each petal seemed to stand out apart from the others. The gold threads still glistened and I reached out a hand to stroke them. Though I willed myself not to think about it, I couldn't help but wonder how many times Regina and Adam had coupled together upon this very bed. I tried to push the thought aside, but it persisted, my insecurities surfacing yet again. She must have been very beautiful to have been so universally admired. I thought with dismay of my own rather plain appearance. Did Adam compare us and find me wanting? Running my fingers over the lovely bed cover again I sighed.

"What is it, Belle?" Adam was behind me, his hands coming to rest upon my shoulders and pulling me into his chest.

"How can you even consider me?" My heart felt as if it were strained, too small and tight inside my chest. "How could I ever compare? Do you really think you might one day love me, as you loved her?"

His fingers tightened on my shoulder, and he spun me around to face him. His expression was inscrutable; I could not read it. He gazed into my eyes as if searching for something.

"Loved her? You thought I loved her?" Confused, I could only stare back at him. What did he mean?

"I hated her." 

My heart thudded harshly against my chest.

"I hated her, with every bit of me, I hated her."

My confusion must have shown on my face.

"Oh, I was infatuated with her in the beginning. She charmed and deceived me as she did everyone. She wanted my wealth, my title, my power... but she never wanted me. On the night of our wedding, she laughed in my face as she crowed her victory. Her triumph over me was only surpassed by her triumph over this realm. She loved the power, the adulation. I was saddled with this wretched woman, this ersatz wife. She was never mine, had never been mine. Regina was forever laughing at me as she ran away from me. I tried to woo her even then, even after I learned how I had been deceived, but she would run."

I felt nearly faint from the shock of this revelation. He'd HATED her? 

"She was never truly a wife to me, though she promised to give that impression to the world so long as I gave her what she wanted. Money. Power. Jewels. That damned tiara." He gestured to her dressing table, where there was indeed a beautiful, elegant tiara that had somehow escaped my notice before. "She'd wear that thing to every function, no doubt imagining herself a queen rather than a mere Lady of the realm." He spat out his words with contempt. There was no denying the hatred in his voice. I could hardly comprehend it all; everything I had thought had been wrong, so wrong. 

"Say something, Belle," he pleaded.

"I - I hardly know what to say, my lord."

"Adam," he corrected me. "Please."

"Adam," I amended. "You hated her?" Of course he'd already said this, but I needed confirmation.

"Yes. I hated her. She was a horrid woman Belle, nothing like you." He reached out and ran a hand through my hair. "Must we speak more of her? I'd much rather focus on you." His hand held my hair aside as he brought his lips to my neck, placing gentle kisses on it. 

"Please, Adam, I have to know." I ducked out from his embrace. "Did you have anything to do with her death?" His hatred of her was so deep and obvious now. I hated to ask the question, but I had to know. If he'd hated her as much as he'd said, what was to stop him from getting rid of her? For that matter, what would stop him from getting rid of me if he grew tired of me?

Adam froze, his face an expression of horror.

"You think I killed Regina?"

"I don't know, only I had to ask..."

"Of course you would. I've shown you nothing but the darkest side of me. If I can't control my lust around you, why should I have been able to control my rage around her, is that your thought?"

"No! Well, yes. Maybe." I looked up at him fearfully. He snorted in derision.

"Of course, I'm just a monster." His hand reached out and cruelly twisted my breast, causing me to cry out. "No mercy from me, Belle, remember I'm a monster." His mouth was on mine, harsh and plundering, seeking to violate not give pleasure. 

"Mmpf!" I tried to give voice to my fear and objections. He pulled back, but only temporarily, then he was pushing me onto Regina's bed. 

"Hush, surely you can have no objections when you choose to stay around such a creature!" His hands were pulling up my skirt, and I tried to shove it back down. He grabbed my wrists in one hand and held them above my head, flattening my arms against the bed. His hands tugged my skirts upward, then dove in, tearing my undergarments down till he could shove a finger inside me. "Is this what you were expecting?" His voice was harsh, the pain obvious. Removing his hand, he ground his pelvis against me, his semi-hard erection rubbing against my mound. I couldn't bear to see him like this. I turned my head, clamping my lips together and squeezing my eyes shut. 

Was this my fault for provoking him? Why could he be so gentle one moment and this violent, demanding attacker the next? I knew it must somehow tie in with his hatred of Regina, but he was always telling me how different we were, so why should I bear the brunt of her punishment? She'd run from him out of malice and spite, I only ran from genuine fear, a fear that he himself compounded with his actions. Could he not separate the two of us? How could I love a man who would use me in such a way? Wait - love? The attraction was there, I knew I had grown very fond of Adam, but love? My heart told me it was true, even as my mind screamed against it, urging me to come to my senses. Love the man who was even now holding my skirts up and preparing to use me for his pleasure? I didn't know how it was possible, but it was undeniable.

"Belle, please. Please tell me to stop." His voice was earnest, begging. My body betrayed the hurt in my heart by angling my sex toward him, and some detached part of me marveled at how the circumstances didn't seem to matter, a lustful body wanted satisfaction no matter what. Perhaps in some respects I was as bad as Lord August was being right now. With that thought, my eyes and lips sprang open again. 

"Stop!" I cried. "Adam please... I love you." He drew back sharply at my words. He paused, staring down at me, as if amazed. A hoarse cry tore from his throat, and then his lips were on mine again, not violent and harsh as they had been moments ago, but hungry and pleading. He kissed me long and hard, his hardness pressing into me. I started to become aroused from the prolonged contact, my hands caressing his body up and down, my lips just as hot and eager beneath his. 

"Belle, say you'll marry me. Say it." His lips were warm on my neck, kissing and sucking and nipping me tenderly. "Say it," he repeated, his hands finding my nipples and tracing delicious circles.

"Yes!" I cried out. "But please... if we are to be married, then let me... wait." I didn't have to elaborate, he knew immediately what I meant, realization dawning swiftly in his eyes. He groaned a little, pressing his hard length into me and burying his face in my neck again.

"If that's what you want. It might kill me to wait, but for you I will." He resurfaced and gave me a one of his charming smiles, his eyes more alight than I'd seen in some time. He squeezed my breast one last time and then rolled off me, staring at the ceiling.

"We'll be married as soon as possible. I'm sure I can make all the necessary arrangements by next week. It's not so long to wait, I suppose, not since we've made it this far." He was still grinning at me, and I reached out a hand, caressing his scarred face. I felt strangely, intimately possessive of him already, and I returned his smile. I thought I might die from happiness. Perhaps I could tame this beastly side of him after all. 

"Lord August! Lord August!" Mrs. Delvers was calling from somewhere in the castle. Adam groaned. 

"What does that old bat want?" he grumbled, but he rose from the bed, extending a hand to help me up as well. 

"We'd better go see, or we'll never get a moment's peace," he said, as her calls continued. He waved me ahead of him. "After you, my lady." I flushed with pleasure and embarrassment at the gesture and title, but stepped ahead anyway. He took my hand as we left the room, and we encountered Mrs. Delvers on one of the staircases. 

"Sir! My Lord! In the Great Hall, my lord!" Her face was red and shiny from the force of her exertions, and I wondered how fast she'd come running for him, and what had caused her to get so worked up. Adam exchanged an amused look with me over her frantic gasping, but he followed her as she led the way back the Great Hall. As we entered, I saw  her  immediately.

She was a tall woman, beautiful with long dark curls cascading down her back. Her dress was of gossamer white lace, the hem embroidered with roses. Her mouth was quirked up in a half smile, one brow arched as if she were asking a question, or possibly daring someone to tell her she didn't belong. No one could have said that to this woman; her natural aura of grace and confidence was unmistakable. I turned to look at Adam, and his face had gone deathly white, his hand clamping down hard on mine. He looked as if he'd seen a ghost, and as he spoke, I realized how appropriate that was. He stared at the beautiful woman and uttered a single word.




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 04



"Regina."

*

*

*

 I know, terrible place to end it. the good news is, Chapter 5 is ready to go and I promise to submit it the night after this one so you shouldn't have long to wait. And for those of you who might be thinking 'hey this story is similar to Rebecca!', well you are correct! However the resemblance is intentional, declared in the opening of the story, and I am fully aware of it. Thanks for reading, hope you enjoyed this installment. :)



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 05



 We're picking up right where we left off, so to recap:

As we entered, I saw HER immediately.

She was a tall woman, beautiful with long dark curls cascading down her back. Her dress was of gossamer white lace, the hem embroidered with roses. Her mouth was quirked up in a half smile, one brow arched as if she were asking a question, or possibly daring someone to tell her she didn't belong. No one could have said that to this woman; her natural aura of grace and confidence was unmistakable. I turned to look at Adam, and his face had gone deathly white, his hand clamping down hard on mine. He looked as if he'd seen a ghost, and as he spoke, I realized how appropriate that was. He stared at the beautiful woman and uttered a single word.

"Regina."

*****

"Regina, what the hell are you doing here?" Adam dropped my arm and strode across the room to the woman. "You promised never to come back! You swore to me!" He was fuming, his face red with rage.

The woman - Regina? - smiled. 

"I've changed my mind, Adam darling." She spoke with a little tinkling laugh, as if the whole thing was just far too amusing. 

My heart was hammering against my ribcage; my head felt light and dizzy. Regina was dead, she was dead, so who was this woman?

"Damn it, Regina, you SWORE!" Adam grabbed her shoulder roughly, but she shook his hand off. 

"Hands off, you beast! Lest you've forgotten, I am still your wife by law, and a proper lady! I'll thank you to treat me with the respect such a position commands." Her head gave a haughty little toss, and she looked my way for the first time. "What's this then, a dalliance with a servant girl? How trite. Adam darling, you could do better." She laughed dismissively, and my heart sank in my chest. What was going on? How could this woman be Regina?

"Ignore her, Belle," said Adam to me. Of course it was impossible for that to happen. My brain buzzed with questions, but my confusion silenced me. "Why have you come back?" he asked Regina. "Surely your gardener can't have grown tired of you already." Gardener? What was going on? Regina turned to Mrs. Delvers and indicated her trunks.

"Del, darling, won't you bring these up to my room? His lordship and I will be finishing our conversation there, in privacy." She cast a glance in my direction as she spoke, and then swept from the room in a cloud of rose scent. "Come join me when you get rid of the little scullery maid," she said to Adam at the door, then continued upstairs. 

"Belle," he turned to me. His expression was pleading.

"I don't understand," I said thickly. "Your wife is dead."

"Sit down," he said, gesturing toward the settee. "I'll explain as best I can." Obediently I sat, and Lord August sat beside me, taking my hand into his lap and holding it.

"Regina never loved me, as I've told you. I didn't think she was capable of love. We had an agreement though, that she would act the part so long as I gave her what she wanted, and I would be spared the humiliation of divorce. The people would never have the same respect for their lord if I were to go against the church and divorce her, do you understand?" I nodded, though I wasn't sure I did. He continued, "Our arrangement worked well for a few years, if she had affairs she was discreet about them, and no one ever suspected we were anything less than perfectly happy in our marriage. Then the unthinkable happened: Regina fell in love.

"Not with me, of course, but with a common gardener. She'd invite him to her bed, they coupled on the grounds, everywhere. I knew about it but dismissed it, thinking she would tire of him soon as she did everyone else. She became careless, putting herself in positions where she might get caught. Eventually I approached her about it. She laughed in my face, told me she loved him. She wanted to leave with him, to live far away from me and be truly happy in her love. I couldn't let her flaunt her affair so publicly, though my heart ached to be rid of her. We plotted a story, and she agreed to it: we would fake her death. In return for my helping her and giving her money to start her new life, she swore she would never return, and would live far away under an assumed name to relieve suspicion. 

"She left in the middle of the night, and her lover and I sent her little boat out, setting up the scene of her 'death'. It worked perfectly, even Mrs. Delvers didn't suspect the ruse. She left and I haven't heard from her in years. I don't know why she's come back now, unless she's run out of money or simply grown tired of her gardener, finally. I'll find a way to get rid of her, and things can go on as planned. This changes nothing, Belle."

"Things cannot go on as planned," I objected. My mind was muddled from the events of the evening but on one thing I was perfectly clear. "You're still married to her! I cannot marry another woman's husband! You've deceived me so cruelly." My eyes were filling with tears despite my best efforts. How foolish I had been! 

"No, Belle, She has never been a wife to me, and I am sure she does not mean to be one now. You are the one I want by my side, the one I need," his voice was urgent, his eyes boring into mine. "Only a small piece of paper declares she and I bound, but never our actions, and this," he raised my hand to his chest, placing it over his heart, "Belongs to you." I was moved by his words, but I could not give in. 

"No," I whispered. "Your heart may be yours to give at will, but your hand in marriage is not." I withdrew my hand from his, though it broke my heart to do so. "I'm sorry."

Lord August stared into the fire. 

"I am a fool," he said.

"Please, I have to go," I pleaded. "I cannot stay here." He said nothing, but continued staring into the fire. The urge to escape was overwhelming, and I made to turn to my room, but reconsidered. Why should I stay here? How could I stay here? In a few hours, the situation had changed so drastically. I could not remain in this castle with his wife. I had brought nothing with me when I'd come to the castle, save my clothes, and those were long gone. There was nothing to stop me from leaving right now. The dress I had on was ill-suited for traveling, but I didn't care at that moment. Instead of walking to the stairs, I walked to the great doors, turning to look at Adam - Lord August - one last time. 

"Goodbye." I whispered, then opened the door and walked outside. I closed the doors firmly, leaving him still sitting and staring. Some small part of me hoped he'd come running after me as he usually did when I left him, but I walked ahead firmly, my head held high and not looking back. He didn't follow.

*

My family welcomed me home with surprise and cheer, happy to see their daughter and sister home again. I am sure my somber mood seemed strange to them, given that I was finally home. They asked question after question about my time with Lord August, though they eventually stopped when they grew tired of my short answers. My father pulled me aside one day to ask, very evasively, if I had been ill-used by his lordship, but I assured him I had not, and that seemed to satisfy his curiosity. I didn't elaborate on the exact circumstances of our time together. I threw myself into the farm work, toiling dawn till dusk to distract my thoughts from what had almost been. After a time, our routines became settled again and life went on as it had before the great rose debacle. My heart was heavy and aching every day, but I put on a smile for them, and for the villagers. 

*

"We're getting new neighbors!" gasped Mary as she came dashing through the door one day. My sisters had loved gossip back in our old life, as once they settled into their new circumstances they were no different. Whether it was a ball or barn-raising, new ballgown or new broad mare, they enjoyed knowing what other people were up to. The house next to our little farm had been vacant since we'd moved in. "A family with a son - our age!" she elaborated. Margaret had been receiving special attention from the smith's apprentice and we were all assuming he'd ask for her hand as soon as he was able to open up his own forge. Mary had been rather keen of late to find her own suitor, flirting with and rejecting most of the lads in town save the merchant's son, who was already betrothed to a distant cousin. She spent much time mooning over their supposed love affair and how tragic it all was. Privately I suspected she didn't really care one way or another for the boy, but merely enjoyed painting herself the star-struck heroine of the story. It was harmless either way and we let her have her amusement.

"Good, about time that land was put to proper use." Father had taken to farming like a duck to water, and he often grumbled about the 'waste of fine, tillable soil' next door. "And perhaps one of my girls will catch this son's eye, hmm?" he smiled at Mary and I, though catching any lad's eye was the last thing on my mind. Mary giggled and flushed, apparently forgetting her one true love. Ever since Margaret had hinted she might be pursuing a more serious commitment with the smith's apprentice Father had taken it into his head that all three of his daughters should marry, and soon. It made sense; any girl who waited too long past her prime would swiftly be labeled an old maid, and any father would want to know his daughters would be taken care of should something happen to him.

Within the week our new neighbors appeared, and we sisters brought them a jar of our raspberry preserves to welcome them. They were a cheerful couple, obviously used to farm work, who had come from a smaller village and a smaller farm. They'd been successful there and hoped to be even more so here. Their son Gavin was a strapping young man, quick to smile and eager to escort us girls home when the time came. Margaret walked ahead contentedly, smiling the satisfied smile of one who's future was decided while Mary and I each took one of Gavin's arm at his insistence.

"I must be the luckiest man in town, a beautiful woman on each arm!" he declared jovially. Mary smiled and flushed and flirted, but to my dismay he seemed to focus more of his attention on me. I tried to discourage him with short answers.

"I hear you have been out traveling of late, Belle" he said. 

"Mmm." I nodded my head, but made no further response. My father and sisters had decided, after my abrupt departure, to give out word that I had gone to visit relatives rather than expose the true reason. 

"Anywhere interesting?" pursued Gavin. 

"Not particularly."

"It must be lovely to be back home again."

"Mmm."

After several more such exchanges, as our house drew in to sight, he appeared to give in and diverted his attention to the very willing Mary. She gaily trilled excited little responses to his questions, batting her lashes and clinging to his arm with both her hands. I wondered why I should be so reluctant to accept another man's attentions. Lord August was gone from my life. I could no more cling to that future than I could the blizzard's snow which had first entwined our fates. Like the snow, it had melted away. By all rights I should be looking for a suitable husband of my own, I did not wish to be a burden on my father. This Gavin was as suitable as any. He could not compare to my lord, no, but what man could?

"Do you ride, Gavin?" I asked, pulling his attention back to me. He latched on to the topic eagerly, his attentions wholly focused on me again, as Mary pouted. 

"I love to ride, but find it rather dull without company." He smiled at me, and I could almost forgive him for not being Lord August. He had a very winning smile. "Perhaps you might give me the pleasure of yours one afternoon?" 

"Perhaps," I said, dropping my eyes and imitating my sisters when they were being coy. I felt a fool, but perhaps with practice it would come more easily. We reached the door to our house and he managed to procure from me the promise of a ride two days hence before he left. Mary was giving me meaningful looks as we entered the house. 

"Well, well, aren't we friendly?" It was good-natured; she could never hold a grudge for long and Gavin had given her little encouragement other than his standard good manners. She raced off, presumably to fill in Margaret, while I retreated to the room we girls shared to mull over my feelings. 

I could not be a burden on my father. I could not marry the man I truly loved. There were no other options open to me but marriage to another or the convent, and I had never been particularly devout. I resolved to allow Gavin to court me, if that was his intention, and accept if he proposed. I realized I was quite probably getting ahead of myself and that an invitation to ride together was not a marriage engagement, but if nothing else I could use the practice at flirting with the opposite sex. Hopefully that was not too unfair to him. 

Time sped by quickly and soon it was the date and time of our appointed ride. As I readied myself I couldn't help but reminisce on the many hours I'd spent preparing myself for the daily rides with Lord August. Of course, I had no fineries to change into here, nor a maid who would have a hot bath drawn to ease my tender muscles after the exercise. I halted my comparisons there, for Gavin stood no chance against the memory of Lord August. 

While I'd been in the castle, my father had procured a little mare to pull the cart to market. She was no lady's horse, but she would do for a ride through the country side with a fellow farmer. I wondered if it was foolish of me to begin trying to know Gavin better during the same activity Lord August and I used to do. I'd so looked forward to afternoon rides with him; they were some of the times I'd felt closest. He'd always seemed more relaxed on horseback, and more willing to answer questions and make light conversation. Now I would ride with a stranger and ask many of the same questions again. Gavin of course did not have a wife or marriage to keep hidden from me, and his open nature suggested that he would not turn and run from whatever I asked. 

I saddled the mare, Hester, and rode to Gavin's thinking wistfully of the riding Jasper and I had done with his lordship. If I was going to give Gavin a chance I needed to put those thoughts from my mind. It was unfair to him and to myself to linger over those memories. I would not think of Lord August, I resolved. I would become more acquainted with Gavin in the typical manner of young men and ladies, through conversation. At least with him I felt quite sure that he would not be driven through anger and rage to attack me. Lord August's behavior had been a deviation from the normal - but no. I would not think about him now.

I pasted a smile on my face as Hester and I trotted up to Gavin, who was waiting and ready on a brown gelding of his own. We exchanged greetings and set off at a leisurely walk down the lane, Gavin making inquiries about the local favorite spots for riding. I suggested near the river, purposely picking the direction opposite the castle. Gavin cheerfully agreed and we eased the horses into a trot and then a canter as I pointed out the way. We watered the horses and let them rest once we reached the river. Hester was quite content to munch the grass, having done more riding today than she typically got in a week.

Gavin proposed a rest for ourselves under the shade of a nearby tree grove, and as the day was unseasonably warm I readily consented. Gavin asked the usual questions: how long had we lived in Eastwatch, did we like it, where had we lived before, and I in turn asked the same of him. He told me some humorous stories about his last home and friends, and it turned out to be not at all unpleasant to sit with him. He took no liberties, beyond the offer of an arm to escort me or a hand to help me up, he didn't touch me. Soon the afternoon had passed and we had to return home; farm life did not allow for leisurely rides and dinners as my time with Lord August had. He insisted on seeing me home safely, and Father met us at the stables with an invitation to Gavin to come for dinner the following evening. He agreed and things were settled.

Mary was dying of curiosity about my time with Gavin. As we shelled peas for our dinner she peppered them throughout our preparation.

"Do you not think he is very charming? And so amiable," she gushed. 

"Very charming and amiable," I agreed.

"Handsome, too," she continued. 

"He is."

"He'd doubtless make a fine husband." She'd abandoned the peas at this point, intent on drawing me into her conversation. 

"Mmm." I focused on the task at hand, unwilling to join her in singing his praises. He was a fine man, but I saw no point in getting carried away at this point in our acquaintance. 

"You must feel so lucky that he wants to spend more time with you," she persisted. 

"Perhaps he merely felt it would be rude to turn down Father's invitation."

"His family has barely settled in and he's spending all this time with you out of politeness? I doubt it, Belle." She placed a hand on mine, stilling my actions. "There's nothing wrong with having the affections of a handsome man, you know. He would be a good match for you."

I nodded but could not elaborate more. Mary was right, and I knew it, but my heart still wasn't moved. 

*

Dinner with Gavin and my family was a small but happy affair; he was courteous to Father and my sisters, but he continued to lavish the bulk of his attentions on me. A small part of me felt flattered by his actions, even if I did not know how to properly return them. I made an effort to answer his questions more fully and inquire as to whether he'd eaten enough, making the displays of concern for his well-being that at least  did  come naturally to me. If I put aside the obvious connotations of his focus on me and looked on him as a guest in our home I found it easier. By the end of the meal I was playing the gracious hostess, pressing a small basket of fresh produce from our garden on him to take home. He asked if I might like to go for a walk, and I consented. 

"Where do you see yourself, Belle?" he asked as we covered our limited grounds, making turns about the garden. "In the future I mean, what do you want out of life?"

"I suppose a husband, children, the usual things."

"Farm life?" he asked.

"I suppose."

"That's the future I want as well. I'd like to set up somewhere on my own, away from my parents and try to run things myself. Of course I'd need someone to help me, and my parents have been hinting that it's high time I take a wife."

"I see." My stomach was twisting, despite my determination to give him a chance, I wasn't prepared for things to progress this quickly. To my relief, he changed the subject, remarking on our lovely flower bed that had been my pet project since I'd come home. There were no roses, only ordinary run-of-the-mill flowers: pansies, daisies, violets, and other brightly colored but simple blossoms. I adored it. My one-time desire for roses had completely evaporated and I took great pride in the very ordinariness of my flowers. 

"I would love a little home with a little flower bed like this to come to at the end of a hard day's work," said Gavin. He dropped more hints the rest of our walk but made no official offer, much to my relief.

Days went by and Gavin became something of a regular in our home. He charmed Father and my sisters, bringing sweet treats for all of us girls, or a bunch of wildflowers he'd gathered. I grew fond of him, but whatever my head might tell my heart about his good nature and the happy future we could have together, it remained unmoved. While I began to care for him as a friend I couldn't feel the passion that I had felt for Lord August. I wondered if the physical contact with Lord August had enhanced things, or perhaps even been the source of the love itself. If I were to kiss Gavin, would the fire spread through my body as it did for  him? If Gavin pressed me against a wall, asserting his control over me, would I find it arousing? I could never picture him behaving in such a way.




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 05



One night, as we were out for a walk, he kissed me. He'd tenderly cupped my face in his hands, and ever so slowly leaned his face to mine, his lips soft against my own, hesitant and questioning. His thumb brushed against my cheek as his lips lingered. 

I felt nothing. 

Was that it, then? Would I never feel the same way about another man? Was I doomed to a life of apathy, made all the more bitter by possessing knowledge of what love truly could feel like? I had to make sure. I pressed myself against Gavin, the shock evident in his sudden stiffness, but then he leaned into it. His hands slipped lower, spanning my waist and drawing me in as he deepened the kiss. His lips were no longer questioning, they were more certain now, and easing my own apart. His tongue caressed mine, excited. 

Still I felt nothing.

His kiss was passionate, the kiss of one in the grips of strong feeling. I returned it, but could find no joy in it. My body did not respond; he felt all wrong. He was shorter than Lord August and his body hit mine in different places, lower. His lips and tongue were warm and wet, but their motions felt unfamiliar and strange. His hands on my body were respectfully holding still and not roving and searching, bringing the tantalizing pleasure that another set had. I could not do this. I shoved him away, and he immediately backed off, a look of surprise and shame in his eyes.

"Belle," he began, but I could not listen to him then, I had to get away. I turned and fled, running the whole way to my bedroom and slamming it closed behind me, my actions all too familiar but unavoidable. Gavin did not follow me.

He was at our house often for the next few days, trying to apologize I am sure, but I refused to see him. As soon as I saw him coming up the road I would retreat to my room. I couldn't tell him the truth, and I could think of no lie that would serve my purpose. If I said nothing, surely he would eventually give up and tire of the chase, moving on to another, more willing, and less complicated girl. My sisters begged for explanation, my father demanded to know if he had made an unwelcome advance on me. I said nothing, save a little to put Father's mind at rest. 

They knew nothing of the truth of my time with Lord August, how could they understand that my heart was not open and free? I had tried to will it so, but hearts are stubborn and complex. Gavin was a good man, had been nothing but kind to me, yet I could not see myself loving him. All my efforts to avoid him were in vain though, as he caught up with me in the garden one day. He'd come around the back way, through the pastures instead of by the main road.

"Belle."

I looked up. He was behind me, blocking my route to the house.

"Belle, please, please let me explain. I know you must think I'm a terrible cad who's used you ill, but listen, please. I'm so sorry for my behavior, for stealing a kiss, but you must believe that I felt it was not dishonourable; I want to make you my wife. I want to marry you and kiss you freely, with your consent. I've spoken with your father already and he's given his approval. I should never have kissed you like that, but you looked so beautiful and so tempting, and I meant to propose to you soon and make things official and right. I promise to be the best husband, the most grateful one, if you'll only be my wife." His voice and tone were pleading. He looked terrible, and I felt guilty for not putting his mind at ease earlier. 

"It's not about the kiss," I began. In a small way it was, but not in the way he thought. "Please don't think anymore about that, but Gavin... no. I'm sorry, but no, I cannot marry you."

I knew I might be throwing away my chances at a happy future, and quite possibly the only offer of marriage I might receive, but I could not do it, in part because I had grown genuinely fond of him and felt he deserved better than a wife who could not love him. Perhaps over time it might grow, but I couldn't risk it. Having spoken my piece, everything in my head felt clearer, and I knew without a shadow of a doubt that things were not quite all done between Lord August and myself. 

Gavin asked again, pleaded with me to reconsider. I refused again, in the most kind manner I could. If he only knew the truth, he would know I was doing him a favor as much as myself. At last, embarrassed, he slunk from the garden, and I dropped the trowel I'd been working with and turned to the forest. 

I had to see him one last time.



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 06



 Sorry for the delay! I've wanted to write every day, I just haven't had the time. I'll start working on 7 right away though, so hopefully that will be up a lot sooner. Enjoy!

*****

"I don't understand, Belle." My father rubbed his temple. "Why would you want to go back? Willingly?"

"I... grew fond of Lord August during our time together, and I'd like to visit him again. It would be the polite thing to do." I would not run off and leave my family wondering what had become of me, but nor could I reveal my true reasoning for the visit. Father would be sure to declare it an act of impropriety, and my silly sisters would latch onto the potential match like dogs with a bone, worrying it down till they had the entire wedding ceremony planned out. The mortification of his secret would be more than I could bear to share. 

"Fond? Was he leading you on, child? You are certain he did not force himself on you?"

"No Father." My mind guiltily went back to that afternoon in the stables when Lord August pressed me against the wall, his manhood pushing against me, seeking entrance. If I confessed this to Father he'd never let me out of his sight again. "We had many literary conversations, and he allowed me full use of his library." This at least was true. 

"Is that why you want to go back? For books? Our farm is doing better now, Belle. If you have need of a new book or two I am certain we can spare a bit of money. You need not put yourself at the mercy of that monster again." Father shook his head, frowning. "I don't understand it, child, but if you truly feel safe and honor-bound to pay this man a visit I will not forbid it."

"I feel it would be only proper, after our time together. It wouldn't be the same as before. I wish only to see him for a day, perhaps two, and by my own choice, not under duress." I hoped my reasoning would be enough for Father. He nodded glumly, but voiced no further objections, and I left for my room to make preparations. Into a little haversack I placed a spare dress - no fine gowns for me this time - and a hunk of bread and cheese, for the journey. I did not know if I would be welcome to stay at the castle as I had before, but it was best to be prepared for anything. I wondered if I was making a the correct choice, returning. I knew Lord August's circumstances would not have changed, and nor had my mind on the subject of our marriage. Yet I needed further explanation of his behavior to satisfy me. How could he have deceived me up to the point of marriage for so long? 

A small part of me was hopeful that the return of Regina would prove too much for him, and he would finally seek divorce. It would be detrimental to the people of our realm, and was a terrible, selfish wish. The church would exile him, the people would lose respect, but he would be free of his wife and able to follow his heart - to me. But could I marry a man who had lied to me, about such serious matters? Even if he was free from her could I forgive him for the transgressions committed against me? I felt the only way to know for certain was to see him and seek answers. I tucked my little haversack next to the bed and prepared myself for a night's rest. My stomach was bubbling with nerves over the trip I would take in the morning. I hardly slept, and as soon as the sun's rays began peeking over the horizon I rose and set out on my journey.

The path was showing signs of the spring, little shoots of green popping up all over. The air was still chilly though, and I wrapped my shawl around my shoulders tightly, pondering my motives again as I walked. Was I a horrible person to harbor the hope of divorce? For that matter, did I have any self-respect at all if I was willing to forgive and forget the deceit? My heart still loved and longed for Lord August, but my mind was less inclined to give him the benefit of the doubt. Who could say what other lies he might have told, or would tell in the future? Even if a divorce happened, and we were married as I'd once hoped, would I ever be able to trust anything he said? His marriage to Regina had appeared to be a sham, and the misery he felt real, but what if he grew tired of me? Would he find a way to move on to another girl during OUR marriage, claiming he was free or that his wife -me- was cold and unaffectionate? My head swam as the sun climbed higher, and sooner rather than later I had reached the castle gates. 

With trepidation I pushed them open and let myself in. I followed the road to the doors of the castle, my stomach in knots. All of my earlier misgivings had been founded on the belief that Lord August would see me and let me in. As I arrived at the doors that opened unto the Great Hall a shiver of fear swept over me. What if he was angry I'd come? Perhaps he wouldn't even let me in, but send me on my way without even giving me a chance to talk to him. Dread settled into my guts like a rock. Still, there was no point in having come this way without at least trying, so I pushed open the door and entered the hall. 

"Hello?" I called out. "Mrs. Delvers? Lord August?" I stepped further into the hall, swallowing nervously.

"Hello?" I walked over to the fire and warmed my hands, reluctant to enter further without an invite. 

"You." A cold voice hissed at me. I whirled from the fire and came face to face with Mrs. Delvers. She crossed her arms over her chest and stared down at me haughtily.

"What are you doing back here?" Her voice was low and menacing. "The mistress has returned, his lordship has no further need of you. You should leave, before I'm forced to call for someone to escort you out." Her eyes narrowed in a flinty glare. Taking a deep breath, I steeled my nerves. I would not be forced out by the housekeeper without even talking to Lord August. If he dismissed me that would be one thing, but I would not allow myself to be pushed around by Mrs Delvers' cruel manipulations again. 

"I wish to see his lordship. I will not leave without speaking to him." My calm voice belied my inner turmoil, and I forced myself to raise my chin and put my shoulders back, the better to look the imposing part. 

"He doesn't want to see you. He's busy with the Lady Regina." Her eyes darted left and right nervously, and I suspected she was lying. 

"Please tell him I am here. If he doesn't wish to see me I will hear it from his lordship himself. I will wait." To demonstrate my point, I sat on the settee, placing my haversack beside me with trembling hands. I quickly buried my hands in the folds of my skirt and returned Mrs. Delvers' gaze. I forced a smile at her, causing her to narrow her eyes even further. 

"Why don't you leave?" she snarled. "You'll ruin everything."

"I'll wait." I said again. Ruin everything? Surely she didn't think the union of Lord August and Lady Regina stood any chance of being a happy or productive one? Even if they had made an agreement before and found ways to work around their differences, it was only in appearance; and surely he would despise her even more now that she'd returned. Mrs. Delvers gave a sniff and then left in a huff. I silently congratulated myself on standing my ground. If only I'd done a little more of that in my time before, things might have been very different. 

I settled in to wait, extending my shaky hands to the fire to warm them and hopefully still the tremor. I didn't want to appear nervous before Lord August, even though I was. How long would I have to wait?How angry Mrs. Delvers must be!

"Belle."

I knew the voice before I even turned around, from the way the little hairs on my neck all stood up and a shiver swept through me. My body was filled with instant longing, to rush to him and embrace him, to kiss his face and rut like a common farm animal on the floor in front of the fire. I forced myself to rise and turn calmly.

"Lord August." I inclined my head politely.

"I did not think you would come back. I thought I'd never see you again." The settee still separated us as he stood on the other side of it. 

"I wished to speak with you, my lord. I thought perhaps I owed you the opportunity to explain yourself further, after my abrupt departure." My heart hammered against my ribs, and I desperately wished to run to him and fling myself in his arms. 

"You did leave rather suddenly," Lord August agreed. "I would have provided you with a horse or carriage, or an escort at the very least had you waited."

"You are very kind, my lord, but I felt it was in my-our- best interests if I left sooner." We stared at each other, the silence stretching. 

"Sit," he said at last, indicating the settee. "I will ring for tea." I sat, and he departed from the room for a few minutes. Here, at last was my chance to ask him all the questions which I had kept burning inside of me, and I was tongue-tied. Being in his presence again was having more of an effect on me than I'd thought it would. My body wanted to behave like a harlot, my heart wanted to throw itself upon him, and only my overworked mind was insisting that I stay back, keeping a safe space between us, both physically and emotionally. 

Presently Lord August returned, the nameless servant in his wake bearing a heavily laden tray. He placed it on the little table in front of the fire and retreated. I busied myself with the process of pouring tea out for us, aware that I was putting off the actual conversation but unable to help myself. I stirred a lump of sugar into Lord August's and extended it to him. He accepted with thanks, and we both silently drank. 

"Why did you really come back?" Lord August set his cup down and faced me."I do not believe that you are here now merely for explanation. There is little to be said now that has not already been said. If you came back to declare me a cad who has used you abominably ill, I will not deny it, however let us not wait all day." A muscle twitched in his jaw, beneath the shiny scars I'd become so familiar with. 

"You were wrong to treat me so," I said. "You have hurt me deeply with your careless disdain for my feelings, for the sanctity of the marriage you proposed. How could you ask me to be your wife when you already had one? Do you care so little for me that you never considered the importance of a valid and true marriage for me? Am I so easily dismissed that you didn't feel I deserved a real marriage, a real husband?"

"No, Belle, of course not. I have wronged you, and I am so, so sorry." He took my hand in his, the warmth from his large hand engulfing my small one. I stared at our hands, joined together as they might once have been on an altar. "Please, you don't know what it was like for me with Regina. I was miserable, unhappier than I have ever been in my whole life. When she left, I felt like I had gained a measure of freedom, but I knew I could never wed, never have real love in my life. I was freed from her, but sentenced to a life alone. When you came... you made me see light again. I've never felt this way about anyone. I saw you and I wanted you; your body, your mind, your heart. I was so captivated by you and the way you made me feel that I ignored my conscience, my common sense, common decency, come to it. I just wanted to be with you, to possess your heart. I threw what I knew to be true out the window and believed that I could make a new start with you. I truly thought Regina would never come back, and that we could build a life together in peace.

"I know I have wounded you, but if you could find it in your heart to forgive me... Belle, my sweet Belle." He raised my hand to his lips, softly kissing my finger tips. My mind dully registered that I should remove it, keep myself safe from his touches since they affected me so, but I could not bring myself to withdraw my hand. He opened my hand, placing a kiss on my palm, my fingers softly trailing over his smooth scars. "Please Belle. I would do anything for a real chance for us. I don't care about the consequences or what people will say. Damn them and their gossip, all I want is you, at any price." Dropping my hand, he leaned in, his arm encircling my waist as he pulled me closer to him and his lips found mine. I knew I shouldn't, but I returned his kiss, passion melting over me as I ran my hands up his muscled arms. I should pull back, I should stop...

His tongue gently probed forward, slipping alongside mine and bringing to mind other places he'd used it so cleverly. My legs trembled slightly at the memory and Lord August - Adam?- pulled me closer still, deepening the kiss till I was nearly breathless. He was squeezing me to him, my soft thigh nearly atop his own. He broke our prolonged kiss and nudged my head to the side with his, his mouth hot and insistent against my neck. He groaned and bit down delicately, sending a delicious wave of pleasure shooting through me. I tilted my head further, allowing him more access, and he kissed down to my collarbone, his tongue trailing wet heat and his hot breath on my neck causing me to break out in gooseflesh. 

His arm moved up my waist, tenderly cupping my breast and letting his hand support the weight of it. He circled my nipple through the fabric with his thumb, and I began to forget all my inhibitions. His fingers worked at the neckline of my dress, not tearing it, but pulling it out and making room for his hand to slip underneath and splay over my breast, feeling heated against my nipple. He resumed the same circling motion, this time without the fabric of my dress getting in the way, and a moan escaped my lips. He leaned in and kissed me again, never slowing or stopping his hand until he pulled it back abruptly and grasped my knee with it. He carefully began easing my legs apart, and the logical part of my brain, leaped back into action, all too aware of what it would mean if he were to separate my legs. 

"We shouldn't, my lord." I swallowed nervously, hoping not to anger him. He continued to slowly push my knee. "Please, my lord. You are married." His progress slowed, but did not stop. "Adam." I winced slightly at using his first name, but hoped it would reach through to him better than titles. As much as my body longed for him to continue, I would not be able to live with myself afterward. Indeed, it would be difficult enough to live with what I had already allowed. I flushed hot with the shame of kissing another woman's husband. Adam raised his head, his eyes beseeching me. 

"What if I wasn't?" he asked.

"Wasn't what?" I didn't follow his meaning.

"Married. What if I wasn't?"

My heart beat slowly, thudding against my chest as his words sunk in. Did he mean what I thought he was implying?

"I could divorce her. I couldn't have done it before, not for myself, but for you I would." he said. 

"I - I hardly know what to say," I stammered.

"Belle. If I divorce her, and I am a free man, would you have me then?" His eyes were earnest and pleading, and selfish happiness swelled inside me. He was all I wanted, and he was offering to remove the only obstacle to our marriage. Would I be a horrible person if I encouraged him by saying yes? I found I no longer cared.

"Yes, yes of course." I smiled despite my shame, and he grinned back at me, leaning in to kiss me. I drew back, turning my head and offering him only my cheek. He brushed his lips softly over it. 

"My Belle," he whispered. "Will you stay? Please? I'll have Mrs. Delvers help you settle into your old room. I'll tell Regina. Tonight. Now. Stay, I cannot bear the thought of losing you again." I nodded, too full of joy to leave him now. He kissed my hand and strode from the room with purpose, while I settled back into the settee in a daze. 

I had secretly, in my most selfish heart, hoped for this, but I'd never truly thought it would come to pass. There was so much stigma associated with a divorce, even now, and especially for anyone of status. Peasants and common town-folk were gossiped about on the rare occasion one of them obtained a divorce, but for a Lord or anyone of rank it was almost unheard of. How the villagers of Eastwatch would talk! Guiltily I wondered what they might say of me when Adam and I were married after the divorce. Would they assume the worst, that I was the cause for the divorce? I supposed in a way I was, but they would never know the true story. Shaking my head I tried to clear it. It really didn't matter what the villagers thought, I would have my love and he would have me. 

"Well. Look who's come back." A strange voice drawled behind me. It took me a moment to place it as Regina. I turned my body to face her, but made no motion to rise. "If it isn't the little scullery maid."

"I am not a maid, thank you. And I am here to see Lord Adam, and he alone." I bit my tongue. I'd meant to say Lord August, not Adam. It might be perfectly fine to call him Adam to his face when we were alone, but not in front of anyone else, especially not the woman who was still by law his wife - for the time being.

"Adam?" she quirked an eyebrow up, a half smirk on her face. "My, my, aren't we familiar?" She leaned against the wall, displaying her lush green gown. I couldn't help but notice how she filled it out to perfection, her coloring set off by it's jewel-like hue and her hair cascading over it like a waterfall. Her luminous eyes danced with delight as she stared at me, as though it was just the funniest thing. She was so beautiful, a timeless classic beauty I would never posses. I tried to remind myself that I was the one Adam loved, not Regina.

"I can't imagine why he'd want to see you. Not now." She jutted her chin out, giving her curls a shake. "Surely he told you."

"Told me... about the divorce?" I was confused. Of course Adam had told me, we had discussed it together. Regina gave a little laugh, all too cheerful for someone who was being unceremoniously discarded by her husband.

"Oh, he didn't? That wicked man. Still, never mind. Boys will be boys, won't they? And they really all are, no matter how old they may seem. Surely you weren't expecting anything serious to come of your little fling?" she smiled condescendingly. "Look, at you, you're a mere commoner. A lovely match for some farm boy no doubt, but hardly a fit companion for a lord. Even you must agree." Her smile grew broader while her eyes radiated sheer venom. 

"You mustn't listen to what men say in between the sheets, darling. They'll say anything, anything at all to get what they want!" she threw back her head and laughed again. My stomach was tightening. What didn't I know? "I'm sure Adam said very pretty things to you when he was between your legs, but you just can't believe a word of it. Don't you know that even when they stray men always come home to their wives of good breeding? I'm sure it's different in your station," she waved a hand dismissively "But for men of status, servants are only pastimes, and they always come home to their true wives." She gave me a pointed stare.

"Anyway none of that matters, for we're forgetting the most important thing." Regina's smile grew wider still. She raised her hands and rested them over her stomach. "I'm with child." She lowered her eyes to her stomach, and then gleefully looked at me. "So you see, even if he might have possibly meant it before, he won't now. He needs an heir, and I am carrying one." My heart sank to the floor, tears rushing to my eyes. How could he have let me think we had a chance, when his wife was bearing him children? He could not go through with the divorce now.

"Oh, I'm sorry to upset you. But you know, it's better that you hear this from me. Woman to woman." she leaned in slightly, as if we were in each other's confidence. "So glad I could offer you some advice, darling. Now, you really should be off. Can you imagine your embarrassment if he comes and finds you're still here, waiting like a pathetic trollop?" she gave a high, girlish giggle. "Don't worry, I won't tell him how you cried." She spun on her heel and left the room. 




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 06



The tears in my eyes gushed out, blurring my vision and blocking out everything. I sniveled and my body shook with the wracking sobs that overtook me. I should leave, but I could barely see or stand. From utter happiness to utter agony in the span of an hour! I had been deceived by Lord August again. Would I never learn? Did the man have no morals at all, to lie with such abandon? I felt like a pawn in his game, some confusing and twisted entertainment that I didn't understand. He was forcing me to play without ever telling me the rules or even the goal. Perhaps it was mere sport for him, some sick amusement to see how many hapless young girls he could get to fall for him and then break their hearts. He was a monster, and I'd fallen for him. Rubbing the tears from my eyes, I stood. There was nothing left for me here. 

I crossed the room to the doors, turning back for one last look. I would not forget the lessons I had learned at the hands of Lord August. As if summoned by my thoughts, he appeared around the corner.

"Belle! Where are you going? Come, we have much to discuss." He smiled at me, as though no nothing was wrong. 

"I'm leaving. I was a fool to come back here to you." My voice wavered, still thick from crying. 

"What's wrong?" His smile began to fade, and he shook his head, crossing the room to me. "Have you been crying? What is it, what is the matter?" He extended a hand toward me, and I shrank back against the door.

"Don't touch me! Your touch is as much a liar as you!"

"Liar? What do you mean? I thought we had gotten past that, Belle. I am so sorry for not telling you about my wife."

"And the baby?" I hissed.

"Baby? What baby?" he laughed. "What baby are you talking about? I've never had children."

"Not yet. But you will."

"With you, yes I hope so. You'll be a wonderful mother."

"With Regina." I spat the name out as if it was bile. His brows furrowed together and his mouth turned down.

"Never with her. What has gotten into you? If I'd had children by Regina I think you'd be well aware of them by now."

"I know that she's with child! Stop the lies," I cried. "Please, just stop." He froze, staring at me.

"Regina is with child?"

"Don't pretend you are ignorant of the fact!" Suddenly he reached out and grabbed my wrists, pulling me away from the door. "Let me go!" I tried to pull away from him, but he was far too strong.

"No, Belle, not this time. You're going to sit and hear this out." He pushed me firmly down onto the settee, still holding my wrists. "You will stay here, do you understand? If you run, I will chase you down, and tie you up if necessary, but you WILL sit and listen to this. Do you understand?" I nodded, and he released me, turning to the door. "REGINA!" he bellowed. "REGINA! Get down here! NOW!"

"I'm really not interested in hearing more of your lies," I began, but was silenced by his stony glare. Fine. I would hear his latest story and then leave. I crossed my arms over my chest and sat back sullenly, refusing to make eye contact with him. He stood over me, eliminating even the slightest chance that I might make an escape. The clack of heels in the hall declared that Regina was drawing near. She rounded the corner of the doorway, her rose perfume wafting over to me even from there, cloying and repugnant to me now.

"Adam, darling, did you call for me?"Her coy smile was not entirely successful in hiding her irritation.

"What did you tell Belle?" he demanded.

"Belle? Oh, you mean this wretched thing." She indicated me. "I haven't the foggiest notion what you mean."

"Did you tell her you were with child?" Lord August still stood over me, next to the little table. He made no move to go near Regina, who lingered in the doorway.

"Well, yes, of course. I thought she might like to hear the happy news." She flashed her dazzling fake smile at me.

"Then you are in fact with child? You weren't making it up?" he asked.

"Oh yes." Her hands went to her stomach, splaying over it. "Isn't it wonderful, darling?" Her tone was acidic.

"Did you tell her it was mine?" Lord August persisted. There was a short silence, then Regina spoke again.

"Well, no, I never said it was yours darling, I would think that would be implied." Her smile didn't fade, though it did appear slightly toned down. 

"Despite the fact that we have never, NEVER, been together as a man and wife?" Lord August's voice echoed off the stone walls, and my breath caught. Never?

"I fail to see why that matters. The child will be presumed to be yours by all, so why should it matter if if is or not?" She jutted her chin out, raising an eyebrow as if daring him to argue otherwise.

"I will not take responsibility for your bastard, Regina. We are getting divorced."

"Oh, you don't mean that." She laughed, shaking her hair back. "Think of the scandal. What would your mother and father think if they could see you now? The disgrace would be too much for them to bear!" Lord August flinched at the mention of his parents.  

"It is a mercy, then, that they died before they saw me saddled with a whore of a wife, pregnant with another man's bastard!" he said. Regina's smile finally faded, her face twisting into a look of sheer hatred. 

"You wouldn't dare." she said. Her eyes blazed with anger

"Try me." Lord August turned from her, back to me. "Belle. Do you believe me now?" My mind was whirling, but I was certain now that it had been Regina who was full of lies, not Adam.

"Yes," I said softly. I looked up and met his eyes. "I'm sorry for doubting you." The beginnings of a smile started on his face.

What happened next seemed to occur so slowly, yet at the same time at breakneck speed, impossible to stop. Adam started to smile at me, and from the corner of my eye I saw Regina pick up one of the heavy potted plants from the stand near the doorway. Wielding it with both hands, she rushed at Adam, clearly intending to hurl it at him, possibly his head. My mouth opened to warn him, to tell her to stop, but she was already across the room, mere feet from Adam. He must have seen her, for he took a quick sidestep to avoid her. She noticed and corrected her course with a quick sidestep of her own. That step proved fatal. She tripped over her foot, in her haste, the weight of the planter throwing her balance off, and then she was falling forward. There was a sickening smack as her head struck the corner of the table, and then her body was on the ground, her eyes blankly staring upward. I was frozen in shock, but Adam immediately dropped to his knees, his hands on her neck, feeling for a pulse.

"Regina? Regina, are you with us?" He shook her. "Regina! Wake up! Damn, damn," he swore. "MRS. DELVERS! MRS. DELVERS!" he turned to me. "She'll know what to do. I must ride for the doctor, at once. She's with child!" I nodded that I understood, finally unfreezing my limb and kneeling on the floor beside Regina's too-still body. Adam ran out, yelling for the page boy to saddle his horse. I hoped he could fetch the doctor int time. Regina may have been full of venom, but her unborn child was an innocent and deserved a chance at life. Mrs. Delvers came huffing and puffing around the corner, her eyes growing wide at the scene before her. 

"What have you done!?" She ran across the room, shoving me back and away from Regina. "My Lady? My Lady, what has happened to you?" She took Regina's head into her lap, fat tears streaming down her cheeks. "No, My lady..." she sobbed, cradling Regina's head. 

"She fell, it - it was an accident." Though I didn't care for Mrs. Delvers, her naked grief was painful to witness. 

"This is all your fault! None of this would have happened if you hadn't come back!" I bit my lip. She was right, in a way. "Oh, my lady..." she cried.

"Lord August has gone to fetch the doctor," I offered. "Perhaps he will be able to help." Mrs. Delvers looked up at me, hatred etched across her face.

"There is no help? Do you not see my lady? She's dead! Dead, and it's all your fault!" She gingerly lowered Regina's head to the floor and stood. "Dead, dead, my poor beautiful lady." Her eyes took on an unnatural shine, her face going slack. 

"Mrs. Delvers? Are you alright?" I asked. She ignored me and walked to the fireplace. 

"Yes," she said softly, to herself. "Yes, it can all die. All of it." She reached into the fire grasping the end of a burning piece of wood. If it was hot, she showed no reaction, but walked to the nearest hanging tapestry and held the flame up to it. 

"Mrs. Delvers!" I cried out, but too late. The elaborately embroidered tapestry was up in flames, and she was already moving on to the next one. "Wait, stop! You'll kill us all!" I pleaded. She gave no indication that she could hear me, but walked further into the hall, setting more hangings ablaze. The room was growing warmer by the minute. She was going to set everything on fire! I had to escape. I looked at the still form of Regina. I did not know if she was alive or dead, not without a doctor. Obviously Mrs. Delvers was not in her right mind. There was no way I could carry Regina, but perhaps I could drag her to the door. I leaned down and grasped her wrists, sliding her along the floor as I walked backwards toward the door.

"Don't touch her!" Mrs. Delvers came running at me, her make-shift torch waving in my face. Startled, I dropped Regina's arms and backed off. 

"Please Mrs. Delvers, let me just take her outside. We'll know more when the doctor gets here. She might live yet." I bent to to take Regina's wrists again but Mrs. Delvers brandished her fire at me again, forcing me backward. She pursued me across the hall, and as I stood on the rug at the door, she set the rug ablaze.

"Burn, slut" she hissed, the wildness in her eyes gleaming. I opened the door and ran outside. Perhaps if she moved off long enough I could run back in and retrieve Regina. Over the flame I could see Mrs. Delvers setting things on fire. The smoke was pouring out thickly and I backed away, coughing. Would I be able to go back in and get her ladyship? I could no longer see inside, through the flames and smoke. I tried to stick my head in, but the acrid burning in my lungs and eyes quickly drove me back. It was impossible for me to get in. I fervently hoped that if Regina still lived, she perished from the smoke inhalation long before the flames touched her. 

I stood outside the doors of the great castle as the windows burst and more smoke poured out, helpless to do anything but watch flames ravage the inside of Adam's home, and what could have been mine as well.



Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 07



Adam of course came far too late to save Regina, and most of his home was in shambles as well. The sturdy stone walls held against the fire well enough, bearing black scorch marks and soot to tell the tale, but all the fine tapestries, the rugs, and the windows were ruined. Parts of the castle were spared, notably the greenhouse. With its glass walls, I would have thought it would be one of the very first to go, but the fire veered off in the opposite direction; whether it was the doing of the mad Mrs. Delvers or mere happenstance I did not know. The fire burnt itself out when it ran out of fuel. 

I shall never forget the horror on Adam's face at seeing his ancestral home in flames. He'd come galloping up on Blitz, a man on horse - who I presumed was the doctor- close behind. Disbelief mingled with confusion as he sprang from Blitz and bounded to the doors of the Great Hall, only to turn back coughing as the smoke came spewing out. He ran around to a side door with the same result, the doctor and myself waiting at the front. He came charging back around to me and demanded to know what had happened.

"It was Mrs. Delvers," I said, my heart aching for his loss. "She was like a woman possessed! When she discovered Regina's body she went mad. She kept sobbing and she took up some wood from the fire and..." I gestured at the flames behind me. "I tried to get Regina out, please believe that. I tried to pull her to safety, away from the flames in case there was a chance the doctor could help. In case she wasn't - beyond help. But Mrs. Delvers, she came at me with her fire, she wouldn't let me near her! I tried, Adam, I tried so hard to help her." Tears sprang to my eyes and I immediately felt selfish, crying right then when Adam was the one who'd lost everything. He pulled me to him, in a rare tender gesture for him, kissing my forehead and patting my back. He barely looked at me though, his eyes were not to be torn from the fire. 

The Great Hall was burning less fiercely now. Presumably the fire had consumed everything in that room already and was now beginning to die out. I thought with horror and revulsion of the corpses I knew must be inside. It didn't seem fair to Regina's unborn child to be denied the chance at life so abruptly. I wondered if Mrs. Delvers knew about the pregnancy. Surely she would have waited for the doctor, restrained her madness to give a child of Regina's a chance if she'd known? She'd seemed positive Regina was dead, but why would Adam have gone for the doctor if that was true? He must have seen some sign to indicate to him that she lived, for him to fly out in such haste. If I had told Mrs. Delvers that Regina was expecting, would it have made a difference? She seemed to have loved the lady more than herself even. Either way there was nothing I could do now, and knowing about the pregnancy or not, I could not hold myself responsible for the actions of Mrs. Delvers. 

Adam continued to hold me as the flames burned, and I was grateful for the comfort he provided. I was sure later he would want a more detailed explanation of Mrs. Delvers' fire-setting, and I hoped that when the time came he would understand how hard I had tried to save Regina. If he could have seen the crazed look in Mrs. Delvers' eyes, he would have understood. No ordinary woman could have withstood the crazed strength she exerted in her madness. I could easily have lost my own life if I'd stayed any longer.

Adam left me then to go explore the perimeter of the castle and the damage done. The doctor retired to the stables where the other servants were huddled, alive but shaken. The smoke was coming out in white puffs rather than great black billows, a clear sign it was burning out. Adam wanted me to stay put, but I was curious about the damage myself and reluctant to leave him alone. Once he was out of sight, I followed him. I trailed far behind him, wanting to offer him comfort but at a loss as to what I could say. As I rounded a corner I saw the greenhouse, still intact, its roses as fresh and alive as ever. Adam was in front of it, staring at it. I knew now that the greenhouse represented Regina to him, and his mistake in falling for her and wedding her. It must seem very cruel to him that the greenhouse of all things should make it through the fire unscathed. 

He screamed aloud, rushing at the greenhouse and hammering his fists against it. His wordless yell continued as he beat against the window until the panel shattered. I saw blood stream down his arm and my first instinct was to run to him and bind his wound. Something stopped me. I am not sure if it was the anger on his face or the violence in his actions as he hurled himself at the next panel of glass, but whatever it was made me slink under the cover of a nearby fir tree, where I wouldn't be seen. He yelled again, his pain raw and tangible in his scream. I knew the pain was not the cut on his arm, he probably hadn't even noticed that. The pain was for the loss of his home, for the gall of Mrs. Delvers and the sad conclusion that in some small measure Regina had won. His rage continued, and I kept still and hidden. He was a frightening creature sometimes, my lord. I did not think he would ever do me real harm, but our past encounters when he was angered had given me a taste of what I might expect, and I did not wish to part with my virginity on top of broken glass, outside in the sooty air. 

Eventually he appeared to tire himself out, and slumped down against the wall. Should I go to him now? I decided it was better to wait. He might be ashamed at having me see him so. If his hatred of Regina was the basis of his ungentlemanly behavior with me, might he be able to let it go now? With no Regina and the greenhouse destroyed, maybe he could finally release the pent-up anger and bitterness he'd stowed away for so long. She would never run from him, never laugh at him or turn him down again, so perhaps he would see me just as I was: me. I would never be a cold woman like Regina, and I couldn't imagine turning Adam from his marital bed. I wished I could hold him and reassure him that she was gone, and would never give him trouble again.

My thoughts ran wild, and after a time Adam stood and continued his progress around the castle. I did not follow. Instead I turned and walked back to the front of Great Hall, where he expected me to wait. Although it felt terrible to think such things, the thought did spring to my mind that with Regina's death, there was no further obstacle to a marriage between Adam and myself, save for a proper period of mourning. He was even afforded escaping from the disgrace of divorce. I was ashamed to think such thoughts in the wake of such tragedy, but my heart still longed for Adam, and would long for him until he was mine. Perhaps he would not be interested in marriage now, with his home to repair and rebuild.

I was at a loss as to what to do, waiting for Adam outside. Things felt so unsettled between us now. Every time we came close to beginning our happy future, Regina had managed to thwart us. Could she do so again with her death? My heart was hopeful that this would change nothing between us, but my mind was carefully reminding it that Adam would have much to take care of, and that it was possible even he would view another obstacle as an ill omen for our marriage and call the whole thing off on that account alone. Fidgeting nervously, I awaited his return.

He strode around the far side of the building minutes later, his face somber. His hand was still stained red from the blood of his wound, but he paid it no mind. My heart broke for him, for everything that he had lost. 

"Belle," he said when he reached me, "I fear this brings... difficulties to our marriage." I swallowed hard, a lump in my throat. A breeze ruffled my dress, and I shivered, the air feeling cold after the blaze of heat from the fire. 

"I understand."

"I think it's best if for now you return home to your family. I'm afraid there will be much to take care of here, for a while. When Regina's body is discovered, there will be questions, and the castle itself will require extensive repairs."

"I understand," I said again, my heart heavy. How long did he mean for me to stay with my family? A week? A month? Forever?

"I will come for you, in time," he promised. I cast my eyes downward, disappointed. "Belle," he said as he lifted my chin up to look at him. "I will. You are mine, and I will be with you, when I can." Anticipation swelled inside me, but I was careful to not get my hopes up too much. Until he was actually on my doorstep, ready to take me home and make me his wife, I refused to allow myself to dream about that time.

He arranged for the carriage to take me home, and I stumbled to it blindly. For a moment I remembered my haversack and turned to go back and fetch it, before realizing that it was no doubt burned with the rest of the the furniture and things. Still, it hadn't held much beyond one of my simple farm dresses, and while its loss was a pity, it was nothing compared to the sheer volume of what had been burned inside the castle. The ride home was a blur. I hardly felt the bouncing of the carriage over bumpy road, nor registered the passing of trees from the window. Perhaps I had been a fool to go back to Lord August at all. Yet again the happiness of our marriage had been torn from me, and I couldn't bear the thought of it happening again. I would not think of him again.

I departed from the carriage upon reaching the farm and thanked the boy, then turned to the house. My father and sisters would be surprised to see me back so soon. The journey was not impossible to make both ways on foot in one day, but it was taxing. They would expect me to stay the night at the castle and return the following day. What would they think now, as I showed up in the twilight, with the scent of smoke clinging to me? I would have to tell them the truth, I decided remorsefully. They need not know all the intimate details, but the burden of secrets had lain on me too long, and word of the fire was sure to spread throughout the town like, well, wildfire. 

They were all seated near the fire in the front room when I came in, Margaret and Mary busy darning socks, and Father with his pipe. Their faces were indeed showing surprise at my appearance. 

"Belle," said Father, "We weren't expecting you back till the morrow. Is everything all right?"

"Have you walked both ways?" piped up Mary.

"It's fine, Father," I reassured him. "No, Mary, his lordship was kind enough to lend me his carriage for the return trip."

"You reek of smoke," said Mary, wrinkling her nose.

"Yes... about that. I'm afraid I haven't been completely honest with you about my stay with Lord August." I drew a deep breath. It was time to tell them the truth. I would share the truth with them, explain it all, and then think of him no more.

"What have you not been honest about?" Father's face darkened and I knew he was thinking the worst. Mary and Margaret leaned in eagerly.

"Our relationship," I said. "We were...closer than I have led you to believe. What I told you about us sharing books and conversation over literature was true, and we also used to ride together everyday. As I said, somewhere along the way I grew fond of him. Very fond. I-I fell in love with him, and he offered to marry me." my face flushed red and hot, and my sisters looked at me aghast.

"You're engaged?!" shrieked Mary, leaping to her feet. The needles and fabric tumbled from her lap to the floor, but she paid it no mind.

"To a lord?" Margaret's mouth hung open.

"No, not exactly. Please, let me finish." I motioned for Mary to take her seat. Father was frowning again, no doubt fearing the worst. "We were engaged. I am sure you are familiar with the rumors of Lord August and his wife." They nodded. "Well, she didn't exactly die."

"What do you mean, she didn't die?" Father was indignant. "Are you saying this man proposed marriage to you while his wife still lived?"

"Yes," I whispered.

"Belle. I raised you better than that. Before God and everyone, you would defy the sacred covenant of marriage?" Father's face was stern.

"No, Father. I didn't know. I thought she was truly dead. I would have gone on thinking that, too, but she came back." I explained how Lady Regina and Lord August had come to their unusual arrangement, with her faked death and him living as a widower. Father looked skeptical and angry, but my sisters appeared to be fascinated, and Mary in particular seemed to find it all wildly romantic. "But then she came back," I finished my explanation. "She wasn't supposed to, he thought they were parted forever, if not in the eyes of the church then by conventional marriage standards. But she came back. I fled as soon as I knew the truth, that is why I came back."

"Then why did you back today?" asked Margaret. "If he is married, he can make you no further offer, can he?" her face clearly spoke of the scandal she feared - that I would become the lord's mistress. It was true that he had almost made me that, but I could never have consented to become his plaything while I knew he had a wife - could I? I thought guiltily of how I'd kissed him on the couch, even knowing he was married.

"I just wanted to ask him why, to find out why he felt the need to deceive me, and if he could have gone through with it." I was having a hard time excusing my behavior as well as his.

"Then he has made you no other offers?" asked Father pointedly.

"Well, yes... he has." I began. Father sucked in breath sharply, and Mary's eyes grew even larger

"What kind of scandal would you bring upon this house?" demanded Father. "Upon yourself, and your sisters?" He angrily threw his hand in the direction of Mary and Margaret, while scowling fiercely at me. "How could they ever make a good match when you debase yourself in such a way? The whole household will be damned!" He was fuming, and I hurried to correct him. 

"No, Father, it's not like that, just listen," I begged. "Please. He never asked that of me. He offered to divorce his wife for me." Father's face changed from anger to surprise, and my sisters looked even more so. "For me, he would have borne the shame and scandal of divorce." 

"Well, be that as it may, it is not much better to marry a divorced man." Father's tone was still irritated, but he seemed slightly mollified that Lord August would sooner divorce his wife than make a mistress of me. 

"It's no longer necessary," I said quietly. "When Regina heard the news, she became angry. She rushed at Lord August to attack him and she fell and hit her head." I paused, still processing the information myself, and Father and my sisters waited patiently for me to continue, though I could see their faces bursting with curiosity. I fidgeted with a lose thread on my dress as I spoke again. "Lord August left to fetch a doctor for her, but his housekeeper, she found Regina and she went mad. She loved the lady so much, the sight of her lying on the floor, possibly dead, drove her over the edge. She was mad, absolutely mad, and she took a log from the fire and set everything ablaze. I tried to take the Lady Regina outside with me to safety, but Mrs. Delvers wouldn't let me near her. She was insane, setting everything on fire. The lady perished, either in the fire or from the blow to her head, I do not know."

There was a pause as we all digested this.

"So then he's free to marry you?" Mary asked. I shrugged helplessly.

"I don't know. He says he'll come, but there is just so much for him to do, and once the town finds out about Regina's return, he'll have to deal with that scandal. The castle will require so many repairs. And once people do find out about Regina, he won't be able to marry until his mourning phase is over... There's just so many hindrances."

"But he said he'll come?" pressed Margaret.

"Yes, but it's difficult to believe that after the other lies he's told. I take no stock in his promise this time, and I beg of you to do the same. Should he appear and be ready, then I'll believe it, till then I encourage you to put the whole thing from your heads, as I myself am trying to do." Suddenly overcome with exhaustion, I informed my family I was retiring for the evening, despite their protests and pleading questions. I left them huddled around the fire, talking amongst themselves as I slipped uinto my bed and blessed unconsciousness, an escape from the torments of the day.

* * *

My sisters were reluctant to abandon their line of questions on the subject, but eventually they did, after my stoic refusal to indulge them. I settled again back into farm life, paying special attention to my garden as the summer drew near and the buds of green sprang to life everywhere. I threw myself into work, rising early and coming in as the sun was setting, eating my dinner and then crawling exhausted into bed. The hard work and the pleasant tiredness at the end of the day kept my mind from wandering too much, or thinking about Lord August. 

The townsfolk desired no such distraction from his lordship, however, and the fire and the return of the Lady Regina was the hottest gossip around, the source of much speculation for them. Margaret returned breathless from the marketplace the day after the fire, brimming with news. Like any juicy tidbit, the word had spread quickly, though it had obviously been modified by Lord August. Rumor had it that to the shock of everyone, the Lady Regina had returned. Apparently after an accident in her rowboat she had hit her head and lost her memory. She'd wandered through the woods and lands around the castle until finding a kindly woman who, not recognizing her, had taken her in. She'd worked as a common laundress for years in the village under the woman until one day her memory suddenly returned. Though it was years later, she couldn't wait a minute more, and left that very day to be with her love, the Lord August.

I could not suppress a smirk at that notion, having seen firsthand the contempt she felt for him, but I said nothing.

Shortly after her return, the lady had suffered a malady of some kind, possibly a heart failure, and had passed away. Upon the heels of such great joy, the great tragedy proved to be too much for the loyal Mrs. Delvers, who snapped and burned the whole place down, and herself and Regina with it. The townsfolk were in awe over the tragedy, all of them saying how terrible it must be for poor Lord August, and what a shame for the poor grief-stricken housekeeper. My sisters were clever enough to bite their tongues and do no more than mutter platitudes along with the villagers, rather than correct them or fill them in with their inside information. I rarely left the farm, but when I did I didn't speak with others more than necessary, and after a few months the gossip began to fade, save for occasional updates on the progress from the crew hired to repair. 

I heard nothing from Lord August.

One sunny day in the middle of summer, Margaret returned home flushed and grinning from ear to ear. She looked as though she were physically bursting with news, so I obliged her by asking how her trip to town had been.

"Oh, Belle," she said, her eyes shining. "I'm engaged! Stefan is finally able to open up his own forge, and he's asked me to marry him!" Her excitement was infectious, and I found myself grinning along with her while she squealed. Mary came running in to see what the fuss was about and soon she was squealing and jumping up and down too. "I'm going to be married!" cried Margaret again. She rushed off to tell Father, and Mary and I smiled at each other. 

"You'll be next," I reassured her.

"Do you really think so?" she asked wistfully. "It'd be so nice." Her eyes glazed over dreamy and I wondered which lad of the moment she was thinking of. With Mary, you never knew. It could very well be flitting back and forth between several of them. I forbade my mind from drifting into thoughts of my own possible wedding, focusing instead on Margaret's. 




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 07



"We have so much planning to do. I don't imaging they'll want to wait long."

"No, I should think not," responded Mary dryly. 

Margaret and Father came into the kitchen together then, both all smiles.

"Have you decided when the wedding is to take place?" I asked.

"Soon, I hope," said Margaret shyly. "Stefan is expected in the next town the beginning of next month, and I'd like to be there with him from the beginning."

"Well we've no time to lose! We've a wedding to plan." Father was jubilant, and I felt relieved that at least one of his daughters was able to make a proper marriage, in the usual manner. 

We spent the next couple of weeks hastily throwing together plans for a small and simple outdoor wedding. I spent hours in the garden tying up my wisteria and trying to train it to grow over an arch which Margaret and Stefan could say their vows under. I was quite sure I was only succeeding due to stubbornness; every day I was out there in the garden prodding and poking at it, coaxing it onward and upward. Mary and Margaret busied themselves in the kitchen, baking up treats and jams for the wedding guests, while Father was on a mission to deep clean the whole exterior of the house and stable so it would shine and gleam. I was constantly weeding the garden and improvising a little pebble path from the edge to the arch in the middle. By the time the wedding day drew near I was quite pleased with my work. 

Margaret was up early that day, too excited to sleep, no doubt. Mary and I put the finishing touches on her wedding gown, which was the same scarlet gown I'd worn my last night in the castle, made over and pinned and re-tucked. Father had fretted about a bride being married in red instead of a nice sensible color, but it was the nicest piece of fabric we had in the house, and with the lace touches Mary and I added, it was practically a new gown, elegant and fit for a fancy event such as a wedding. Margaret was stunning in it, her face aglow with happiness. I was glad for her, but on this day of all days my heart couldn't help but remember how happy I'd once been with Lord August, and how things had once been between us. I shook it off as best I could and focused on Margaret. It was her day, after all. Stefan was banned to the outside of the house lest he see her, although he'd arrived early to help Father set up. The table was brought outside and laden with the goods Mary and I had been slaving over, and I cropped several beds of my beloved flowers to make bouquets for Margaret and the general décor. 

We hadn't invited too many people, just a few close friends and of course Stefan's family, but it was a pleasant gathering, made even more so by the genuine happiness everyone felt for the bride and groom. Tom from the mill had brought his violin, and as we all assembled to watch the gathering, he played a soft, sweet song. Stefan took his position up front near the preacher, and Tom began to play the bridal march as we all turned to the door of the house, waiting for Margaret to come out. She emerged smiling and graceful, her face positively beaming as she locked eyes with Stefan alone and strode towards him. He looked no less happy, and we all silently watched as they exchanged their vows. Mary and Father were blinking back tears, and I was very nearly there myself. They were pronounced man and wife and we all clapped and made free to wish them joy. 

Margaret and Stefan were clearly ecstatic, barely noticing as we crowded around them. Tom struck up a dancing tune, and before long all present were dancing around in some way. Mary and I held hands and paraded up and down the garden, giggling like children. She twirled me, and I twirled her. My peonies took a slight trampling but I paid it no mind as Mary sent me flying out in a whirl - 

-directly into the arms of Lord August.

My mouth fell open as I looked up. There was no mistaking his large, imposing stature, or the solidness of the chest I now found myself pressed against, but as I raised my eyes higher - to the scars on his neck and then to his face - I knew who it was.

"Belle," he said, as his arms closed around me, Mary having dropped my hand in shock. 

"Adam." My hands crept up his chest to entwine around his neck, without my bidding. "You came."

"I told you I would." He gave me one of his smirks, the corner of one side of his mouth drawing up. "Did you doubt me?"

"I thought you'd just have too much to do..." my voice trailed off as I stared at him in disbelief. He was here. He'd really come!

"Is your father around? I need to speak with him about something," he said. My stomach became a raw bundle of nerves. 

"Yes, of course, yes, he's here." I pulled back from him only to find that we had become the center of attention. Not surprising, given that he was an extraordinarily tall man, an uninvited guest, and bore large scars across his face. Our guests stared, no doubt wondering who he was, as few if any in the village had ever seen his lordship. I stepped over to Father, whispering into his ear. He nodded, and he and Lord August disappeared into the house. Tom struck up a jaunty tune and everyone resumed dancing. I took Mary's hand again, but my heart wasn't in it; it was pattering fiercely against my chest, waiting for Lord August to reemerge. I fumbled through some dance steps, barely paying attention. Mary was speaking, no doubt asking questions, but I couldn't hear over the ringing in my ears. The whole world was a silent blur, in a pause that would only be undone by Lord August coming back out for me. Tom played a new song, and Mary dragged me into a circle dance, the person on my left dragging me one way and Mary dragging me the other. Finally my agony was ended, as Father and Lord August came back outside. I dropped hands and ran to him, heedless of the stares.

"Belle," said Father, "His lordship has asked for your hand in marriage, and I've given my permission, if it's acceptable to you. Think truly about how you feel and answer."

"Yes," I said. "Yes, yes, of course!" I knew my reply was hardly that of coy, elegant woman, but my enthusiasm was impossible to deny. Adam smiled and took my hand.

"Everyday I shall endeavor to deserve you." He raised my hand to his lips and kissed it, and I closed my eyes in pleasure. It was finally going to happen!

Adam stayed and danced with me for the rest of the day, indulging in our home-baked goods as if they were the finest concoctions a chef had made. He held me close and whispered that we would be married as soon as possible. For the sake of propriety I would stay with my family until the wedding, but after that I would live with Adam in his newly rebuilt home. The evening passed too quickly and all too soon he was taking leave of me, promising to send a seamstress by in the morning to make me a wedding gown. I fell into bed in a giddy haze, dreaming of our wedding. Margaret left earlier with Stefan, but not before she stopped to wish me good luck and promise that she and her husband would surely be at my wedding. 

As promised, the seamstress was there in the morning, and I allowed her to guide my choices, with input from my sister Mary. A tailor was sent for Father to make him a new suit for the wedding, and Mary was measured for a new gown by the seamstress as well. The generosity of Adam went a ways with Father to earn his lordship a margin of respect. The new housekeeper, Mrs. Kettleton, also stopped by for my preferences on decoration. Warm and friendly, she was everything Mrs. Delvers had not been, and I looked forward to having her around the castle. She took notes on my desires, though they were few. What did I care about sashes and wreaths when the actual event of the marriage was all that mattered? On one point only did I make a firm demand: I told her flowers everywhere would be lovely, of all sorts, but never any roses, ever. 

Time seemed to drag by and yet zip by at unfathomable speed all at the same time, and then suddenly the day before the wedding was upon us. Adam sent a carriage for us, and one for Margaret and Stefan in the next village, and we stayed over in the castle that night. He threw an enormous dinner, just for us, and we laughed and drank wine till it was late. Adam gave me many a longing glance across the table and I found myself blushing fiercely as he complimented my beauty and grace to my father. Eventually Mary and Margaret hustled me off to bed, insisting that it was bad luck for Adam to see me at all that day and that I needed a full nights rest, which I didn't argue against. I was back in my old room for one more night. It was entirely redecorated, as apparently it had been one of the places paid special attention to by Mrs. Delvers. Hardly surprising, given her hatred of me. The bed was less massive, and the new wardrobe was empty save for my own meager belongings. I felt a moment of silly sadness for the frocks I had worn that were now nothing more than ashes, but it was swift and fleeting, replaced by joy for the wedding. I slipped into bed, reveling in the feel of the luxurious bedclothes, and slept.

The morning dawned clear and bright, and I bounded out of bed, brimming with energy and excitement. There was a tray waiting for me on a nearby table: toast and boiled eggs with a steaming pot of tea. Too nervous and excited to eat, I poured out a hot cup of tea and sipped it slowly, savoring the day. There was a tapping on my door, and I crossed the room to open it, revealing Mary and Margaret. Giggling, they burst into my room, nearly as excited as I was and gushing about their luxury accommodations.

"Such a large bed," mused Margaret, and Mary and I both laughed as she turned red after realizing the implication of her statement. She was a married woman with a husband of her own now, after all. 

"He's so generous. You're so lucky! I should have been the one to ask for rose seeds," laughed Mary, but I could tell she was not truly bitter. She might have found the whole thing incredibly romantic while it was happening to me, but had it been her she would probably have lost interest very quickly. She liked the excitement of going into town and flirting with every male she came upon; the castle and its stark inhabitants would have been dreadfully dull for her. 

We spent a lazy morning giggling together and reminiscing over our childhood days. The wedding ceremony was not until late afternoon so we had plenty of time. Around midday Father put in an appearance and Margaret and Mary begged off, Mary to explore and Margaret to see her husband. Father sat heavily on the bed and was silent for a few moments before he began.

"Are you absolutely certain this is what you want, Beauty?" I smiled at the nickname. This was not the first time we'd had this conversation over the last week, but I was certain it would be the last. Father would not approve of divorce for me, he would expect me to make the best of things if Adam and I were wed.

"I am."

"And you are sure that he can make you happy? You do not think him onerous? Your debt has been repaid in full, you need not marry this man to save me, you know." Father wearily ran a hand over his temples. 

"I know, Father. I understand that it must seem strange to you, since you hardly know him aside from your terrible first impression, but if you knew him as I do, you'd realize there's so much more under that gruff exterior. His deceased wife had a hold on him that made him bitter and angry, but now she's gone and there's nothing holding him back from getting what he wants. He loves me, I know he does, and I love him." My voice was clear and strong, lending credence to the words I spoke. I believed them to be true with every fiber of my being. 

"I worry for you, child. I hope you are not biting off more than you chew, but I will not stop you from this if you have your heart set on it."

"I have. Please, Father, give him a chance. When you know him better you will understand."

"I hope so." Father sighed. We let the silence hang thick between us. "Well," he spoke up finally, "I believe there is a whole host of maids outside waiting to do your hair and whatever else it is fashionable young ladies have done before their wedding. I hardly think they can improve upon you, since you are already beautiful, but we will let them have their fun, eh?" He gave me a tired smile.

"Thank you," I whispered, and embraced him. He hugged me tightly, then stood, slightly misty eyed and declared he was in the way of the eager hand-maidens and must be off. I watched him go fondly. I hoped the passing of time would put his concerns at ease. 

No sooner was he around the corner of the doorway when a crew of maids swept in, bearing hot curlers and ribbons and sashes. They descended on me en masse, and before I knew it I was in the tub, my skin scrubbed till it was pink and glowing and my hair expertly washed and dried. I was tugged this way and that by them, and cinched into corset. My hair was swept up becomingly in a mass of curls and my cheeks were ever so slightly rouged. They pinned and tucked me into my wedding dress, a gauzy white confection of lace and silk. When I finally saw myself in the mirror I hardly recognized myself. At last they declared me finished, and just in time, too. Surprised, I realized the sun was beginning its descent across the sky and it must be nearly time for the wedding. My stomach flopped in anticipation, and my heart palpitated in my chest. It was finally happening.

I was hustled down the ballroom. A crowd was already gathered inside. I knew Adam had invited a few members from his elite social circle, and a distant cousin, while my own family and a few of the townsfolk would be there as well. Father was waiting for me outside the doors.

"Are you ready?" he asked me, as a girl made last minute adjustments to my hair.

"Yes, I'm ready." I was nervous, but I was beyond ready. The musicians struck up the familiar march, and two footmen pulled open the great double doors for Father and I. We swept into the room amid sighs and whispers from those gathered. I caught a few comments about the finery of my dress, but I hardly paid attention. My thoughts were focused on one thing: the man waiting for me at the end. 

Adam was waiting at the end of the aisle they'd constructed, looking very handsome in a new suit coat and breeches expertly tailored to highlight his muscular frame. He smiled at me and all my nerves melted away. There was nothing to be nervous about, only joy that my love and I would be joined together at last. Father and I reached the end, and he gave me away properly, whispering that he loved me before he left my side. I responded the same, then focused my attention wholly on Adam. I scarcely know what was said by the pastor, I was lost in Adam's eyes and smile. We said our vows, and I wanted to cry from happiness. At last we were pronounced husband and wife, and Adam kissed me, restraining most of the passion I knew was there and keeping the kiss short and delicate. It was still enough to make me weak in the knees.

Amid much clapping and cheering, we made our exit from the ballroom and headed to the dining room, where a banquet was set up in our honour. 

"If your family was not here and waiting to see you, I'd take you upstairs and bed you now," growled Adam in my ear. A shiver of anticipation swept through me. We were alone in the dining room for the moment, the wedding-goers not yet caught up to us. He pulled me close against him, the truth of his words evident in the hardness he pressed against me. The sounds of voices drawing near caused him to pull back, but not before he gave me a look burning with desire. 

Margaret and Mary ran to me, making a great fuss over the elegance of my hair and dress, each declaring me the most beautiful thing they'd ever seen, till I blushed red and shushed them. Guests came by and congratulated us, many complimenting on how fine a couple we looked. If anyone felt Adam's marriage imprudent so soon on the heels of Regina's death, they did not say so. He stood nearby me, holding my hand in the crook of his arm as he greeted our wedding guests and family. Once the musicians had reassembled they struck up a tune and the dancing began. Adam held me close, a surprisingly graceful dancer for a man of his size. 

"I cannot wait to get you out of that dress," he murmured in my ear, and I flushed red again. I'm sure all the guests were wondering why the bride was turning red. Then again, perhaps they could imagine well enough what a husband might be saying to his new wife to cause her to blush. "Tonight your whole body is mine," he said, his voice low and only for my ears. His hand clasped my waist tightly, his thumb stroking softly against my hip bone through the layers of fabric. I found myself as eager as he was to escape the festivities. 

After a few more dances, dinner was served, and wine was poured. Many toasts were made to 'his lordship and his lovely new bride', and we sipped wine after each. By the time the toasts were finished I was feeling warm and fuzzy around the edges. I nibbled at my food. It was delicious, but my thoughts were on the marriage bed, and not food. I hoped Adam would not be disappointed after waiting so long. 

Soon enough the dancing was struck up again, and Adam danced with me again, like a good husband. He steered us over toward the door, and then out of it. As soon as we were outside of the dining room he took my hand and led us to the stairs.

"Where are we going?" I asked. I knew, of course, but I was suddenly a bit scared at the prospect of losing my virginity and was trying to stall for time.

"Upstairs, and to my bed," declared Adam, not mincing words. "They will expect it, and there is wine and food enough that they will not miss us. I have to have you." His voice was thick with longing. I glanced over my shoulder and saw that no one had followed us, so evidently it was expected, or at least not surprising, for the bride and groom to disappear. Adam was hustling us up the stairs at a rapid pace and we reached his room quickly. I had not seen it before, and paused in the doorway, admiring the splendor. 

The room was richly decorated in shades of red and gold, all the furniture large and masculine looking. The bed was as large as the one in my old room had been before the fire. It was also a four-poster, though the posts were larger and thicker the wood appeared to be the same. I thought heatedly of how we might make use of those posts in the future. Adam led me over to the bed, turning me so I faced it. Breathing shakily, I waited to see what he would do next.

His hands encircled my waist, drawing me close against his body. He bent his head and feathered soft kisses from behind my ear down to my collarbone, and I shuddered with pleasure. His lips were warm against my skin, hinting at things to come. He leaned down and removed his knife from his boot. 

"I haven't the patience to untie you," he said. "Shame about your dress." In one deft maneuver he had sliced through all the laces at the back and my bodice fell forward, nearly exposing me. I gasped and held it to me, covering myself out of habit. He reached around me, gently taking my wrists and pulling them away, so that the bodice fell to the floor along with the remains of the corset, leaving me completely topless. My nipples grew hard at the sudden change in temperature. He dropped my wrists and slid his hands from my waist to just under my breasts with agonizing slowness. He kissed my neck again, his breath hitting my ear seductively. At last he lifted his hands to cup my breasts, his thumbs drawing across my already taut nipples. I moaned and leaned back against him. A wave of heat swept through me, settling between my legs. He continued to caress them, then dropped his hands lower and began to undo my skirt.




Beauty Meets her Beast Ch. 07



His hands felt rough against my soft skin, yet I couldn't get enough of his touch. I knew the pleasures they could give. My skirt slipped down my hips and legs, puddling at me feet. Only my small undergarment remained between me and complete nakedness. In a moment he had removed that as well, and I was entirely nude. I tried to cover myself, suddenly shy, but he took my wrists again, lifting them over my head and spinning me to face him. I felt self-conscious but he stared at me only with lust and love.

"You're so beautiful," he said. He swept my legs up and deposited me on the bed. Hastily he removed his own clothing and soon he was as naked as I. I averted my eyes, embarrassed to take it all in. "you can look, Belle," he said as he climbed onto the bed beside me. "I'm your husband now." I gave a quick glance in his direction and saw his member was standing fully at attention and immediately looked away again, nervous. "It's alright. I promise to be gentle. Mostly." Adam grinned at me devilishly and then rolled on top of me, taking me nipple into his mouth and rolling his tongue over it. His hardness pressed against my thigh, and I felt a strange combination of fear and desire. There was no stopping this time, no stable boy to happen upon us, no legal scruples to overcome. His hand was on my other breast, tenderly squeezing my nipple. I began to relax into the pleasure of it, forgetting for a moment the shaft that lay near my entrance. 

Adam's hand left my breast, drifting lower and lower till it was just above my nether regions. He slipped it between my thighs and I gasped. His fingers were hot and slick - was that from me?- and he found the very center of my desire and began to trace little circles around it. I breathed out a long shuddering sigh. I remembered how he had felt pressed against my entrance that day in the stable, and I began to feel less afraid and more lustful. His fingers slipped into me and I let out the breath I didn't know I'd been holding. It felt good, his fingers inside me. He was moving them inside in some motion that was hitting a spot deep inside, at the same time positioning his thumb over the outside of me and rubbing up and down, quickly but gently. The sensations were overwhelming, and my legs quivered around his hand.

He repositioned himself above me, taking my thigh with his free hand and moving it apart from the other, spreading them wide. My instinct was to close them and keep myself from being exposed, but the tantalizing feelings he was creating inside of me kept me from doing so. He dove his head down before I could respond, his mouth hot on my center. I cried out as his tongue touched me, its motions doubling my pleasure. His fingers kept working inside of me as his tongue did on the outside, and I felt the feeling of something building inside, to that sweet release I had experienced before. I wanted it, I wanted everything, and my hips lifted off the bed, angling my sex at his mouth. He groaned against me but didn't stop; if anything the speed of his actions doubled, and the intense feeling inside me kept building and building, till finally it crested. I threw my head back, my body shaking as the pleasure swept through me. Adam slowed his motions, then finally stopped, sliding up my body till his hard shaft was pressed against me. It was hard to be nervous as I lay basking in the glow of pleasure, but a small part of me managed to worry that he wouldn't fit, or that it would hurt.

"Belle," he murmured, and kissed my neck. "I love you." With his words, he began to press his manhood into me, slowly and carefully. He was hard and rigid, and even the feeling of his fingers could not have prepared me for the full sensation that came as the head of his shaft finally entered me. I drew in my breath sharply. I could feel myself stretching around him, somehow accommodating his girth. It was a little uncomfortable, but also pleasing. He continued pressing forward, then butted against my maidenhead. He kissed me then, to distract me, I am sure, and drove past the last of my virginity. I cried out against his mouth at the pain, but it was fleeting, and as his progress continued it was swiftly replaced with pleasure. He pushed again and then at last he was fully inside me, to the hilt. He paused for a moment, allowing me to adjust to the feeling, then drew out again slowly. I felt disappointed at the loss, but then he was carefully sliding back into me, and I moaned aloud. He repeated the process again slowly, until a rhythm began to develop. I began to anticipate his thrusts inward and responded by pressing up against him, eager for him to return to me. He groaned and quickened his motions, and I followed suit, my breath coming in shaky little gasps as I lost myself in the pleasure. 

I'd never imagined relations between a man and woman to be like this before I met Adam. Every time he drew back I felt empty and ached for more. He continued gradually increasing his speed until he was thrusting in and out of me with force, and I'd thrown my arms around his neck, my legs slipping up over his torso as I clung to him, desperate for more as I felt the familiar waves of pleasure building again. 

"Adam..." I moaned his name, arching against him.

"Hurry, Belle," he grunted. 

Hurry? Hurry and do what? Did he mean hurry and reach the pinnacle of my pleasure? He must. Somehow my body knew what to do, my hips moving in small circles as I pressed myself against him. We both moaned at the titillating new feeling, and I felt myself drawing closer. Adam was sucking in his breath and holding it, his hips moving jerkily as he thrust in and out. I felt myself drawing closer and closer, then finally the glorious golden ecstasy was upon me for the second time that night. I could feel my inner walls, closing in tightly around Adam, and he gave a hoarse cry and shoved into me hard, finding his own release as I felt his seed empty into me in hot spurts.

He collapsed against me, both of us breathless. He was careful to lay the bulk of his weight on the bed and not crush me, but I found it nice to have his warm body over mine, settling into me. We laid still for a few minutes, neither of us saying anything, just savoring the moment and the feelings. At last he rolled off of me and to the other side of the bed. 

"You were amazing, Lady August." He grinned at me. I smiled shyly at hearing him use my new name.

"Thank you, my lord. You were quite nice yourself."

"Oh, and you are an expert in these matters now?" he teased. I blushed, though I as I was still red from our exertions it probably wasn't noticeable. 

"Perhaps I still have a thing or two left to learn."

"It will be my pleasure to teach you, my lady."

He drew me to him, my body nestled against his, my back to his hard stomach. I was surprisingly tired after our lovemaking, or perhaps from the excitement of the day in general, and after a while I began to doze off. Adam's heavy breathing told me he was drifting off too, and soon we were both fast asleep.

* * *

When I woke it was dark. At first I didn't know where I was, but Adam's arm over my waist swiftly brought back my memories and I realized what had awakened me. Adam was hard against me again, and clearly awake. My body responded to his hardness, pressing back against him, and he groaned. He rolled me over onto my stomach, then threw his leg over me so he was straddled atop me. His hands grasped my hips, lifting them upward and off the bed, and slowly he began to enter me again. Despite my sleepiness I was eager for more, pressing back until my buttocks were firmly against him and he was deep inside of me again. The pain this time was only slight, largely eclipsed by the pleasing sensation of him filling me completely. He resumed his rhythm of moving in and out of me, and I found it easy in this position to match his thrusts with my own, any shyness or fears banished by the pleasure and hunger for satiation. 

He slipped one hand around the front of me, between my legs, and began to circle the most sensitive part. I sighed blissfully, and knew that I would be headed toward the ultimate gratification soon. I achieved my climax, throwing back my head and working my hips against him. The quivers inside me continued as Adam kept on, his thrusts becoming deeper and harder until he too finally reached his satisfaction. He flopped onto his back, panting, and drew me in toward him, one arm protectively holding me close as I nestled my head between his neck and shoulder. We fell asleep that way, my final thoughts being that it would always be like this between us, happy and exciting. We'd beaten every obstacle that life had tried to throw at us and still managed to find each other. It had taken time but at last I had tamed this beast. 

*The End*

 And of course, they lived happily ever after. 

Ok, I know this chapter isn't NonCon, but I wanted you guys to be able to find it, and since the rest of the story has been here, well...

Maybe I'll ask to have it moved later, after it's old news.

Thanks for reading, you guys were great!

XO

Peaches