“Is this for me?” she choked out, shaking with emotion.
“Just for you, little one. Isn't she pretty? Just like you are.”
“I've never had a doll before.”
Gerard's heart sank. Never had a doll? What kind of childhood did this woman have?
“Then allow your new papa to give his new girl her very first doll. Do you like her?”
Eliza dissolved into tears, clutching the toy against her chest as she sunk into the confines of his hold. Years of pain, neglect, anger, and insecurity poured through her as she released herself completely to the man's care. Gerard smiled, closing his eyes. Yes, there was promise for this one. Once she was cried out, he dried her eyes and kissed the tip of her nose.
“Would you like to come out and show the girls your new doll?”
“I'm scared.” Eliza admitted, holding the toy under her chin. “I don't want to be laughed at.”
“I'll tell you what. I'll send Nanny in to sit with you until you are comfortable to rejoin us. Would that be good for you?”
Eliza nodded and wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing his rough cheek. “Thank you, Papa. For the doll and for understanding. I am going to try my best to be nicer.”
“I think your hurtful behavior comes from being so afraid. We are going to work on that, okay? Next week, when Mama is gone, you and I are going to be doing a lot of talking.”
“Yes, Papa. I'd… I would like that.”
Satisfied, Gerard left her with a kiss and called for Martha. When the large woman entered the room and sat down, Eliza leapt onto her Nanny's big lap and eagerly shared her new doll. Martha sighed happily. She now felt at peace that the girl was going to find happiness.
Gerard returned to the table and sat to ponder his ward. Brigit, noticing his expression, questioned his mood. “She's jealous over you and Aryanna. She wants what you two are forming. This is good. Aryanna? What are you doing?”
“I need to see Headmistress… Eliza. This makes Lord Ryan happy that I do good things, yes?”
“Dove, I will not make you do anything that you are afraid of,” Ryan said, touching her cheek in the same manner as his father. Brigit swelled with love for her son. He truly had followed her beloved husband's teachings.
Aryanna dropped her eyes and then looked at Brigit. “Mama? What do I do?”
“What is your heart telling you to do, darling?”
Aryanna paused, nodded, and excused herself. Armed with only her doll for protection, she tapped on the door to the study.
“Nanny? I like to talk with Miss… Eliza. It good, yes?”
“Of course, Aryanna. You girls play nice. No fighting. Eliza?”
“Yes, Nanny. I…I would like to talk with her,” Eliza said quietly, rising from the old woman's lap. Aryanna watched Martha leave and timidly approached Eliza.
“Is that your doll? She is pretty,” Aryanna said carefully, unsure of Eliza's next move. The image of the woman who beat her haunted her mind, yet this girl… something was different. More vulnerable. Softer.
“Yes. Papa gave her to me. Do you want to see her?” Eliza answered, clearly as uncomfortable as Aryanna.
Aryanna nodded, ignoring her 'big girl clothes' as she sat upon the floor and took the doll. She smoothed out the hair, touching the delicate fabric. “She look like Eliza. Very pretty. Soft.”
“Your English had gotten so much better, Aryanna.”
“Lord Ryan good reformer. He teaches me and sends me to learn in village. He gave me doll, too.” Aryanna handed Eliza her doll, still not trusting the woman not to harm her. Eliza fingered the toy quietly.
“Aryanna? I am truly sorry for my cruelty. Please… forgive me. I needed reform more than you did.”
Aryanna looked up into Eliza's sad eyes and pulled herself to kneel before her. “Headmistress is hurt little girl. Reformer make better?”
“Yes, Papa is helping me. So is Nanny.”
“I am happy. Mama? She is good. Very good.”
“Mama does not like me. I was mean to her.”
“You stop being mean? Always?”
“Yes. I don't like how I was. I truly am sorry, Aryanna,” Eliza whispered, a fat tear rolling down her cheek. Aryanna softened and reached her arms around the woman's neck to hug her.
“I am sorry that I was incorrigible.”
“You weren't, sweetheart. I was,” Eliza admitted, holding the girl back. After several moments, Eliza joined her on the floor. For the first time in her life, she understood the freedom that came with true forgiveness.
* * *
“I wonder what they are up to,” Gerard questioned, accepting a glass of wine from Brigit. She snuggled into his lap, unconcerned that their son was sitting across from them.
“I hear no screaming. It's probably safe to assume that they have not caused one another harm,” Ryan chuckled, once again touched by the genuine affection his parents continued to display.
“I believe we have reached a crossroads,” Brigit purred, tucking her nose under Gerard's chin. “The girls will either bond or will go their separate ways, but in respect. Either way, it is a good, healthy thing. I am so proud of my men.”
“But it was your actions that brought this about, Brigit. Had you not provoked the jealousy, this might not have occurred.”
“This was done with intent, Mother?” Ryan sounded surprised. “How in this world do you manage to orchestrate such things?”
“Your mother is a brilliant strategist, my boy. Never underestimate the quiet ones. They will always surprise you.”
“I beg pardon, Father, but I never considered Mother one of the 'quiet' ones,” Ryan teased, laughing as Brigit stuck her tongue out at him.
“When she plays as a girl, she is quite boisterous. But, when she acts as a woman… she is very sly,” Gerard chuckled, lightly smacking Brigit's rump.
“I am seeing that same trait with Ary. Father? I must confess something to you and ask for advice…”
“You are in love with the girl. That is clear. And she, with you. What is the problem, son?” Gerard asked bluntly, pinching Brigit as she giggled.
“The first rule of Reforming…”
“Yes, and one I broke and never regretted. Let her finish learning and discovering herself. Keep yourself chaste…”
“That will be difficult, but yes, I will. Mother, why are you snickering?”
“I'm just wondering if your Aryanna is going to give you the same troubles as I gave your father.”
“I'm certain she is. And, thanks to my father, I will handle her in the same manner as he did you. Over my knee and with a firm hand.”
Gerard laughed as his wife giggled again, whispering something in his ear. “I'm sure my son will figure that out on his own, Brigit. Did you what to check on the girls, Ryan?”
“Yes, I think I will. I have to also make amends with Eliza as well. My anger towards her has to be removed.”
“Go, then. We will be here waiting for you. No, Brigit, not now. Darling, we have company,” Gerard scolded half-heartedly as she whispered another suggestion in his ear. Ryan chuckled, shaking his head as he stood. He listened at the office door before tapping lightly and then entered without an invitation. The two girls sat next to one another on the floor with Aryanna reading aloud to Eliza, who held her doll close to her chest. He had never seen a lovelier sight. Aryanna smiled happily upon noticing him, while Eliza turned crimson.
“Please, continue. Her reading has improved, has it not, Eliza?”
“Yes, Lord Ryan. You have done a wonderful job with her,” Eliza said quietly, unable to meet his eye.
“Eliza, look at me, please. That's a good girl,” Ryan praised as she slowly lifted her face. “I know you have suffered much humiliation with being here, but it appears to be working for your benefit. I am proud of you.”
“You are?” Eliza sounded surprised, her big, brown eyes wide.
“Very much so. It takes much strength to rise above your weaknesses and f
laws. I wish to put the past to rest and focus on the future. Will this be possible?”
“I don't know what to say, sir… my actions towards Aryanna were…”
“Forgiven, if I am reading my ward properly. And if she can forgive you, most certainly, so can I. Come to me,” Ryan ordered. Eliza rose hesitantly and allowed Ryan to pull her into a full embrace. Aryanna watched, feeling a little jealously digging at her. She lowered her face, unwilling to allow Ryan to witness her anger. How dare he touch this woman like he did her?
Eliza smiled contently, enjoying the feel of his warm arms around her shoulders. He was a handsome devil, for sure, and she considered Aryanna a very lucky girl to have him. She pulled away and rejoined the other woman on the floor, immediately noticing her sullen expression.
“Aryanna? Are you alright?” Eliza asked. Aryanna shot Ryan an evil look and, without a sound, bounded from the room, slamming the door behind her. “Did I say something wrong?”
“No,” Ryan sighed. “I think I just got a taste of my little one's temper. Please join Papa and Mama in the parlor and let them know I will return shortly.”
Eliza nodded, gathered the two dolls, and proceeded to deliver the message. Brigit looked at Gerard with a twinkle. Yes, their Ryan would certainly have his hands full with this one.
* * *
Aryanna lifted her skirts and ran out the front door and into the night, her movements deterred by the heeled boots. She heard running behind her and, without looking back, increased her speed. Ryan easily caught up with her, grabbing her around the waist and swinging her into the air. He ignored her pounding fists upon his arms as he carried her, kicking and swearing, to the carriage. He opened the door with one hand, not releasing her, and pushed her inside, plopping her down upon the cushioned seat. He sat across from her and was greeted with a sharp slap across the face.
Aryanna, not aware of Ryan's legendary temper, glared at the man with complete unawareness of how his eyes darkened with anger. He clenched his jaw to the sting and grabbed her wrist before she had the chance to strike him again.
“I want an explanation, Aryanna, and I want it this minute.”
“You go!” Aryanna spouted, holding back livid tears. “You hold Eliza and other wards. Not me.”
“You're jealous?” Ryan asked with surprise. “You are actually jealous? Do you think I like Eliza in the same way I care for you?”
“Lord Ryan is my reformer,” Aryanna stated her claim, her chin raised in defiance. “You no hold Eliza.”
“Now wait just one minute, missy. I can hold another woman to comfort her if I see fit. You do not issue orders to me, understand?”
“You are incorrigible!” Aryanna yelled, using her favorite insult as she stomped her foot.
“Aryanna, I will not have this behavior. If you persist… yes, Father?” Ryan said, noticing Gerard standing outside the carriage door. He joined them without invitation. “Can I help you?”
“No, but it appears that I can help you. Eliza told me what happened. Aryanna, enough of this. Lord Ryan is your reformer, not your possession. If this continues, I will take over for him and he will reform Eliza.”
Aryanna's eyes grew wide and, without warning, she released a loud scream of frustration.
“What in God's name is going on in here?” Brigit asked, sliding in next to her husband.
“Father, Mother, I can handle this…” Ryan growled. “It's getting cramped in here.”
Brigit shook her head, ushering the two men out and demanding they close the door behind them. She grabbed Aryanna's hands. “What is troubling you, dearest? Take your time. I know it is hard for you to find your words right now.”
“Mama! Ryan hold Eliza. He kiss her. He…”
“Is a reformer, my sweet. Did he kiss her in the same way he kisses you?” Brigit asked, suspicious of Ryan's demonstration of affection by how Aryanna was reacting.
“No. Ryan kiss here,” Aryanna touched her lips. She looked at Brigit helplessly. “Mama, Eliza read and write… Ryan likes…”
“My darling, darling girl…” Brigit sighed, understanding. “Reading and writing is important to Ryan, but you are learning. He is proud of you and how hard you work to please him. He does not care for Eliza in his heart like he cares for you. Do not allow jealousy to take away the sweetness that he is learning to love in you.”
“I am angry with Ryan. Not Eliza. He told her to touch him,” Aryanna sniffled.
“Papa touches you that same way he touches Eliza. Does that make you angry?”
“No, Mama.”
“Does that make me angry that he does?”
Aryanna looked at the older woman and felt immediate shame. Gerard was her husband, and she smiled when he hugged the other girls.
“I am sorry, mama. I am bad.”
“No, honey, you are human. Now, did my eyes catch a red mark on Ryan's cheek?”
“Yes, Mama.”
“You are never to strike a reformer,” Brigit sighed. “I cannot help you if Ryan decides to punish you for that.”
“Mama? I want to go home,” Aryanna said, exhausted and ashamed of her behavior.
“You may go home when Ryan decides it is time. Now, come out of here. You need to make amends with Ryan and Papa.”
* * *
“Mother did what?” Ryan asked as his father relayed the time when Brigit had reacted the same way after Gerard was seen hugging a visiting cousin.
“She picked up a flower vase and splashed the contents in my face, then kicked my shin. I was livid,” Gerard chuckled.
“What did you do?”
“You know exactly what I did. But, like Aryanna, she had a hard time verbalizing her pain because of the language barrier. I made certain she understood that she was not punished for her jealousy but for the tantrum.”
“Did it prevent further problems?”
“What do you think?” Gerard asked with a grin. Ryan frowned, realizing that this was likely the first of many fits he would witness from this woman over the course of their lives together. It did not matter—he still wanted her.
“I should take her back to the house,” Ryan sighed.
“No, make her stay here and anticipate. In fact, don't discipline her until the morrow. Allow her to fret through the night. I found that worked best when your mother was particularly wicked in her behavior. It made her accept her punishment with more understanding.”
“I recall Mother doing the same to me on several occasions when I felt the need to irritate her beyond her level of patience. It was very effective. I will take your advice, Father. Thank you.”
“You are quite welcome, my boy. Just do not forget to reassure her of your care for her.”
“I won't. Where are Eliza and Martha?”
“It is past seven, and Eliza is being put to bed. What is your impression?”
“As always, you have broken through a hard shell. I hope that I will be as effective one day,” Ryan responded sincerely. “I admire how you are able to mend a broken heart, Father. I feel inadequate in comparison.”
“We all have our beginnings, my son. Your mother was my first, and my most difficult. Speaking of which…” Gerard said, standing as Brigit and Aryanna entered the room. Ryan joined him, his eyes resting on Aryanna's reddened face. Brigit approached him, whispering into his ear. Silently, Ryan nodded. She had given him the same advice as his father.
The ride back to Ryan's house was quiet. Aryanna was exhausted, physically and emotionally, as well as quite shamed by her outburst. Ryan studied her carefully, allowing her time to process her thoughts without interruption. He held out his hand to help her from the carriage and silently led her inside.
“Let's get you to bed, Aryanna,” he said quietly.
“Lord Ryan spank me?” came the nervous question.
“Tomorrow. And I will be taking you to the barn for a dose of the strap. You will never strike me again, Aryanna. I am so very disappointed in you. There was no reason for that.”
Ryan's voice was low and sad, causing Aryanna grief.
“I am sorry, Ryan. Please, forgive.”
“I have forgiven you, dove. But you must still pay the cost of your actions. Arms up,” Ryan ordered, slipping the dress over her head. Silently, he dressed her in a cotton gown and took her hair down from its elaborate chignon, watching as it fell in silken waves down her back. He began to brush the shimmering strands, allowing them to flow through his fingers. Still quiet, he made a braid and tied the end with a ribbon.
Aryanna was uncomfortable with his silent gestures. Hair-brushing was the time they would chat and sometimes even sing. Tonight it was a task that neither enjoyed, anticipating the upcoming day. Aryanna clung tightly to her doll as Ryan tucked the blankets about her. He rested a quick kiss upon her forehead and left the room without a sound. Aryanna turned into her pillow and cried herself to sleep.
Chapter Eleven
“Nanny? Did I do something wrong?” Eliza asked as she looked upon the ceiling from her bed.
“No, child. Why do you ask this?” Martha responded, placing her sewing upon the table and turning up the lamp.
Eliza rolled over to her side to look at the women. “The mood changed in the room tonight after Aryanna left. It felt… sad.”
“Aryanna struck a reformer. It did not matter the reason, but it is something they do not allow. She will be punished severely for it, and that saddens them.”
“But, it was my fault. If I had not allowed Lord Ryan to hug me…”
“It was her choosing, Eliza. And, I must say, I am pleased with your statement. I know Papa will also be happy to hear of it.”
“I don't understand.” Eliza sat up, careful not to rock the bassinet.
“You tried to take responsibility for your actions. Actions that you felt led to another being hurt. That is the sign of a repentant heart. Now, go to sleep, my darling. Tomorrow will be coming much too soon.”
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