The Wedding Deception

by Adrienne Basso

  Charles launched an incredulous look for Rebecca.

  - Have not heard any proposal of marriage from his lips. No I gladly accept your request. With your looks you can achieve a better party than a nobleman's interior.

  - He is a rich man of respectable lineage - Rebecca replied, defending her lover. - It would be a good husband to me.

  The Charles Manning's eyes flashed with anger.

  - I do not mind the weight of his pockets. He is not Fairhurst. His wealth does not compare to the viscount, his title is simply a courtesy.

  - Fairhurst is a scoundrel. He may have more noble lineage, but family He does not have good reputation in certain circles. Believed he were different, but to my sorrow, I found that is so cruel as their ancestors. I believe a lot not realizing union with such a family. Are superior to these people.

  - Fairhurst bonds in society and business have been sensible to me - Manning lamented. - Now that he is lost, we must provide an applicant the same, or rather to you.

  - How will I ensnare a husband has not attended the event appropriate? - Rebecca asked already about to lose patience.

  - Since we attended the party today. - Charles handed the empty glass to a passing waiter. - Now let's go.

  - But no sooner started the festivities!

  - We are here for hours, more than enough time for you to see and be seen. Moreover, interest in your company will be greater if you are not so accessible. Charles walked away. Feeling on the verge of despair, Rebecca lost control of the tongue.

  - Stop acting like a silly blockhead!

  She repented as the words escaped her lips. His father was violent when angry. And usually it was not so careless, but his mind was focused on finding Fairhurst lady and take it at the place marked by Hidalgo.

  Charles stopped and slowly turned to her daughter with troubled expression.

  - Nobody talks about what I should do. Mainly my kids stupid. Got it? - As Rebecca was slow to respond, he shouted: - Understand?

  - Got it!

  With tight chest and legs heavy, Rebecca followed her father. For a moment considered the possibility of trying to get lost in the crowd, but the father walked so close to her that it would be impossible to escape.

  Richard would be furious, but she had no choice. The misery of Lady Fairhurst would have to wait until another day.

  Strolling by Lover's Walk, Lord Fairhurst remembered the game of hide and seek that both had engaged in youth. The silence was total, broken only by the sound of his footsteps, the rustle of leaves over high. From time to time, a woman's laughter echoed through the darkness too.

  No doubt there were many couples hiding in the shadows, taking the privacy that the garden offered. He tried to avoid them, knowing that nobody was especially interested in being "discovered."

  From Suddenly a woman came out of the darkness. He looked from one side to another, and then, with quick steps, he made his way back to the hall, without note the presence of Lord Fairhurst. Even at a glance, Jasper acknowledged Lady Sandra Norton. Seconds later, a man came out of that place. Jasper recognized him. It was his twin brother.

  Jasper cleared his throat. Twice. Jason turned and faced his brother.

  - Did something happen?

  - Not yet, Jason. But it will happen if you continue so reckless. You will not rest until he carries scars caused by sword of a cuckold.

  - Better a sword than a gun in my back while I do my wedding vows. If I can not date married women, only will remain the marriageable maidens and their mothers unbearable. These, I avoid at all costs. - Jason straightened his tie. - No be impressed with the air of innocence of Lady Norton. She came to me willingly, knowing exactly what would happen next.

  - This justifies their behavior? You could not devote his attention to young widows, instead of married women of the nobility? And if another the person surprised? Lord Norton has a strong personality and, in addition also is skilled with the sword and pistol. Jason shrugged, and Jasper tensed. The last thing we wanted, was arguing with his brother. And thinking about keeping the peace between them, gave to rebuke him. Taking a deep breath, he resumed walking. His attitude Jason confused.

  - That's all I'll say, my lord? It will not accuse me of destroying families, to be a big disappointment for everyone? - Jason straightened hair with his hand. - God, my brother, if you do not play in my guy that I behaved like a brat, it's because you really is getting old!

  - No need to say more, Jason. You understand perfectly the dangers of their behavior. We can only wait to see what his next crazy.

  It's Really? - Jason laughed. - Why should I always do I did? The two of us we always have, that is, until you change radically, and become almost a saint. - The laughter ceased. - I continued my life as a shameful fate, rarely interspersed with some good thoughts and good deeds.

  - You is not so, but what is being decided.

  - No, Jasper. This is the role given to me. You are Fairhurst, and one day will be Earl of Stafford. And I ... well, I'm the twin light-headed, the man who cultivates scandals and whose antics become subject conversation in the most traditional and aristocratic living rooms London. The man who is living proof that the veins of Barrington always run the blood that has marked generations of libertines, Ba and scoundrels. Jason kicked up a stick and, after a brief pause, he continued, in a serious tone

  - We are two halves that form a whole, Jasper. So remember that, if I were not so bad, you do not have the opportunity to be as good.

  - This is just an excuse for being irresponsible, Jason.

  - Maybe. But for me it's ok.

  From Suddenly they heard the noise of fireworks. The two brothers looked up and saw a cascade of colorful sparks lighting up the sky. They walked silent for a long moment, each lost in their own thoughts.

  - Where is Claire? - Jason asked.

  - With Mom and Meredith. - Another battery of colored fireworks night. - I better go back. We intend to leave as soon as the fireworks ended.

  - I'll stay a little longer - Jason commented. - Let's see what other pleasures the night holds.

  - So, let's go together to the pavilion. At least for you to say goodbye the mother. - Jasper thought for a moment before asking the question both intrigued. - There's one thing I ask from you returned home. - Still walking, he looked at his brother. - Why did you use my name to marry Claire?

  Jason pursed lips, and then cleared his throat.

  - For some inexplicable reason. At the time, I thought it was a good idea. But I want a ray falling on my head if I remember the which led me to make such a decision Jasper gave him an agonized look. His twin brother did not even the good sense to feel guilty.

  - I'm serious, Jason.

  - I was drunk? - Jason asked, raising his eyebrows.

  - No doubt. But there must be more to this story.

  - Maybe I like to manipulate people and do not give a damn about the consequences. - Jason smiled, but the smile did not reach their eyes.

  - It must be true when it hits me, but I have watched you and Claire. You have a great affection for her. I do not believe that has deliberately engaged in a subject so embarrassing.

  By Jason expression, it became clear that he preferred not to comment about what happened, but Jasper needed the explanations that only the brother could give.

  - Claire met by chance one of my trips, and realized she was an exceptional woman. Throughout our friendship, she knew only conquer their financial independence when they marry. Dorchester was pressuring the court to accept her, and Claire was afraid to offend him and annoy parents.

  - So, you decided to solve her problems.

  - Say yes. Claire and I agreed that our marriage would not be a traditional, and that each should take his life. As I would not have been close, I thought a title of nobility to protect the advances of Hidalgo. And since I do not own one, I decided to take your loan.

  - As always, you did not bother with legal marriage. - Jasper shook his head, angry at the audacity
of his brother. - Never occurred to him that marriage might not be valid before the law? Or worse, you had me inadvertently trapped forever to a woman I did not know?

  - Oh, for God's sake, a little trust in me! I consulted a lawyer in a nearby town before the wedding. He explained that even being my vows, the marriage would not be valid either for me or for you.

  Appalled, Lord Fairhurst stopped and stared at her brother with his eyebrows raised.

  - You acted in a case designed for? And Claire? You wanted to tell you the truth. Jason looked at the colored dots that popped up in the sky. Then, without grace, glanced at Jasper.

  - Yes, I meant. But until then, she had already won their freedom, financial independence and protection from Dorchester. Before these benefits, I saw no harm in the situation.

  - No harm? You deceived, Jason. She believed that marriage was true.

  - If she had not believed the plan would have failed. And Claire never agree to pretend to be married to me.

  Jasper began to walk. He shook his head, costing believe heard. His brother pitched a scam believed to be helping Claire. The logic was so wicked, that almost makes sense.

  - Oh, Jason, you have committed many follies in life, but this was the most idiot, the most diabolical ...

  - I do not understand why you're complaining - Jason interrupted in glowing terms. - It was my folly who got him a wife. An extraordinary woman who would never have entered this little world of mediocrity, boring, affected you live. Both you recognized its value, that she was legally married at the earliest opportunity!

  Jasper made mention of stopping, but kept walking.

  - Forgive me if I did not applaud his madness - he replied, finally, a sarcastically. In intimate, I knew I should thank her brother for bringing Claire for his life, even for the wrong way. However, do not forget and not so easily forgive his behavior inconvenient.

  - Whatever the outcome, what you did was an abuse of trust In addition to mock the sacred institution of marriage.

  - I should have guessed that in the end, eventually giving it all right for you, my brother. - Jason lifted his chin in a gesture of defiance. - More than certain, in fact. Claire is much more than you deserve.

  - I know that. And the only reason is able to contain my fists each time I look at you.

  - Every time, no. - Jason stroked his jaw. - A purple stain still or disappeared.

  - I was furious.

  - Well, I hope to be over anger.

  - I'm trying but not easy. - Jasper looked at his brother, struggling with conflicting emotions. - For more hopeless and irresponsible you are, we can not ignore the irrefutable reality.

  - And may I ask who is this reality?

  - You're my brother, Jason, and however much you provoke me, I never leave him. The ties of blood are eternal, brotherly love speaks louder and never ends. Never. There was a brief silence. For a moment, Jasper regretted his words, worried that his outspokenness might increase the distance between them. But reconsidered. After all, had spoken the truth. Maybe that made the difference.

  Jason heaved a sigh.

  - Sorry Jasper. I think I've been acting like a big dork. Jasper extended his hand. With a smile of relief, Jason shook it.

  - You changed a lot - commented undisguised surprise. - Fortunately, for the better.

  - Need not be so astonished. - Jasper grinned, then laughed. Pulling Jason's hand, hugged him hard. - Yes, thanks to Claire, could change. Now it's your turn. Chapter XIV

  TO following afternoon, Claire enjoyed the tranquility of the garden. It was her favorite time. The brightness of the sun was enough to keep a comfortable temperature and to allow the reading.

  The gardens combined with the luxury of the mansion. Roads paved with pebbles separated the beds with colorful flowers and trees of various species. There were also many banks and sources.

  That extension of air and green awakening memories of her home. Although enjoying life in London, she missed the parents, sisters and even the family dog. Was time to return. The previous evening, she commented to Jasper, and was combined they would leave in a fortnight for Wiltshire.

  Claire Jasper was eager to meet her parents and a little nervous having to explain the bizarre circumstances of her marriage and identity husband. A breeze shook the leaves on the trees. It was getting late. Claire tied the ribbons of the hat, and pick up the book, the bookmark fell. Grumbling, she stooped to pick it up. Suddenly, he realized a quick movement behind him. He raised his head, but had no time to see anything.

  Was hit by a hard object. Pain exploded inside the brain, and then the darkness came over her.

  Jasper smiled at the waiter to give him his hat and gloves. It seemed that was smiling too much lately. He suspected that his wife also was responsible for this latest change of habit. Claire was making ridiculously happy.

  - Lady Fairhurst home?

  - She is in the garden, my lord.

  Thanking with a nod, Jasper went to the back of the mansion. Logo more at night, there was the dance of Henson, a party that normally he did not miss it. However, the idea of a relaxed dinner and two, and one night of pleasure with his wife, was much more attractive.

  Fortunately, would not be a difficult task to convince Claire to give up the ball. Was a new experience to have such feelings of tenderness in vibrating him feel the need to take blood Claire in her arms.

  Afford feel that need, instead of smothering it under the pose of formality, still scared, but fear would evaporate each day. Claire gave him the sensation of pleasure that went beyond the physical attraction and it reached the soul and the heart. While crossed the garden, Jasper put his hand in his jacket pocket and shook the box containing the jewelry made especially for Claire. He would deliver soon after the declaration of love and the promise of devotion to her happiness. Was straight to the place where Claire used to sit, and felt a twinge seizure. The bank was empty and the book dropped on the seat.

  With book in hand, Jasper toured the garden and entered the house. Nobody Claire turns. The servants began to look for her in the halls and rooms the first and second floor. Jasper searched the rooms on the third floor. Claire was not even in your room. Pulled the bell-rope and a servant girl answered.

  - Where is the maid of Lady Fairhurst?

  - Not seen her since lunch time, my lord. Today is your afternoon off. Worried Jasper dismissed her and called the butler. Brinks came next. Logo ago, came the servants tasked with searching the mansion. The expression of them, Jasper Fairhurst realized that lady was not home.

  The bedroom door was open, and Jason went in without knocking.

  - I noticed the movement and come see what happened.

  - Claire is not at home - Jasper replied.

  - Are you sure?

  - 've Searched the whole house and garden. She's not here.

  - Maybe you resolved to get away - Jason suggested.

  - Has any coach out?

  - Only the one that took the Countess Bond Street - the butler rushed in answer.

  - Claire knows that I'm worried about your safety

  - Jasper noted. - She should not have left without telling anyone. He put the book on the dresser and shook his head in his hands. He had to think, but thinking it was almost impossible.

  - Gather all the servants in the hall - Jason ordered. - Lord Fairhurst and I need to talk with all employees.

  Jasper Brother threw a look of thanks. Concerned as he was, I could not think clearly.

  Side by side in the hall, the two brothers told employees about the disappearance Claire.

  - Do you remember anything that might help? - Jasper asked employees stunned by the news.

  A boy stepped forward.

  - May not be important, but I saw a black car parked at the beginning of the street, this afternoon. I noticed because I was sitting in a dangerous place, very near the corner. It seemed strange.

  - You see anybody go down or up?

  - No, my lord.

  Jason
approached created.

  - There was a coat at the door, or anything that would identify the vehicle?

  - No, sir.

  - Someone else saw the chariot?

  After a brief silence, another servant was manifested.

  - I, sir.

  - Lady Fairhurst was inside? - Jasper asked.

  - I could not see, my lord. The driver was in his post, and had at least one person in there because he put his head out the window once or twice.

  - Can you describe this person?

  - It was very fast, but I know it was a woman because of the hat.

  - You know the woman?

  - I. .. um ... -The boy stammered, blushing slightly. He looked at the Butler and then to Jasper. - I believe it was Miss. Manning, although no absolute certainty.

  - Mlle. Manning? - Jason repeated.

  Jasper uttered an expletive. Decidedly, there was good news. If Claire was with Rebecca, then Dorchester not be far behind. A shiver of fear ran down her spine. Underestimated the danger, and this was unforgivable. She wanted to believe that it was all a terrible mistake, but suspected that, unfortunately, this was not the case. Needed to take urgent action.

  No further explanation, hurried out, leaving the gloves, hat and the jacket back. Jason followed.

  - Jasper, wait! You can not go on the hunt for a black carriage in London. We have no idea of the direction it took, and not even Claire was inside.

  - I will not look for any coach. I'll talk to Dardington. Our coined investigators hired to oversee Dorchester. If Rebecca is involved, of course, the gentleman is as well. I ask God that one of the researchers can take us to Claire.

  - I'll go with you - Jason warned. - Come take my buggy. And the fastest means of transport for London when I'm with the reins hands.

  The sound of carriage wheels on the floor of twigs attracted Claire unconsciousness. Zonza, shook his head and groaned in pain. He played the point sore and felt the lump. Tried and sit for a moment, everything turned in front of you. Waited dizziness pass and slowly sat up on the bench.

  -Finally, agreed. Good. I had to give a shilling more to the driver load it from the garden to the carriage. But now, to get to our destination, save this value. Claire blinked, and the image of the woman sitting opposite her, was slowly becoming clearer.