by Marnie Cate
* * *
After the suite debacle, I decided to be quiet during the business discussions. I would let my mother decide how much she was willing to sacrifice to make this union. The conversation was pleasant and they seemed to agree on all changes until my mother broached the subject of my name.
“How do you expect people to react to my wife not taking my name!” he roared. “It will confirm this is just a business deal, and that your daughter was sold to the highest bidder.”
“Now Roger, would I ever let anything happen to hurt my businesses or my daughter? And, if you must use such crass language, let me be clear, you were not the highest bidder. As I said, it will make us look stronger. Blanche Kingston Drygen confirms the Drygen line is strong and that I believe in the continued success of Kingston industries.”
My mother had a way of convincing people they had been wrong, and Roger was no different.
“And our children?” he asked in a more composed tone.
“They will be Kingston Drygen. They will be a confirmation of your passionate love and your unbreakable union. We will squelch any ideas of there being room for new leadership in Starten. Any business opened will be under our approval.”
“But —”
“No buts. They will not question Brandon Drygen's dying wish for his daughter to always keep her name,” my mother said coldly.
Her last defense struck a chord. “Yes, who would be a big enough fool to question his wishes?”
“Good. Now that is all settled, you can begin to remodel the west wing. I will have anything you want relocated. I hope you agree that Blanche and I will handle all of the wedding planning. Your only job will be to show up, looking dashing.”
“Of course. However, I would like for Blanche and I to make more of a public appearance together in the days prior. The last one did not go as planned.”
I cringed at the thought of how I had treated Roger. I had made a fool out of him in front of half of the town.
“Tomorrow is the lunar dance. I would like her to be my date,” Roger said.
Like a child, I sat there while they talked around me. I was surprised that this was really happening. It was as if I didn't have my own opinions.
“I think this would be the perfect night to make the announcement. Don't you agree, Blanche?” my mother asked, finally drawing me into the conversation. She clapped her hands together enthusiastically.
“Yes, it will be wonderful,” I said with a forced smile.
Chapter 4
“You want him to be able to show off his catch, Blanche,” my mother said, sternly. “I had this dress made specifically for a day like this.”
“It is too much,” I said. “I can barely breathe. This looks like something Snowystra would wear.”
An icy chill blew over me, and I held my breath, knowing my error in speaking.
“And what would be the problem with wearing a dress like mine?” Snowystra purred.
“N-nothing, Goddess,” I stammered. “I only meant that, unlike you, I am no great beauty.”
“Don't discredit yourself, Blanche. You are quite lovely,” Snowystra said, circling me. “You are right, though. This dress isn't right. This color is to catch a man. No, you have to look the part of a future wife now.”
She trailed her fingers along the red gown, sending frost through the threads. In seconds, she had changed the crimson dress to a brilliant blue.
“Much better,” she said, touching the tight fitted bottom of the dress. “This dress is fine for an elegant evening out, but you need to be able to dance with sweet Roger. The town must think he has the stamina of an eighteen-year-old with such a beauty on his arm.”
Rip.
The sound of her tearing the fabric startled me. My mother and I silently watched as she transformed the dress I was wearing. She changed it from a tight-fitting evening gown to a flirty dress with a full skirt. She finished the alterations with a fitted waist and halter top.
“Much, much better,” she said, wrapping a silver belt around my waist.
“Thank you,” I softly said.
Touching my stomach, she asked, “Any progress on my child?”
“No, we haven't married yet,” I replied with visible shock.
She laughed. “Mortals and their man-made rules. I suggest you forget about being proper and get me what I want.” Her nail trailed down my cheek. “I would hate to have to remind you how cruel I can be when I don't get my way.”
With those words, she faded away.
“We will move the wedding up,” my mother said anxiously.
“No, we will leave it as is. She's right. It is just man-made law. It won't matter on timing if the baby will be taken anyway.”
“You will wait until you are married before…”
“Mother, I will do whatever needs to happen to free us from Snowystra.”
With those words, I left my mother stunned by my reaction. What did she expect? I was a woman who would be giving up a child. Did it matter if I was thought of as loose or promiscuous? Who did it really matter to? I sighed, already knowing the answers.
It would matter in Starten. The men who thought they were in charge had expectations for purity, even if they were willing to encourage indiscretions in private. A child before marriage would be unacceptable. I would have to adhere to their rules, no matter how ridiculous it was.
* * *
Roger arrived dressed in a dark gray business suit. “Thank you for sending the gift,” he said, waggling his silver tie.
Snowystra, I thought before quickly saying, “I hoped it would make a statement if we went out coordinated.”
“Your instinct was spot on.” Holding out his hands, he said, “Let me get a look at you. Every man in Starten will be envious of the beautiful woman on my arm. How do you enchant me every time I see you, Blanche?”
By the time we arrived at Main Street, it was filled with vendor shops and hundreds of people. Many of the businesses were Drygen property or under our control. Wooden trade stands had been set up at the end of the street, and the stage was ready for the performance. Ms. Seraphina would soon drag her little dancers out to honor the moon.
I always felt envious as a child. Mother wouldn't let me attend the classes with the town folk. After pleading, she had agreed to allow Ms. Seraphina to give me private lessons, but it wasn't the same.
Amid all the shops, one stood out this year - Mae Silvers. In contrast to the boring wood ones, her stand was a spectacular presentation with small twinkling lights and colorful wares. As we drew closer, soft music played, beckoning me to shop.
“They really have gone all out this year. Look at the detail.” Roger traced his fingers along the ivy vines and small flowers carved into the chestnut wood. “Amazing workmanship. We must find out who did this.”
“No need to search. I know the man.” I flinched as the tall man stepped out of the stand and offered his hand to Roger. I had not seen him since the dance. “Chester Veracor, and you are Roger Kingston, right?”
“Yes. Brilliant work,” Roger praised, “Absolutely fantastic. Do you make furniture, too?”
“Chester can make anything,” Mae Silver said, joining us. She held out a tray of pastries. “Try one of my zizzleberry biscuits. I am using my mother's secret recipes.”
Roger popped one into his mouth and beamed. “Delicious. Forgive my manners. Have you met my fiancé, Blanche?” he asked, taking my hand.
She smiled brightly at me. “Of course, I know Blanche.” Turning back to Roger, she added, “Your fiancé? What wonderful news.”
“We should have a double wedding,” Chester joked. “Maesi has finally agreed to marry me.”
I smiled half-heartedly and wandered into the stand while Roger and Chester talked. I examined Mae's merchandise nonchalantly. It was stocked with a variety of homemade bakery items and tonics.
When I picked up the most colorful bottle, Mae stepped forward, “This helps your skin tone. It gets rid of any redness
.”
I smiled. “How simple. Everyone loves a bright skin tonic.”
Mae glared at me. “Obviously, it would not be up to your standards, Blanche. You would probably prefer some fresh bread, or a pastry. You might be surprised how good things can be off the mountain.”
Walking away from her, I said, “Roger, I would like to go see some of the other shops. This is a bit too country for my taste.”
“Blanche,” he said, not hiding his disapproval.
Ignoring him, I marched out of the stand fuming. I wished for nothing more than to call a ball of fire and burn her precious shop to the ground. I heard Roger apologizing as I stormed away. When he caught up to me, he grabbed my arm tightly, and fell into step with me.
“You acted like a spoiled brat in there. You are a representation of me now. If you cannot control your behavior, we should go home,” he growled.
I sighed. “She is so phony. Mae would have rather stabbed my eyes out then be nice to me. Don't be deceived by her.”
“Blanche, I plan on marrying a woman not a child,” he said
Slipping close to him, I ran my finger through his hair. “I promise you, I am not a child. If you let me, I can show you.”
His anger softened and he leaned into kiss me. His tender kiss angered me. If I had his child and turned it over to Snowystra, I could be free. I could leave Starten, and start again somewhere new. Why was this man being nice and making me think I could have love? I wouldn't. Besides, if I was selfish enough to give away a child, I didn't deserve to be loved.
Breaking away from him, I said, “I think it would be best if we try this again another night.”
As we rode in silence, Roger took my hand. “You are such a mystery to me, Blanche. One minute you are so hot and then the next, you're ice cold. When will I see the real you?”
My heart cracked a little more with his words. I didn't know who the real Blanche was anymore. Maybe, I never did?
* * *
Roger walked me to the door. “Get some sleep, Blanche. Tomorrow is another day. How about I pick you up around noon and we can take a stroll down Main Street? I will even buy you a milkshake.”
“Aren't you a big spender,” I teased.
He smiled at my response. “Money is no object. You could even splurge and order a hamburger.”
“Let's not be reckless,” I laughed.
“You are beautiful when you smile,” Roger said, softly touching my cheek.
“I am sorry for tonight. I just –,”
He placed a finger against my lips, silencing me. “I have chosen a fiery bride. I will just have to be prepared to extinguish any flames you leave behind.”
“You don't have to clean up my messes. I am a Drygen.”
Roger ended my response by sweeping me into his arms, and kissing me. This kiss was different. It was not like his previous lustful or tender kisses. This was deep and all consuming. I could think of nothing but him. His strong arms held me tightly as I breathed in his woodsy scent, which had a hint of sweetness.
Breaking from my mouth, he kissed my neck, murmuring in my ear, “You are mine now. I will love you until the day I die.”
The porch light flicked on and we separated like teenagers caught necking.
“You are home so early,” my mother said in a shrill voice.
“Yes, but we had a lovely evening,” Roger replied. “However, business called, so I needed to cut the night short.”
“Nothing serious, I hope,” my mother said, narrowing her eyes at Roger.
“Just an issue with the printing press,” Roger said. “One of the offset cylinders has been acting up and I seem to be the only one who knows how to fix it.”
“Except for me now,” I interjected. “It is really quite fascinating, Mother.”
“Yes, I am sure it is. I will leave you to say your goodnights,” my mother replied.
“Sweet dreams, Camille,” Roger said as she shut the door. Turning to me, he grinned. “You know I am going to have to show you how to fix the machine now?”
Pressing myself against him, I kissed him before saying, “I would like that.”
“You never cease to surprise me.” Roger kissed me on my forehead. “We will continue this discussion tomorrow,” he called as he walked away.
As his silver car left the property, I saw Snowystra standing across the property. Our eyes locked and a chill ran through me. She didn't need to speak. I could feel her disapproval. I wanted to explain, but there was no need for words. Her look said it all. She would not be patient. My heart fell again. How could I even think of giving her my child?
* * *
I tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Snowystra's unspoken warning filled my mind. The wedding would need to be moved up. The elaborate event my mother wanted, Roger wanted, would have to be soon.
Tap. Tap. Tap.
Jameson stood at the window. When he knew I saw him, he held up a thermos. I shook my head and laid back down.
The tapping started again.
Jameson motioned again for me to come to the window. Leaving the bed, I opened the patio door.
“What do you want?” I hissed.
“You seemed restless. I thought some hot chocolate would help you sleep,” he said, holding up the thermos.
“She is going to kill me if I don't get pregnant very soon. Which is ridiculous, because I don't think I will even be able to give away my child's life to save my own,” I sighed.
“She will raise your child like royalty,” he promised.
“I need to get out of here. If you want to help me, come with me,” I invited.
“Where are we going?”
“Stay here. I need to throw clothes on,” I said, shutting the door on him.
* * *
“Where are you taking us? I can transport us wherever you want,” Jameson said as we walked down the mountain path towards Sparrow Lake.
“No, it is a nice night. The fresh air will calm my thoughts,” I said, instinctually taking his hand. When I realized what I had done, I quickly let go. “Sorry.”
Jameson took my hand back and smiled.
The sounds of silver moss beetles clicking and the occasional hoot of an owl comforted me. They went along with no worries. I was envious.
When we reached the bottom of the steep trail, I let go of Jameson's hand. “Over there,” I pointed to thick brush. “Paul's four-wheeler should still be here.” Pushing through the shrub, I cried out in delight, “It is!”
Climbing onto it, I started the engine and jerkily rode it out of its hiding spot. I jolted to a stop as I almost slammed into Jameson.
“I think you better drive,” I decided, scooting back and patting the spot in front of me.
“I have never used one of these,” he said, shaking his head.
“I will teach you then,” I vowed. “Come on don't be a chicken.”
He narrowed his eyes, but climbed on.
As I walked him through the levers, he jerked forward. I wrapped my arms around his waist and began to laugh.
“This isn't safe,” he said.
Scooting closer, I put my hand over his. “Gently squeeze this.”
We slowly began to move forward. “Will you now tell me where we are going?”
“To the lake,” I answered, squeezing the lever to go faster.
Jameson weaved us through the tree line. It was exhilarating. My long hair blew behind me. I leaned back letting the wind blow through me. I felt so free. When our movement slowed, I opened my eyes to see the soft ripples of Sparrow Lake highlighted by the moonlight. Hopping off, I removed my shoes and settled on the rocky shore, letting the waves splash my feet.
Jameson sat beside me. I looked from his face to his feet. “Fine,” he said pulling his socks and shoes off. He had the most perfect feet with clean, trimmed nails.
“I used to come here when I was still in school. I would sneak out with…”
“Jackson,” Jameson interrupted.
“
Yes, Simon Jackson,” I said, laying back and staring into the night sky. “He loved to look at the stars.”
“The sky does hold magic,” he said, lying down.
“I'm scared, Jameson. Truly scared,” I whispered.
“What is frightening you?” he asked without looking at me.
“What if I can't give my child away?” I confessed, a tear falling from my eyes.
“That is not all that is bothering you, is it?” he pressed.
“I am confused about my feelings for Roger. He has been so nice and I could see myself falling in love with him,” I said, turning on my side to face him.
“This is good. It cannot hurt to love the man you are marrying,” he encouraged, still not looking at me.
“But, I felt the same way for you when you took me to Snowstrum,” I said softly.
He blinked a few times, but didn't respond. I shifted closer to him and rested my head on his shoulder. I could feel his body tense, but he did not move away from me. My mind raced with the possibilities. I couldn't weed out the truth.
“How do I know if my feelings are real?” I finally blurted out.
“Did you have these feelings for Jackson?”
Thinking back, I had to admit I experienced strong feelings for him, but I never thought of permanency or a future. I thought of how he kissed me, and how much my mother disapproved of me seeing him. It was a young love and nothing more.
“No, I feel different now,” I said, pushing myself up to look into his eyes. “Jameson, tell me you felt the same thing the night we kissed. Tell me I didn't imagine the electricity between us.”
“It was just the magic of Snowstrum,” he replied.
Pressing my lips against his, I felt the same spark of magic. He wrapped me in his arms, drawing me even closer, and returned the kiss. Once again, I was swept away. My thoughts were only of how to hang onto this moment forever.
He broke away, leaving me breathless and confused. “We can't do this. It will only cause trouble for the both of us.”
Standing up, I offered my hand to him. “Jameson, I can't imagine this could lead to any more trouble than I am already in.”