Chapter Eight

    When Serena had not returned home before dusk like she always did, Scarlet was furious and Norman worried more than ever.
   "What if the horse has thrown her? What if brigands befell her? What if-"
   "What if! What if! There are a million possibilities Norman!" Scarlet spat the words coldly. Norman seemed stunned at his wife's tone but quickly forgot it.
  "I must go and search for her!" he said and spun to leave the toasty warm Library. Scarlet caught up to him and pulled his sleeve halting him.
  "The storm ever rages, Norman. You will not be able to see in the heavy blizzard. Surely she's smart enough to take refuge someplace." Scarlet tried to encourage him. She was torn between hoping that the wench was frozen stiff in the snow and hoping that she returned safely home.
  Norman sighed and made his way to the cushioned settees. There in the midst of his wife, he uncorked a bottle of ale and raised it to his quivering lips. Scarlet smiled, secretly hoping that tonight she could bestow her plan to her husband.
  "Celebrating so soon?" she asked coyly as she tiptoed to her husband's side, the silk skirts of her gown made soft swishing noises as she walked. Norman looked up at his wife and smirked.
  "What do you mean? Are you happy that my daughter is out there lost somewhere in this bloody blizzard?" Scarlet sat down beside Norman and patted his knee. She let out a little laugh.
  "Of course not. I am merely attempting to have faith as should you. She will return." The tension that had etched lines on Norman's face eased and he relaxed into the plush cushions, gulping down more ale.
  "Have some, will you?" he held out the half empty bottle. Scarlet raised her hand in refusal.
  "Filthy peasant drink. I much prefer a nice brandy or aged wine." she said softly with a hint of arrogance.
  "Of course you would." he muttered and shrugged returning to his ale.
  Scarlet waited patiently till her husband had downed two bottles of ale. When he turned to talk to her she noticed that his eyes were blood shot and his speech was slurred.
  Perfect! she thought to herself and leaned closer to her husband. She immediately found her charm and set forth to seduce him.
  "Norman...." she said in a soft airy voice and placed her hand on his leg close to his inner thigh. "...my dear handsome husband." She leaned even closer till her bosom was pressed against his chest. She caressed his face with the palm of her hand.
 "Scarlet...." his voice was low and husky. She could smell the stagnant ale on his breath. He rubbed his coarse hand along her back, lust slowly crept inside him.
  Scarlet played her charm, teasing him and tantalizing his dulled senses. When the time was right and Norman felt as though he would burst, she lay her plan open before him.
  "I have a plan for Serena." she said slowly. Norman gazed at his wife longingly.
  "Yes my wife?" Serena continued to caress his chest and arms.
  "Serena has no desire to marry. She has made this clear. Don't force her to marry, Norman." she said with pouty lips. "She is after all only seventeen."
  "But all young maidens must marry. She cannot provide for herself. She needs a man." Norman said then raised his hand to fondle his wife's soft breasts. Scarlet slapped his hand away then recovered herself when she noticed Norman's saddened look.
  "Not yet, my precious." she smiled seductively. "Serena does need a man and a man she shall have. My plan will surely ransom quite a fortune for our daughter." she put great emphasis on 'our daughter' and found it pleased her husband.
  "Then what is this plan of yours, beautiful Scarlet?" he said huskily encasing Scarlet in his arms.
  "Sell her virginity." the words were quick and precise. Norman released Scarlet abruptly.
  "What?" Scarlet knew his first reaction would be coarse. She showed no alarm.
  "Serena is the most beautiful woman in all of England. Why she is even more fair to look upon than that sad faced wife of King Edward III's! And you know this Norman. We can make a pretty penny for her purity. Men will come from all over to place bids on her virginity, and after the deed has been done, no man would care to marry her and she'll have her pretty little heart's desire to remain unmarried and she'll be rich at that!"
  Norman contemplated the notion turning it over and over in his head. Would he have been sober, his logic would have disagreed instantly but in a drunken stupor, his mind could not think clearly.
  Scarlet set about to caress Norman's thighs to rekindle his lust then reached her hand to her bosom. Norman's eyes widened when her small hand disappeared between her two rounded breasts. Scarlet smiled and retrieved a folded piece of parchment paper.
  "I have the document already written, my love." she said sweetly. "All I need is your signature." she stood and made her way to a small writing desk in the corner, swaying her inviting hips and she walked. Norman followed behind his wife.
  "And if you sign this document my sweet, then you shall have me for as long as you please." she said seductively smoothing her hand across her chest and down the bodice of the snug silk gown of rosy pink. Norman watched as her hand glided gracefully over her voluptuous curves. She looked breathtaking with her pale complexion, plump red lips, and golden curls that hung loosely to her waist. His eyes filled with lust and desire. He walked to the desk and dipped a feather quill into a vial of ink.
  "Where do I sign?" he said in a hurry. Scarlet pointed to the dotted line and watched as her hungry husband scribbled his signature onto the brown parchment paper. Her plan had worked, she had won. Serena would never marry and live a life of bliss. No man wanted to wed a damsel who had gave away her purity and innocence.
 "Now, come here wife." Norman growled and turned to take Scarlet into his arms. She gave in helplessly, even somewhat enjoying his lustful desire. But as her husband devoured her body, taking his fill of pleasure, two thoughts filtered through Scarlet's mind; that she had won and that no one could ever again make love to her in such a way as did Owen Castleheart, not even her own husband.

Chapter Seven

   A sudden knock on the door awakened Serena from her deep sleep. She turned back the warm quilts and shivered as the early morning chill nipped at her body. Morning's pale light filtered through the grimy window and lit up the room with a greyish glow. The sun obviously had no desire to show its face after such a beastly storm.
   "Serena, are you awake?" a voice called and she recognized it as Peter's. Serena padded to the door and answered, "Yes, I will be ready shortly." 
   Hurriedly Serena dressed in the same golden frock and ruby red cape. She ran her fingers through the mass of raven curls that loomed and hung to her waist. She spun the thick tresses up into a loose bun at the nape of her neck and secured it with several small hair pins. Before exiting the room, Serena noticed the basin of water that sat atop the wardrobe. She splashed the icy water onto her face and used her cape to wipe it dry.
   Peter watched in awe as Serena descended the crude wooden staircase and met her at the bottom when she tiptoed to the main floor area. He was dressed in a maroon colored velvet doublet and dark brown breeches that ended at the knees where his shiny leather boots began.
   "You look radiant!" he exclaimed taking her hand into his and drawing it to his lips for a gentle kiss. Serena blushed and smoothed the loose curls that spiraled down the sides her face, framing its oval shape.
   "Shall you join me for breakfast, yes? You cannot travel without sustenance." Serena looked unsure and would have declined had her stomach not growled in protest demanding that she eat.
  "Of course." she smiled and allowed Peter to usher her into the already crowded tavern-like dining hall.
   They were seated at a small table and a tall thin waitress appeared to take their order. She wore a pale blue dress of worn cotton, the neckline a bit too low and too revealing for such a young woman. Her thick auburn hair hung loosely down her back. She smiled at the couple and handed them a poorly written menu.
   ''What would ye two like to drink?" she asked politely. Peter looked at Serena then to the waitress, trying not to let his eyes gaze upon her decolletage.
   "I'll have some hot apple cider."
   "The same please." Serena said nervously. The young woman nodded and made her way to the bar to fill their drinks.
   She soon returned with two large mugs full and nearly overflowing with fresh mulled cider. Peter and Serena placed their order and waited in awkward silence for their food to be prepared.
   Serena glanced at Peter and smiled shyly then averted her eyes, taking in the dining hall. Thankfully, there seemed to be no drunken men and no sign of the burly Scotsman from the day before. All of the tables appeared full, she noticed men, women, and children all seated, breaking their fast together, laughing and carrying on in pleasant chatter.
  When the waitress finally appeared bearing a wooden tray that contained their meal, Serena was greatly relieved. Her eyes widened with hunger as a thin wooden plate of ham fricassee, two eggs over easy, and a slice of bread that was smothered in onion gravy was placed before her.
   "Hope ye enjoy it. If ye be needing anything, just call me name. It be Evergreen by the way." the woman smiled then set about tending to the other tables, refilling mugs of cider and fresh brewed ale. Serena immediately began slicing through the ham and eggs with the side of the crooked wooden fork that she held in her hand. She was grateful that the ham was smoked perfectly and not heavily salted.
   "What a strange name!" Peter said breaking the silence as he tore off a hunk of bread and stuffed it in his mouth.
  "Yes. I have never heard such a name." Serena raised a cloth napkin to her mouth, dabbing the corners of her lips.
  "I wonder what on earth possessed the girl's mother to bestow to her that particular name."
   The young couple continued their meal in silence and after they had wiped clean both of their plates, Peter payed for their meal and they wandered off to the stables to retrieve Serena's mare, Aerionna. Peter payed the stable hand and turned to face Serena. He watched her with sparkling eyes as she rubbed her horse's neck, whispering a quaint 'good morning' into the animal's ear.
   "You are very fond of your Shire." he observed. Serena whirled around a bit embarrassed.
  "Yes. Aerionna is truly my only friend." Peter nodded and walked towards her, his boots making little crunching noises in the soft snow.
  "Well Serena Noelle Huff, consider me your new friend!" his handsome face beamed into a wide smile that revealed his glistening white teeth. Serena smiled.
  "Thank you, Peter Longstride, for everything...." she turned to Aerionna and in one graceful step, she swung herself up into the saddle and sat up straight and poised.
  "...I shall never forget how you rescued me in my time of need. You..." she paused, unsure if she should say the words that her heart compelled her mouth to speak.
  "...you are my hero." she said finally.
   Peter, taken back by this woman's spirit and grace was speechless. He fumbled around then opened his mouth to speak.
  "I am obliged, Miss Serena." he smiled and pulled the hood of his ebony black cape over his head, hiding the bushel of golden curls that graced his head and framed his handsome face perfectly.
  "If the need ever rises, I shall rescue you again and again- a hundred times more even!" Serena let out a little laugh that warmed Peter's frozen cheeks. Even on this grey and gloomy day, this young damsel had the power to sparkle and shine like a diamond that sat directly in the light of the sun.
  "And I shall gladly stand back and let you rescue me a hundred times more.'' she said happily then clicked her tongue motioning her mare forward. Peter stepped close and halted the horse by taking holds on the reigns. He looked up into Serena's face, taking in her rosy pink cheeks, soft red lips and dazzling golden eyes. He stood breathless in her presence. She surely had to be the most beautiful maiden he had ever laid eyes upon.
  "Until we meet again." his voice was low and held such promise and certainty. Serena said nothing but returned a polite smile. She tapped Aerionna's sides with the heels of her leather boots and the Shire mare took off at a gallop, slinging clumps of fresh snow behind her.
  Peter watched as the horse twisted and turned through the snow covered streets of the town, Serena's red cape floated in the breeze behind her. Her hood fell from her face and the wind loosened the bun that her hair was tied into. The mass of raven black curls danced in the wind along with the cape behind her.    
   Peter shook his head and smiled. There was a woman with a spirit that no man could tame, he was sure of it. She may have grown fearful in a dire situation but she still possessed bravery and courage unlike any woman he had ever known.
  And she's one bloody good rider!" Peter thought to himself as he watched the red silhouette of Serena's cape fade into the distant hills. Deep down inside, he hoped with all his might that some day fate would bring them together again.

Chapter Six

   "Who are you?" Serena asked in a hushed tone. She held a mug of fresh apple cider to her lips, welcoming its warmth. The dim amber light from the chandeliers made of deer antlers filled the room creating a luminescent glow around Serena, her golden gown sparkled in the soft light.
   Peter leaned over the small wooden table taking a sip of ale from the mug he held.
  "Peter Longstride, son of Lord William Longstride."
  "I take it you're not from around here?" she asked.
  "Nay. I reside in London. However when my father has business to tend to, I travel with him."
  "And I take it that your father's business led you to Ruby Field?" Serena asked with a smile.
  "Aye and I am glad of it too! If I would not have been here, God only knows where you'd be right now." he chuckled. Serena sat up straight and squared her shoulders.
  "I would have been alright." she said in a confident tone. Peter laughed and gulped down more ale.
  "Yes, yes. Sure, sure." he said in agreement, not particularly wanting to commence in an argument with the beautiful lady whom he had just rescued. Serena stared at Peter, her cheeks turned bright pink.
  "You don't believe me?"
  "I have no desire to quarrel with you dearie." Serena slammed the mug down onto the wooden table sloshing cider from the mug.
  "You think that just because I am a woman that I am defenseless?" she asked in offense. Peter looked at her and shrugged.
  "Aye. There's no way in Heaven that you could have defeated him. He was a brute, yes." Serena knew that he told the truth but she still felt offended nonetheless.
  "Well I still believe that I could have taken him." she said arrogantly. Peter laughed and reached for her hand.
  "I like you! You have a strong spirit, yes you have!" he exclaimed and raised her hand to his lips gently and kissed it. Serena gasped a little, unsure of what to say. She was awed by his romance and mesmerized by his handsome looks.
  "Tell me damsel, what is thine name?" he asked as he released her hand.
  "Serena Noelle Huff, daughter of Lord Norman Huff." she replied blushing.
  "Ah yes, Lord Norman. I have met with him briefly on an occasion or two. A noble man he is." Peter replied commencing to further the conversation.
     As the afternoon melted into dusk, the snow did not let up. Slowly, night fell along with the blizzard and soon enough the tavern had nearly emptied itself of merry drinkers who now stumbled along to their homes in the pouring snow.
  Tilly, the toothless waitress approached the table where Serena and Peter had been sitting for hours talking about anything and everything.
  "I hate to say it but ye both have to leave! We're closing for the night. The storm shows not a sign of letting up." she replied and took a dingy bar towel from her apron and began to wipe the grimy table tops. It suddenly dawned on Serena that she had lost track of time and that she was many miles from home.
  "I can never make it home now! What am I to do?" she asked in a worried tone. Peter stood and held out his hand for Serena.
  "Have no fear, my lady, I will make arrangements." Serena wasn't sure if his reply pleased her or frightened her. Peter noticed her panicked look and quickly added, "My father and I are staying in the Appletree Inn, it shall be no problem to pay for a room for you as well." Relief flooded Serena and she smiled and took Peter's hand.
  "That would be nice."
 

~*~

   Peter had seen to it that Aerionna was fed, watered, and safe inside the stables of the inn. Once he showed Serena to her room, he bid her a goodnight and left her to herself for the remainder of the evening.

  Serena walked around the little room, taking in the surroundings. The room was small, cozy and seemed to appear furnished well enough. A four poster bed was placed against the wooden walls towards the back of the room. Soft white sheets were folded neatly on top of the thick rose damask quilt that lay over the mattress. Beside the bed stood a wooden end table that held a small glass vase of withered roses. A short wardrobe also furnished the room, Serena opened the drawers but found that it was empty besides a couple of dingy towels that lay crumpled inside. A beige porcelain basin full of cold water sat atop the wardrobe. Serena took note of the intricate pink roses that someone had painted onto the basin.

  "Guess I may as well try and sleep." she said to herself and turned to latch the door. She quickly undressed down to her white cotton night shift that she always wore during the winter months for extra warmth. She folded her gown and cape and lay them neatly in the cane chair then unfolded the extra sheets and climbed into bed beneath the heavy quilts. She turned and blew out the little lamp and relaxed into the cool crisp sheets.

   Fatigue swept through her body and she suddenly realized how tired she was. Today had proved to be a day different from any other. She was simply happy to be alive and unharmed thanks to Peter Longstride.

  Peter Longstride....the name flashed through Serena's mind as her senses dulled and she began to slowly slip into a deep slumber.

   Why if only father could find me a man like that to marry....

Chapter Five

   As the days passed Serena still consumed her time roaming the fields that surrounded the Huff mansion. Since the night that her father had told her the truth about her real mother, Serena's mood had spiraled downward and she slowly slipped into depression. Her only relief was to get away from her father, the household, and her fake mother Scarlet. Serena knew that Scarlet had done an honorable deed, without her proposal to Norman, Serena would have surely died of starvation. However, Scarlet showed no motherly emotions towards Serena now. And Serena knew that her father did not love Scarlet. Lady Scarlet now resented them both no doubt.
  "Whoa, easy girl." Serena pulled the reigns, slowing Aerionna's gait. She breathed in the frigid air, welcoming the icy sting in her lungs. 
   Little snowflakes slowly began to fall from the thick mass of gloomy grey clouds. Serena smiled, staring up into the heavens, the wind gently blew tendrils of her ebony tresses.  She urged Aerionna forwards and took refuge under the boughs of a thick elm tree. 
   "Looks like it is going to storm soon. We are too far away from home though. Closest refuge now is the town." she told her horse and pulled her cape closer around her body. The temperature was dropping rapidly. Serena shivered and Aerionna whinnied as if telling Serena to hurry and find shelter from the soon approaching storm.
   "Alright, let's go girl." Serena clicked her tongue and gently tapped the mare's sides with her boots. Aerionna took off at a brisk gallop, snowflakes battered against Serena's cold face as she bounced in the leather saddle. 
   Fifteen minutes later Serena galloped into the town of Ruby Field. The snow was falling heavily and Serena searched for an open inn or tavern. The streets were barren and showed no sign of life. When ever a big storm hit, most of the townspeople would shut down the entire village and lock themselves away in their homes or the local tavern to wait out the blizzard.
   Serena dismounted in front of a tavern called What Ale's Ye and tied Aerionna's reigns around the wooden post.
   "I'll be back for you, I promise." she whispered and rubbed the mare's neck then entered inside the small inn.
   The dimly lit room smelled of ale, onions, and musk; Serena raised her sleeve to cover her nose. A young buxom waitress approached her and smiled a toothless grin. The woman's breasts nearly spilled over the bodice of the dirty, stained gown that she wore.
   "What will ye have puppet?" she asked in a drunken slur. Serena smiled nervously, "Just something to drink please." 
The waitress laughed, "Aye we have plenty of that here. What ye want to drink then? Ale? That's what everybody else wants." she said and stumbled around almost dropping the tray of grimy mugs that she was carrying.
   "No, no. Nothing that strong." Serena said, shaking her head.
   "Well take a s-seat and I'll pour ye a mug of h-hot apple cider." the waitress struggled to form the words as she turned and made her way to the bar. Serena looked around the musky room, searching for an empty table. Rounds of laughter and cursing rose from the tables mostly filled by men. The only women Serena could see were waitresses and they were all drunk it seemed. She walked slowly and several men stopped what they were doing and turned to watch her.
   "Well what have we got here?" a large red haired man asked in a thick Scottish accent.
   "Hey Simon, ye hire yerself a new waitress, have ye?" another man called out to the bartender across the room.
   "She's a beauty!" one man said from a back corner of the room.
  The Scottish man reached out and slapped Serena on the rear end. She yelped and whirled around.
   "You will not handle me in such a disrespectful manner!" she spat at him. The man smiled revealing rotten teeth. There were large sweat stains near the under arm portion of his grimy shirt. Serena could smell his foul odor from where she stood.
  "And who is going to stop me?" he looked around at the table that he shared with six other men that were just as brute looking as he. The men all laughed and raised their mugs gulping down ale. Serena backed away from the table slowly.
   "I-I mean no harm...." she said nervously. The Scottish man stood and walked towards her.
   "And neither do I puppet." he smiled, his eyes full of lust. The same drunk waitress appeared carrying a mug of steaming cider and stepped between Serena and the large man. 
  "Martin, have ye any respect for the poor girl?" she asked and slapped his broad chest. The brute of a man named Martin laughed loudly "Of course not dearie. Now stand out of me way ye rotten wench!" he growled and lunged towards Serena. "I see me self a pretty, precious little virgin!"
   Serena cried out and raised her hands to shield her self from the drunken enraged man. Martin took Serena into his large arms and held her tightly against his chest. Serena whimpered and tried to free herself but was powerless against his strength.
   "Unhand the maiden!" A voice sounded from behind Martin. He loosened his grasp and turned to see who had challenged him. Serena fled from his arms and ran to a corner on the other side of the room.
   "Who dares challenge a Scotsman when he is about to claim his woman?" 
   A tall lean man stepped from the shadows and removed the hood of his black cape that covered most of his smooth face. He placed his hand on the studded hilt of his shining sword and stepped forward. 
   "That would be me, Peter Longstride, an Englishman at you service." The young man smiled and bowed sarcastically. Martin placed his chubby hands on his hips and chuckled. 
   "And who are ye to stop me?'' 
Peter shrugged and opened his mouth to reply.
   "The way I see it, that innocent young damsel in distress was in need of a Savior; I merely rescued her from a filthy pig of a man." Martin's eyebrows furrowed and he glared at Peter.
   "Ye best choose your words wisely boy. I don't take to being called names.'' 
   ''Yes and judging by your smell, you don't take to bathing either!'' Peter smiled and circled the large Scotsman, his hand ready to un-sheath his sword at any moment. Martin's face turned red, enraged with anger.
   "Why I oughta-" he lunged at Peter, his hands outstretched. Peter swiftly stepped aside and Martin crashed into a pyramid of barrels. The empty barrels that once held onions, apples, and other vegetables rolled around on the wooden planked floorboards. 
   "Drunk I see, well this duel shall be a cinch!" Peter laughed and leaned down to help the Scotsman to his feet. Martin growled and wiped blood from his lip.
   "I don't need help from a bloody Englishman!" he snapped and struggled to stand. He swayed and nearly toppled over. Peter waved his arms in the air.
   "Give up Scotsman. You haven't got a chance!" Martin did not take likely to being challenged in such a manner. He had no plans of leaving without first taking out this cocky fool that was too good for his own liking. He steadied himself and gained his balance then turned to face the finely apparelled swordsman. 
   "A Scotsman never gives up!" he growled and swung a fist, lunging towards Peter. 
  "You do not look Scottish to me, why you're not even wearing a kilt! You're just a foolish, hotheaded imposter with a terrible accent!" Peter unsheathed his sword and swished it rapidly. It grazed Martin's arm slicing through his stained shirt. A thin line of bright red blood appeared. Martin stopped and covered the cut with his free hand. 
  "Why, you c-cut me! You bloody cut me!"
  "Yes and I shall have no problem doing so again. I suggest that you bow out gracefully before you get yourself injured even more." Peter said trying to hide a smile. Martin stood up straight.
   "I'll have the girl then." he replied in a deep voice. Peter smirked and turned to look at Serena who was hid in a corner behind a wooden table. 
   "She's not yours to have, I'm afraid." he answered. "She shall leave with me."
   Martin wiped his brow streaking blood across his forehead. 
   "If she isn't mine, then what in the bloody blazes makes her yours?" he growled and stamped his boot heavily. Peter whirled and approached Serena. He stretched out his gloved hand to her. A look of worry filled her face and fear flashed in her eyes.
   "Tell me fair maiden, who would you rather leave with on this stormy day?" he asked politely. Serena looked at the handsome young man who smelled of cedar and pine with a hint of musk. His eyes sparkled and dazzled like a pool of emeralds. When he smiled, his mouth revealed gleaming white teeth that were shaped perfectly. Serena then looked to the dirty, filthy, drunken Scotsman. A surge of confidence suddenly swept through her and she took Peter's hand. 
   "I don't think that I must choose for the solution is as clear as crystal." she replied as Peter led her from the corner and out into the main floor. Peter turned to face Martin.
   "You have your answer. Now I suggest that you leave at once or I shall have to cut your oversized body into a thousand pieces right here and now." 
Martin looked as if he would lunge towards Peter again. But he stopped himself then turned to exit the tavern.
   "Ah keep the wretched wench!" He growled and stamped off.
   "That's a good Scotsman!" Peter called out as Martin slammed the door behind him, stepping out into the roaring blizzard.  Peter turned to Serena and smiled.
   "Now how about that mug of cider you had asked for?" 

~*~

Chapter Four

   "Do you honestly feel this plan will work?"
Scarlet turned away from the window from where she was watching two squirrels chase each other in the snow below. She faced her own financial advisor, Owen Castleheart and smiled an evil and seductive smile.
  "How can it fail, Owen?'' she asked softly and approached him.
With the palm of his hand, Owen rubbed his temple.
  "Lord Norman will never agree." he replied. Scarlet patted Owen's broad shoulders.
  "Just leave my husband to me. I have found out his weakness." she said wryly.
   Owen raised an eyebrow. He had been working for Lady Scarlet for twenty-two years now. He knew more about Scarlet than Norman had ever even hoped to know. Scarlet told Owen everything about her life, her problems, desires, wants, and even facts about her scarce love life.
   "Oh? And just what would this weakness be?" Owen asked and Scarlet giggled and spun around.
  "Last night Norman stumbled into my room drunk as a huntsman. I never even knew that he drank! And he has never stumbled into my room by mistake before." she said as she fingered  the petals of a rose that sat in a glass vase placed on her wooden writing desk. The desk was set prominently in the middle of Scarlet's private office. In front of the desk were two wooden cane chairs. A small end table was placed in between the two chairs. Long ruby red drapes of elegant tapestry hung over the huge bay windows that allowed plenty of light to flow into the room. 
  "To make a long story short, he fumbled around until he collapsed on my bed, he then undressed me and made passionate love to me in a way which he never has before." A certain spark appeared in Scarlet's eyes that brought a devilish smile to Owen's lips.
  "Ahhh I see. So you think that you can persuade him to follow through with your plan if you get him drunk and hop on his manhood?"
  Scarlet laughed, slightly parting her painted lips in a seductive manner. She batted her long eyelashes and swayed her hips.
  "I may be forty-seven, but I still know how to please a man."
 Owen chuckled in a husky voice and in one motion, moved to take Scarlet into his large arms. Scarlet reached up and brushed her palm across his red beard.
  "Why, I am sure that I could please you better than your own wife." she said softly. Owen looked deeply into Scarlet's eyes, he stared at her face then down to her chest where her low cut gown revealed the tops of her milky white breasts. Lust consumed him and he fought to gain control of himself.
  "I have no doubt in my mind whatsoever.'' he said assuredly and pulled Scarlet closer to him. He could feel her every curve against his body.
  Suddenly, Scarlet pulled away and stood back.
  "We can't do this, Owen." Owen stepped closer to Scarlet.
  "Do what?" he asked as he lifted her and set her on the top of the desk. His lips fell to her neck and he smothered her with soft kisses. He allowed his hands to roam her body freely, enjoying her every curve.
  "This...." Scarlet replied between moans of pleasure.
Owen did not stop but continued to kiss her, her neck, ears, eyes, then her lips.
 "Scarlet, have me." he said in a deep voice.
 "I cannot.'' she replied trying to push him away. But she could not deny the feeling, the lust that consumed her. She wanted him just as much as he wanted her.
  "Scarlet, your husband does not love you, but I do. I always have. Let me show you my love now." Owen took Scarlet's hands into his and raised them to his lips.
 "Oh Owen!" she exclaimed nearly breathless. She could take it no more. She was not going to let the fear of her loveless husband stand in her way. She had a golden opportunity to experience the true way to make love to someone and she wasn't going to stop now.
  Scarlet pulled her hands free from Owen's hands and reached up to loosen her bodice. As the folds of her gown fell around her waist, she leaned in to meet Owen's waiting lips. She gave herself to him fully, allowing him to explore and devour her being. Even in a drunken stupor, Norman had never displayed himself in such a way that Owen did. Scarlet freed her mind, forcing out any worry and fear and let her pleasure soar as high as the clouds. Today, she would experience the sensation of of having a man make love to a woman whom he loved dearly.

~*~

   "Write up the document." Owen buttoned the doublets of his jacket then fastened the small clasps of his breeches and turned to face Scarlet.

   "Are you positive? What if Lord Norman refuses this plan of yours?" he asked and raked his fingers through the bushel of his fiery red hair.

    "I am sure of it however if my husband does stand against me, I have a rescue option." Scarlet said as she tightened the laces of her bodice and smoothed the skirts of her gown. Owen walked to the large mahogany writing desk and sat down in the elegantly carved, wooden cane chair. He picked up a bright green peacock feather quill and dipped it into a vial of ink.

   "And what is this brilliant rescue plan of yours should the first one fail?" he said as he began to write words onto a parchment of paper. Scarlet stood behind Owen and watched as he penned her plan onto the document. She smiled and patted his shoulder.

    "I cannot tell you, but if I do fail, you will know soon enough." 

~*~

   

Chapter Three

   Two weeks had passed since Serena had learned of her father's plan to find her a suitable husband. For the most part, Serena secluded herself away from the household. She had no desire for her parents to see her in such a manner of disarray. She spent most of the mornings and afternoons exploring the countryside with her trusty mare, Aerionna. Every morning, Jael would pack her a satchel of bread, a few vegetables and a water skin and Serena would disappear until the evening arrived. With the setting of the sun, Serena would gallop into the courtyard, settle Aerionna in the stables with the usual oats and a good rub down then head straight for her bed chamber and collapse on the bed. Sleep would finally consume her until the next morning's sun rose.
   One evening as Serena returned from her normal trek across Ruby Field's majestic hills and country, Norman met his daughter as she alighted the massive stone stairway leading to the main entrance of the Huff mansion.
   "Papa, I did not expect to see you this evening. Is everything alright?" she asked as a servant took her cape and fur wraps. As the season deepened into Winter, the temperatures continued to drop considerably.
  Norman tapped his silver cane on the wooden floor boards.
  "Of course my precious. I wondered if perhaps you would accompany me to the Library for a nice round of your favorite, peppermint tea and perhaps some snow cream? I hear that Chef Louie added extra cream!" Norman laughed and took his daughter by the arm. Serena tried to pull away.
  "Papa, I really do not-"
  "Nonsense! Come with me." he smiled pulling her down the long hallway that was lit up with hundreds of candles. Shadows danced across the painted walls as Serena followed her father into the Library.
   Once they were seated in the Library in front of the fireplace, sipping hot tea, Norman broke the silence first.
  "I understand that you have been somewhat...distressed by what has been happening the pass couple of weeks." he leaned forward and set his mug on a wooden end table.
  "I have let you have your peace and be alone. But the time has come Serena, you must realize that marriage is inevitable." he said calmly. Serena stared into her father's hazel eyes. She did not frown but she did not smile either.
  Norman sighed and blinked back tears. In the soft light of the fire, his ever blossoming daughter looked more and more like his beloved Seren every day. And to think that Serena had no idea who her real mother even was.
  "Serena...I...." Norman stood up and paced the floor. Serena looked up to her father and watched as he encircled the giant embroidered rug.
  "Papa. is something wrong?" she asked quietly. Norman turned to face his daughter. He then sat down beside Serena and took her small hands into his larger ones.
  "Serena, I have something to tell you...." he began, his voice cracking with uncertainty. Serena's eyes widened as she waited for the news her father was about to bestow to her. Had he found her a husband? Was she to be married within the month? Why, this was all happening so fast!
   Calm yourself, Serena. she told herself and patted her father's hand.
  "What is it, papa?" she asked gently. Norman blinked, opened his mouth as if to speak then paused. Gaining control of the situation, he cleared his throat and looked into his daughter's worried golden eyes.
  "Serena...your Mother...is dead." he said quickly. Serena gasped and jumped to her feet.
  "What? How? She was perfectly fine this morning? What has happened to her papa?" Norman stood and drew his daughter into his arms.
  "Scarlet is very much alive," he started. "...your real mother, Seren Huff is...dead." he said blankly, holding Serena close. At this moment, he was glad that he could not see the reaction on his daughter's face. Serena's body shook, she could not believe what she was hearing.
  "My...real mother?" she asked, her voice shaking.  Norman gently pulled Serena's slender frame away from him.
  "I think you better sit down. I have a long story to tell you." Serena nodded and he lead her to the settee and sat down beside her.
  Norman began to tell his daughter of her true mother, Seren, how they met each other one day while harvesting crops from a field. They were only poor peasants that fell hopelessly in love and desired to spend the rest of eternity together. He told her how he found out just a few short months after they had married that Seren was with child and then how she fell ill right after Serena had been born.
   "A deathly plague had swept through the land. Seren had lost her brothers and also contracted the plague while tending to them. I forbade her not to keep going to their home, especially in her condition being great with child, but she kept saying how her family needed her." Norman went on to tell her how she had just enough energy to give birth to Serena, then she grew deathly ill. Two months after Serena's birth, she died.
  "I was then a widow with a wee infant to take care of. I had no money, no way in which to feed you.  I was desperate." Norman told his daughter how he had even kept Seren's dead body to allow Serena to suckle the last remaining droplets of milk from her cold breasts.
   He then told her how he met Lady Scarlet. He had went to the Cathedral to beg a couple of pennies from the priest so that he could buy some bread and perhaps pay a woman to feed Serena. Lady Scarlet was there for the morning mass.
   "I was still grieving for your mother yet there Scarlet sat dressed in an all white gown. She looked so beautiful that day, like an angel." Norman told Serena how he had sat down in the back of the Cathedral to wait till the service was over but half way through, Serena let out a piercing cry that echoed through the high ceilings.
  "I tried everything I could to calm you, but you had been three days with no milk, you were starving. Scarlet turned to see me sitting in the back, rocking you, trying my best to make you quiet down. She immediately stood up and rushed to my side. She took you into her arms and began to rock you gently.
 'Kind sir, when is the last time this poor child has eaten? Where is her mother?' she asked. I told her that your mother had just passed three days earlier and that you had not eaten since. Scarlet called for a wet nurse and within the hour, a local nurse was brought in. The woman took you into her arms and immediately began to feed you." Norman continued his story of how Scarlet offered money to him to help pay for a wet nurse and food however he refused. Norman told her it would seem improper. Scarlet then devised another idea. She proposed a marriage to Norman right then and there.
  " ' Sir Norman, you have no means to provide for yourself and the child. Come live with me, I have a mansion and wealth beyond measure. I will take care of you and your daughter.' And the thought was tempting. Scarlet assured me that love did not have to matter and that she had pure compassion for me and you. Reluctantly I agreed, but only for your sake, Serena. I could not bare to see you starve again. I was determined to do everything that I could to provide for you and make you happy. As I am now only trying to do what is best for you." Norman said softly.
   Serena sat there, her back glued to the frame of the cushioned chair. She was unable to say anything, she was still trying to take in the story that her father had just spent an hour unfolding to her. All this time she had believed that Scarlet was her true mother. All these years she fought to live up to Lady Scarlet's expectations and listen to her every command and to think that the sour woman was not even her true mother.
   "Do you love her?" the words came unsteadily and rolled off of Serena's tongue. Norman blinked several times and cleared his throat.
  "What did you say?" he asked although he heard good and well what Serena had asked. Serena turned and fixed her gaze on her father's face.
  "I said, do you love her?" Norman stood up and placed his hands on his hips. He paced a couple of steps then turned to face his daughter.
  "Serena, I...well you see...it's like this...I...well, no. No I do not love Scarlet." he said in exasperation. He waved his hands frantically.
  ''I have tried to love her. I honestly have. Scarlet has been a good wife to me. She took us in, gave me titles, money, wealth, and secured our future. She has been attentive, never complained to me...why can't I love her?" he asked, sinking back down into the cushions of the chair beside his daughter.
   "She does not have your heart." Serena replied in a blank tone, staring into the fireplace. Norman shook his head.
  "Nay, she does not indeed. My heart died along with your poor mother seventeen years ago." he stated. Serena looked at her father, searching his face and eyes.
  "Why did you not tell me until just now? Did I not deserve to know the truth?" Norman Huff leaned over and reached for Serena's hands.
  "Of course you did, my love. I was just scared to tell you. 'Tis not an easy thing. It took a great deal of courage to do what I did tonight." Serena nodded her head.
  "I am grateful." she replied then stood and smoothed her skirts with the palm of her hand. "But if you excuse me now, papa, I think I shall retire for the evening, good night.'' she said as she headed for the door.
   Norman sighed heavily. relaxing into the cushions as the door latched behind his daughter. What was he to do now? Serena had not taken the news well. Of course, how did one expect their daughter to receive such news that the woman they had grown to trust and perhaps love was not even her real mother?
  Norman looked over at the wooden bowls of now melted snow cream and let out an audible sigh. Lazily, he stood and made his way to the Spirits cabinet across the large room. He popped the cork on a bottle of ale and turned it up, draining the amber liquid. He opened his mouth and breathed deeply, forgetting how strong the ale was. He raised the bottle staring at it longingly and said, "Oh faithful friend, may you consume my worries, problems, and sorrows. Drown me in your fiery pool of sinfulness, cause me to forget my pain and heal my broken heart." He then lifted the bottle again to his lips, finishing off the liquid. Languidly, he grabbed two more bottles of the strong liquor and made his way back to the settee.
  "Let the night begin!" he said in an already drunken tone, popping the cork on the second glass bottle.
   There are no problems in life so big that even liquor can't cure! Norman thought to himself as he raised the bottle and gulped the stinging liquid. As it scorched his throat, it literally seemed to melt away all of his worries and fears.

Chapter Two

    Norman Huff paced back and forth, his steps muffled by the plush red and golden rug that was trimmed with bear fur. The smell of leather bound books and burning cedar logs hung in the air mingling with the aroma of peppermint tea that a servant had just brought in for Lord Norman and his wife, Lady Scarlet.
   Scarlet raised the steaming mug to her painted red lips and sipped the scalding hot liquid slowly.
   "Serena wants no part in this." Norman said as he continued to pace the floor of the grand Library.
  "It does not matter what she wants dearest." Scarlet replied.
Norman stopped and turned to face his wife.
  "I only want to see her happy. 'Tis all I have ever desired for her." he said solemnly. He took the extra mug from the silver tray and raised it to his nose, he closed his eyes and breathed in the sweet aroma.
Scarlet smirked and shrugged her small shoulders.
  "You spoil her Norman. The girl needs some discipline." Norman took a seat beside his wife in the over sized settee then immediately stood up as if prodded by a hot iron.
  "Serena is my life, Scarlet. She is all that I have left. She reminds me so much of...." his voice trailed off as he sipped his tea.
  "Of who, Norman?" Scarlet sat up straight and squared her shoulders. "That wench, Seren?"
Norman stared into the blazing fireplace. "She was not a wench." he said calmly. "And yes, she does. Seren was the only woman I ever loved Scarlet."
Scarlet looked away as if she had been slapped in the face.
  "And I suppose that you have no love for me in that over sized heart of yours?" she asked coldly.
  "I married you because you begged me to, Scarlet. I was poor, penniless, and needed the money. You said yourself that love did not matter." He did not move his focus from the flames that devoured the sweet smelling logs.
  "After all these years, have you not developed any feelings for me, Norman?" she asked a little too vulnerably.
  "No." Norman then turned and sped from the room, slamming the door behind him.
   Stunned, Scarlet sat unmoving. A single tear slid down her cheek. She quickly wiped it away and looked around nervously as if she was being watched. A sudden surge of anger overwhelmed her and shook her body. In a single motion, she stood and hurled the half empty mug against the stone wall, shattering it into a hundred pieces. A whirlwind of emotions coursed through her. She was not sure whether she was angry or heart broken.
    When she had married Norman exactly seventeen years ago, he was a mere peasant, widowed with a two month old baby to take care of. He had no money, no job, and nothing but a one room cottage to live in. He had no idea how to raise a baby and no means to nourish her. He needed a guardian angel and Scarlet had been his heroine.
   Scarlet's father had disapproved of the marriage to a penniless widow but Scarlet did not care. She was an unmarried, barren thirty year old woman and able to make her own decisions. She married Norman on a hot and humid June Sunday morning in the town Cathedral. Within a day, all of Norman's belongings had been moved into Lady Scarlet's mansion. A wet nurse was brought in to see to the wee little Serena.
   Scarlet secretly loved Norman, she knew he was still grieving the loss of his beloved wife, Seren. The death was still fresh in his mind and heart. She could never lay such a burden on him that she desired his love in return. So she simply told him that this marriage arrangement was only a means to help Norman and secure a future for him and his daughter.
   Norman did not sleep with his new wife for five years. Yet Scarlet was ever attentive and devoted her time to please her husband. She never complained and never resented his abstinence. When Norman finally consummated the marriage, Scarlet could feel the emptiness still. Her beloved husband and not healed completely from his first marriage. Still, she loved him and when he did choose to bed with her, she loved him as hard as she could, hoping to make him fall in love with her. Yet each time, the experience was as empty as the first.
      Scarlet walked towards the large bay window that overlooked the courtyard and frozen gardens below. She placed her cheek against the icy window pane hoping the chill would calm her nerves and sooth her boiling blood. She looked below to the snow covered shrubs and bushes. Come Spring, the  gardens would come alive, blooming with all sorts of exotic flowers and plants. For now though, it was simply a dead, barren wasteland. 
  Kind of how I feel.... Scarlet thought to herself. Seventeen years of loving a man who did not love her in return had made her a barren and bitter old woman. She had gave her life, heart, and soul to this man. And what did she get in return? Only more heartbreak.
   She had raised Serena as her own daughter, treated her as if she had been born from her very womb. She thought that surely Norman would have taken notice and saw her as a better mother than the one that had died and left her husband a widow. Still, Norman only thought of Seren. He made constant remarks of how beautiful she was and how much Serena looks like her mother. Heat flowed through Scarlet's veins at that thought. Why, Serena was the most beautiful seventeen year old maiden she had ever seen. Scarlet had always been the epitome of beauty with her long golden hair as soft as silk. Her waist was slender and her hips well rounded and inviting. Her breasts were full and plump and still maintained their round shape. Still her beauty could not even be compared to that of Serena's.
    Angrily, Scarlet slapped the window with her palm. She hated Serena now. As a child, Serena was harmless. Scarlet had even enjoyed playing mother to her but now that she was a blossoming young woman who possessed unparalleled beauty, Scarlet despised her for it. Serena was not her daughter and she no longer desired to be called her mother.
   However, Serena had no inkling that Scarlet was her adopted mother. She was only an infant when her real mother had died. She grew up under the care of Lady Scarlet. No one had ever told her the truth that her mother, Seren had died of a fierce plague and the only way to survive, her father Norman married a rich heiress.
  Scarlet turned from the window and made her way towards the door. She had to think of a plan. She had no desire to see her step-daughter married off to a rich Duke or Lord. She did not want to sit back and watch her husband's beautiful daughter live the life of luxury and sweet success.
  Her father had been right. She should have never married that God-forsaken penniless peasant of a man. But who was to stand in the way of a woman on a mission in the name of love.
    Stupid love! Scarlet thought as she rushed from the room, her skirts swishing about her.

Chapter One

Ruby Field, England

Winter 1334    

     A fresh blanket of snow graced the hills of Ruby Field. The soft powder glistened like millions of tiny diamonds in the pale sunlight. The air was cold and crisp yet not too unbearable. 

     Serena Noelle leaned over the neck of her white Shire mare and whispered into her ear.

     "It is beautiful, Aerionna, is it not?"

The mare whinnied her agreement and stamped her right hoof on the frozen ground. Tendrils of steam rose from the horse's nostrils. Serena smiled and patted the horses neck.

     "I do not know if I could ever leave this place. This is my home, 'tis all I know and love." she said with her eyes fixed on the horizon of snow covered hills.

     Above, two ravens glided through the cloudy sky, dipping and swooping down, calling at each other. Serena raised her head and called back, mimicking the sound that the raucous ravens made. Aerionna stamped her hoof and whinnied loudly, joining in with her mistress.

     "That's my girl." Serena laughed and rubbed Aerionna's neck as she pulled on the reigns, ushering the horse to turn around. She silently wished she could spend a whole day just roaming the wilderness, exploring nature's beauty.

   "Come now Aireonna, Mother will surely be distraught if I do not return quickly from my morning ride."

    The sturdy mare snickered and took off at a brisk trot. Serena bounced in the saddle, her long red cape floating in the frigid breeze behind her.

     Aerionna had been a gift from Serena's father, Norman Huff, the most powerful man  in Ruby Field. It was her sixth birthday and when she saw the little white foal with a bright red bow tied around its neck, she squealed and ran to her father. Excitedly she hugged his leg screaming a thousand thanks.

    "What shall you name her, my darling?"

"Why, I believe I shall call her Aerionna, papa." Serena replied.

"Tis a beautiful name for a beautiful Shire." her father said.

Serena nervously approached the foal, circling it first.

    "Do not be afraid my daughter. She will not harm you." her father encouraged.

Serena smiled and walked towards the foal, she began to caress the foal's little neck.

"You are a beautiful horse Aerionna. You and I shall be the best of friends I declare!" she said excitedly as she removed the satin bow. Aerionna whinnied a high pitch yet strong whinny for such a young foal. Thus began the friendship of maiden and beast. Serena devoted her time to Aerionna. She rode her every morning and always brought with her an apple or fresh carrot. The horse was spoiled no doubt but Serena did not mind. Aerionna was her closest and only friend.

    

     "Look Aerionna, there she is." Serena whispered to her mare, pulling the reigns to slow the mare's gait.

     Scarlet Huff, Serena's mother stood like a statue, rapped in furs outside the steps that led to their grand mansion. Scarlet watched as her daughter trotted towards her. A sour frown etched its way across the woman's wrinkle-free face.

     "She does not look pleasant at all this morning." Serena said in a hushed tone as she guided Aerionna onto the loose gravel path that led to where her mother was standing.

    "Serena you will dismount at once and go to your room and bathe!" her mother said in a clipped and rather shrill tone.

     Serena swung down from the saddle and smoothed the folds of her velvet skirts.

     "Mother, I bathed yesterday. I am as clean as I could possibly be." she protested.

     "Nonsense. You have been riding that filthy beast of an animal. You shall do as I bid!"

     Serena hung her head, taking Aerionna's reigns in her gloved hands to lead her to the stables.

     "Yes, mother." she muttered in obedience.

~*~

      Serena lit a small oil lamp and hung it on a wooden peg against the wall of the stables.  The soft amber glow of the lamp filled the musky stable, offering little heat.

    "There, now I can see." she muttered turning to unsaddle Aerionna. Carefully she loosened the tanned leather straps that secured the reigns and bridle. Aerionna snickered and shook her head when Serena removed the silver bridle from the mare's mouth.

    "I guess you do feel better without it. I know I sure would hate to have a big metal bar lying across my tongue." Serena said to her horse. After she removed the saddle and harnesses, she picked up a large, round wooden brush and set about brushing Aerionna's silky white mane. Serena was always tentative to taking care of Aerionna. Her father had always said that a beast was as good as any man and must be treated so.

   "Why Aerionna I do believe that you have more beautiful hair than my own mother!" she said with a laugh. Aerionna whinnied as if laughing along with her mistress' playful comment.

    Before Serena locked Aerionna in the little cubicle of the stable, she brought out a thick woolen blanket and layed it across Aerionna's back. She refilled the water barrel and put some fresh oats in the trough.

    "Can't have you starving or freezing tonight, now can we?" she asked before locking the latch.

    "I'll see you in the morning dearest Aerionna. You rest now." Serena said softly and removed the lamp from the peg and exited the stables.

     ~*~

     "Jael, I will never understand why my Mother insists that I bathe so frequently!" Serena said as she lowered her body into the steaming hot water. She relaxed against the wooden frame of the tub and closed her eyes, breathing in the aroma of fresh cut rose petals from her mother's greenhouse.

     "Aye. I know what ye mean. 'Tis hard for me to haul all this water up the stairs every day!" Jael replied, dropping more petals into the water.

     "Yes! Exactly!" Serena spiraled her fingers lazily in the water, making little ringlets around the bright red petals.

       "But who can stand against yer Mother? She is, after all the Mistress of the household." Jael added. She unfolded a white towel and rubbed a bar of rose soap against the cloth creating a foamy lather.

      "Here ye go, Miss Serena. Go ahead and get ye self clean." 

Serena sighed deeply and took the soapy cloth and began to scrub her whole body. 

     "When yer finished, I have yer gown ready and a nice mug of peppermint tea, yer favorite." Jael smiled then left the small washroom to fetch some towels. Serena liked Jael. She was simple minded but had a compassionate heart. Jael had grown up with Serena and became her chamber maid when Serena had her thirteenth birthday. Jael was only fifteen at that time. Now the two had become close. However Serena did not consider her to be a friend. She was just a servant girl who worked for Lady Scarlet and demanded to know everything that Serena did throughout the day. Serena had lost her trust in the girl when she had found out that Jael spied on her often and reported back to Lady Scarlet every day.

     

     Once Serena was dried, Jael helped her dress in a soft pink gown of crushed velvet. It was trimmed in golden threads and the sleeves hung loose around her wrists. The bodice was fringed with wide pieces of soft white lace and the skirt was pleated and embroidered in the same golden threads. Jael combed her waist length, raven black hair and arranged it in a simple chignon at the nape of her neck. She added an amethyst studded flower pin to the chignon. 

     "Beautiful!" Jael clasped her thin hands together and stood back to admire Serena. Serena smiled and turned to face the full length mirror. 

     "I do not understand why Mother requests me to dress in such apparel. Is today different from any other day?" she asked.

Jael hid a smile and led Serena by the arm. "Just go find yer Mother and Father. I believe that they are in the Library." she said all too knowingly.

     Serena made her way to the grand Library. She stopped when she reached the mahogany door and knocked. She could hear muffled voices coming from inside the room. 

      A servant answered the door and ushered Serena inside. Alongside the eight foot long fireplace that roared with flames that lapped against the long logs, her mother and father were seated in plush, over sized chairs. They were joined by an elderly man whom Serena had never seen before. He was thin and his white hair was scraggly and in need of a good trimming however his attire was presentably enough.

     "Ah, Serena, my precious gem, come and sit." her father, Lord Norman Huff motioned with his left hand. Serena nervously approached her parents and took a seat beside her mother. 

Lady Scarlet said nothing and did not even acknowledge that Serena had entered the room. 

     "Serena, I would like you to meet my financial advisor and lawyer, Mr. Depugh." Norman said. 

Serena nodded towards Mr. Depugh and smiled respectfully. 

     "Miss Serena, your father speaks highly of you. But he failed to mention how beautiful you were!" the older man exclaimed.

Lord Norman waved his hand and focused his gaze on his only daughter.   

    "I have asked Mr. Depugh to come today so that we may begin to secure your future, my dear."

   A puzzled look filled Serena's face and Lord Norman continued.

     "You are seventeen, child. Come Spring, you will have your eighteenth birthday. You need a husband. A wealthy one at that. Mr. Depugh is here to help me find a husband for you." 

     "Papa, I-"

     "Serena, hush." Lady Scarlet commanded in a quiet yet stern tone.  

    Lord Norman noticed the look of worry on his daughter's face. 

    "Come now, Serena, you must marry. 'Tis how things must be done." he assured her calmly, resting his palm against the purple cushion of the armrest.

    "Yes but can I not choose for myself the man that I will marry? Can I not marry for love?" she asked innocently and Lady Scarlet raised her hand to hide a sarcastic laugh.

    "Marry for love? And wind up penniless living on the streets? Why I think not my dear girl!" Lord Norman laughed heartily. 

    Embarrassed, heat filled Serena's cheeks and she lowered her gaze to her folded hands in her lap.

    "Miss Serena, I assure you that your father and I will surely find you a decent man capable of taking good care of you. He will no doubt, have money to spare on whatever your precious little heart desires." Mr. Depugh added.

     Serena did not reply for it was no use. Her parents had made their decision. She listened silently as they began to make arrangements for her marriage to a mere stranger. Deep down, Serena did not care for money, she did not care for titles or great wealth. All she wanted was love, a true honest decent man to love her with all his heart. But apparently, there was not enough money in the world to buy such things.

           ~*~