Stanger And The Delight Thereof!!
Title: Stranger And The Delight Thereof
Challenge: #49 - Another Dance - Dario Marianelli
Media: Original Fiction
Rating: T
Notes/Warnings: None, but I enjoyed writing this so very much. I wrote this for a weekly music prompt at storytellersong .
Stranger And The Delight Thereof
The parties were always grand and everyone would have a splendid time chatting and socializing with each other. The women would secretly hope that a handsome young man would ask for her hand during the dances and the men were eager to seek out a prospect not only for the evening but possibly for a lifetime.
I watched from the balcony as the orchestra played a lively tune and all of the men and women danced and smiled and laughed with each other. I held my hand up slightly and pretended that I was a puppeteer controlling them. I could have been because it was always the same. I knew each of their moves as if it were a well scripted play they were performing.
You might think that I was an unhappy soul or even somewhat jaded. I myself sometimes thought the same thing. But that was not the case at all. I was just tired of waiting for someone to come along that would catch my eye and make me behave in much the same manner as the ladies and gentlemen twirling below me on the dance floor.
I sighed as I leaned against the railing of the balcony and looked out again over the crowd of smiling faces. I let my chin rest upon my gloved hand and closed my eyes. If only there would be someone new, someone exciting and maybe a bit mysterious that would grace our presence then, then I would have something to dream of and wish for.
Lost in my own dreamland of wants, I stood back up and opened my eyes. I was just about to descend the balcony and go for a walk in the Winship’s garden, when I saw him standing by the front door. His hair was dark and he stood uneasily tall as he waited for someone to show him to the festivities.
My heart skipped a beat and I stood silently still for ageless moments, just staring at his handsome features. He was a stranger indeed with a brooding look upon his face and I wondered what thoughts perplexed his physicality.
I know that at least five minutes passed while I gazed upon the handsome stranger before Mr. Winship himself came and escorted him toward the dance floor, introducing him to as many available young ladies as possible. I found myself wanting to be among the lucky females but then I decided against it.
There were too many willing and waiting young women and he had already been exposed to most of them, by the time I descended to the first floor, so I chose to avoid the awkwardness of the whole charade and made my way through the crowd to the more lonely confines of the garden, just beyond the terrace door.
The night was nippy and still and I found myself wishing I had brought a shawl along to cover my shoulders, but alas, I was without so I would just shiver while I walked among the roses and lovely flowers that were still quite visible in the moonlight.
The music was playing faintly as it wafted from the open terrace door and windows of the house. It was a perfect backdrop for my lonesome stroll and being there alone I felt much more at ease, so I began to twirl and dance with my only company being the floral delights.
I smiled as I recalled the handsome stranger and pretended he was holding me close as I danced. I knew it was a silly thing to do, but it was my own illusion, after all and no one would ever be the wiser.
That is until I heard steps on the cobble stones not far behind me. I ducked behind the rose trellis waiting to see if the intruder upon my dance would leave, but they did not. The footsteps got closer until I was forced to flee my hiding place seeking shelter near the fountain and hid there in the shadows.
I tried to see who was there, but it was impossible, almost as if they were playing a cat and mouse game with me and even though it frightened me a bit, it also made my heart race with anticipation. Who was it that was so intent on discovering my identity, I thought?
As the footsteps began again and came closer, I quickly slipped behind the garden wall and stood between the stones of the wall and a large sycamore tree peering out from around the tree only when I could no long hear anyone approaching.
Leaning out as far as I could, I checked but there seemed to be no one near, that is until I heard him clear his throat. I jumped with a start to see the brooding stranger standing against the sycamore tree, one foot propped up, bent at the knee, and his arms crossed over his chest.
As I tried to regain my balance, I began to fall but he quickly came to my rescue and I found myself lying across his large arm looking up into up into his face.
"Oh dear. I am....." were the only words I could form.
As he began to chuckle heartily, I found myself becoming angry however, and struggled to free myself from his grasp.
"I am truly sorry my lady, but I find this entire predicament very entertaining."
"Well I am glad that I have been able to provide you with merriment for the evening, sir," I spat, as I smoothed my dress down with my gloved hands. "It was not very gentlemen like of you to spy on me, chase me, and frighten me."
"Spy on. Chase! Frighten? I did none of these things," he resounded defensively.
"Yes sir, you did," I said emphatically, knowing in the back of my mind that I was stretching things a bit much.
He laughed and again crossed his arms over his chest looking at me with a perplexed look then he took me off guard by bending down on one knee and taking my hand in his kissing it gently and looking up at me with a softened expression.
"If I may, my lady, please forgive me for the offenses of which I have been accused."
I huffed and pulled my hand away from him, feeling flushed at his gesture, but also feeling an excitement building within me that I could not rationally explain. He was causing me great inner turmoil, but I found myself loving it just the same.
"I....I will forgive you, only if you will tell me your name. It is not polite to be speaking with a stranger in a garden at night and not even know his name," I said, letting my tone become more pleasant and less offended.
He looked around and stood up, I think he felt a bit embarrassed about the whole situation and quickly regained his proper behavior for the circumstance.
"Please allow me to apologize for intruding upon your danc....I mean stroll?" he said, trying very hard to fight back the most beautiful smile I had ever seen on a man. "My name is Charles Darnsworth and I am very pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss...." he said, leaving it open for me to introduce myself.
"Well, Mr. Darnsworth, it is still a bit improper but I suppose it will have to do since there is no one around to properly introduce me. My name is Marianna Wilton," I said, offering him my hand, which I had taken my glove from, and a small curtsy.
He took my hand and again kissed it, looking up at me from under his long dark lashes while his lips were still in contact with my bare hand. If I had not been so determined to hold my ground, I think I might have swooned and buckled right then and there under the weight of his gaze as my heart fluttered behind my breast.
"Marianna. What a lovely name. It is quite the fitting name for you."
"Thank you, Mr. Darnsworth. Thank you," I said, and looked down at my hand which he had never released.
"Well, I have kept you from your stroll long enough. I will just be going back inside. Although I find it much more pleasant here away from the loud music and multitude," he said, turning slightly toward the house.
"I do not mind if you wish to tarry here. The garden is so lovely this time of night and the moon gives ample light to see the beauty of the garden," I said, suddenly feeling timid.
"Oh, I could not intrude upon you any longer. I suppose I could just go this way," he said pointing down the cobblestone path to his left, "and you could go that way," he gestured to his right, again stifling back a smile.
"It would be ashamed to know that there were two persons of like mind wandering around this rather large garden each alone and to themselves, when...I suppose we could walk together. For the sake of viewing the flowers, mind you."
"That is a splendid idea. I think we could manage to walk in the same direction," he said, offering me his elbow which I gladly accepted as the solution to our problem.
We strolled through the garden, looking at every specimen of flora and talking gayly of our likes and dislikes. It was almost a game to see how much we could discover about each other in one night.
When we heard the music die down, we knew that our magical evening had come to an end all too soon. We bid each other goodbye there in the garden and each went a different route to exit the party. There was no need to arouse suspicions and fuel gossip over a lonely stroll in the garden.
Several days passed and I could not get Mr. Darnsworth out of my mind. At night when I closed my eyes, I saw his smoldering eyes and dark hair and every time I looked upon a rose or a lily in my own garden, I thought of that night.
It was not until one week after the dance that I heard the name of Mr. Darnsworth being spoken by anyone other than myself. My father was greeting guests for dinner in the courtyard as I waited in the foyer for the guests to enter.
To my delight, Mr. Darnsworth was the third person to enter, followed by Miss Penny Wilby who lived nearby. Mr. Darnsworth had been asked to join Miss Wilby and her family for the purpose of discussing business with my father. I was filled with apprehension however, when I saw Mr. Darnsworth take Miss Wilby’s elbow as he assisted her at the table for dinner.
I was seated across from Mr. Darnsworth and found myself looking at him often during the course of the evening, but he never once spoke to me. He was too busy chatting with my mother, my sister, and Miss Wilby.
So, with my feelings a bit tender and wounded, I asked if I could be excused from the table and went for a walk in my own garden. It was of little comfort though, knowing that a man that interested me greatly was sitting in my own house.
When I had completed my walk and was tired and weary from the events of the evening, I began walking back toward the house only to have my path blocked by none other than Mr. Darnsworth.
"You do like your walks of solitude? Don’t you Miss Wilton, or might I call you Marianna?"
"Mr. Darnsworth, you may call me what you please, but now I am weary and it is time for me to retire to my bed for the evening," I said, trying to push past him only to be stopped by a firm hand upon my arm, then another as he took my hand in his.
"I did not realize how young you were until this evening. You are no more than a mere girl," he said blankly.
"I beg your pardon, sir, but I am twenty years of age and I would thank you kindly to remove your hands from me," I said, trying to pull away from him.
But he pulled me even closer. I was no match for his strength and even though he was at least seven years my senior, deep down I did not want to have to behave in such a manner, but he had offended me, regardless of his reasons.
His breath was warm as it fanned across my face and settled against my lips. He was only inches from me.
"I am truly sorry if I have offended you, Marianna, but I find your innocence and youth very appealing. You have not yet been molded by opinion and stiff tradition. Do not be upset with me for finding you refreshing. I cannot help this attraction."
His apology, opinion, and declaration had my head spinning, but I was not sure I should let him have the last word. Something told me that I would be better off playing by my own rules. After all, I did not truly know this man, even if I felt an attraction of my own toward him.
"Mr. Darnsworth," I drew out, "I will have you to know that it is not age that makes a woman wise in matters of the heart or the flesh for that matter, but rather how she conducts herself according to her own will and desires, regardless of what is proper. I am a person, just like Miss Wilby on whom you doted all evening in case you have not noticed. And this woman, of lesser age than many, is going to bed now," I said firmly and proceeded to pull my hand and arm away from him turning to go into the house through the kitchen door.
I thought I heard him say, "Your youth is a formidable asset and makes the attraction all the more great Miss Wilton. I do so hope you are bedding alone tonight," just as I closed the door behind me.
I ran upstairs and undressed, having Milly, my maid servant, draw a bath for me. I took it quickly, not at all enjoying the leisure of the warm water so carefully carried up the stairs, but rather hurriedly dressed in my white night gown drawing the satin ribbons tight over my bosom as I stood at the window and peered out when I heard the guests leaving.
I am sure Mr. Darnsworth could see me clearly as he stepped into the carriage, but I would not back away from the window. I wanted him to know that I was not frightened by his words, only by the feelings inside of me that were betraying my sensibility.
Another week passed, and I still thought of Mr. Darnsworth often, but not with as much passion as I had after our stroll in the garden as mere strangers. For I now thought of him in the realm of why he was making me feel the way I felt and how dare he cause me such grief.
My sister and I had just finished our shopping in town and were walking to the baker’s to pick up a special tart for ma’ma when Mr. Darnsworth suddenly stood in front if us, appearing out of nowhere. It was as if he had been stalking our every move and knew what our next stop would be.
"Oh, you startled us Mr. Darnsworth," my sister said, opening her fan and placing it in front of her face to disguise her blush.
I stood my ground however and let the anger that had been building inside of me since my last meeting with Mr. Darnsworth take hold as I waited to see what he had to say.
"I was passing by and could not let the opportunity to say hello slip by me," he said, nodding his head to my sister and I.
That would have been fine and good but when his companion came out of the bakery and immediately attached herself to his arm, I knew this meeting would not end well.
"I am certain of it," I said under my breath and my sister elbowed me and took my arm as if holding onto me so that I might behave more like a lady than not.
"You all remember Penny Wilby?" he asked, smiling at Penny.
"Yes Mr. Darnsworth, we have known Miss Wilby for quite some time. How are you doing Penny?" I asked, with faux regard.
"I am very well, thank you. Charles and I were just out gathering a few things for my father. He is having a dinner in honor of Charles this evening, you know?"
"How lovely. Well if you will excuse us. We must pick up a tart for our dinner this evening and we are in a rush," I said, pushing past the two of them. But I watched Mr. Darnsworth’s eyes as I passed by and he was looking at me most intently. Good, I thought. Maybe I finally stepped on a nerve. And I hope it smarted.
My sister tried to ask what that was all about but I quickly dismissed the encounter and we went about our business. On the way back home, however, I could not get the picture of Penny and Mr. Darnsworth being together out of my mind. It actually made me feel ill.
That night at dinner, I was not able to eat so I took an early bath and sipped tea in my bedroom sitting by the fireplace. Milly came to check on me and tried to comfort me with small talk, but it was no use, so I climbed into bed and she brushed my hair while I fell asleep, with tears staining my pillow.
The next several months went by just as all the rest since Mr. Darnsworth’s arrival. The only difference was, I kept running into Mr. Darnsworth everywhere I went. Whether it was to dinner at a neighbor’s, while in town shopping, or at the Abby, he seemed to always be there taunting me.
Upon expiration of six months to the day of my first meeting Mr. Darnsworth, I had the good fortune, or bad whichever the case may be, of seeing him again. He was, however devoid of his clingy companion, Miss Wilton, and seemed rather glad of it for the first time since they became so close.
I had gone to my friend, Lily Collins, home to spend the afternoon and it just so happened that Mr. Darnsworth was there too. He was attending a shooting match with Lily’s brother and two of his friends.
I had not planned on being sociable with anyone other than Lily. She and I had planned tea in the garden, then a walk around the lovely lake at the back of their property. We had completed all of the above and were resting on a blanket near the lake when someone’s shadow shielded my eyes from the rays of sun seeping through the trees above us.
I opened my eyes to see William, Lily’s brother standing there with a rather handsome grin on his face.
"William, what on earth are you doing here? I told you that Marianna and I were to be left alone today. This is our time to catch up on things. We have not spoken in ages," Lily scolded.
"I know, but I have not seen Marianna in a long time either and I...well I just wanted to tell her how beautiful she was today," he said, bashfully.
I sat up and blushed I am sure at his heartfelt complement, but I was not prepared for his lingering stare.
"William, you are being rude," Lily scolded again and he snapped out of his happy stupor, long enough to bend down and place a string of violets in my hair, tucking them behind my ear.
"I wove these together for you while I was waiting for the others to begin the shooting."
"Oh, thank you, William. They are quite lovely," I said, offering him a smile as payment for his labor.
I did not realize, however, that we had an audience, until I looked over at Lily and saw Mr. Darnsworth standing a few hundred yards away watching us. He looked displeased and that in itself made me very satisfied. After all the times I had seen him with Penny, it was only fitting for him to see me receive a gift from William.
I looked away and smiled at William again, then offered him my hand. He took it helping me up and gladly escorted me to the edge of the lake where we talked for a few moments before the others began calling him to join them. He told me goodbye and I returned to the blanket with Lily where she and I lounged like little girls talking of things that were important to each of us. I shared most everything, except for Mr. Darnsworth.
The next few weeks, I neither saw Mr. Darnsworth nor heard his name spoken. I was anxious for any news of him, but to my great disappointment, I knew nothing of his whereabouts. The dashing hopes I felt at not even having the opportunity to disagree with him had me feeling unusually low, however I tried not to let it be known.
Spring had finally arrived and that meant everyone would be throwing parties, giving dinners, and even having balls. The entire countryside was alive with a renewed sense of vigor and I went along with my family, even if my heart was not in the gayest of moods.
We attended a party at the Riley’s, a brunch at the Linton’s, and on Saturday night, a dinner with dancing at the Waverly’s. By the time we had finished the meal, I was ready to leave. The stress of so many acquaintances was overwhelming especially when my heart was not in the mood to be sociable.
I was able to excuse myself for a few moments and went into the courtyard for some fresh air. What I did not know, however, was that a guest had arrived late and had taken a quick meal in the kitchen. So I strolled unaware that someone was in the courtyard with me, watching me.
The night was dark with the exception of the small lanterns that hung around the wall of the courtyard. I was just looking into the lovely fountain when I felt the presence of someone behind me. I whirled around to find Mr. Darnsworth standing there looking more handsome than I had ever seen him look before.
His dark hair glistened in the lantern light and I found myself admiring him even though I should be turning my back on him.
"Mr. Darnsworth. What on earth are you doing here and why have you frightened me so?" I explained pulling my handkerchief out to touch my brow.
"Forgive me Marianna, but when I learned that you and your family were here, I came looking for you immediately."
"Why, I am surprised you were able to move freely at all without the aid of Miss Wilby attached to your arm. Where is she by the way? I am certain she would be displeased if she saw you out here, traipsing about in the near dark alone with the exception of myself. Even though I was here first, I am sure that it would not be seen as such," I said firmly and put my handkerchief back into my small purse that hung from my wrist.
Mr. Darnsworth did not respond immediately, but stepped closer to me, actually blocking my path preventing my flight to another part of the courtyard.
"Marianna, I have been, well.....I have been...."
"Mr. Darnsworth, I am quite aware of what you have been and what you are and what your intentions are and I would be the first one to say that it is of no concern to me. You are a grown man and you may behave in any manner in which you see fit. I only beg that you leave me alone so that I might live my life to the fullest without being bothered as to where you might be or...." I was saying, but I am not sure what happened for the next thing I knew I was falling into the fountain. "Oh my! Oh my! Help! I cannot believe. Ugh!" I said boisterously as I clung to the side of the fountain as best I could, considering the stone surface was slippery.
Then Mr. Darnsworth was in the fountain with me, pulling me up and out of the water. He picked me up in his arms and carried me like a bride on her honeymoon, depositing me in the grass of the garden area and again standing in front of me to prevent my exit.
There I stood, soaked to the bone, my hair was dripping and I was beginning to shiver, but I was not sure if it was from the night air or my anger at what had just occurred as I was still trying to determine if he had pushed me into the fountain so that he could gallantly save me or whether he had bumped into me on accident.
Either way, my fists were balled up and I felt a fever rising inside of me that I had never experienced before. I wanted to strike something, which was very unladylike. So I settled for yanking my scarf from around my neck and using it to blot my face trying earnestly to remove the excess moister. But in doing so, it left my chest uncovered and the tops of my bosoms exposed.
Mr. Darnsworth looked at me with an unsatiably lustful eye and watched the droplets of water that I felt running down over and between my bosoms. His gaze made me uneasy, for a moment that is, until I yearned for him to continue gazing upon me in such a desirable way regardless of whether it was proper.
"I have never wanted someone, the way I want you. You have filled me-my body with desire and my heart with tender emotion for none other than you, Marianna. I want none other than you. I have been away taking care of my business affairs, getting them in order, so that I might return here and ask you, no beg you, to let me with you. If you will not have me as a man, your equal, then let me be your servant, your humble and lowly servant that I might gaze upon you every day and care for your needs. And, if that is not satisfactory, I dare to say the words, then let me be your secret lover. I will bring to you more pleasure than you could possibly know," he said, confessing his desires for me and I was utterly speechless.
Yes it is true, for once, no words would come into my mouth, nor form in my brain that I might make a sharp come back or remark. I just stared at him with my mouth open like a dumbfounded soul. But when he pulled me into his arms and pressed his soft, sweet, tender lips to mine, I snapped to my senses and realized how gravely he had affected me. Then the words found their way to my mouth.
"I do not know what to say," I whispered against his still lips.
"Say that you feel the same. Tell me that you are filled with desire that only I can quench. Give me a sign and word that you will at least consider being mine. And if my improper proposal has deemed you less worthy than a lady-the lady that you truly are, forgive me and let me offer a proper-the most proper proposal and as I bend here on one knee, taking your hand in mine, accept this ring as my gesture of sincerity. Marianna, say you will marry me and let me be your husband, care giver, and lover. Oh, most of all your lover. I will fill your days with merriment and your nights with more passion than is humanly possible bringing all of you more pleasure than any other woman could bear. But you my love, are stronger than any other woman I know, therefore I know you would welcome the pleasure and hopefully beg for more."
"Mr. Darnsworth, never in my life have I been spoken to in such a manner and never shall I be spoken to this way again. I should slap you across the face for the things you have spoken to me here in the darkness, but I cannot. I cannot cause harm to a man who has awakened in me the feelings and desires of womanhood that I am anxious and willing to fulfil and explore only with you as the one providing the sinful pleasure, as my husband-as my lover. Oh, yes I will marry you," was my response and he kissed me once more before taking off his coat and wrapping it around me.
He slid the ring upon my finger and I trembled with anticipation of our coming union. It is not often that two souls as headstrong and brazen as ours find comfort in each others company, but I suppose that is the lure of a stranger and the delight thereof.
Challenge: #49 - Another Dance - Dario Marianelli
Media: Original Fiction
Rating: T
Notes/Warnings: None, but I enjoyed writing this so very much. I wrote this for a weekly music prompt at storytellersong .
Stranger And The Delight Thereof
The parties were always grand and everyone would have a splendid time chatting and socializing with each other. The women would secretly hope that a handsome young man would ask for her hand during the dances and the men were eager to seek out a prospect not only for the evening but possibly for a lifetime.
I watched from the balcony as the orchestra played a lively tune and all of the men and women danced and smiled and laughed with each other. I held my hand up slightly and pretended that I was a puppeteer controlling them. I could have been because it was always the same. I knew each of their moves as if it were a well scripted play they were performing.
You might think that I was an unhappy soul or even somewhat jaded. I myself sometimes thought the same thing. But that was not the case at all. I was just tired of waiting for someone to come along that would catch my eye and make me behave in much the same manner as the ladies and gentlemen twirling below me on the dance floor.
I sighed as I leaned against the railing of the balcony and looked out again over the crowd of smiling faces. I let my chin rest upon my gloved hand and closed my eyes. If only there would be someone new, someone exciting and maybe a bit mysterious that would grace our presence then, then I would have something to dream of and wish for.
Lost in my own dreamland of wants, I stood back up and opened my eyes. I was just about to descend the balcony and go for a walk in the Winship’s garden, when I saw him standing by the front door. His hair was dark and he stood uneasily tall as he waited for someone to show him to the festivities.
My heart skipped a beat and I stood silently still for ageless moments, just staring at his handsome features. He was a stranger indeed with a brooding look upon his face and I wondered what thoughts perplexed his physicality.
I know that at least five minutes passed while I gazed upon the handsome stranger before Mr. Winship himself came and escorted him toward the dance floor, introducing him to as many available young ladies as possible. I found myself wanting to be among the lucky females but then I decided against it.
There were too many willing and waiting young women and he had already been exposed to most of them, by the time I descended to the first floor, so I chose to avoid the awkwardness of the whole charade and made my way through the crowd to the more lonely confines of the garden, just beyond the terrace door.
The night was nippy and still and I found myself wishing I had brought a shawl along to cover my shoulders, but alas, I was without so I would just shiver while I walked among the roses and lovely flowers that were still quite visible in the moonlight.
The music was playing faintly as it wafted from the open terrace door and windows of the house. It was a perfect backdrop for my lonesome stroll and being there alone I felt much more at ease, so I began to twirl and dance with my only company being the floral delights.
I smiled as I recalled the handsome stranger and pretended he was holding me close as I danced. I knew it was a silly thing to do, but it was my own illusion, after all and no one would ever be the wiser.
That is until I heard steps on the cobble stones not far behind me. I ducked behind the rose trellis waiting to see if the intruder upon my dance would leave, but they did not. The footsteps got closer until I was forced to flee my hiding place seeking shelter near the fountain and hid there in the shadows.
I tried to see who was there, but it was impossible, almost as if they were playing a cat and mouse game with me and even though it frightened me a bit, it also made my heart race with anticipation. Who was it that was so intent on discovering my identity, I thought?
As the footsteps began again and came closer, I quickly slipped behind the garden wall and stood between the stones of the wall and a large sycamore tree peering out from around the tree only when I could no long hear anyone approaching.
Leaning out as far as I could, I checked but there seemed to be no one near, that is until I heard him clear his throat. I jumped with a start to see the brooding stranger standing against the sycamore tree, one foot propped up, bent at the knee, and his arms crossed over his chest.
As I tried to regain my balance, I began to fall but he quickly came to my rescue and I found myself lying across his large arm looking up into up into his face.
"Oh dear. I am....." were the only words I could form.
As he began to chuckle heartily, I found myself becoming angry however, and struggled to free myself from his grasp.
"I am truly sorry my lady, but I find this entire predicament very entertaining."
"Well I am glad that I have been able to provide you with merriment for the evening, sir," I spat, as I smoothed my dress down with my gloved hands. "It was not very gentlemen like of you to spy on me, chase me, and frighten me."
"Spy on. Chase! Frighten? I did none of these things," he resounded defensively.
"Yes sir, you did," I said emphatically, knowing in the back of my mind that I was stretching things a bit much.
He laughed and again crossed his arms over his chest looking at me with a perplexed look then he took me off guard by bending down on one knee and taking my hand in his kissing it gently and looking up at me with a softened expression.
"If I may, my lady, please forgive me for the offenses of which I have been accused."
I huffed and pulled my hand away from him, feeling flushed at his gesture, but also feeling an excitement building within me that I could not rationally explain. He was causing me great inner turmoil, but I found myself loving it just the same.
"I....I will forgive you, only if you will tell me your name. It is not polite to be speaking with a stranger in a garden at night and not even know his name," I said, letting my tone become more pleasant and less offended.
He looked around and stood up, I think he felt a bit embarrassed about the whole situation and quickly regained his proper behavior for the circumstance.
"Please allow me to apologize for intruding upon your danc....I mean stroll?" he said, trying very hard to fight back the most beautiful smile I had ever seen on a man. "My name is Charles Darnsworth and I am very pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss...." he said, leaving it open for me to introduce myself.
"Well, Mr. Darnsworth, it is still a bit improper but I suppose it will have to do since there is no one around to properly introduce me. My name is Marianna Wilton," I said, offering him my hand, which I had taken my glove from, and a small curtsy.
He took my hand and again kissed it, looking up at me from under his long dark lashes while his lips were still in contact with my bare hand. If I had not been so determined to hold my ground, I think I might have swooned and buckled right then and there under the weight of his gaze as my heart fluttered behind my breast.
"Marianna. What a lovely name. It is quite the fitting name for you."
"Thank you, Mr. Darnsworth. Thank you," I said, and looked down at my hand which he had never released.
"Well, I have kept you from your stroll long enough. I will just be going back inside. Although I find it much more pleasant here away from the loud music and multitude," he said, turning slightly toward the house.
"I do not mind if you wish to tarry here. The garden is so lovely this time of night and the moon gives ample light to see the beauty of the garden," I said, suddenly feeling timid.
"Oh, I could not intrude upon you any longer. I suppose I could just go this way," he said pointing down the cobblestone path to his left, "and you could go that way," he gestured to his right, again stifling back a smile.
"It would be ashamed to know that there were two persons of like mind wandering around this rather large garden each alone and to themselves, when...I suppose we could walk together. For the sake of viewing the flowers, mind you."
"That is a splendid idea. I think we could manage to walk in the same direction," he said, offering me his elbow which I gladly accepted as the solution to our problem.
We strolled through the garden, looking at every specimen of flora and talking gayly of our likes and dislikes. It was almost a game to see how much we could discover about each other in one night.
When we heard the music die down, we knew that our magical evening had come to an end all too soon. We bid each other goodbye there in the garden and each went a different route to exit the party. There was no need to arouse suspicions and fuel gossip over a lonely stroll in the garden.
Several days passed and I could not get Mr. Darnsworth out of my mind. At night when I closed my eyes, I saw his smoldering eyes and dark hair and every time I looked upon a rose or a lily in my own garden, I thought of that night.
It was not until one week after the dance that I heard the name of Mr. Darnsworth being spoken by anyone other than myself. My father was greeting guests for dinner in the courtyard as I waited in the foyer for the guests to enter.
To my delight, Mr. Darnsworth was the third person to enter, followed by Miss Penny Wilby who lived nearby. Mr. Darnsworth had been asked to join Miss Wilby and her family for the purpose of discussing business with my father. I was filled with apprehension however, when I saw Mr. Darnsworth take Miss Wilby’s elbow as he assisted her at the table for dinner.
I was seated across from Mr. Darnsworth and found myself looking at him often during the course of the evening, but he never once spoke to me. He was too busy chatting with my mother, my sister, and Miss Wilby.
So, with my feelings a bit tender and wounded, I asked if I could be excused from the table and went for a walk in my own garden. It was of little comfort though, knowing that a man that interested me greatly was sitting in my own house.
When I had completed my walk and was tired and weary from the events of the evening, I began walking back toward the house only to have my path blocked by none other than Mr. Darnsworth.
"You do like your walks of solitude? Don’t you Miss Wilton, or might I call you Marianna?"
"Mr. Darnsworth, you may call me what you please, but now I am weary and it is time for me to retire to my bed for the evening," I said, trying to push past him only to be stopped by a firm hand upon my arm, then another as he took my hand in his.
"I did not realize how young you were until this evening. You are no more than a mere girl," he said blankly.
"I beg your pardon, sir, but I am twenty years of age and I would thank you kindly to remove your hands from me," I said, trying to pull away from him.
But he pulled me even closer. I was no match for his strength and even though he was at least seven years my senior, deep down I did not want to have to behave in such a manner, but he had offended me, regardless of his reasons.
His breath was warm as it fanned across my face and settled against my lips. He was only inches from me.
"I am truly sorry if I have offended you, Marianna, but I find your innocence and youth very appealing. You have not yet been molded by opinion and stiff tradition. Do not be upset with me for finding you refreshing. I cannot help this attraction."
His apology, opinion, and declaration had my head spinning, but I was not sure I should let him have the last word. Something told me that I would be better off playing by my own rules. After all, I did not truly know this man, even if I felt an attraction of my own toward him.
"Mr. Darnsworth," I drew out, "I will have you to know that it is not age that makes a woman wise in matters of the heart or the flesh for that matter, but rather how she conducts herself according to her own will and desires, regardless of what is proper. I am a person, just like Miss Wilby on whom you doted all evening in case you have not noticed. And this woman, of lesser age than many, is going to bed now," I said firmly and proceeded to pull my hand and arm away from him turning to go into the house through the kitchen door.
I thought I heard him say, "Your youth is a formidable asset and makes the attraction all the more great Miss Wilton. I do so hope you are bedding alone tonight," just as I closed the door behind me.
I ran upstairs and undressed, having Milly, my maid servant, draw a bath for me. I took it quickly, not at all enjoying the leisure of the warm water so carefully carried up the stairs, but rather hurriedly dressed in my white night gown drawing the satin ribbons tight over my bosom as I stood at the window and peered out when I heard the guests leaving.
I am sure Mr. Darnsworth could see me clearly as he stepped into the carriage, but I would not back away from the window. I wanted him to know that I was not frightened by his words, only by the feelings inside of me that were betraying my sensibility.
Another week passed, and I still thought of Mr. Darnsworth often, but not with as much passion as I had after our stroll in the garden as mere strangers. For I now thought of him in the realm of why he was making me feel the way I felt and how dare he cause me such grief.
My sister and I had just finished our shopping in town and were walking to the baker’s to pick up a special tart for ma’ma when Mr. Darnsworth suddenly stood in front if us, appearing out of nowhere. It was as if he had been stalking our every move and knew what our next stop would be.
"Oh, you startled us Mr. Darnsworth," my sister said, opening her fan and placing it in front of her face to disguise her blush.
I stood my ground however and let the anger that had been building inside of me since my last meeting with Mr. Darnsworth take hold as I waited to see what he had to say.
"I was passing by and could not let the opportunity to say hello slip by me," he said, nodding his head to my sister and I.
That would have been fine and good but when his companion came out of the bakery and immediately attached herself to his arm, I knew this meeting would not end well.
"I am certain of it," I said under my breath and my sister elbowed me and took my arm as if holding onto me so that I might behave more like a lady than not.
"You all remember Penny Wilby?" he asked, smiling at Penny.
"Yes Mr. Darnsworth, we have known Miss Wilby for quite some time. How are you doing Penny?" I asked, with faux regard.
"I am very well, thank you. Charles and I were just out gathering a few things for my father. He is having a dinner in honor of Charles this evening, you know?"
"How lovely. Well if you will excuse us. We must pick up a tart for our dinner this evening and we are in a rush," I said, pushing past the two of them. But I watched Mr. Darnsworth’s eyes as I passed by and he was looking at me most intently. Good, I thought. Maybe I finally stepped on a nerve. And I hope it smarted.
My sister tried to ask what that was all about but I quickly dismissed the encounter and we went about our business. On the way back home, however, I could not get the picture of Penny and Mr. Darnsworth being together out of my mind. It actually made me feel ill.
That night at dinner, I was not able to eat so I took an early bath and sipped tea in my bedroom sitting by the fireplace. Milly came to check on me and tried to comfort me with small talk, but it was no use, so I climbed into bed and she brushed my hair while I fell asleep, with tears staining my pillow.
The next several months went by just as all the rest since Mr. Darnsworth’s arrival. The only difference was, I kept running into Mr. Darnsworth everywhere I went. Whether it was to dinner at a neighbor’s, while in town shopping, or at the Abby, he seemed to always be there taunting me.
Upon expiration of six months to the day of my first meeting Mr. Darnsworth, I had the good fortune, or bad whichever the case may be, of seeing him again. He was, however devoid of his clingy companion, Miss Wilton, and seemed rather glad of it for the first time since they became so close.
I had gone to my friend, Lily Collins, home to spend the afternoon and it just so happened that Mr. Darnsworth was there too. He was attending a shooting match with Lily’s brother and two of his friends.
I had not planned on being sociable with anyone other than Lily. She and I had planned tea in the garden, then a walk around the lovely lake at the back of their property. We had completed all of the above and were resting on a blanket near the lake when someone’s shadow shielded my eyes from the rays of sun seeping through the trees above us.
I opened my eyes to see William, Lily’s brother standing there with a rather handsome grin on his face.
"William, what on earth are you doing here? I told you that Marianna and I were to be left alone today. This is our time to catch up on things. We have not spoken in ages," Lily scolded.
"I know, but I have not seen Marianna in a long time either and I...well I just wanted to tell her how beautiful she was today," he said, bashfully.
I sat up and blushed I am sure at his heartfelt complement, but I was not prepared for his lingering stare.
"William, you are being rude," Lily scolded again and he snapped out of his happy stupor, long enough to bend down and place a string of violets in my hair, tucking them behind my ear.
"I wove these together for you while I was waiting for the others to begin the shooting."
"Oh, thank you, William. They are quite lovely," I said, offering him a smile as payment for his labor.
I did not realize, however, that we had an audience, until I looked over at Lily and saw Mr. Darnsworth standing a few hundred yards away watching us. He looked displeased and that in itself made me very satisfied. After all the times I had seen him with Penny, it was only fitting for him to see me receive a gift from William.
I looked away and smiled at William again, then offered him my hand. He took it helping me up and gladly escorted me to the edge of the lake where we talked for a few moments before the others began calling him to join them. He told me goodbye and I returned to the blanket with Lily where she and I lounged like little girls talking of things that were important to each of us. I shared most everything, except for Mr. Darnsworth.
The next few weeks, I neither saw Mr. Darnsworth nor heard his name spoken. I was anxious for any news of him, but to my great disappointment, I knew nothing of his whereabouts. The dashing hopes I felt at not even having the opportunity to disagree with him had me feeling unusually low, however I tried not to let it be known.
Spring had finally arrived and that meant everyone would be throwing parties, giving dinners, and even having balls. The entire countryside was alive with a renewed sense of vigor and I went along with my family, even if my heart was not in the gayest of moods.
We attended a party at the Riley’s, a brunch at the Linton’s, and on Saturday night, a dinner with dancing at the Waverly’s. By the time we had finished the meal, I was ready to leave. The stress of so many acquaintances was overwhelming especially when my heart was not in the mood to be sociable.
I was able to excuse myself for a few moments and went into the courtyard for some fresh air. What I did not know, however, was that a guest had arrived late and had taken a quick meal in the kitchen. So I strolled unaware that someone was in the courtyard with me, watching me.
The night was dark with the exception of the small lanterns that hung around the wall of the courtyard. I was just looking into the lovely fountain when I felt the presence of someone behind me. I whirled around to find Mr. Darnsworth standing there looking more handsome than I had ever seen him look before.
His dark hair glistened in the lantern light and I found myself admiring him even though I should be turning my back on him.
"Mr. Darnsworth. What on earth are you doing here and why have you frightened me so?" I explained pulling my handkerchief out to touch my brow.
"Forgive me Marianna, but when I learned that you and your family were here, I came looking for you immediately."
"Why, I am surprised you were able to move freely at all without the aid of Miss Wilby attached to your arm. Where is she by the way? I am certain she would be displeased if she saw you out here, traipsing about in the near dark alone with the exception of myself. Even though I was here first, I am sure that it would not be seen as such," I said firmly and put my handkerchief back into my small purse that hung from my wrist.
Mr. Darnsworth did not respond immediately, but stepped closer to me, actually blocking my path preventing my flight to another part of the courtyard.
"Marianna, I have been, well.....I have been...."
"Mr. Darnsworth, I am quite aware of what you have been and what you are and what your intentions are and I would be the first one to say that it is of no concern to me. You are a grown man and you may behave in any manner in which you see fit. I only beg that you leave me alone so that I might live my life to the fullest without being bothered as to where you might be or...." I was saying, but I am not sure what happened for the next thing I knew I was falling into the fountain. "Oh my! Oh my! Help! I cannot believe. Ugh!" I said boisterously as I clung to the side of the fountain as best I could, considering the stone surface was slippery.
Then Mr. Darnsworth was in the fountain with me, pulling me up and out of the water. He picked me up in his arms and carried me like a bride on her honeymoon, depositing me in the grass of the garden area and again standing in front of me to prevent my exit.
There I stood, soaked to the bone, my hair was dripping and I was beginning to shiver, but I was not sure if it was from the night air or my anger at what had just occurred as I was still trying to determine if he had pushed me into the fountain so that he could gallantly save me or whether he had bumped into me on accident.
Either way, my fists were balled up and I felt a fever rising inside of me that I had never experienced before. I wanted to strike something, which was very unladylike. So I settled for yanking my scarf from around my neck and using it to blot my face trying earnestly to remove the excess moister. But in doing so, it left my chest uncovered and the tops of my bosoms exposed.
Mr. Darnsworth looked at me with an unsatiably lustful eye and watched the droplets of water that I felt running down over and between my bosoms. His gaze made me uneasy, for a moment that is, until I yearned for him to continue gazing upon me in such a desirable way regardless of whether it was proper.
"I have never wanted someone, the way I want you. You have filled me-my body with desire and my heart with tender emotion for none other than you, Marianna. I want none other than you. I have been away taking care of my business affairs, getting them in order, so that I might return here and ask you, no beg you, to let me with you. If you will not have me as a man, your equal, then let me be your servant, your humble and lowly servant that I might gaze upon you every day and care for your needs. And, if that is not satisfactory, I dare to say the words, then let me be your secret lover. I will bring to you more pleasure than you could possibly know," he said, confessing his desires for me and I was utterly speechless.
Yes it is true, for once, no words would come into my mouth, nor form in my brain that I might make a sharp come back or remark. I just stared at him with my mouth open like a dumbfounded soul. But when he pulled me into his arms and pressed his soft, sweet, tender lips to mine, I snapped to my senses and realized how gravely he had affected me. Then the words found their way to my mouth.
"I do not know what to say," I whispered against his still lips.
"Say that you feel the same. Tell me that you are filled with desire that only I can quench. Give me a sign and word that you will at least consider being mine. And if my improper proposal has deemed you less worthy than a lady-the lady that you truly are, forgive me and let me offer a proper-the most proper proposal and as I bend here on one knee, taking your hand in mine, accept this ring as my gesture of sincerity. Marianna, say you will marry me and let me be your husband, care giver, and lover. Oh, most of all your lover. I will fill your days with merriment and your nights with more passion than is humanly possible bringing all of you more pleasure than any other woman could bear. But you my love, are stronger than any other woman I know, therefore I know you would welcome the pleasure and hopefully beg for more."
"Mr. Darnsworth, never in my life have I been spoken to in such a manner and never shall I be spoken to this way again. I should slap you across the face for the things you have spoken to me here in the darkness, but I cannot. I cannot cause harm to a man who has awakened in me the feelings and desires of womanhood that I am anxious and willing to fulfil and explore only with you as the one providing the sinful pleasure, as my husband-as my lover. Oh, yes I will marry you," was my response and he kissed me once more before taking off his coat and wrapping it around me.
He slid the ring upon my finger and I trembled with anticipation of our coming union. It is not often that two souls as headstrong and brazen as ours find comfort in each others company, but I suppose that is the lure of a stranger and the delight thereof.