Chapter Nineteen

Victoria lifted herself up in her double bed, the bed that she used to share with Serena. Rubbing her eyes lightly with her fists, she looked up, expecting to find Serena next to her, only to ruefully shake her head and realize that Serena was now a married lady.

Victoria sighed to herself, wondering when she would start to come to terms with the idea that Serena was a married and a pregnant woman now. She had never thought she would miss Serena to this extent, but she did. And why?

Victoria raised the comforter and put on her slippers. She donned her robe and tied the sash tightly. She walked softly to the window and opened the curtains. She gazed out at the scene before her. She remembered how she used to play in that snow when she came to Boston to visit her uncle George. She shook her head and smiled sadly.

Before Victoria could go further in her thoughts, there was a knock on the door. Without turning around, she nodded her head and said quietly, "Come in."

Grace opened the door and closed it quietly behind her. She smiled. "Good morning, Victoria. I had wondered where you were."

"I'm up later than usual," Victoria admitted without turning around. "But I suppose I am forgiven? It is Christmas Eve."

Grace's eyes turned misty. "Yes, it is. Serena is coming home today."

"With Steven?" Victoria asked, although she knew the answer to that question already.

Grace nodded. "Yes. Steven wanted to see all of us again."

Victoria turned around, her arms crossed over her chest. "It will be good to see Serena again."

Grace walked over to Victoria and wrapped her arms around Victoria's shoulders. "You miss her more than you thought you would have, don't you?" she asked in a whisper.

Victoria nodded, biting her lower lip. "Yes, I do. I thought..." she laughed, sounding apologetic, "I thought that I would be glad to be rid of Serena. But I realized I wasn't. I miss our little petty arguments."

Grace sighed and laid her head on Victoria's shoulder. "I miss scolding her," she admitted wistfully.

"I think all of us cannot get used to the idea of Serena's being a wife," Victoria remarked, turning around. "But I suppose it is a fact we must... deal with now."

Grace tilted her head, smiling faintly. She did not bother answering.

Victoria walked down the stair slowly, allowing Grace to spend time alone with her newly married daughter. She hid in the shadows, waiting expectantly for her turn. She knew it had to come.

Victoria glanced at her own mother, Guenevere, and secretly wondered if her mother would ever react this way when she would return from her wedding tour. Smiling cynically, Victoria told herself to stop wondering about such nonsense. Why waste her thoughts on something she already knew the answer to? Carefully avoiding her mother's eyes, she stood and gazed at her aunt and her cousin calmly, yearning for the motherly love that she was never to receive, bitter and resigned that there was no be no hope either.

Serena pulled away from her mother and threw her arms around her cousin. Victoria felt Serena's slightly protruding belly and soundly returned the embrace. "Long time no see," she remarked, trying to keep her voice light.

Serena laughed brightly, refusing to relinquish her hold on Victoria. "Oh, cousin, you and I must have a good gabfest," Serena declared. "There is so much I want to tell you about, and there is so little time."

Victoria was the one who finally pulled away and placed a warm hand on Serena's stomach. "I do believe that this sums it all up, Serena."

Serena blushed slightly and laughed again, completely content to be back in the family circle where she knew she would always reign supreme, no matter what destiny would throw in her path. She placed a gloved hand over her cousin's and nodded. "Yes, this sums up part of the life that I have been living, cousin, but not everything." She impulsively kissed Victoria on the cheek and turned to look at the rest of her family. "Aunt Guenevere, you are looking well."

Guenevere nodded tiredly and forced a gracious smile, as was wonted of her. "Yes, thank you, dear. You seem to be in good spirits."

Serena leaned over to press a fresh kiss on Guenevere's cheek and smiled becomingly. "I am not just happy and in good spirits, Aunt Guen. I am ecstatic."

Steven laughed as placed a solid arm around his wife's waist. "That she is, your ladyship. But I believe you should add me in the equation too. I am ecstatic also."

Guenevere tilted her head slightly to one side and nodded, her smile fading. "That is nice to know. Gilbert is out at the moment," she explained without emotion. "But he will be in shortly."

Serena turned expectantly to Steven. "You and Uncle Gil will find that you two have so much in common. It is a pity you did not have much time to talk with him at the wedding. No one has a finer mind than Uncle Gil."

Steven glanced at Guenevere, amused. "Serena constantly boasts about her beloved uncle. I hope I hope that I am not going to be disappointed."

Grace glanced at Guenevere with concern before replying for her. "No, I doubt you will be disappointed, Steven. Now that you are a part of the family, I wish that you would call me, mother, and Guenevere, Aunt Guenevere. There is no need for the formalities."

"I was just going to suggest that," Serena remarked gaily, kissing Steven's cheek. "Mother Belle suggested that too, and you cannot imagine, mother, how lovely things are now."

"As if they were never lovely before," Steven commented, rolling his eyes.

Serena poked her husband in the ribs before turning to Victoria. "Steven has given me permission to sleep with you tonight during my stay here," she announced, holding out her hands.

Victoria grasped the gloved hands firmly, surprised. "Steven, are you sure you want to part with your beloved?" she asked teasingly.

Steven looked at Victoria in mock misery. "There is nothing I can do. Serena insists," he answered in feigned agony.

Serena pulled away from Steven and held on tightly to Victoria's hands. "Steven, you know where mother is going to place us. Put all our luggage there," she said dismissively. Wrapping a slender arm around Victoria's waist, she announced decidedly, "Please do not bother us. We are going to have fun in our room. Girl talk," she added, turning her head, winking at her husband.

Serena placed down her muff and smart black fur cap on Victoria's dressing table. She looked around her old room as she took off her warm black gloves, searching for any changes in the room. She placed a shapely finger on her chin before nodding in approval and turning to Victoria with a brilliant smile. She flung her arms out.

"This old place certainly hasn't changed," Serena said impishly, sitting herself down in one of the comfortable chairs.

Victoria smiled faintly and seated herself down in a chair next to Serena. She took one of Serena's ungloved hands and squeezed it lightly. "How are you, darling?"

Serena shrugged, smiling glowingly. "Wonderful. I am so happy that I am with child, and... you should have seen Steve's face when the doctor told us that. He was grinning from ear to ear."

Victoria nodded approvingly and sighed. "What will you name it if it is a boy, Serena?"

"And what if it is a girl?" Serena retorted. "But to be frank, Victoria, we really do hope that it will be a boy." She unconsciously placed a hand on her slightly rounded stomach. "Of course, it would be better if it were twins."

Victoria sighed again absently. "I have not ever seen you in better looks than now, Serena. Married life must agree with you."

Serena threw her head back and gave out a small laugh. Leaning closer to Victoria, she answered honestly, "I was apprehensive about marriage at first, Victoria. I did not know Steven all that well even after all the times we have been together. However, I realized that Steve loves me, and I love him, and that we want the best for each other." She smiled wisely. "You will probably not understand until you marry Vernon."

Victoria pulled away from Serena slowly, pushing her chair away. She rose and walked to the windows, her arms wrapped loosely around her waist. She took deep breaths, preventing herself from crying. Serena, with her hand placed elegantly on the armrest of her chair, observed Victoria carefully, straining to hear her voice.

"It's so different with you and Steven," Victoria whispered. "He loves you, Serena. Vernon and I... I know I love Vernon, but Vernon... you know that he does not love me." She cleared her throat. "You know, I have accepted that. I have accepted the fact that Vernon will never love me." She looked over her shoulder at Serena, who, by this time, had an extremely pained expression on her face. "But right now, when I was listening to you about how happy you are with Steven and how you love each other, I thought, 'But that's not how it is with Vernon and myself. He does not love me, but..." she placed a hand over her mouth and closed her eyes.

Serena bolted up from her chair and quickly wrapped her arms around Victoria's slender shoulders. "Oh, Victoria, Vernon must love you," she said comfortingly. "He wouldn't have proposed to you if he didn't."

"No, Serena, he does not," Victoria said bitterly. "How can he? My late sister took his heart to the grave. I do not expect anything less."

Serena forced Victoria to turn around so she could see Victoria's face. "Victoria, are you starting to have doubts about your engagement?" she asked seriously and with concern.

Victoria smiled wanly and shrugged. "When you speak like that, yes, I do have doubts. Not because I don't love him, Serena, but because I love him too much... and I'm afraid he will find out."

Serena frowned. "You two seem to get along splendidly as far as I could see."

Victoria laughed weakly. "Oh yes, appearances. Yes, we get along fairly well enough so that the dowagers will not suspect anything."

Serena's frown deepened. "Victoria, you haven't announced your engagement yet?" She glanced at Victoria's finger, which was bare of all rings. She took Victoria's left hand and held it. "But why? There is not very much time left till both of you graduate. I expect that when you two will be wed?"

Victoria nodded, trembling slightly. "Yes. That is when we plan to be wed."

"But your announcement?" Serena persisted in asking. "Why haven't said anything yet?"

Victoria looked at Serena with miserable eyes. "How can you ask me to announce my engagement when I feel that each day, I grow more distant from Vernon?" She fiddled with her fingers. "Vernon asked the same question nearly everyday. And everyday, I am not sure how to answer him. 'I love you, Vernon, but I need reassurance. Do you love me?' How could I possibly ask him something like that? Love was not part of the proposal."

Serena studied Victoria's face, holding Victoria's arm in a strong grip. "Did he say that?" she asked neutrally.

Victoria lips curved up in a cynical smile. "Do you really think that he said that, Serena? No, he never said that. But I know. How couldn't I know?" She looked at Serena straight in the eye. "I was the one who told him that Amanda was marrying another man."

Victoria wrung her hands anxiously as she stood facing the tall, elegant windows of her uncle's study. She watched the pure white snow fall lightly, touching everything in its path. She heard the jingle of bells and the sound of rich, happy laughter. And here she was, dressed in a shimmering royal blue and white ball gown with her hair styled elaborately, feeling absolutely miserable.

Victoria bit her lower lip as she glanced at the closed door and then at the clock. It was still early, but...

Vernon entered the room, closing it quietly behind him. He stood in the shadows, watching Victoria. Victoria turned around, startled, at the sound of door opening. But when she realized it was Vernon, she rushed to him and threw herself in his arms, shivering.

Victoria closed her eyes, shaking her head. "Oh Vernon, something terrible is going to happen tonight. I can just feel it."

Vernon murmured soothing sounds and shook his head, although he had been feeling the same way the whole day. "Come, Victoria, you know..."

Victoria pulled herself together to look at Vernon in the eyes. "Vernon, you do not understand. I have this... this second sight. I always have a dream the night before... and..." she pulled away from Vernon, her eyes frightened. She rubbed her upper arms rapidly, as if trying to get warm.

Vernon placed two solid hands on Victoria's shoulders. "Victoria, there is no need... "

Victoria shook her head. "You do not understand, Vernon. Forgive me for bothering you about it." She smiled for a moment before opening the door. "I do not wish to be late."

Vernon crossed his arms across his chest, annoyed that Victoria had chosen not to say anything more about the topic. For goodness sakes', he was her fiancé... he had the right...

"Vernon, are you coming?" Victoria asked, concerned.

Vernon studied Victoria before nodding brusquely and following Victoria out. "Yes, of course."

Theodore took a sip of his wine and casually examined Adelaide from head to toe. In spite of her advanced years, Adelaide was still an attractive woman. Her gloved hand placed casually on Theodore's shoulder as she leaned lightly against Theodore, Adelaide let out a tinkling, light laugh. She smiled slightly as she took another sip of her own glass of wine. Yes, had Adelaide been much younger, she would have looked no different than the other debutantes in the ballroom: clothed in a long, flowing gown, silver-white hair draped alluringly on the top of her head, and a lazy, idle pose.

"Well, will you be residing in the States for a long time, Mr. Wilson?" Adelaide asked from behind the rim of her glass.

Theodore nodded politely. "Yes, Brian and I will reside in the States. There is no reason for us to return to England." He took another sip of his wine.

Adelaide recklessly twirled the stem of her glass and smiled beguilingly. "I suppose you will want to find a mother for your adorable son?"

Theodore shrugged. "I am not sure. If I find an understanding and suitable young lady, I suppose I will marry again, your ladyship."

"Well, if you need any help..." Adelaide offered questioningly.

Theodore nodded slightly and smiled. "I will be sure to ask you, your ladyship." He took a sip of his wine.

Adelaide raised an eyebrow. "Is there anyone in particular you have in mind, Theodore?"

Unconsciously Theodore's eyes searched for Victoria and found them. Adelaide followed his lead and smiled triumphantly when she realized who he looking at. Theodore, ignorant of Adelaide's knowledge, continued to take small sips of his wine and to gaze at Victoria, Vernon, and Marina.

"Mr. Wilson, you haven't answered my question," Adelaide reminded in feigned gentleness.

Theodore blinked his eyes before turning them to Adelaide. "Yes, I haven't, have I?" he asked, regaining his footing again.

Adelaide took another glass of wine from a passing server and returned her attentions to Theodore. "Do you prefer an icy blond with a pale complexion and an exquisite figure? Of course, I am talking about a maiden, not a widow." She leaned closer and placed a gloved finger on his cheek. "Or would you prefer a buxom widow with children or no children?"

Theodore felt distinctly uncomfortable. "It depends on the kind of lady she is, your ladyship."

Adelaide frowned in thought before flashing another sugary sweet smile. She waved a hand towards the female guests that were dancing in the ballroom. "What about these young ladies?"

Theodore's gaze flickered briefly to where Adelaide was pointing to. He smiled courteously. "They are all very beautiful."

"And if you want a widow, I know a lovely young widow. Her name is the Honorable Carolyn Greene Watson, nee Elgin. She is only twenty-five, Theodore. Still has some time for children. And the loveliest disposition," Adelaide added, looking perfectly prim and innocent.

Theodore placed his glass on one of the passing trays before turning to smile at Adelaide. There would be time later for what he wanted to do. "Where is Mrs. Watson, your ladyship? I would like to meet her."

Adelaide straightened up, surprised by Theodore's concession. She thought that he would never have agreed, but then... she cleared her throat. "Of course. Come this way. Her mother and I were always the dearest of bosom bodies." She accepted the offered arm and chatted on lightly about the most inane things. Theodore, excepting an occasional nod and smile, did not pay too much attention to her.

Victoria placed both hands around her glass of sparkling water. She gazed around the ballroom over the rim of her glass. As her eyes shifted from person to person, she eyed Theodore and smiled to herself. He was talking quietly with Mrs. Carolyn Watson, one of the nicest people Victoria knew. Mentally, Victoria nodded approvingly. It was time for Theodore to consider marriage and children again.

"Well, is there anything of interest out there?" Vernon whispered teasingly, placing his hands on Victoria's shoulders.

Victoria pulled the glass away from her face, her lips curving into a small smile. "No, nothing in particular. I was just thinking how lovely your aunt looks tonight. Why, if she were years younger, I do believe that she would outshine every debutante," she remarked over the rim of her glass.

Vernon chuckled. "There are times when I think that she still believes herself to be sixteen, Victoria."

"And why not?" Victoria scoffed. "It is a good thing to be young at heart."

Vernon pressed his lips lightly on the top of Victoria's head, pulling them into the shadows of the ballroom. He slipped one arm around Victoria's waist and held her loosely to him.

"Do you plan to be young when we are married and old?" Vernon asked softly.

Victoria felt Vernon's breath on her ear; her heart was ready to burst with joy, although the feeling that something dreadful would happen would not go away. "Vernon, I... am sorry I was so absent-minded with you tonight," she said softly, placing her head against his chest. "There is something I have to tell you."

Vernon nodded, his chin jutting Victoria's head. "Yes, please tell me."

Victoria turned around and faced Vernon, her hands wrapped around his elbows. "Vernon, I have something... called second sight. I don't know how or why, but I do." She pulled away from Vernon. "Something terrible will happen between us, and you and I... we won't be this happy or this friendly, Vernon."

There was a puzzled expression in Vernon's eyes as he held out his hands. "Victoria, there is no need to fear anything. Nothing will happen between us -- "

Victoria shook her head vigorously. "No, you don't understand, Vernon. You can't understand. You didn't dream what I dreamed last night," she pleaded.

Vernon suddenly wrapped his arms around Victoria, not wanting to hear anymore. Victoria rested in his arms for a moment before pulling away and looked into his eyes. She pressed both of her gloved hands on his cheeks, her eyes shining full of love. "Oh, Vernon," she said softly.

There was the sound of footsteps. Vernon and Victoria immediately pulled apart, turning calmly to gaze at the intruder. At least Vernon did. Victoria found that she was disconcerted to realize that a stranger might have been watching them.

Theodore cleared his throat and placed a hand on Victoria's arm. "Victoria. Vernon."

Victoria eyes rose to meet Theodore's as she glanced at the bare hand on her arm. "Is there something you wish to speak to me about, Teddy?"

Theodore nodded, his gaze flicking briefly to Vernon before returning to Victoria. "Yes. Could you follow me to the shielded terrace?"

Victoria turned to meet Vernon's eyes, her expression anxious. Vernon nodded, his smile strained. "Of course, Victoria."

Victoria pressed a kiss on Vernon's cheek before she returned her eyes to Theodore's. Theodore stepped aside, allowing Victoria to pass before he. His eyes locked with Vernon's; in both there was a certain unexplainable expression in the eyes. Victoria did not notice this.

Victoria entered the closed terrace before Theodore did, rubbing her arms with her hands. She was not cold -- she just needed something to do with her hands.

"Are you chilled, Victoria?" Theodore asked with concern, placing himself in front of Victoria and putting his hands on her shoulders. "It is a rather cool evening."

Victoria moved away on instinct, forcing a small smile. Her hands were dangling at her sides. "No, no, of course not. And besides, it is Christmas. Boston has never been warm during Christmas."

Theodore decided to let the subject drop and waved a hand to the unreachable sky. "You look very lovely tonight."

Victoria involuntarily glanced at her white evening gown and shrugged. "Thank you."

Theodore studied Victoria closely, making her fee uncomfortable, before speaking again. He reached out to grasp her gloved hand. Victoria forced herself not to flinch and to pull away, but she kept her eyes on the ground.

"I have always been aware that you were your father's pet," Theodore started, a reminiscing tone in his voice. "But I have never realized how unspoiled you were until I met you again at Christmas two years ago." He smiled wistfully at the memory. "I realized that you were a compassionate and caring person, unlike Amanda."

Victoria looked up quickly, her face showing none of the conflicting emotions on her face. "But you loved Amanda," she said quietly, waiting or perhaps not waiting for a response.

Theodore smiled bitterly, his tone of voice sardonic. "I loved your sister very much, Victoria... in the beginning. After we were married, your sister suddenly changed, and I did not understand the changes. Later on, after she was with child, I realized that she was not having a personality change: that was her."

"Then you are telling me that she never really loved you," Victoria stated simply. "Your marriage was not as happy as we had all supposed."

Theodore nodded, meeting Victoria's eyes. "No, our marriage was a farce, Victoria. It always has been, and always will be, even though she has passed away."

Victoria pulled away and held her back to Theodore, her hands folded in front of her. She took slow, steady steps to the glass windows of the terrace, circling Theodore. Theodore's back was facing her back, only he turned his head to watch Victoria.

"Surely you did not call me out here to tell me that?" Victoria asked calmly, feeling all but calm. "You should have told me that a long time ago, or in the future... or perhaps never."

Theodore pivoted fully so that his front faced Victoria's back. "No, you're right," he conceded quietly. "I did not ask you to come out here so that I could tell you about Amanda. That was not my purpose."

Victoria felt extremely light-headed and daring. "Then what is your purpose?" she asked inquiringly, turning her face so that her profile was shown.

Theodore nodded, smiling ruefully. "I should have known that you would not mince words, Victoria. I know that you are not attached to anyone -- " he paused, waiting for Victoria to affirm this. There was a glimmer in Victoria's eyes, although he did not notice it due to the distance between them.

Theodore continued. "I am well-aware of the gossip about you and Vernon being linked, and I do not believe it, Victoria."

Fool, Victoria thought silently.

" -- I can offer you a good home, your beloved nephew, and a place in my heart, for I do love you," Theodore said earnestly. Victoria glanced at Theodore out of the corner of her eye, thinking how he looked like an uncertain little boy. But she knew what was coming for she had heard it before. Before from James.

"Victoria, I want to ask you to marry me," Theodore continued as Victoria returned her attention to the present.

"Victoria?" Theodore whispered, waiting for an answer.

Victoria closed her eyes, recalling almost everything from the past. "'You know, Victoria, you should really announce your engagement to Vernon to society,' Grace had advised. 'There are plenty of young men willing to ask you for your hand in marriage.'"

"She had laughed blithely. 'Like who, Aunt Grace?'"

"Grace had looked at her with extremely serious eyes and had replied, 'Like Teddy, dear.'"

"She had opened her eyes wide and laughed heartily. 'Oh, Aunt Grace, Teddy is my brother-in-law and one of my dearest friends. Even though I did not tell him, I am sure he can sense that I love Vernon.'"

"Grace had shook her head. 'Victoria, Teddy is looking for a wife, a mother, and someone to love again. Be careful, dear."

She, Victoria, had waved a hand at such an idea and had gone her merry way. Now, that moment Grace had warned her about had come. She was here, having just listened to his proposal. Now she had to decide.

There is Brian, whom I love dearly, and if I marry Theodore, she thought logically, then I will be able to raise him. He will, in spirit, become my son. My child. The thought gave her immense pleasure.

But I do not love Teddy, the other side of her argued. If I married Teddy, it would be out of duty for Brian... for... There was a sharp pain in her heart as she thought about this. She knew the truth. If I marry Teddy... it would be a marriage of duty for me... I would come to hate him and Brian, as my mother hates me. She only loves me out of duty. Is this what you want, Victoria? Why did you refuse James? Why did you accept Vernon?

The night air caught in Victoria's throat, causing her to gasp. She turned around quickly, meeting Theodore's eyes. "No," she whispered, turning away. "No, Teddy, I cannot marry you. I am sorry."

Theodore held out his arms in despair and in frustration. "Victoria -- "

"I am attached, Teddy," Victoria interrupted quietly. "Quite happily attached to Vernon, I might add. I am sorry if I gave you a different impression."

Theodore was obviously bewildered. "Vernon does not love you, does he? But I do," he argued.

Victoria's expression was thoughtful as she smiled sadly. "No, he does not love me, Teddy. But I love him, and anything else... well, it would not matter. If I married you, I would come to hate you, Teddy, because from my side it would be a marriage of duty." She turned her back to Theodore, placing one hand on the glass window. "I've had a proposal like this before," she said quietly. "And I refused him even though he loved me. Try to understand, Teddy, that love is the greatest power on this earth. It enabled you to love Amanda, and it has enabled me to love Vernon."

Theodore scrutinized Victoria's posture and stance. She was being firm, and he knew he could not persuade her otherwise.

"So Vernon has finally won," Theodore remarked shakily, trying to sound sardonic.

Victoria glanced at Theodore briefly. "If you would like to see it that way, then yes, he has."

Theodore took one step toward Victoria. "May I kiss you, Victoria?"

Victoria turned around, shaking her head, firmly. "No, Teddy. These lips belong to Vernon. I belong to Vernon."

Theodore opened his lips to retort out of frustration when Vernon entered the terrace. "Well, it looks as if you two are having a jolly, good time," he said blandly with no expression on his face.

Victoria's eyes flew up, then down immediately. It took ever single ounce of self-control to put on a composed and calm front, even though she knew that she could not fool Vernon.

Theodore put on a bitter smile. "So you've won at last, Vernon. I congratulate you. Take good care of her." He shook hands with a puzzled Vernon.

"Thank you," Vernon answered, not understanding. He took a quick glance at Victoria.

Theodore nodded and said in a wooden voice, without looking at Victoria, "Good-bye, Victoria. I wish you well."

Victoria nodded and bit her lower lip. "Good-bye, Teddy. I wish the same for you."

Theodore walked out of the terrace hurriedly, leaving Victoria and Vernon alone. Vernon held out his gloved hand to her -- Victoria gratefully accepted.

"Is something wrong?" Vernon asked gently. "I was getting worried."

Knowing that Vernon was watching her carefully, she looked up, smiling lightly. "No, no, of course not," she answered as calmly as possible.

Vernon tilted his head in question. "Are you sure?" he asked, searching her eyes.

Victoria reached up to place a gloved hand on Vernon's cheek and for the first time, she voluntarily pressed her lips gently against his. She pulled back, drawn to the power of his green eyes. How dearly I love him, she thought. She had the sudden urge to throw herself in his arms, but then she would have to had to tell Vernon. She could not. Forgive me, she thought silently. I cannot ever tell you, Vernon. I love you too much for that. She smiled as brightly as possible.

"Of course, I'm sure. Now shouldn't we return to the ball? It has been a while since we've blessed them with our presence."

Victoria left first, allowing Vernon to watch her leave. He knew Victoria was keeping something from him, but he could only guess at it. It was to be only thing Victoria ever kept from Vernon.

An unusual silence enveloped Vernon and Victoria as Vernon drove them home. Victoria replied to Vernon's questions absently, gazing out the automobile's window. Vernon glanced at her as he steered the contraption into Victoria's house's driveway. He turned off the ignition and got out of the car first before helping Victoria out.

Victoria would have tripped had Vernon not been there to hold her elbow firmly. She merely glanced at Vernon's hand, not making either a humorous or a self-depreciating remark. By instinct, she pulled away, causing Vernon's patience and temper to snap.

"Really Victoria, you could not be more transparent," Vernon snapped, tapping his foot impatiently on the ground.

Victoria was surprised by Vernon's tone of voice. She had rarely seen him lose his composure, not even in the most trying of circumstances. She raised her eyes to meet his in unshaken candor. "Vernon, I do not understand," she said gently.

Vernon rolled his eyes and laughed bitterly. Victoria jumped, somewhat frightened. "Victoria, you know exactly what I am talking about. Do not lie to me."

Victoria shook her head, not comprehending. "Vernon, I am going to repeat I have said before. I do not understand."

Vernon grabbed Victoria's shoulders and shook her fiercely. "What about Teddy?"

Victoria's body relaxed; she felt like a limp rag doll. "Teddy? Must we talk about Teddy?" she asked wearily, trying to push Vernon away.

Vernon would not release Victoria, his grip getting stronger. "You were out there, alone with Teddy for so long that I became worried. Tell me, Victoria. Tell me what really happened tonight and about your real feeling for Teddy --"

Victoria pulled away from Vernon with all the powers vested within her, the color high on her cheekbones. "What feelings for Teddy are you talking about, Vernon? I have none," she interrupted

vehemently.

Vernon crossed his arms across his chest and chuckled sarcastically. "I was a fool to believe you, those stories about your looking after Brian. Then last year's Christmas ball -- you went with Teddy, didn't you? A pity the same did not happen this year, Victoria. You would have had a much better time."

"But those stories were true!" Victoria exclaimed indignantly. "I did look after Brian, and I regret having gone with Teddy last year."

Vernon's green-eyed gaze met Victoria's blue-green one. Then he slapped his forehead as if he had forgotten something and had just realized it. "Of course you could not love Teddy. He is your late sister's widower. That would be vulgar."

"Of course it would, but that does not matter because I do not love Teddy anyway, Vernon," Victoria insisted, shaking her head firmly.

Vernon raised an eyebrow, ignoring her answer. "Oh? Then why are you engaged to me, Victoria? I distinctly remember hearing that you thought it would be vulgar to marry me. Am I security blanket then, darling? And why don't you want to announce our engagement? Are you giving yourself time to find the right gentleman while I am in the dark about it? Then are you going to throw me over for someone else like your lovely late sister did? Believe me, I've had experience before with your sister, Amanda. I am not stupid enough to fall for the same tricks again, Victoria."

Victoria could not bear to hear Vernon's angry tirade anymore. She raised her hand and slapped Vernon stingingly on the cheek. When she realized what she had done, a hand went over her mouth as she stared at Vernon. Tears started forming in her eyes.

"I'm sorry," Victoria whispered, trembling. She took her hand off her mouth and tentatively reached out to Vernon before giving an audible sob and turning away.

"I will put in the announcement of our engagement in the papers tomorrow, Vernon," Victoria continued quietly, trying to breathe calmly. "Then on New Year's Eve, at Uncle George's party, we will announce it officially," she finished, gasping for air.

"Victoria -- " Vernon called, suddenly tired. He extended his hands to Victoria's trembling back.

Victoria whirled around, the pain written in her eyes. Vernon dropped his arm. "Once upon a time, I might have thought that being engaged to you would have been vulgar," she confessed in a hoarse voice. "But I would never ever throw you over for someone else." She took a deep breath, trying to continue. "I never knew... I thought you understood my relationship with Teddy. I never thought that you were jealous -- "

"Why would I be jealous?" Vernon interrupted coldly, retreating into his facade. "I do not love you," he lied.

Victoria winced, then nodded in defeat. "Yes, don't I know that. Allow me to rephrase what I have just said. I never thought that you would misunderstand... I always thought... that you trusted me. Why Vernon, did you allow it to come to this? With both of us so bitter and angry? Why, Vernon? Why?" she whispered. Before she started to weep, she let out a stifled cry and ran towards the comfort of her home. Vernon did not try to stop her.

It was to a new world that Victoria woke up to the next morning, Christmas morning. She glanced at the cold empty place next to her on the double bed. The reality of Serena's being a married woman since June had never touched Victoria's heart. Every morning she would expect to see a raven-haired beauty next to her, making arch remarks about every aspect of life. Victoria sincerely missed Serena. Now, for some strange reason, she knew everything was past the point of no return. Serena was sleeping with Steven as his wife in the room next door. It had all been hope that had held her through. Now, that was gone too.

Victoria glanced at her clock; it was half past seven. She bent her knees under the covers and placed her forehead on them, closing her eyes. It seemed ridiculous to have held hope for so long, but then... she had never been a sensible person. Suddenly her eyes flew open. Her promise. She had promised to put out the announcement of their engagement today in the papers. This morning.

Vernon greeted everyone at the breakfast table before seating himself next to Adelaide that lovely Christmas morning. He took one of the morning papers and opened it before kissing Adelaide.

Adelaide was annoyed. "Are you expecting anything important to appear in the paper, Vernon?" she asked, sniffing.

Vernon forced a dry smile. "No, nothing in particular."

Adelaide decided to play her cards. "Had a good evening, Vernon?" she asked in an almost kind voice, picking up her tea cup and taking a careful sip.

Vernon threw Adelaide a puzzled glance. It was not like his Aunt Adelaide to put aside an item of interest. "Yes, lovely, thank you."

Adelaide smiled maliciously. "And Victoria? I did not get a chance to chat with her properly last night."

Vernon stiffened imperceptibly, although Adelaide's shrew eyes missed nothing. She knew she had struck a nerve. "She is fine, thank you. She sends her respects."

Adelaide deliberately spread her orange marmalade on her toast with an excruciating slowness. "Thank you. I know that I am bothering you much too often, dear, but when is she... ummm... going to announce the engagement? The wedding is not terribly far away with both of you graduating in two years."

"Soon, very soon," Vernon answered shortly. "Perhaps on her eighteenth birthday."

"Of course," Adelaide started with an innocent sigh, "she could have her eye on her late sister's widower, Theodore Wilson. They have been awfully close of late, you know, dear," her tone of voice confidential. "She and her late sister may have different coloring, but they cannot be that different, you know, dear."

Vernon smiled slightly and folded the paper. He had not found what he was looking for. He rose from the table and kissed Adelaide on the cheek before leaving for his study. Poor woman. Adelaide thought Vernon was foolish enough to listen to her carefully measured remarks. Of course, people say ignorance is bliss. Adelaide smiled surreptitiously as she took a dainty bite of her toast.

Grace looked over the sheet of paper that Victoria had just handed her and glanced at Victoria again before taking off her lorgnettes and sighing. Unconsciously, Grace's hand held the paper tightly. What was she to do?

"Victoria, are you sure you want the engagement announced in today's paper?" Grace asked anxiously, trying to find the right words.

Victoria nodded, smiling faintly. "Yes, Aunt Grace. The announcement has been delayed much too long."

Grace nodded. "Of course, I agree there, but this -- " she shook her paper, "this is much too soon. I still need time to get used to it."

"You have had longer than most to get used to it," Victoria said firmly, not hint of humor in her voice. "Please put it into the afternoon papers, Aunt Grace."

Grace glanced at the paper again. Something had gone wrong. "Is there anything you wish to tell me, Victoria?" she asked carefully.

Victoria looked at Grace blankly. "No, there is nothing I wish to discuss. Please put that into the paper. I would appreciate it very much, Aunt Grace." She leaned over and kissed Grace on the cheek. "Thank you."

Grace shook her head and put her lorgnettes on again. She sighed, smiling to herself wryly. "What a stir this announcement will cause!" she remarked to no one in particular. She hook her head again. "Especially on Christmas of all days! Victoria -- " Victoria had left.

Gilbert was lounging lazily in his study, sifting through some medical books. There was a small knock on his door. He looked up and took off his reading glasses, straightening himself up and crossing his legs before allowing the person to come in. If it were Guenevere or Grace, they would scold him heartily for being so idle. He chuckled briefly to himself. "Come in."

Victoria entered the room, closing the door carefully behind her. "Father."

Gilbert looked surprised but pleased. "Sit down, Victoria. I did not expect to see you up so early after that party last night."

Victoria smiled wanly and did as her father bid. Looking down at her feet, she wondered how she was going to word what she wanted to say. "How are you this morning, father?"

Gilbert studied his daughter's face and nodded. "Yes, I am fine, Victoria. And you?"

Victoria smiled briefly and nodded. "Yes, I am well too, father." She fiddled with her fingers and took a deep breath before looking up.

Gilbert nodded, sensing that something was wrong. He leaned back in his chair, his elbows placed upon the armrests as his hands folded into a triangle. "Victoria, is there anything you wish to tell me? If there is, speak now."

Victoria let out a hollow laugh. "It's absurd how you and Aunt Grace have both asked me the same question this morning. You two must have some type of telepathy."

"Why would Grace ask you what I am asking you right now?" Gilbert asked, baffled.

Victoria pressed her lips tightly together before answering. "Father, the announcement of my betrothal to Vernon will be in the afternoon papers," she said quietly. "When I told her I wanted that, she asked me if I wanted to tell her anything."

Victoria rose from her chair and walked to the heavily brocaded windows. She gazed out at the stark landscape, so colorless, so unhappy. She held her hands tightly in front of her, the pupils of her eyes dilating and constricting. "It was her way of asking if anything was wrong."

Gilbert leaned back in his chair, wondering the same thing himself. "I thought you wanted me to announce it in England first before you announced it here. Wasn't that why you wanted to announce it at your eighteenth birthday party?"

"Well, father, I suppose we cannot do that now," Victoria answered, but not really answering her father's question. "There... was a circumstance that led me to announce my engagement this soon, father."

Gilbert steeped his fingers in front of him, placing them on his lips. "Something is wrong, isn't it, Vicky?"

Victoria nearly cried at the way her father unconsciously slipped into using that detestable nickname. But she had come a long way from then. "Yes, father. Everything is wrong."

Gilbert's gaze flickered upwards to his daughter. "And you cannot tell me?" he asked gravely.

Victoria turned away from the windows and met her father's eyes. There was an expression of remorse on her face. "If I were five or six, or even fifteen, I would have told you, father. I would have told you what was ailing me, and I would have asked what you wanted me to do. But as much as I want to do that, I cannot, father. I am growing up, and I have make my own decisions and if they are not the right decisions, then I have face the consequences." She rushed to her father and knelt down by him, placing her golden head on his knee. "Oh, father, there have been countless times when I wished a little girl again. If anything were wrong, I could... just come to you... and know that everything was going to be all right again." She closed her eyes as she spoke.

"But father, I'm not that young anymore. It is so scary, father, to know that you cannot help me anymore and that I control my own destiny. Why, father? Why must we depart that world which we know so well for a world we know nothing of? Why does destiny demand so much of us? Why?" Victoria sobbed.

Gilbert glanced down at his daughter, who was sobbing on his lap. Taking one hand, he stroked his daughter's head, trying to soothe her as best as he could. But being a wise man, Gilbert knew no amount of words or petting could heal the wound in his daughter's heart. Only time or the person who had wound her heart in the first place could do that. And perhaps with a little bit of fate and luck added in.

Marina took the afternoon paper from the butler and skipped into the library, her cheeks red from the cold and her eyes sparkling from the physical exercise of the afternoon. She glanced up at Vernon, who had noticed her entrance. He turned and smiled at her. She returned the smile before seating herself down next to Adelaide and opening the paper.

"Are there any new announcements?" Adelaide asked tiredly, a wet washcloth over her forehead.

Marina glanced at her mother. "Are you all right, mother? Does your head hurt too much?"

Adelaide waved a hand dismissively. "I did not adopt you to tend to me. I have plenty of servants to do that. But I thank you for your thought," she said in what was loving tone of voice for Adelaide.

Marina grinned. "All right. Would you like me to read the announcements, mother?"

Adelaide nodded. "Yes. It always gives me such pleasure to hear the society pages. They are so interesting."

"I'm sure they are," Vernon said dryly, his arms crossed across his chest. Although he sat in his chair lazily, he was extremely alert and was also eager to hear what was printed in the afternoon papers, especially the society pages. For obvious reasons, of course.

"Let's see if we can find something interesting first," Marina suggested, skimming the announcements. Her finger immediately stopped at the top of the second column as she threw the newspaper away and ran to Vernon. She threw her arms around Vernon and kissed him on the cheek.

"Merciful heavens!" Adelaide exclaimed. "What has gotten into you, child?"

Marina pulled only her head away as she giggled. "Vernon's engagement has been announced in the papers. Now I can really congratulate you, dearest cousin! Oh, I am so happy for you!" she squealed, strangling Vernon even more.

"What!" Adelaide exclaimed, puzzled. "Vernon, get the paper and read it for yourself. I want to make sure that Marina is not being feather-brained."

Vernon, who had been restraining himself admirably from grabbing the paper when Marina was reading it, casually lifted the papers from the carpeted floors and read it. Marina, with her arms wrapped around Vernon's waist, watched Vernon eagerly, expecting a smile, an expression of joy, something. But she was to be disappointed.

Vernon looked at his aunt and nodded his blond head. "Yes, it is here, Aunt Adelaide." He shifted the papers so Adelaide could see the announcement. He doubted anyone could miss it: it was the centerpiece of the whole page.

Adelaide looked through her lorgnettes, reading it a few times to make sure that she was not dreaming. "Well," she said, taking a deep breath. "I never thought you would announce it in such a whirlwind way, Vernon," she remarked cattily over her lorgnettes.

"We decided this last night," Vernon said briskly, folding the paper up. He had seen what he wanted.

"I suppose official congratulations are in order," Adelaide said, depressed. She accepted defeat, although not graciously. Once an engagement was out in the papers, it would be difficult to break it off, no matter what schemes, she, Adelaide Byons, concocted.

Vernon kissed Adelaide's cheek and forced a smile. "Thank you, aunt. We will announce it officially at Mr. Creston's New Year's Eve ball. You will be there, aunt?"

"Of course," Adelaide said sharply. "I would not miss it for the world." She lifted the washcloth from her head and handed it to Marina. "Take it to Wilson, Marina. I am not so tired and wretched anymore. I have a lot of planning to do, you know."

Sarah pressed the doorbell of the Creston's manor frantically, cursing the cold and the snow. Finally the door was opened by Stern, who did not look the bit surprised to see Sarah. He invited her to come in and immediately took her muff, her hat, and her coat.

"The phone has been ringing off the hook, and Lady Victoria has been suddenly invited to many tea parties for today and tomorrow," Stern remarked.

"Then Victoria isn't home?" Sarah asked, crestfallen.

Stern smiled encouragingly. "Do you really think Lady Victoria would want to go to those tea parties and talk with those stuffy old dowagers, Miss Simmons? I can assure you that Lady Victoria is in her room. She seems to be very tired." He glanced upstairs. "It is quite unusual, Miss Simmons. She should be happy... and yet..."

Sarah glanced up the stairways. "Undoubtedly so, I suppose. Thank you, Stern," she said gratefully. She rushed to the bottom of the staircase and nearly ran up the stairs. Stern smiled to himself and went about doing what was needed to be done.

Victoria looked up from her book when she heard a knock on her door. She closed the book and turned in her chair. "Come in," she said quietly.

Sarah opened the door and rushed in, closing the door behind her. She embraced Victoria fiercely and searched Victoria's face. "I came here immediately when mother told me about the announcement. Why, Victoria? Why so sudden?" she asked, frowning.

Victoria was alarmed. She pulled away and wrapped her arms loosely around her waist. She walked to the windows of her room and leaned her head against the window pane. "He doesn't love me, Sarah," she said simply.

"Oh dear God," Sarah said softly, placing two fingers on her lips. "He told you that?"

Victoria nodded over her shoulder. "Yes, he did, Sarah."

"You're... so composed," Sarah remarked, feeling slightly faint. She seated herself down on the bed.

"What am I supposed to be, Sarah?" Victoria asked, laughing hysterically. "Wrought and unhappy? Would that solve anything?"

Sarah shook her head. "No, it wouldn't," she answered, agreeing.

"I told him that I would announce it today," Victoria explained dully.

"What had earth caused him to demand such a thing?" Sarah asked, shaking her head. She was muddled out of her wits. What had happened?

"There is a part of the evening that you do not know about," Victoria remarked quietly. "It was that part which triggered Vernon's anger and his temper." She closed her eyes and shook her head at the memory of Vernon's temper. She had been so sure that he felt something for her if he was that angry with her... but she had been wrong. She opened her eyes and proceeded to explain.

"Teddy proposed to me last night. He told me that he wanted me to be his new wife and his new mother for Brian." Victoria turned around and smiled mockingly. "I actually considered it for a moment, Sarah."

"Victoria," Sarah whispered in despair.

Victoria grasped the bedpost and leaned against it. "But then I realized how much Vernon means to me, and I could not bear throw it all away." She glanced down at her bedspread. "So I refused Teddy. Of course, Vernon found us in the terrace. The tension was so thick that you could have probably cut a knife through it."

"Vernon didn't -- "

Victoria shook her head, interrupting Sarah. "He knew, Sarah. I had his consent before I left with Teddy for the terrace." She looked away. "Of course, Teddy congratulated Vernon for finally winning." She pressed her lips tightly together before continuing. "Vernon... he could not comprehend what was going on. Oh, Sarah," she said imploringly, turning to Sarah with heartbroken eyes. "I wanted to tell him, I really did, but I was scared. And I..." she looked away, "I didn't tell him. I thought if I didn't tell him it would be the end of it, and it would never be mentioned again."

Sarah shook her head, sighing. "Oh, Victoria," she said again in sympathy.

"Of course, I was so disturbed by Teddy's proposal. I never saw it coming, but Aunt Grace did... and I recalled the conversation we had some time ago," Victoria said in a distraught voice. "And Vernon... when he dropped me off home... he misunderstood the exchange between Teddy and myself as a clandestine meeting," she said, her voice cracking. She closed her eyes. "No, I won't cry. I've shed enough tears over this. No!" she screamed, shaking her head.

Sarah hastened over to Victoria and wrapped her arms around Victoria. Victoria placed her head on Sarah's shoulder and started weeping inconsolably. She took large gulps of air. Sarah smoothed Victoria's hair and murmured soothing sounds. Victoria finally stopped weeping. She gripped

Sarah's shoulders tightly.

"Is that when you two had an argument and he told you that?" Sarah asked softly.

Victoria pressed her lips tightly together and nodded. "I slapped him too, Sarah. I slapped the person I loved the most in this world."

Sarah glanced down at the carpeted floor, shaking her head. She had to talk to someone. She had to tell someone. "Oh, Victoria," she whispered in grief. "Oh, Victoria."

Guenevere silently handed the paper to Gilbert, observing her husband's reaction carefully. Gilbert read it over twice before looking at his wife. There was no expression in her face. Only a certain detachment and coldness.

"You really do not love her, do you, Guen?" Gilbert asked quietly, as if he suddenly realized something.

Guenevere shrugged. "Depends on what you think constitutes love," she answered with a brisk tone.

Gilbert shook his head. "There are no rules for loving your children, Guenevere. You either love them unconditionally or you do not love them at all."

Guenevere smiled. "Well then, I think we've all known the truth for a while then, haven't we, Gilbert?"

Gilbert shook his head. "I haven't. Not until now, Guenevere."

Guenevere sighed, her expression set. "I've done what I could, Gilbert. I do not think that you could expect more from me," she argued.

"No, I suppose not," Gilbert said thoughtfully, lighting a pipe. "Victoria is that intolerable?"

"She is a lovely... person, Gilbert," Guenevere admitted. "But I have caused the rift. Nothing can be done."

Gilbert glanced at his wife. "Nothing?"

Guenevere shook her head, threading her needle. "No, nothing."

Gilbert sighed and rose from his chair. "You always saw things one way, Guen."

"That was how I lived, and how I still live, Gilbert," Guenevere reminded gently.

Gilbert bit his lower lip before taking another puff of his pipe. "Shall I open the windows? I know the smell nauseates you, Guen."

Guenevere nodded appreciatively. "Yes, please. Thank you."

Gilbert opened the windows, letting the cold Boston air seep into their bedroom. He gazed out at the landscape, wondering why winter was always so stark and so cold. He glanced briefly at his wife again, who was immersed in her embroidery and for a moment, remembered the grave but laughing person he had once known. When had Guenevere become like the winter? he asked himself.

"Are you going down to open the gifts with everyone else?" Gilbert asked quietly, his back facing Guenevere's face.

Guenevere looked up. "I see no need for me to go downstairs. I doubt that any of my children are eagerly awaiting my presence, Gilbert." She calmly stitched the piece of cloth in her hands.

"Most of your children are in England," Gilbert reminded gently, looking at Guenevere over his shoulder.

"And one of them has been lying in her grave for four years," Guenevere murmured, seemingly unruffled. She stopped embroidering, her eyes growing misty.

Gilbert sighed and turned around to face his wife. "Guen, why do I sense that you disapprove of Victoria's engagement to Vernon?"

"Why would I disapprove?" Guenevere asked calmly. She resumed her embroidery. "It is not my life. I have no right to either approve or disapprove, Gilbert."

"I don't know. You know that part," Gilbert answered, raising an eyebrow.

"I don't approve nor do I disapprove," Guenevere said softly. "It is not for me to say otherwise."

Gilbert shook his head. "She is your daughter, Guen. How can you not feel anything?"

Guenevere again put her embroidery down and laughed softly, without emotion. "I never felt anything for her, Gilbert. Even after she was born, I felt bitter. As I have told you before, I thought I was going to meet the same fate as my mother." She thoughtfully tapped a finger on her embroidered cloth. "Since then, I have resented her, Gilbert." She smiled faintly. "It is as simple as that."

Gilbert shook his head, frustrated. "But she's your daughter!" he exclaimed. "She is a part of you."

Guenevere's lips opened before closing again. She looked up at her husband and nodded. "Yes, she is a part of me, isn't she? But I don't love her, Gilbert. I never knew why, although the resentment might have had something to do with it." She paused, trying to keep her emotions in check. "I don't think I ever can."

Gilbert shook his head again, walking towards the door. He opened it and paused to glance at his wife. "If you change your mind, come down. Otherwise, I will make excuses."

Guenevere nodded, tight-lipped. She heard the solid oak door close behind her with a quiet thud. The embroidered cloth dropped to the floor unheeded, dampened with blood.

Sarah bit her lip as she glanced at the small pocketwatch in her muff before putting her hand back in. As usual, she was early. As usual, she was anxious. What was unusual today was that she was meeting Serena.

Sarah jumped from the bench when she saw an elegant figure walk up the path towards her. The person was dressed in a beautiful china blue, her hat trimmed smartly with fox fur, and her muff made of the finest mink. Serena nodded briefly to Sarah, leaning towards her to kiss her cheek, or rather the air.

"You're very kind to take time out to see me," Sarah remarked, although she did not mean it. "Especially when you are... well, uncomfortable right now."

Serena shrugged, sitting down on the bench. "You wanted to see me about Victoria?" she asked coolly, eyeing Sarah with distaste.

Sarah nodded, biting her lip. "You read the announcement in the papers some days ago?" she asked quietly.

Serena glanced up, surprised. "Why yes. But what has that got to do with our meeting in this dreadfully cold place?" She took another glance around her surroundings. "You really could have chosen a much warmer place."

"It is the only place that is deserted at this time of the day, and I had to speak with you in total privacy," Sarah answered quietly. "Did you not think it strange that the engagement was announced so suddenly?"

Serena blinked her eyes several times before answering. Slowly, she nodded. "Yes, I did. However, I pushed the thought from my mind and did not think any further. You know that Victoria was always so apprehensive about announcing her engagement. I thought that -- "

Sarah shook her head impatiently. "Serena, listen to me carefully. I -- "

"Smile as you talk, Sarah," Serena interrupted, flashing a brilliant smile at one of the passer-bys. "People will wonder if we are grimacing as you are doing right now." She waved gracefully to some prominent people in society.

Sarah nodded and forced a smile. "Serena, Victoria was forced to announce the engagement early. She did not want to announce it before her birthday, at least not in Boston," she whispered softly.

"Forced?" Serena asked, puzzled. "By whom?" Then the truth dawned on her as horror filled her luminous black eyes. "Oh," she whispered.

Sarah nodded, her eyes full of compassion and sorrow. "It seems that they had an argument the night of the Christmas ball. I -- " she hesitated.

Serena smiled reassuringly, patting Sarah's arm. "I will be discreet, I can assure you, for I am not the same person I was before my marriage, and I will not want to hurt my cousin in any way," she reassured, clasping Sarah's hand between hers.

Sarah nodded, taking a deep breath. "What I tell you now must never go beyond your lips and your hearing. You see, Teddy proposed to Victoria that night -- "

"Teddy!" Serena exclaimed, flabbergasted. "Whatever for?" she asked, completely forgetting to smile.

"It seems that he has fallen in love with the younger one also, I suppose," Sarah said a bit sarcastically. She cleared her throat. "As expected, Victoria did refuse the detestable fellow, but Vernon found them together in the terrace in intimate conversation. Victoria did have Vernon's consent beforehand to meet with Teddy in the terrace though."

Serena nodded thoughtfully, a light in her eyes. "Go on."

"They had a terrible argument about Teddy and... love... and trust, I suppose," Sarah guessed, shrugging her shoulders. "Vernon told her that if she really had no other intentions, then she would have announced their engagement long ago." She paused, sighing. "I think you know the rest, considering you know Victoria and Vernon well."

Serena nodded grimly. "Yes, I do."

"Vernon told her that he did not love her," Sarah said softly. Serena raised an eyebrow, surprised. Sarah nodded. "That was my reaction too. Victoria was in pieces when I last saw her. How is she now?"

Serena sighed, shaking her head. "Well, I suppose. She never shows her feelings, as you know. But I suppose that she is doing as well as a girl whose dreams have been shattered can be."

"Oh, Serena, you must do something," Sarah pleaded. "The minute I heard Victoria, I wanted to go straight to Vernon and to tell him... to be boorish and rude to him..." she held her breath, trying not to cry and to let her fury get the better of her.

Serena looked at Sarah sympathetically and placed an arm around her shoulders. "Nonsense," she scolded gently. "That wouldn't have done much good for anyone. However," she continued, her tone growing firmer. "Vernon and I will have a little chat one of these days."

"You will? You will do this for Victoria?" Sarah asked, grateful.

Serena glanced at Sarah and nodded. "No one gets away with breaking my cousin's heart," she said haughtily. She gave a small laugh. "Besides, I really must show her ladyship what a triumphant success my marriage is. You know how it is, Sarah."

For the first time in her life, Sarah laughed with Serena, instead of at her actions. Serena glanced at Sarah and started laughing too. But beneath that smiling facade, a seed of rage was starting to develop. And justly so against Vernon.