27. Aftermath

I winced as I bent down to retrieve an item that had dropped onto the floor. For the thousandth time in a fortnight, I cursed my stupidity for allowing James to distract me long enough to get such good shot at me.


The aftermath had been a blur.


I remember stumbling backward after James had fallen. I watched in horror as his eyes closed, the blood stain on my blade confirmed what my brain could not comprehend.


James was dead.


And it was at my hand.


It was still hard for me to come to the realization I was free of him. He had haunted my steps for so long.


James' death almost seemed anticlimactic now, compared to the mess his death created.


The days immediately following were tense and stressful. Couple that with my foolish injury, and I was now drained of much of my strength.


~I~I~I~


Jasper had taken me home and called the physician, who said I was very fortunate. The wound had cut deep into my flesh, but had not gone any further. I was told the wound would heal nicely, however a scar would remain.


A permanent reminder.


Once I had been bandaged, we traveled over to the Cullen residence. I waited in the carriage as Jasper fetched Mr. Cullen. I couldn't chance that Mr. Swan would still be there and recognize me.


It appeared, after a considerable amount of time had passed, that Mr. Swan was not at home. Jasper returned with Mr. Cullen following close behind. He shook my hand and thanked me profusely, to which I merely replied it was not yet over.


We needed to fetch Victoria.


The Cullens followed behind in their own carriage.


Jasper said Mr. Cullen had tried to discourage his wife from traveling to such a dangerous part of London, but she had glared at him and said, 'If my niece is there, then it can mean nothing to me.'


He made the wise choice and allowed her to accompany us.


When we arrived I saw Mrs. Cullen struggle as she took in her surroundings. Upon entering the inn, I made my way over to the man behind the desk to settle James' account. It was the least I could for this man who had been very helpful in ensuring James had not fled. He informed me the young lady had refused to eat and had not left the room. I thanked him and paid him for his trouble. We climbed the steps to the third floor quickly and knocked on the door. No one answered, and after a moment Mr. Cullen tried the door. It was unlocked, and they quickly entered the room, calling her name.


The room was every bit as messy as it had been the first time I had come here. The Cullens walked back toward the bedroom and opened the door. Mrs. Cullen gasped in horror, and by the look on her face I'd say if James wasn't dead, he would have received an earful from her for his treatment of her niece.


Seated by the open window in nothing but a night shirt, was Victoria.


She turned to look at who had entered but didn't really acknowledge us. She turned back toward the window and whispered, "He's dead, isn't he?"


Jasper and I retreated to the other room, leaving the Cullens to help her.


Mr. Cullen retreated after a moment, shutting the door behind him.


"I never imagined... how could he have treated her in such a vile, disgusting manner?" The anger was evident in his voice. "It's bad enough that he compromised her, but to force her to live in filth!" He stated pointing to the current state of the room. "She told my wife she hasn't bathed in over a week."


His tirade was cut short when the door opened to the other room. Victoria emerged, her head hung and her eyes fixed on the ground. We watched as the two woman walked by in silence. We followed, lending assistance when needed. Once we reached the carriage, the coachman assisted the ladies into the coach with the help of Mr. Cullen.


In a whisper Victoria spoke, "My things, Aunt, I believe they are still at Brighton." Mrs. Cullen shushed her telling her they had already been sent to their home and not to worry.


Mr. Cullen thanked us again, and it was then that Jasper spoke up. "Mr. Cullen, I would like the opportunity to offer a solution to helping your niece. If it is agreeable, may we call tomorrow morning?"


Mr. Cullen eyed him speculatively, as did I. "That will be agreeable, shall we say ten o'clock?"


Jasper nodded, and we parted ways.


I waited until we were safely in the carriage before asking him his plan.


"There is a fellow Colonel in a regiment up North, at Newcastle. He has never married, nor had any inclination to marry. I received a letter a few months back in which he lamented his decision to wait so long to marry. He asked my advice and said he would be open to anyone with 'a pretty face.'" I chuckled a little, wincing when I felt the sting from my wound.


"I will write him and ask him to come to London to meet Victoria. If all goes wells they can marry and return to Newcastle within the month."


"Jasper, what makes you think he will want a woman who has been compromised? Not to mention her foolish and grating attitude."


He laughed at my comment. "Edward, Riley has a reputation as one of the strictest commanders in the army. He is often sent those soldiers who need a bit of shaping up. I have no doubt Victoria will learn very quickly how to behave properly." He paused for a moment. "As for your other concern, his sister was compromised much the same way Victoria was. The family forced them to marry and she died not too long after."


I considered what he had told me for a moment, it seemed like a very good option. "And what if he is not agreeable? Or she is not for that matter?"


Jasper shrugged. "Her fate rests with Mr. Swan. He needs to decide whether to provide for her or sever ties."


The harsh reality of Victoria's choices made it seem as if marrying a stranger would not be so horrible after all. "Perhaps I could provide her with a five thousand pound dowry."


Jasper agreed, "Although his financial situation is good, it will make the arrangement more appealing."


"Listen to us, Jasper, it's as if we are getting an unwanted mare ready to sell."


He looked shocked for a moment, and then began shaking his head. "The situation is sadly of her own making. I hope she appreciates the length to which you are going to secure her future."


"My hopes, in that regard, are not high. Victoria Swan has shown time and time again how little sense she possesses."


Isabella's face once again appeared in my thoughts. "I am doing this for Isabella alone. I do not plan on her family ever knowing of my involvement."


Jasper quirked an eyebrow in question. "And how do you propose to keep them from the particulars? Especially when it involves their daughter?"


"Mr. Cullen has already agreed to keep my part silent. I do not want Mr. Swan to accept my suit based on gratitude."


"I wish you the best, though I have a feeling they will find out anyway." He laughed heartily.


~I~I~I~


The meeting with Mr. Cullen had gone better than planned. He, of course, argued that it should be her family's responsibility to bear the financial burden. I, however, was stubborn and insisted on taking care of the monetary situation. It was no more than I would have paid out, if she had married Wickham. In fact, it was substantially less. Jasper intended to write his friend immediately and acquaint him with the situation. If all went well he would be in London within the week.


The situation had gone well, until we were leaving. We passed through the sitting room where Mrs. Cullen and Victoria sat.


Victoria's head was lowered, and her stare was fixed firmly on the floor. I thanked Mrs. Cullen for allowing us to detain her husband. She responded, thanking us for helping her poor niece. Turning to her niece she asked that she thank me as well. At the mention of her name, Victoria raised her head and looked at me with utter contempt.


Her words I shall never forget.


"Thank you, Mr. Masen," she said stiffly before looking down once more. Her aunt shook her head and we turned to leave.


"How does it feel to be a murderer?" she hissed. "You are a cruel man, just as Isabella described."


I turned swiftly to face her.


"Victoria, silence yourself!" her aunt admonished.


"No, Aunt I will speak my mind."


"How could you? I loved him!" She raised her hands. balled up into tiny fists, her face contorted in wild rage. "I loved him!" she screamed. "And you took him from me."


Knowing no good would come from a continued confrontation, I apologized and left the house immediately.


~I~I~I~I~I~


I sat down in my chair gently. The wound was healing slowly, yet thus far had shown no signs of infection. I expected Jasper at any moment with his friend.


I heard a light knock at the door and called for them to enter.


"A Mr. McCarty is here to see you, sir. Shall I show him in?"


Emmett was in town?


"Certainly, thank you."


"Edward!" Emmett boomed as he entered my study. "What in the devil's name is going on? I came by to see you and everyone is mum's the word on your whereabouts."


He sat in the seat opposite a huge grin on his face.


I chuckled; it was good to see Emmett smile once more.


"My sole purpose in coming to town was business; I wanted to remain as anonymous as possible."


Looking confused, he went silent for a moment. "I see. Well, I only came to invite you to join me when I reopen Netherfield." He smiled. "I have made plans to travel into Hertfordshire in a week, and I would appreciate it if you would join me."


"I would be happy to join you, Emmett." I truly was, then another thought occurred to me. "Your sisters won't be joining us, will they?"


Emmett laughed. "No, Edward, you are safe on that score. I escorted Tanya to Scarborough where she will be spending the winter. I told her if she behaves I might bring her to town in the spring."


I chuckled mirthlessly. "I can only imagine how she took that."


"As well as you would expect from Tanya. She demanded I take her back to town. When I refused she went into an absolute rage. Our relatives threatened to commit her if she didn't calm down."


We laughed together, it felt good to see Emmett so carefree again.


"Do you intend on courting Miss Rosalie?


"I have no firm plans in that regard. I am not certain she will even want to see me," he lamented sadly.


I knew, from what Isabella had told me in Kent, that Rosalie had very strong feelings for Emmett. I wasn't certain this was still true, however he wouldn't have closure until they met again. "Emmett, just be the attentive gentleman I know you are and have a little faith things will work out."


He looked at me, slightly shocked. "Did you say have faith? Where is my pessimistic friend Edward Masen? Because the man before me could not possibly be him."


I grimaced, knowing he was right. No doubt my old self would have told him to cut his losses and be grateful for his escape. "I have spent much of my time since April reflecting on my life and where it was headed." I turned to peer out the window, hopeful as I stared at the blossoms which lined the pane. "I found... I didn't like where it was headed."


Turning back to Emmett, I smiled at his open mouthed expression. "Introspection is hard, yet I find the rewards are well worth the pain."


"Listen to us; we sound like a bunch of old men. Wise beyond our years." he chuckled.


"When will you travel into Hertfordshire?"


"I planned on leaving immediately, will that do?" he asked, unsure.


I cursed my luck. The negotiations were not set and I would not travel to Hertfordshire until everything had been dealt with.


"I am not sure when my business will be concluded. It may be a few weeks before I could join you," I stated apologetically.


Emmett thought for a moment, "I would rather arrive with a companion, however I don't think I can wait that long. Perhaps if I delayed a week before traveling, I could then open the house before your arrival."


"Would you wait then to call on your neighbors?"


"I am not sure if I would feel comfortable meeting with them until I am sure of my reception. Perhaps it would be possible to inform people it is a shoot party only. At least that wouldn't raise expectations."


"True." I conceded. "That seems an excellent plan, Emmett. I will join you as soon as my business concludes here."


He stood and shook my hand vigorously. "Thank you, Edward."


As he walked through the door he called back to me over his shoulder, "I'll expect you in a few weeks."


~I~I~I~


"Edward!" Jasper greeted me as he was shown into the room, followed by a serious-looking gentleman. "May I introduce Colonel Riley Crawford."


Colonel Crawford held out his hand, and I took it happily. "Welcome, Colonel. I hope your journey was not too dreadful."


"Not at all. I was intrigued by the letter I received from Jasper," he responded with a neutral expression.


"You are welcome to stay in my home during your time in London," I offered, hoping to break the tension.


He smiled. "Thank you, but Jasper has already offered his home."


I nodded, and we began talking about the impending meeting with the Cullens. We were to meet with them in their home this evening. It would be Colonel Crawford's chance to observe Victoria and make her acquaintance. I hoped that by now Victoria understood just what was at stake for not only her, but her family as well.


We arrived early to the Cullens', but were assured it was of no consequence. Mr. and Mrs. Cullen seemed relaxed, which I took as a positive sign. Perhaps they had been able to talk some sense into that girl.


"Mr. Masen, might I have a word with you for a moment?" Mrs. Cullen gently inquired.


"Of course." I turned to the gentlemen. "Please excuse me."


She led me to another sitting room, in which I was surprised to see her niece seated with her head bent demurely and her hands folded in her lap.


"Mr. Masen, I hope you will forgive me, but my niece wanted to speak with you."


I gulped, remembering our last meeting and how it did not go well.


"Go ahead, Victoria."


She raised her head, and I was struck with just how young and lost she looked.


Much the same as Alice.


"I would like to apologize for my rude behavior to you, Mr. Masen. I appreciate what you have done for me."


I looked at her and detected nothing but sincere regret.


"I understand more than you know. I accept your apology, and hope you can salvage your reputation as well as that of your family. It's a large burden to bear, but it is never too late to turn your life around." I smiled, thinking of Isabella. "Your sister taught me that."


She looked at me, her eyes brimming with tears, and simply nodded.


I excused myself and rejoined the rest of the party.


Not long after, Miss Victoria was introduced and we all waited in anticipation.


At first, Colonel Crawford seemed to only observe her. I looked at Jasper who merely grinned.


What could he possible see in this situation to grin about?


As the evening wore on, I was becoming more frustrated with the lack of communication between the two. Finally, I asked Jasper just what he found to be so funny.


"Edward," he whispered. "Look at how he watches her. His eyes follow her every movement."


I looked again and saw how he observed her.


How could I have missed it?


Seeing the recognition on my face, he chuckled. "Relax, have a little faith."


Faith. The irony of the situation was just too much, and I began laughing.


I looked over at the pair who were quietly engaged in conversation. He seemed attentive to her and smiled as she spoke. Even more surprising was Victoria's changed personality. Gone was the flirtatious girl and in her place a shy, unassuming young woman.


I had seen this before. Alice had not been as unruly as Victoria, instead she was lively and welcoming. Both girls spirits had been crushed by the mistreatment wrought on them by James.


When the evening came to a conclusion, Colonel Crawford asked permission to call again tomorrow. Victoria smiled and agreed.


It was a good beginning, and for the first night in many weeks I slept soundly.


~I~I~I~


Everything was progressing better than I could have hoped for. Colonel Crawford had officially asked for Miss Victoria's hand. Her uncle, acting on behalf of her father, consented to the match. My relief was palpable as Mr. Cullen penned the letter to his brother detailing the arrangements for the marriage.


In a week's time they would be married, and I could make preparations to travel into Hertfordshire.


In my haste I had forgotten my mothers ring at Pemberley. Not wanting to waste time traveling to Pemberley, and then Hertfordshire, I arranged for it to be brought into London.


Needing to calm my restlessness, I decided some fresh air and a walk in the park would do me good. As I stepped out side the oppressive heat of a London summer hit me, and I began to sweat immediately.


I walked along the sidewalk toward the park.


The air felt hot and sticky, and soon I was questioning why I had decided a walk would be a good idea in the first place. It was no wonder everyone vacated London for the comfort of their country estates.


As I entered the park I spotted a fountain. Eager for any measure of relief, I sat on the bench and relished the cool spray which would occasionally blow in my direction.


I relaxed and began to ponder the reception I would receive at Longbourn.


Mrs. Cullen had related a conversation she had with her niece as they journeyed back to Hertfordshire.


"Mr. Masen, please forgive my impertinences, but I feel the need to relate you with Isabella's feelings on this matter. She was very distraught upon leaving Derbyshire, and it is no doubt due to the current situation involving her sister."


"Mrs. Cullen..." But she held up her hand, asking that I allow her to finish.


"She is very loyal, almost to a fault, and is ready to give you up in the event this ends badly."


I remember standing there dumbfounded. How could she doubt my constancy and affection? Did she not know I would do anything for her?


I had killed for her.


I would have to live with that, and I readily accepted that. But to have it be for naught? That was unacceptable.


Sighing to myself, I stood and walked back to my townhouse.


As I entered, my house keeper took one took at me and shook her head.


"Sir, you look a fright! A cool bath would do you good. Your letters are in you study in the event you are expecting something important."


"Thank you," I replied sincerely.


As I wasn't expecting any news, I decided to take my housekeeper's advice and have a bath. An hour later, I came downstairs feeling refreshed and in a better disposition.


I worked my way through the letters, not surprised by any one in particular, until I happened upon a letter from Emmett.


Curious as to how the opening of his estate was progressing, I opened and read with haste.


The more I read the more astonished I became.


"Emmett, you old dog!" I spoke aloud to the empty room, and proceeded to laugh at his boldness.


Edward,


The opening of Netherfield went better than expected. My man arranged to have all the previous servants re-employed. There seems to be no animosity to my visit, and for that I am relived. The shooting is excellent, and I am eager for your arrival.


I have some wonderful news, I have been called on by all the neighbors and welcomed. It is more than I deserve based on my hasty departure. Unable to wait any longer, I called on Mr. Swan and met with the ladies at Longbourn. After traveling home to an empty house I resolved to visit Longbourn the next morning. I knew it was a bold gesture, but I could no longer wait to tell her how I felt. My angel has consented to be my wife, making me the happiest of men. You are still expected and welcome at Netherfield. I hope to see you in a week's time.


Your friend,


Emmett McCarty


~I~I~I~


The wedding had been a small affair. Consisting of the bride's aunt and uncle, myself and Jasper. For the groom, a hand full of fellow officers traveled from different locations to attend.


Victoria seemed content, and I hoped they would be happy together.


The newlyweds were to travel into Hertfordshire tomorrow, and then onto Newcastle the following day. Weary from the day's activities, I excused myself after the luncheon.


The emotional toll from the past several weeks had left me drained. I wanted nothing more than to fall into my bed and sleep until morning.


My carriage stopped away from my home. Curious as to why, I looked out and saw a familiar crest emboldened on the carriage parked outside my home.


What could possibly bring her to London in the summer?


Sighing, I walked past her coach and into my home.


"Mr. Masen, you have a visitor in the drawing room. I told her you were not at home, but she insisted on waiting." Her expression told me all I needed to know.


"Very well, thank you."


I walked slowly toward the drawing room, knowing whatever reason brought her to London would surely have her upset.


"Lady Irina, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit?"


She was seated across the room. I looked for Kate, but didn't see her anywhere.


"Nephew," she responded soberly.


I was suddenly worried that her unexpected appearance had something to do with Kate.


"Pray tell me, is Kate well?"


"Oh yes, Kate is very well." She waved dismissively, as she stood and began to pace the room.


Her posture was stiff and her face grim; this could only mean she was extremely agitated.


"The impudence! I don't even know where to begin. I have never been treated in such a disrespectful manner in my entire life!" she bellowed.


I mentally sighed. Whoever had offended my aunt surely was now cowering in a corner somewhere.


"The impertinence of that young woman is not to be borne."


I was confused... young woman?


"Young woman, Aunt?"


"Yes, I received a report of an alarming nature two days ago. That not only was Miss Swan to be most advantageously married, but that you, my nephew, would soon be engaged to Miss Isabella Swan."


My mind reeled with how anyone could have possible been made aware of our engagement. Especially my aunt. It was then that her earlier statement struck me.


"What do you mean by the impertinence of the young woman? Did you speak with Miss Isabella?" I prayed that was not the case.


"I most certainly did!" She scowled. "And to think I invited her into my home, and this is how she repays my kindness!"


Her tirade continued, and I knew I needed to remain calm in order to find out exactly what happened.


"What did you ask her, Aunt?" I asked in a low voice.


"I demanded that she refute such a ridiculous rumor. And do you know what she said? It wasn't any of my business." Her hand flailed through the air as her agitation grew. "Ungrateful, selfish, girl! She had the audacity to tell me she would not confirm the engagement and if you did not object, my feelings on the matter meant nothing."


Oh, Isabella. What you must have suffered.


"She is right, Aunt," I said coldly.


She stopped moving and turned in surprise.


"My choice of bride is not your concern, nor do you have any say."


She narrowed her eyes, "May I remind you that your mother..."


"I was never told of such an arrangement by either my mother or father."


"Think of your family!" she screeched. "How could you saddle yourself and our family with such a woman who is so obviously beneath you?"


"Enough!" I bellowed. I was tired of her constant opinions and directives.


"Isabella Swan is the daughter of a gentleman. I don't consider her to be beneath me." I narrowed my eyes at her. "I am disappointed that you would try to meddle in my affairs. I am the head of the Masen family, not you."


Her eyes widened and then narrowed, "I am your nearest relation, and I have a duty to step in..."


"No, you do not have that right. And as far as I am concerned you will cease to be welcome to Pemberley. I do intend to marry Miss Swan, if she will have me."


She snorted loudly. "Of course she would. You are a match in which she could have never hoped to aspire!"


We were talking in circles; this would never be resolved until my aunt got her way.


"I must ask you to leave, Aunt. I will not stand by and listen to you insult the woman I love."


"Love?" she scoffed. "It was merely her arts and allurements which drew you in."


"Please leave on your own accord, or I will have you escorted out." I stated.


Her expression darkened. "She will ruin you."


I smiled. "I don't see it that way, Aunt. Good day."


~I~I~I~


The roads were dry and my journey had not taken long. I clutched the velvet pouch in my hand, becoming more nervous as we approached. Knowing it would be too late to call, I resolved it would be tomorrow morning.


Soon, My Isabella. Soon.