Chapter 11

Over the next

week, Alessandra found herself being drawn into more conversation

with Edward and both of his parents. Even though they came from such different upbringings and

lifestyles, she found that his mother and father were both friendly

toward her. They didn't seem to judge her for the quiet life that

she'd had growing up.

As time passed,

Alessandra also became aware that, inevitably, one day soon her

father and mother would leave, and return to their home. They would

leave her behind, and she would not know when - or even if - she

would see either of them again. In pondering that, she found

herself growing morose, even though she knew she should only be

happy to have been accepted so well into such as family.

"You do not look happy,

child," Alessandra heard someone say in the glass room that she had

grown to enjoy solitude in. When she turned, she saw Edward's

father approaching her.

She took a moment to consider

how to reply, before speaking.

"I know the

time is approaching when my mother and father will leave, and I do

feel sad about that ," she

admitted.

Edward's father sat down beside

her and she heard him take a deep breath.

"Ahh . One of the

saddest things about marriage, for a young woman, is having to

leave her family behind. But, Alessandra, your parents are welcome

here, and can come to stay anytime they wish to," he said with only

kindness in his voice.

"Thank you, Sir, but they

have little money," Alessandra said. "Everything that was left in

trust to me will go to Edward when we marry, so my mother and

father will still have no means to travel this far."

When she considered what

she'd just said, Alessandra regretted having done so, knowing the

words could have been interpreted as an offence. She was relieved

when Edward's father only smiled and spoke softly again.

"I will let

them know that whenever they wish to come, the estate will cover

the cost ," he said. "There

will be no need for you to not see them as often as you like. Do

not worry about such things." He sat in silence before continuing.

"I remember when Edward's mother came here - how upset she was when

her father was leaving. Such is the circle of life, but it makes it

no easier, does it."

They sat together in

silence for a few minutes longer, before he stood up to leave. As

he approached the door, it opened and in walked Edward. Alessandra

saw his father whisper something in his ear before he left.

Remaining where she was, she watched Edward approach the bench she

was sitting on, and sit down.

"I shall not tell you not

to be sad about your parents leaving, as I know sadness is not

something we can control, but, Alessandra, please believe that I

will do my best to make you happy," he said quietly.

"I do believe that."

They sat together

comfortably, until Edward took her hand and brought it to his lips,

in a show of physical affection that moved Alessandra's heart

unbearably. When she looked at him, she started to feel such a

longing for him. It was something new that she'd never felt before.

As if feeling it also, and needing it to stop, she saw Edward stand

up quickly.

"I think it is time I got

you on your horse!" he said, grinning. "Mother said your riding

habit has just arrived, so what do you think? Are you feeling brave

enough to get up on the saddle?"

Alessandra stood up

as she laughed quietly, hoping her heart would soon slow down to a

normal speed once again.

"I will

certainly try,

Edward."