Epilogue

A fter their wedding reception at Number 1 in the blazing summer of 1817, the bride and groom walked to their married home upon a carpet of fresh herbs strewn along the pavement.

Once inside the entrance hall, Edmund lifted Marianne into his arms and began to carry her upstairs while she caressed the dark curls at the back of his neck. Then he slowly released her and they walked hand in hand to their newly furnished chamber.

A fire burned in the grate, and candles cast a soft, tender glow; the covers had been turned down invitingly, and fragrant rose petals lay scattered upon the sheets in the shape of a heart.

The pair embraced passionately, sharing a lingering kiss full of promise.

“You have changed my life, dearest Marianne. How I love thee!”

“And I thee, Edmund– you are my new world.”

Then Marianne slowly closed the door.

The End