A Regency Romance Book 2: The Flannigans

 

 

A Regency Romance

 

Book 2:

 

The Flannigans

 

By Katie Swinford

 

 

 

In memory of Victoria Richards

 

and

 

For Shannon Wright who wanted me to write her character into the story to have a romance with James. Here is an entire story focusing on them. Love you dear. Jesas!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 1

 

Shannon Fabrary had been best friends with Katherine Roberts since preschool. So when she got the news that Katherine had gone missing while on vacation in Ireland she was frantic. It was about a year later when Katherine finally showed up again at her home in Georgia. Three months later Shannon got a call and found out that Katherine was pregnant. She headed over to the store and bought pregnancy tests and chocolate. That night she spend the night with Katherine. She was woken up a few hours later being kicked in the arm.

 

“Shannon wake up.” She heard Katherine say.

 

“Do I have to?” Shannon mumbled. She did not want to be awake yet.

 

“Yes unless you want me to literally kick you out of the bed.” She heard Katherine say with a laugh.

 

“If you are going to be like this the whole pregnancy I am disowning you.” She said as she opened her eyes and sat up. AT first she thought she was still dreaming. Katherine was in the arms of some guy she had never seen.

 

“What? You're pregnant?” The man asked looking down at Katherine who was looking uncomfortable.

 

“I did say I had news.” Katherine was saying before pulling her lower lip between her teeth which was a sure sign of her being nervous.

 

“Well say something man.” Shannon said figuring out that this must be Katherine's husband and hoping he would start to react so Katherine wouldn't be so nervous.

 

“Shannon I think you should go. This is sort of a private moment.” Katherine told her. Shannon nodded that she understood and Katherine led her into a bedroom next door.

 

“So should I take it we're in 1816?” Shannon asked when they were alone. Katherine laughed.

 

“Yes you should.” Katherine answered.

 

“So that was your husband?” Shannon asked.

 

“Yes that was William.” Katherine said. “I told you he was handsome.”

 

“You did, but he's not really my type.” Shannon said. “But dang girl you did good. Are there other hot guys here?” Katherine laughed.

 

“William's best friend James, but he is a bit of a rake from what I hear.” Katherine said.

 

“You know it's sad that I have been friends with you so long that I actually know what that means.” Shannon said.

 

“He is your type though. Now if you don't mind I need to get back to William.” Katherine said.

 

“Of course. He is probably still in shock.” Shannon joked before hugging her friend and watching her leave. She crawled into bed and was woken up by a knock at the door. She groaned and turned over, but didn't reply. The knocking continued, then she heard the door open and someone walk in.

 

“Shannon wake up. It's time for breakfast,” Katherine said. Shannon reluctantly opened her eyes. Her best friend looked like she had stepped out of a Jane Austen novel.

 

“You better have coffee woman, otherwise my ass is not leaving this bed.” Shannon said.

 

“We have coffee I promise.” Katherine said with a laugh. “Sometimes I doubt James and William could function without it.” Then she threw a bundle of fabric at her.

 

“What is all this?” Shannon asked.

 

“These are clothes. You're lucky we pretty much are the same size.” Katherine said before pulling Shannon our of bed and helping her dress. Then they went downstairs into the dining room where both men were waiting. When she saw the other man who was with Katherine's husband she could hardly help thinking 'damn.' She looked at Shannon hoping to convey this message before looking back at the man. He had golden brown hair, chocolate brown eyes, and had to be the best looking man she had ever seen.

 

*****

 

James' attention was immediately captured by the woman he saw walking in with Katherine. She had brown hair that almost had a red tint to it and beautiful green eyes.

 

“Shannon this is William's best friend James Flannigan. James this is my best friend Shannon Fabrary.” He heard Katherine say brining his attention back to the situation at hand. He took the girl's hand and kissed it before speaking.

 

“It is a pleasure Miss Fabrary.” He said politely.

 

“Just call Shannon.” The girl instructed him.

 

“Very well, why don't you tell me about yourself?” James asked as they all went to sit down at the table. Shannon did so and James hung on her every word.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 2

 

Shannon was surprised by how much she liked the regency time once she got there. She thought she would hate it, but if she was honest it was like a dream. Ames basically treated her like a queen. Hanging on her every word and treating her better than any of her boyfriends ever had.

 

“I can hardly believe this is real.” Shannon confided when she was along with Katherine one afternoon a few months later. Katherine laughed.

 

“That is how I feel too when I think about what is actually happening.” Katherine said. “So should I take it you like James?”

 

“What is there not to like?” Shannon pointed out. “He is pretty close to perfect. His hair, his eyes, his smile, the way he treats me. Its all like a dream.”

 

“Well I take that as a yes then.” Katherine said when a laugh.

 

“I'm serious. I think I might actually have fallen for this guy.” Shannon insisted.

 

“Alright who are you and what have you done with my best friend? The Shannon Fabrary I know would never fall for a regency man.” Katherine challenged.

 

“Well he is my kind of perfect.” Shannon said.

 

“Well you do know what all the romance novels say. Reformed rakes make the best husbands.” Katherine teased.

 

“Katherine! You can't say that.” Shannon insisted.

 

“Ta hell I can't. And you should have seen James' reaction the first time he heard me say that. He did a legitimate spit take.” Katherine said. This made both the girls laugh.

 

*****

 

“James I have never seen you act this way before. What on earth had gotten into you?” William asked as he and James were riding together.

 

“She's changed me. I thought I could never be changed.” James said not really wanting to elaborate.

 

“Changed by whom?” William asked sounding thoroughly confused.

 

“Shannon. I don't know what to do with myself Will. She's making me into a better man and she doesn't even know it, and damnit I want to be a better man for her. She's reforming me.” James confided as he ran a hand through his hair.

 

“Well maybe it's for the best. It seems to me that you really like her.” William pointed out.

 

“It's not just a passing fancy Will. I'm falling in love with her. She isn't like any woman I've ever been with. She makes me want to be better. No woman has ever done that to me.” James said extremely frustrated.

 

“Do you think you'll marry her?” William asked curiously. James sighed and shrugged at his friend's question.

 

“I don't know that she'd have me. God save me. Wast it this miserable for you when you fell in love with Katherine?” James demanded.

 

“Just about I suppose. Only I didn't really need changing by her. I honestly think you should tell her how you feel. In my experience women can be sensitive about such things.” William advised.

 

“I'm not sure that I should do that. What if she doesn't feel the same way? I would make a fool of myself.” James pointed out.

 

“If you'd like I could talk to Katherine and see if she things Shannon feels the same way.” William offered.

 

“Oh that is just what I need. Katherine knowing I'm a lovesick fool.” James said sounding defensive.

 

“I think she has always known you're a fool. The love sick part is the only new development.” William teased.

 

“Go to Hell.” James said before riding off ahead of William. William just laughed and rode off after him.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 3

 

A few days later William and James were sitting in William's study. James was having a drink and keeping William company. Suddenly William stopped what he was doing and looked over at his friend.

 

“I have something to tell you. Just don't try to kill me alright.” William said.

 

“I won't try to kill you. After all what news could make me want to kill my best friend.” James asked.

 

“I talked to Katherine and apparently Shannon shares your feelings.” William said before waiting to see his friend's reaction. James sat his drink onto the table next to him and was furious.

 

“So you went behind my back an asked Katherine even though I asked you not to?” James demanded.

 

“I did not ask her. She brought it up to me that she was worried you'd break Shannon's heart or something of that sort. I had to be honest with her and tell her you are in love with Shannon.” William said.

 

“For the love of God William, did you have to tell her?” James demanded.

 

“Yes I did. Katherine and I just want you and Shannon to be happy.” William said.

 

“So had Katherine told Shannon yet?” James asked.

 

“No I told her to let you tell her. She agree that she wouldn't tell.” William said. “You better hurry though otherwise Katherine may step in.”

 

“Oh God save me if that happens.” James said with a smile. “U will tell her soon.”

 

*****

 

That night after dinner Shannon went up to her room and found a note and a single read rose lying on her bed.

 

Meet me in the drawing room. I would really like to speak with you.

-James Flannigan

 

Shannon read the note several times before it really set in. James wanted to speak with her privately. She couldn't think why. She left the note on the bed, but took the rose along with her as she went down into the drawing room. When she got there James was waiting. He looked nervous, but his face brightened when he saw her.

 

“You came. I wasn't sure you would.” James admitted as he walked over to her.

 

“I came. I'm curious what you want to speak to me about.” Shannon admitted.

 

“I'm not sure how to say this. I'm not used to expressing myself.” James said.

 

“You can just say it James. I don't need fancy words.” Shannon said.

 

“You've changed me. You make me want to be a better man You don't even seem to know it. You are the most amazing woman I have ever met.” He said.

 

“What are you trying to say?” Shannon asked. Before she could think he pulled her to him and kissed her breathless.

 

“I love you Shannon. You're the only woman I have ever loved, and the only one I ever will. And I'll be damned if I throw it away.” He said once he pulled away.

 

“Are you being completely serious?” Shannon asked.

 

“Yes I am completely serious.” He said looking hopeful. “Will you say something? I am starting to get nervous with you being silent.” He asked a few minutes later.

 

“I love you too.” She said. I am just surprised you feel the same way.”

 

“How could I not? You are brilliant and absolutely stunning. You are perfect.” he said before kissing her again. “I'll never let you go or let anything harm you.

 

*****

 

A few months later Shannon and James were laughing in the drawing room when William ran into the room.

 

“Katherine is going into labor. I need you to go and get the doctor.” William said to James before turning to Shannon. “Can you come up and try to help her relax?” He asked. James went out to the stable and saddled a horse and rode to the hearest town with a doctor. They were back about an hour later. James escorted Shannon back to the drawing room so Katherine, William, and the doctor could have some privacy. When the doctor came down they went up to see the baby. What James saw amused him.

 

“William McGinty holding a baby. If you would have told me a few years ago that I would see this I would have called you insane.” He teased.

 

“Well you practically follow Shannon around like a love sick fool.” William said back.

 

“That is enough from the two of you. You can both shut your mouths.” Shannon said intervening. James smiled at Shannon lovingly.

 

“What is the little one's name anyway?” He asked.

 

“Allison, though we will probably call her Ali.” Katherine answered.

 

“That's beautiful. She is a beautiful baby.” James complimented as eh looked at the child in William's arms.

 

“Just like her mother is.” William said as he looked down lovingly at Katherine. Then the baby started crying.

 

“Give her here. Shes probably hungry.” Katherine said. As he watched Katherine and William with baby Allison he realized that that was what he wanted out of life. To have a family of his own.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 4

 

On Allison's first birthday they had a small party and that night Shannon was woken up by William banging on her door. She threw on a robe and tiredly opened the door.

 

“Do you have Allison with you?” He asked anxiously.

 

“No. I thought she was in the nursery.” Shannon admitted.

 

“I've checked everywhere in the house. She's missing.” William admitted.

 

“Do you think someone stole her?” Shannon asked.

 

“It would seem so. Katherine is already beside herself worrying.” William admitted as he ran his fingers through his hair in frustration.

 

“We'll fine her. You should go back and comfort Katherine. I will come if you want/.” She offered.

 

“No that's not necessary. You will be of greater helping Katherine tomorrow if you get some rest.” He said then he left.

 

“I hope she's alright, because if she isn't I'm gonna kill whoever hurt her.” Shannon said before going back to bed.

 

*****

 

The following morning there was a random note asking for 200 pounds for Allison's safe return. That Friday James and William went to make the exchange while Shannon, Katherine, and Mrs. McGinty waited at the house. When James and William got to the designated meeting place they found two men. One holding Allison who was blindfolded and gagged. As the exchange was made James was ready to step in at any moment if either men tried to go back on their word.

 

“Is she really alright?” James asked once the two men disappeared.

 

“Not ever a spoiled diaper.” William said as he watched him kiss Allison's head.

 

“Well let's get her back to the girls you know they will all be worried sick.” Jame said. William laughed and agreed.

 

*****

 

All the women were in the front parlor when the men got back. Katherine immediately ran to William and took Allison from his arms. Everyone was so thankful that she was alright. The next night Shannon and James were in the drawing room with Katherine and William.

 

“I am glad we can finally go back to a peaceful life.” Shannon said.

 

“Is life really ever peaceful? Especially in this house?” James asked.

 

“Just wait James until you get married. It will be the most hectic and peaceful time of your life.” William said with a laugh.

 

“I hope I will find out sometime soon.” James said before looking at Shannon. “Speaking of which will you marry me?” He asked.

 

“Did you just ask to marry me?” Shannon asked. James nodded and waited for her to reply. James nodded and waited for her to reply. When she opened her mouth to speak Katherine stopped her.

 

“'You can't ask her this suddenly and expect her to answer.” Katherine protested.

 

“How do you want me to ask? Do you want me to poor my soul out to her?” James asked.

 

“I asked you suddenly.” William pointed out.

 

“At least you didn't just blurt it out and you went down on one knee.” Katherine said.

 

“I'll get down on both knees and beg if I have to to get her to marry me.” James said.

 

“That's not necessary. My answer is yes.” Shannon said. “As long as you have a ring.”

 

“I do have one.” James vowed as he rummaged through his pockets before pulling out a box. “I hope you like it. I've been waiting for the right moment to ask for weeks.” He said before opening the box. I inside was a ring set with diamonds all around and set in a gold band. Katherine and Shannon both gasped.

 

“It's beautiful.” Shannon said as James slipped the ring on her finger.

 

“So you really like it?” He asked

 

“I love it. It's perfect.” Shannon promised before kissing him.

 

*****

 

That night James lay in bed thinking how lucky he was. Shannon had agree to marry him and he thanked God for whatever lapse in her thinking had made her fall in love with him. He knew he wasn't good enough for her, but he still loved her. Before he had met her he hadn't been concerned about getting married. He was content to be a bachelor and didn't need or want a wife. Now that he had fallen in love though marrying Shannon was most all he could think about. It his school mates could only see him now.

 

*****

 

“Shannon lay in bed thinking for a long time that night. Occasionally she would look at her hand to admire her ring. She was so glad she had been sent back. If she had been told before hand that she would go back and fall in love she would have laughed in your face and told you how stupid you were to believe in time travel. Now though she was glad. James was the perfect man and she wouldn't let him go.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 5

 

The wedding planning went quickly with Shannon and Katherine in charge. Before she knew it, it was the day of before the wedding, James' relatives were all there and she was about to get married. The next day ss Katherine helped her with her gown James' mother was talking to her.

 

“I am so glad you will be joining our family. We are so glad James found a good girl to settle down with.” She said.

 

“I'm gad to be joining your family.” Shannon replied with a smile.

 

“It's not a large family. We don't all get together very often.” James mother replied. “Not since his father dies. It's mostly just him and me. Though William was usually around. So much he might as well have been another son.”

 

“Well I think you're ready.” Katherine said as she tied Shannon's sash. Shannon turned and looked at herself in the mirror. She had a plain empire waist dress with a blue sash. Before she knew it she was walking down the aisle to marry James. The look on his face told her he thought her the most beautiful woman in the world.

 

*****

 

James had to keep his jaw from dropping when he saw Shannon walking towards him. If he had any doubt she was the most beautiful woman he'd ever seen they were instantly gone. He was so busy staring at her that she had to whisper for him to take her hand.

 

“You look beautiful.” He complimented as he took her hand. She whispered back a thank you then the ceremony began. When they were pronounced man and wife and the priest told them to kiss he pulled her against him and kissed her passionately.

 

“Save the passion for the wedding night.” They heard William whisper. James pulled his mouth away and laughed as Shannon saw Katherine pull William back away from them. They hey walked out of the chapel and went back to the house. They had a lunch and dinner all together and before he knew it he and Shannon were going up to his room which they would now share. He closed the door behind him then turned to look at her again. He couldn't seem to get enough of the vision of her in her gown. She was so beautiful.

 

*****

 

Shannon smiled as she watched James looking at her. He was looking at her as a starving man would look at a feast. Longing to have it, but unsure if he could.

 

“What are you thinking.” She asked after a few minutes.

 

“I am thinking that you are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.” He complimented as he pulled her to him.

 

“Considering what I've heard about your reputation I take that as a great compliment.” She said with a laugh.

 

“I shudder to ask what you've heard.” He said jokingly before kissing her. After a few minutes she felt his hands trail up her back to undo the lacings of her dress. When he had undone them he stepped back and let her dress fall to the floor. She stood there proudly as he looked at her up and down approvingly. He almost looked proud. “You are so beautiful.” He said in awe. Then he pulled her against him again with a dizzying kiss.

 

*****

 

Hours later James lay there watching her sleep. It had to be near midnight, but he couldn't sleep. He pulled the blankest up to cover her when brushed a lock of hair off her ace. Her eyes came open and she smiled.

 

“Why aren't you asleep? It has to be near midnight.” She said as she sat up pulling the blankets with her to cover her body.

 

“I couldn't sleep. I didn't mean to wake you up.” He said.

 

“Why are you still awake? What were you doing?” She asked.

 

“I was just watching you. I still can hardly believe we are married. You should go back to sleep.” James advised. Shannon laughed.

 

“You need to sleep too.” She challenged as she lightly pushed him down then leaned across the bed to blow out the candle. James pulled her close and kissed her head.

 

“I love you Shannon Flannigan.” He whispered.

 

“I love you too James Flannigan.” She replied before putting her head on his chest. She fell asleep soon after and he feel asleep smiling knowing how lucky he was to be married to his amazing woman.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 6

 

About two months later Shannon was getting dressed when she realized that she hadn't had her period since she and James had gotten married. She dropped the dress she had been about to put on.

 

“Oh my God!” She exclaimed in s whisper. James stopped in the middle of tying his cravet to come over to her.

 

“Is everything alright?” He asked as he prodded her chin up so she was looking at him.

 

“'I'm pregnant.: She said still shocked.

 

“What? Are you certain?” He asked letting his arms fall to his sides.

 

“I'm never even so much as a day late. I have missed two months in a row.” She confided. His face brightened.

 

“This is the best news I've ever heard.” He said before kissing her. Then he looked at her stomach in awe.” We're having a baby.”

 

“Yes we are. It's not really surprising though. I mean we have difficulty keeping out hands off of each other.” She joked. He just laughed and pulled her against him so her face was buried against his chest.

 

*****

 

James couldn't seem to stop smiling after that.

 

“You seem to be in a good mood.” William observed at breakfast as he sat down at the table.

 

“It's a good day.” James said before taking a sip of his coffee.

 

“What is it you're so happy about?” William asked before taking a sip of his own coffee.

 

“Shannon is pregnant. She told me this morning.” James said his smile widening when he saw William's expression of both shock and joy.

 

“Congratulations old boy. Being a father is a really joy.” William said.

 

“I'm a little nervous. I am afraid I won't be a good father and I'll disappoint Shannon.” James confided.

 

“Hey if I can do it surely you can.” William said jokingly.

 

“I hope so. I am anxious to see the baby though. When I watch you and Katherine with Allison I know that is what I want from like. Now it's happening.” James said.

 

“Well I think you and Shannon will be excellent parents.” William said confidently. “That child will likely be spoiled rotten though.”

 

“You have any doubt?” James replied with a laugh.

 

*****

 

Shannon ran into the nursery where Katherine was dressing Allison and thought about how nice it would be to have a child in a few months.

 

“Did you want to tell me something?” Katherine asked as she settles Allison on her hip.

 

“I'm pregnant.” Shannon blurted out.

 

“That's wonderful! Does James know yet?”

 

“I told him right after I realized it this morning. He is probably tell William as we speak. I am so excited.” Shannon said.

 

“You should be. Being a mother is wonderful. Not to mention you have a maternal streak a mile wide. You will be an amazing mother.” Katherine confided.

 

“I don't know about that. You have always been better with children. I am actually nervous fot the actual birth though.” Shannon asked.

 

“Don't worry I will be there with you the whole time.” Katherine promised. “For now though let's go down to breakfast.” Then she took Shannon's hand and they went downstairs. That day they went into town to order baby things. They ordered furniture that would go into the nursery. The order wouldn't come in for another month or so.

 

*****

 

The day the oder came in James was about to start setting some of it up when Shannon ran into their bedroom and ran to him, burying her face against his chest.

 

“Is something wrong?” He asked as he managed to make her look up at him. She looked about to cry. “Don't be upset. Look the baby furniture just arrived.” He said hoping to cheer her up. She just burst into tears. He was used to her being emotional recently, but she was never this emotional. Never to the point of being near crying. “What is it? I'm starting to worry.”

 

“I miscarried.” She said her voice choking up before burying her face against him.

 

“What does that mean?” He asked confused and shocked. “You are the baby are fine right?”

 

“No I miscarried. The baby is gone. I lost it.” She mumbled. “I feel like such a failure.” What hat said James had heard enough.

 

“Shannon you are not a failure. Lots of couples loose babies. Sometimes things like this happen. Just remember we have each other. I love you and nothing could ever change that and I know this is terrible. We can try again if you want.” He said not knowing what else he could say.

 

“I love you too. More then anything.” She said finally looking up at him.

 

“Good. Now we will get through this.” He promised as he wiped the tears from her cheeks. “Why don't we go lie down.” He suggested. She nodded and he carried her over to the bed. She fell asleep about an hour later so he carried all of the baby furniture our o the room into an empty one nearby. He was afraid that it would only remind her of the child they had lost. Once that was done he leaned against the wall in the hallway. He knew he had to be strong for Shannon, bu the news was practically destroying him. He walked downstairs to William's study where he knew he would be. He knocked once and was instructed to come in. He did so and practically collapsed into one of the chairs. He pulled his cravat loose where it was just hanging around his neck and leaned back after getting a glass of the strongest alcohol William had in the room.

 

“It's not ever 3 o'clock. A little early for drinking don't you think?” William asked skeptically.

 

“Don't lector me William. I am not in the mood right now.” James show back.

 

“What's wrong then? Did you and Shannon have a fight?” William asked.

 

“No we aren't fighting. It's something far more serious.” James said.

 

“You're not separating are you?” William asked sounding shocked at the very idea.

 

“God no. We would never leave each other.” James began. He look a good swig of his drinking before continuing. “We lost the baby. Shannon ran into our room in tears. I don't know what to do. She's sleeping and I already moved the baby furniture into a spare room, but I don't know what else to do.” William walked over to him and took the glass form his hand.

 

“If you lost a child you'll need stronger then this. I don't think you need any though. You've never been a man to drown his sorrows in spirits and you shouldn't start now.” William said.

 

“It's tearing me apart Will. You don't know what it's like to loose a child like this. It have to be strong for Shannon though, and I know this. She feels like a failure. She told me so.” James said.

 

“No I don't know what it's like to have your unborn child snatched away from you, but I can tell you two things I learned when Allison was taken. The first is that you will go insane if you try to make all the pain to away from here. You're not superhuman. The second is that it is times like this that strengthen or destroy a marriage.” William said seriously. So what do you think I should do?” James asked.

 

“Why don't we all go to your house. Maybe the change will help Shannon.” William said after seeming to think for a minute or two.

 

“That just might work.” James said. “I don't know what I would do without you Will. You ar e genius.”

 

“Glad to hear it. You know I am here for you James.” William said as James dashed out of the room.

 

Chapter 7

 

Shannon was looking out the carriage window as James told her to look out of his window and she could see the house. She leaned over him to look out as the carriage went over a bump. James caught her and pulled her into his lap before she could fall. She finally looked out the window and saw one of the most beautiful houses she had ever seen. It looked to have three stories, it had lots of windows, was made of brick, and had a widow's walk on top of the house.

 

“Welcome home Mrs. Flannigan.” James teased.

 

“Don't call me Mrs. Flannigan. That is your mother.” Shannon said as a reprimand which didn't really work because she leaned back agains his chest and looked up at him lovingly.

 

“It's still your home. One of the two houses I have inherited that is. This one is more like home though. I came here every summer. Me and William made all kinds of trouble growing up.” He said as they pulled up at the door and he helped her down. William and Katherine pulled up right after them.

 

“Fond memories of this place.” William commented as he wrapped his arms around Katherine's waist.

 

“Why don't we go ahead and take these ladies inside so they can change. Dinner will be in a few hours.” James commented. Then he swept Shannon into his arms and carried her inside. The staff was assembled in the entryway and looked shocked that the first view of their employer's wife was him carrying her inside.

 

“What should be do?” She asked.

 

“You can go back to you duties. Your mistress is very tired and I am sure will gladly meet you all tomorrow.” James promised then with a smile and laugh. They all nodded and went about their duties. James continues up the stairs and went down a hallway before stopping before one of the rooms. Shannon reached out and opened the door. James proceeded in and lightly kicked the door shut behind him before setting he down in front of him.

 

“That certainly could have gone better.” She said.

 

“What do you mean it could have gone better? The servants just know we are in love. Something I have no doubt they would have discovered quickly.” He said before leaning down and kissing her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and stepped closer to him.

 

“I hate it when you do that.” Shannon admitted when they stopped kissing.

 

“What did I do?” James asked sounding offended.

 

“You make me forget what point I was trying to make just by kissing me.” She said in an attempt to scold him.

 

“Ah that is a good thing to remember if I ever make you angry.” James teased. He was about to pull her to him for another kiss when there was a knock at the door. “Come in.” He called. The door opened and some servants brought in their luggage then they left again. Shannon went to pull out her evening gown form her luggage when James wrapped his arms around her and lifted her off the ground. “I think we should buy you some new dresses.” He suggested.

 

“What's wrong with the ones I have?” She asked.

 

“You're borrowing them from Katherine. We need to get you some of your own.” James said.

 

“Well I suppose that makes since, but me and Katherine share clothes all the time.” Shannon pointed out as James set her down.

 

“That is beside the point. We still should go get you some new dresses.” James insisted. Shannon just rolled her eyes.

 

“If you say so.” She said. “For now though we need to go down for dinner.”

 

“Yes we do.” James agreed. They quickly changed clothes and went down to meet Katherine and William for dinner. The evening was perfectly pleasant which is why it was a complete shock when they were awoken in the middle of the night by a horrific scream. Shannon ran though the house followed by William trying to find the trouble and found it on the steps. The body of a man who Shannon assumed was one of the servants was lying at the bottom. A young girl stood there obviously the one how had screamed. James was right behind her and pulled her into his arms just before William and Katherine arrived.

 

“What is going on?” William asked.

 

“Someone is dead.” Shannon pointed out as she stepped out of James' arms.

 

“Shannon you and Katherine don't need to see this.” James protested.

 

“We are perfectly fine thank you. We are find to see a body.” Katherine protested.

 

*****

 

“Shannon please. Go to the Parlor or something if you won't go back to bed. I don't want you to have to deal with this.” James insisted.

 

“James I am not that fragile.” Shannon argued.

 

“”Maybe we should go check on Allison. After all this noise may wake her up.” Katherine suggested helpfully after an obvious look from William. To support her idea they heard her starting to cry.

 

“Alright.” Shannon conceited. Then they left leaving him and William along with a scared little maid and a dead body.

 

“Why on earth would someone kill one of your servants.” William asked after James dismissed the maid.

 

“I have no idea. Then again I haven't been to this house for so long. Usually it is just mother staying here.” James replied before betting a better look at the body. “He had to have broken his neck when he fell.”

 

“Well it obviously isn't an accident.” William said.

 

“Why is that?” James asked.

 

“Because if he had just fallen he wouldn't likely be face up now would he?” William explained.

“So you think I have a murderer in my house?” James asked.

 

“Most likely. We are going to have to make sure the girls are safe.” William said.

 

“Maybe you should have Allison sleep in your and Katherine's room for now.” James suggested. They both nodded then followed the women upstairs. After James instructed the butler to have some of the footmen go and bury the body why he tended to his wife.

 

*****

 

“Sometimes he makes me so mad. I love him, but he treats em like a child half the time.” Shannon ranted to Katherine.

 

“He is just concerned. You did just loose a child after all.” Katherine pointed out as she rocked Allison back to sleep.

 

“That doesn't mean I can't handle seeing a dead body.” Shannon protested. Just then they heard footsteps coming down the hallway. “Speaking of them. I believe I hear our husbands.” Not a minute later there was a knock at the door and James and William came in.

 

“We should all get back to bed. Bring Allison with you. We thin that until we get to the bottom of this she should sleep in our room.” William said.

 

“You think it's that bad?” Shannon asked.

 

“It is best to be over worried then have another accident.” James said. The girls of course agreed with this and followed the men back to bed. Shannon noticed James seemed tense so she cuddled up against him. He put his arms around her, but did not relax.

 

“You're tense. What's wrong?” Shannon asked.

 

“Of course I am tense. One of my employees was just murdered.” He said. Shannon lightly kissed him.

 

“You need to relax. It's not good for you to be tense.” She said. Then she instructed him to sit up. He complied and she started massaging his back.

 

“Where did you learn this?” He asked. He sounded much more relaxed.

 

“It's quite common in my town. Most everyone knows how. Does it help?” She asked.

 

“Yes.” He said before reaching behind him and pulling her into his lap. “I love you. The way you always worry about me I find especially endearing.”

 

“I find it frustrating when you don't listen.” She said. He laughed and kissed her again.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chapter 8

 

Over the next few weeks James worked on questioning his employees. He was even more protective as the days went by without any leads on who the murderer was. Eventually she decided to go for a walk in the early evening before dinner. James was in his office with William and Katherine was getting Allison ready for bed. She was coming around the corner of the house as she saw the groom stab someone. She gasped which drew his attention to her. She slowly started to back away, but he came towards her and covered her mouth and pulled her to a stop before she could run.

 

“I can't let you go now. You will run and tell you husband.” HE said then he drug her to the stables. Once there he had to uncover her mouth to tie her up.

 

“What will you do with me?” She asked hoping he couldn't see how scared she was.

 

“I will have to kill you.” He said sounding like it was inevitable. “I can't let you go. You would turn me in.”

 

“You seriously think James won't find you out? If I die he will hunt you down it it's the last thing he does.” She vowed.

 

“Oh I wouldn't be so sure of that. Now why don't you hush.” He said as he gagged her. Shannon started just hoping James would come looking for her before it was to late.

 

*****

 

“So who haven't we questioned?” James asked as Katherine burst into his office drawing both of the men's attention.

 

“Is something wrong?” William asked curious

 

“I can't find Shannon. She went for a walk almost an hour ago and isn't back.” Katherine said.

 

“That is unlike her.” James agreed. “Especially since the murder.”

 

“We should go look for her.” William agreed. Then the boys went out looking, telling Katherine to wait up at the house incase Shannon came back. They went around a corner of the house and found a dead body.

 

“This is not good. We need to find Shannon now.” James insisted.

 

“Let's go down to the stables. Maybe George has see her.” William suggested. James nodded and followed William.

 

“I have a bad feeling about this I am worried about her.” James said.

 

“We will find her as long as she hasn't time traveled that is.” William said.

 

*****

 

Shannon grew uneasy as the minutes went by. Shouldn't James have come to save her yet. She tried to get her hands loose, but it wasn't worth it.”

 

“So why haven't you killed me yet?” She mumbled into the gag. The man sighed and pulled it out of her mouth.

 

“What the hell did you want?” He demanded.

 

“I want to know why you haven't killed me yet.” She said.

 

“Because I am not an idiot. Killing my fellow servants is one thing. If I kill you though and your husband finds our he will kill me.” He said as if it was obvious. “I need a plan.”

 

“No time for that.” They heard James say behind her. “Besides you should have htought of that before you planned to kill my wife in the first place. Now let her go.”

 

“How do you expect me to do it when you have a knife poised to throw at me.” The man challenged.

 

“Quickly if you are smart. My patients are already about at their end.” James said. The man turned to run and Shannon watched a knife lodge in his back. Then William went to turn the body over as James cut the ropes tying her and pulled her into his arms.

 

“Are you alright? He didn't hurt you dd he?” James asked.

 

“No he didn't really hurt me.” She promised. “How did you know how to throw a knife like that?”

 

“Did I never tell you that me and William used to have knife throwing contests?” James asked.

 

“As sweet as this reunion is we do have a murderer and a body to take care of.” William pointed out.

 

“Valid point.” James agreed before standing up and setting her on her feet. “Go back up to the house and let Katherine know you are alright.” She agreed as left after giving him a kiss.

 

*****

 

“By the time James got to bed that night he was more then ready to hold his wife in his arms. He entered their room to find her asleep. She looked absolutely beautiful and perfect.

 

“I'm here love.” He said once he climbed into the bed and pulled her against him. He felt good knowing he had saved her and she was safe. He watched as she gradually woke up to his kissed on the side of her neck. She let out a little half sigh and half yawn and he laughed waking her up fully.

 

“What is so funny?” She asked sleepily.

 

“Nothing. You are just so adorable.” He said.

 

“Not sexy of appealing?” She asked teasingly. He laughed and let her roll on top of him. Kissing her passionately before replying.

 

“Is that convincing enough for you that I find you appealing?” He asked as his hands traced up her sides.

 

“Maybe.” She said as he started kissing his chest. He slip his hands up under the hem of her nightgown and pulled it up to pool in her lap. It it isn't I can think of another way to show you.” He said.

 

“Oh really now? Do proceed to demonstrate to me.” She aid teasingly.

 

“You did ask. You wish is my duty.” He said before rolling on top of her and proceeding to make love to her.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Epilogue

 

It was a few weeks later when Shannon ran into the drawing over to Katherine with exciting news.

 

“Guess what.” She said taking her friend's hands in hers.

 

“I haven't the slightest idea. What is it?” Katherine asked just as excited.

 

“I am pregnant again. I am so excited to tell James.” Shannon confessed.

 

“Of course you are. That is wonderful.” Katherine said hugging her.

 

“What is wonderful?” They heard James ask from the door.

 

“I have exciting news.” Shannon confided taking him by the hands.

 

“I think the murders were enough excitement for me for quite awhile thank you.” He said.

 

“You are going to like this excitement.” Shannon promised.

 

“Alright then what is it then?” James asked with a laugh.

 

“Well we are going to be parents.” She said.

 

“You are carrying again?” He asked in awe.

 

“Yes I am. We deserve some good luck I think.” Shannon said.

 

“We deserve happiness. You give me that. You have since the moment we met.” He said then he kissed her making her feel like the luckiest woman alive.

 

The End