The Governess

The Governess

By: Katie Swinford

It was early afternoon when Catherine’s couch pulled up to the large house. The twenty year old teacher with blond curly hair and green eyes glanced out the window. She knew her new employer was wealthy, but this house was absolutely without question a mansion, especially compared to her childhood home. She was to be the new governess to a young girl named Sara whose uncle had hired her on the recommendation of a friend of his. From what she had heard of him James Richardson was a rich bachelor who had taken the care of his niece into his own hands when her mother had died and the father was thrown in jail. Her thoughts were interrupted by the door of the couch door opening. She took the driver’s hand and stepped out into the cold Late November air. She shook with cold as the men carried her luggage up to the house where the front door was opened by a servant.

“Hullo miss, welcome to the Richardson estate. I will go upstairs and fetch Miss. Richardson for you if you wish.” He said.

“That would be quite helpful thank you.” She said before being escorted into a small side parlor. The walls of which were covered all around with bookshelves heaping with books. The room was furnished simply with elegant furniture. Nothing was out of place. She sat down on a small sofa. She heard the servant tell the couch men where her rooms upstairs would be and where they could set her luggage. Soon after there was a light knock at the door. “Come in.” She called. The door opened and a girl walked in with bouncing red curls and freckles. She had sea blue eyes and Catherine guessed she must be Sara. Sara curtsied politely.

“Hullo Madame how are you today?” She asked politely.

“I am very well thank you. My name is Miss. Catherine Jones. You may call me Catherine if you like. How are you Sara?” She said. Sara smiled at her. 

"I am well. Thank you.” Sara said.

“Where is everyone?” Catherine asked. The house felt very empty.

“Uncle James is gone for a while for his job and so it is just me, and now you.” Sara said happily.

“Who has been looking after you?” Catherine said curiously.

“The cook, her name is Anne.” Sara said. “Do you know when my uncle will be back?” Sara asked sadly.

“I have no idea. I am sure he will come home soon though. It is almost December after all. The roads might become dangerous soon.” Catherine said trying to comfort the girl.

“Are you sure?” Sara asked. Catherine simply nodded. Catherine and Sara sat in an awkward silence for quite a while.

“What do you like to study most?” Catherine asked to fill time. 

“History, Uncle James always tells me I should learn as much history as possible because history often repeats itself.” Sara said happily. 

“Well now you will have to help me by telling me what all you have learned so far.” Catherine said trying to sound nice, but really wondering why this little girl admired her uncle so much. There was a knock at the parlor door.

“Come in.” Sara said. Catherine smiled. This girl was obviously used to being alone.

“It is dinner time.” A servant said sticking their head in.

“Thank you we will be there in a moment.” Catherine said getting up. She hadn’t noticed how much time had gone by. As they ate there was little conversation. It felt awkward for Catherine to be dining with a girl she had only known for the past hour. Then she realized that she would most likely be dining with this child and eventually her uncle each night. Half way through the meal they heard the door in the entrance hall open.

“Sara where are you? Your uncle just got home and wants to see his girl.” They heard a man say. Sara jumped up and Catherine heard her yell.

“Uncle James you’re home.” Sara said joyfully. Catherine came into the hall to see a man swinging Sara around. At first she could not see his face for the girl in his arms. Then he looked up and Catherine took a sharp intake of breath. James Richardson had curly blond hair with streaks of red. He had dark blue eyes that she felt could look into her soul. He stood a good head or two taller then she did and he couldn’t have been older then twenty five.

“Hullo. You must be Catherine Jones. I did not expect you here so early. I wanted some alone time with little Sara here. I’m James Richardson. Welcome to my home.” He said.

“It is a pleasure to meet you Mr. Richardson.” Catherine said curtsying slightly.

“Well how do you like it here so far?” James asked brushing a curl off his forehead.

“Your home is beautiful. Thank you for allowing me to come here. I will just go upstairs now. You want some time with Sara and I should most likely rest from my trip.” Catherine said.

“When did you arrive?” He asked. 

“Early this afternoon.” She said before descending the stairs. She truthfully did not feel the least bit tired. She had slept so much out of boredom on the ride there she felt she could stay awake for half of the next day.

“You are welcome to join us.” James said politely. 

“It would be an intrusion.” Catherine insisted.

“Not at all Miss. Jones. If you change your mind feel free to join us in the parlor.” James said. She simply nodded and finished walking upstairs. Once in her room she hung her clothes in the wardrobe sitting in the corner. Then she set some of her personal books on the writing desk she was sure Mr. Richardson had made sure she had. She tried to shake her thoughts of him from her mind. She was an employee and should not think of her employer in such a way. Then she walked downstairs to ask where she would be teaching Sara. She knocked at the parlor door and was told to come inside.

“Excuse me. I was wondering where I will be teaching Sara.” Catherine said her eyes looking over the room. James and Sara were lying on the floor playing chess.

“Well wherever would be best for you. Where would you like it to be?” James asked looking up at her.

“Well I can teach anywhere. However a large room with space would be nice.” She told him.

“The Parlor has quite a bit of room as you can see. You could teach in here if you like.” He offered. Catherine nodded. The parlor was about twice the size she needed to teach, but she figured it would work nicely.

“I like it in here. It has so many books I want to read.” Sara said happily. James laughed.

“You must learn to read first. Then you will be able to read all the books you like.” James told Sara with a large smile that made her smile. She had a feeling smiles in this house were infectious. She sat down on the sofa and watched the two others finish their game. Then Sara grabbed James by the hand and pulled him across the room to Catherine. Then they sat down next to her.

“Catherine do you sing?” Sara asked. Catherine smiled over at her.

“Yes I do actually. Why do you ask?” Catherine asked.

“My mother sang a lot. When we would come to visit Uncle James would play the piano and mother would sing. Would you sing something for us?” Sara asked.

“Sara. Miss Jones is still tired from her trip. Perhaps some other time.” James suggested.

“Well I suppose I could sing one song, if you don’t mind of course.” Catherine said to James.

“Well I suppose one song wouldn't hurt. It is almost Sara’s bedtime after all.” He said. Sara smiled from her spot between them. Then Catherine and James walked to the piano and flipped through the books. Finally they settled on Amazing Grace. When the song was over Sara clapped with delight.

“How did you learn to sing like that?” She asked in awe.

“My mother taught me. Well you can learn to sing like that. You just have to be willing to practice.” Catherine told her from her spot standing beside the piano.

“Well you can learn tomorrow. For now, up to bed miss. I will be up to say goodnight and tuck you in a moment.” James said. Sara nodded and told Catherine goodnight.

“She is a dear child.” Catherine said walking to a nearby window.

“Yes she is. Well I am sure you would like to rest now. It is your first day of teaching tomorrow” James said. Catherine turned around and looked at the clock on the mantle. It was almost 8:30.

“Yes I really should rest. Goodnight Mr. Richardson.” Catherine said before a slight curtsy.

“You may call me James if you like. I like to make the staff feel welcome and that they are part of our family. Do you mind if I call you Catherine?” He offered.

“Not at all, goodnight James.” She said again.

“Goodnight Catherine.” He said before she left. That night she quickly fell asleep. In the morning she woke up and glanced at her bedside table. The clock said that it was around 7’o clock in the morning. So she got out of bed and got dressed, brushed her hair, and fixed it skillfully. When she descended the stairs for breakfast James and Sara were already at the table eating.

“Good morning Catherine.” Sara said since she spotted her first.

“Good morning Sara. Good morning James.” She said before sitting down.

“Good morning Catherine. I trust you slept well.” James said.

“Yes I did thank you.” Catherine told him politely. 

“Catherine how did you fix your hair like that? It is so pretty.” Sarah exclaimed. Catherine looked at herself in the mirror across the room hanging on the wall. Her hair was simply twisted up like the pictures of the Gibson girls. Only she had a few stray strands hanging loose on each side that refused to stay in place.

“Well I tried to fix it right, but there are always a few strands that do not wish to corporate.” Catherine told her. Sara touched her ringlets.

“Could you fix my hair?” She asked.

“You do not need your hair fixed up. You look lovely how you are. Do you not agree Catherine?” James asked glancing at Catherine with a look asking her to support him.

“Your uncle is right. When you are older you will have plenty of time to fix your hair up.” Catherine said flashing a smile at James. He smiled back and their eyes locked, Catherine looked away blushing. Catherine quickly ate then she and Sara went to the parlor to start working. Weeks went by and soon Sara was able to read short sentences when she sounded out the words. Catherine soon observed that she was a fast learner. Each day she would wake up and have breakfast with Sara and James, she would teach Sara until lunch time when James would sometimes come away from his work to eat with them. Then in the evening they would sit in the parlor and either play games or sing. Sometimes James even read aloud to Sara while Catherine would work on some embroidery. Then once Sara was asleep in bed she would read by herself while James worked. However on some rare occasions they would sit in the parlor and talk for hours. Before they knew it Christmas was fast approaching. During a lesson one day Sara stopped practicing her penmanship and looked over at Catherine.

“What is it?” Catherine asked.

“I was wondering if you would help me make Uncle James a Christmas present.” Sara said.

“Of course I will. For now though you need to get back to your penmanship.” Catherine told her laughing. They heard a knock at the door and Catherine called to come in. James came in and asked if he could take Sara to go pick out a tree.

“Can Catherine come too? Please Uncle James.” Sara begged. James laughed.

“If she wants to, I am not going to force her.” He said looking over at her. “What do you think? Would you like to come?” James asked smiling.

“Sure let me get my jacket.” She said. They walked out into the hallway and all put on their jackets. They all bundled up in hats, mittens, and scarves. Once they were finished they stepped out the door and Catherine was told they were going to be riding in James’s motor car.

“I have never ridden in a motor car.” She admitted. James smiled as he helped Sara up into the back seat.

“You will love it I promise.” He said before helping her step up into the car. When they took off she grabbed a hold of the seat. James patted her hand.

“Do not be afraid. It is perfectly safe.” He said.

“It is just we are going so much faster then I am used to.” She said as she let go of the seat and laughed.

“You will get accustomed to it in a moment.” Sara shouted happily from the back seat. After a while she did and by the time they reached the tree farm she was having a ball. When they finally stopped James helped Sara out first, then Catherine as Sara raced on ahead.

“She enjoys this so much.” James commented as he sat Catherine down on the snow covered walk way.

“I can see that.” Catherine said as they walked in after Sara.

“So what is Christmas like back where you live?” He asked her.

“Well we really haven’t had a Christmas since five years ago when my father died. I was only 16 at the time. I remember every year we would go buy a tree and we would decorate the tree with candles, popcorn, tinsel, and everything you could imagine. My parents would always wake us up early to let us open gifts.” She confided.

“Sounds wonderful, I remember the last Christmas before my father and mother died. My brother and I were in our mid-teens. We used to cause all kinds of trouble.” James said with a smile obviously reliving a fun memory.

“Sara’s father?” Catherine asked sadly. James nodded.

“What happened?” 

“Well her mother died. Joseph which is my brother, and Sara’s father killed her and he is in prison so I take care of her.” James told her.

“Oh. That is so sad.” She told him.

“You have the spirit of Sara’s mother. She was always trying to teach her and singing to her.” James said smiling. Catherine turned to him and her breath was visible in the cold December weather. She could tell he was deeply sad. 

“Uncle James. I found a tree.” They heard Sara shout beside them.

“We’re coming darling.” James called. They spotted Sara in a row ahead of them standing next to a beautiful tree. James held Catherine’s hand helping her over a snow drift. When they finally reached Sara they were all smiling.

“Sara what a lovely tree, it reminds me of the trees I had as a child.” Catherine said.

“We will have to get it won’t we?” James asked with a wink to Sara.

“What are you two up to?” Catherine asked.

“Nothing.” James and Sara said in unison, but their smiles convincing Catherine otherwise.

“What are you two up to?” Catherine repeated.

“Just a little surprise, you will find out later.” James told her. “Why don’t you two go wait back in the car, I will be right there after I pay for the tree.” He told them. The girls walked back to the car and soon James was back. “Sara what do you want for Christmas?” James asked winking at Catherine. Sara looked down.

“Could we go see father? I want to wish him Merry Christmas .” Sara said. James hesitated looking shocked.

“I suppose we could go see him for a few hours. Maybe tomorrow.” James said glancing over to Catherine with a worried look.

“Sara why don’t you and I make some cookies for your father so he can have some Christmas cheer?” Catherine asked. Sara brightened.

“Ok.” She said.

“So what do you want for Christmas Catherine?” James asked with a mischievous smile.

“Nothing. Why do you ask?” Catherine asked. James shrugged.

“You are staying with us. Sara has been learning more then ever. A Christmas present is the least I could do to thank you and make you feel welcome during Christmas.” He told her.

“She’s a fast learner.” Catherine said.

“What do you want Uncle James?” Sara asked from the back seat.

“What I want from you is just hear you singing and being happy.” He said.

“Well ok. I’ll keep the song a surprise though.” Sara said before giggling with glee.

“Well good. I love surprises.” James said. Then he started singing Beautiful Dreamer. First Sara joined in then after begging for Sara Catherine joined too. They must have sung at least a dozen different songs by the time they pulled back into the driveway. Once inside Sara immediately dragged Catherine into the kitchen to start the cookies. They cut the dough into shapes like trees, stars, etc. After they were cooled they decorated them all. By dinnertime they were packed ready for the next day. At dinner Sara talked about how excited she was to be seeing her father again. James and Catherine both repeatedly had to tell her to calm herself. Soon after the tree was delivered and they decorated it before putting Sara to bed. Then Catherine sat in the parlor reading and James went to finish some work. Later Catherine heard the door swing open and someone walk over to the window. She closed her book and looked up too see James. 

“Hello did you finish your work?” She asked. 

“Yes. I wanted to ask you something. Do you think it’s safe to take Sara to see him?” He asked her.

“Well you will be there. Noting should happen. Besides he is her father.” Catherine said.

“Would you come along? It might be comforting to have another adult there that’s on my side.” He said looking over to her.

“Of course. I’ll come if it would put your mind at ease.” She assured him before standing up and putting a hand on his arm. “Everything will be fine. It is just a little visit.” She said.

“I suppose it’s just paranoia. I only want Sara to be safe. Neither of us has seen Joseph for at least two or three years.” James confided.

“You should sit down. It might help calm you. You needn’t worry.” She said with a cheerful smile trying to calm him.

“I hope you’re right. I don’t want to cause a family feud.” James told her. Then she pulled him over to the sofa.

“It will all workout.” She promised him. He took her hand.

“Catherine when you go tomorrow be careful. My brother might try something. I have seen how he is with women.” He warned her. She nodded that she understood. 

“You should go to bed. You need to relax before tomorrow.” She told him. He nodded.

“I suppose so. Listen I think I should tell you that after Christmas I have to leave for another  business trip. It’s very important. Please don’t tell Sara. I wouldn’t want it to spoil Christmas for her.” He said. She agreed that she wouldn’t say anything. Then they both went off up to bed. Catherine worried how Sara would react when she found out he was leaving again. For now though she would only let herself worry about tomorrow. She went to sleep and woke up earlier then usual the next morning. She dressed in a simple morning gown with a high neck. She then went downstairs. They then ate breakfast together as usual. As soon as they were done they bundled up and drove off to the prison. When they pulled up they told the guards who they were visiting and he led them down a little hallway. The guard stopped them outside one door before ushering them in.

“Who is it?” They heard someone call. Catherine could see a figured lying on a cot with their hands behind their head eyes closed.

“Papa!” Sara called before running to him. The man opened his eyes.

“Sara? James you shouldn’t have. Bringing my daughter to dangle it over my head that you have custody of her.” He said gruffly as he held Sara in his arms.

“She asked to see you Joseph. I did not choose to come.” James said.

“Well Merry Christmas to you to brother. And who is this?” Joseph asked motioning towards Catherine.

“That is miss Catherine Jones, Sara’s governess. Catherine this is Sara’s father Joseph.” James said.

“Pleasure I’m sure. Sara and I made some cookies for you.” Catherine said handing him the basket.

“How sweet. I trust my Sara is a good student.” Joseph said with a grin.

“Excellent. She learns things quickly and remembers them very well.” Catherine said.

“Wonderful. Trust my brother to find a beautiful woman to teach little Sara here.” Then he let go of Sara and boldly placed a hand on her thigh. “I’m sure James wouldn’t mind sharing you would you James?”

“I assure you it’s not like that sir.” Catherine said as she removed his hand. He put it right back where it had been.

“Oh come now. I’m sure James here has tried to make some attempt at you. Or is he the being the perfect pretty boy gentleman as always?” Joseph asked with disgust and humor in his voice.

“Joseph kindly remove your hands from Miss Jones. I would hate to have to end our visit so early.” She heard James say through clenched teeth. Joseph laughed.

“Just listen to him. Fine I’ll let her go for now. I’ll be seeing you though lovely.” He told her with a wink before patting her thigh and removing his hand. Catherine was utterly repulsed. she went back over to stand beside James as Sara told her father all the things she had been learning. When they were back in the car Catherine didn’t know what to say. She didn’t know how Sara could still stand that man.

“Are you ok?” James asked after a while.

“Yes. I’m fine. Thank you.” Catherine told him.

“Good. I guess that qualified as a disaster. I should not have hoped for more.” James said seeming to say it more to himself. Catherine patted his hand.

“You did not know what would happen and I do not blame you for what did happened.” She told him. She saw him smile a little.  Then they heard Sara in the back seat.

“Catherine I’m sorry father behaved badly.” She said.

“It’s fine sweetheart.” Catherine told her with a smile. When they finally got back to the house Catherine and Sara had some lessons before lunchtime. The next day was a rare occasion when James joined them for lunch. 

“So how are you two today?” James inquired.

“Wonderful.” Sara told him.

“So Catherine will you be staying with us over the holiday?” James asked.

“I thought I might. If it is alright with you that is.” Catherine replied.

“Of course you can stay here.” James promised. “Actually I forgot to mention that some of the men who I work with and their families are coming here for a party in a few days.” He admitted looking down at his food guiltily.

“Oh Catherine you must come. It is always such fun.” Sara insisted.

“Well if James doesn’t mind me coming.” She hesitated.

“Of course you can come. That’s why I suggested it.” James laughed. Catherine smiled brightly.

“Oh this will be such fun.” Sara mused. Then James glanced at his watch.

“I’m afraid I have a meeting in town. I will see you two this evening though.” James promised before leaving. When they were back at their lessons Catherine was oddly distracted.

“What is it?” Sara asked innocently.

“It’s nothing. I was just thinking how I need to alter one of my dresses to be fit for the party.” Catherine explained.

“Could I help?” Sara begged.

“I suppose.” Catherine said hesitating.

“Could we go look at what you have to alter?” Sara asked. When they finally got to Catherine’s room she pulled out a blue gown that she usually wore to parties. “What does it look like on you?” Sara inquired.

“Well I guess I could try it on.” Catherine said before taking off her day dress and slipping on the dress which Sara had to help with because of all of the little buttons all down her back. It fell off her shoulders with tiny cap sleeves.

“It’s beautiful. Uncle James would agree with me I think.” Sara mused. Catherine blushed.

“Do you really think it looks alright?” Catherine asked.

“It’s beautiful on you. You should wear it.” Sara insisted.

“I don’t know that it would fit in.” Catherine insisted.

“Trust me you will fit in perfectly.” Sara promised giving her a hug. By the time the party came Sara had everyone in the house excited for it. When the came to go down and greet the guest with James and Sara Catherine hesitated on the stairs nervously. Her hair was loose falling down her back contrasting the dark blue of her dress. Then as she began to descend the stairs she heard Sara exclaim.

“Uncle James look at Catherine. I told her she would look beautiful.” She said innocently not noticing James staring at Catherine.

“You look lovely.” He told her recovering himself before he looked like a complete fool.

“Thank you.” Catherine replied just as there was a knock at the door. James answered it.

“James old chap. How are you?” A jolly man asked after helping a women inside.

“Wonderful. Sir this is Catherine Jones, Sara's Governess. Catherine this is my boss Mr. Smith and his wife Loraine.” James said.

“Catherine is it? Well James has surly mentioned you. However his description does not quite do you justice.” Mr. Smith said. Catherine smiled at him.

“How did he describe me?” she questioned.

“Why he said you were a vision of beauty and a kind and patient teacher to Sara.” Mr. Smith laughed. Everyone laughed except for James who looked anywhere other then at Catherine.

“Who all else will be coming?” James asked trying to change the topic.

“Well just almost everyone I think. Everyone loves seeing Sara and I’m sure they are all just as anxious as I was to meet Miss. Jones here.” He replied.

“Mr. Smith would you like to see the decorations on the tree that we made?” Sara asked.

“Of course. What about you dear?” He asked his wife.

“It sounds delightful.” She said smiling first at Sara then at Catherine. Before long the house was full of people. James took them around to meet everyone and Catherine felt the odd one out. They all knew who she was, but she had know idea who any of them were. Half of them she couldn’t even recall their names their meetings had been so brief. During dinner she was sat beside James at the head of the table with Sara beside her who was the only child there. There was a lot of endless irrelevant chatter she rarely joined in and all through the evening she could feel James watching her. Dinner and the rest of the night went by quickly. Before long it seemed Sara was in bed and Catherine and James were in the parlor  alone together.

“The party was wonderful James. Thank you for inviting me.” She told him shyly.

“It was nothing. I’m glad you enjoyed it.” He told her as she heard him walk across the room to her. Then she felt a hand on her bare shoulder. She turned around to look at him.

“You look beautiful tonight.” He complimented.

“Thank you.” She said blushing. He smiled.

“Well good night.” He told her before bowing gallantly and kissing her hand. She smiled up at him.

“Good night.” She managed to say before he walked out of the room. She walked over to the sofa and almost collapsed into it. She wondered to herself why he had to be so attractive. Of course he did not know the effect he had on her. How every time he touched her she wanted to feel him holding her tight, kissing her. A little while later she walked silently up to her room. When she woke up the following morning she remembered that it was Christmas. She did not know what had woken her up until there was a knock at her door. She quickly crawled out of bed throwing on her robe and walking over to open the door. There stood James and Sara.

“Good morning and Merry Christmas.” Sara told Catherine with a quick hug.

“Why not go down stairs and open presents as soon as Catherine is done getting dressed.” James suggested. However she noticed that everyone was still in their pajamas. Sara in her pretty blue nightgown and James wrapped in a robe. With only a light nightshirt and a pair of worn looking pants.

“I don’t mind as long as you two don’t.” She insisted trying to ignore the fact that her hair was most likely a mess. Still James smiled at her and motioned her to go downstairs before him after Sara. Sara joyously opened her presents. Then Sara gave James her gift.

“What is it.” James asked with a laugh.

“Open it.” Sara told him. James did and found inside the brown paper wrapping a stack of papers with musical notes on them.

“It is a song me and Catherine wrote it just for you.” Sara blurted out a moment later enjoying the expression of amazement on James face.

“It is wonderful we will have to play it later. Sara why don’t you go into my office and see if there isn’t something left on my desk for Catherine from Santa.” James suggested with a mischievous smile. Sara ran up the stairs leaving them blessedly alone. James looked at Catherine and stammered that he had seen something one day in town and just knew that it would be the perfect thing for her. Moments later Sara came back in carrying a little package which she carried over and handed to Catherine. Catherine shot James a shy smile and tore off the paper. Inside was a box that held a beautiful broach in the shape of the treble cleft. It was gold and was shined to perfection. He said giving her one of his smiles that always made her heart race. She smiled back.

“It’s beautiful. Santa is very generous. To generous actually.” She told him taking the broach out to admire it after giving him a disapproving look when Sara wasn't looking for spending money on her.

“What now?” Sara piped in. James shrugged.

“Why don’t we all go get dressed before we decide what to do.” Catherine suggested.

“How about we all get dressed and we can go out.” James suggested. Everyone agreed. Catherine went through her clothes choosing the right clothes. After going through her gowns twice she gave a sigh of exasperation and went over and ran a brush through her hair getting it to look decent. Then she went over to her wardrobe and grabbed a light blue day dress. Once she had all of the little buttons that went down the front fastened and pinned the broach from James onto her dress. Then she went downstairs to where James and Sara were both waiting. Then they decided to go take a walk in the gardens. Like when they had gotten the tree Sara ran on ahead of them and Catherine and James walked slightly behind.

“So when do you leave for your trip?” Catherine asked.

“Tomorrow. It ought to not take long though. If the weather permits I ought to be back around the new year.” James told her.

“Sara will be disappointed.” Catherine told him.

“It should all be well, but if you do need me call the hotel and they will give me the message.” He told her pulling down a piece of paper and scribbling down something quickly. “This is the name of the hotel. Just ask the operator to connect you.” He instructed you.

“Very well.” She told him with a little nod.

"You most likely won't need it, but better to have it and not need it then to need it and not have it." James said. Catherine nodded in agreement. They stood there for a moment in silence just looking at each other. Then James leaned in towards her and for a moment Catherine thought he would kiss her.

"Catherine, Uncle James, aren't you coming." Sara called back to them.

"Of course darling go on ahead to the car and we will be right there." James replied not taking his eyes off her. Catherine didn't know what to say and had just turned around and walked a few steps before James was turning her around. He whispered her name before kissing her softly on the mouth. She was in a daze as she wrapped her arms around his neck. He pulled her closer then suddenly pulled away.

"Wow." She managed to say as she just stood there in his arms touching her lips.

"I completely agree." He said before letting his arms drop to his sides. "We really should get going. Sara will be wondering what happened to us." He said after a moment of silence. Catherine nodded in agreement and let James lead her to the car in a sort of daze. He had kissed her and he seemed to have like it. What would happen now she wondered.

"Where were you two?" Sara asked her words bringing Catherine back to reality.

"We just lost track of time." James said after a moment of hesitation. That was true they certainly had. Catherine remained fairly silent for most of the ride into town where they ended up going to Christmas mass. When they arrived home afterward James stopped her outside the door as Sara went on ahead. "About earlier. We most likely shouldn't tell Sara. She may get the wrong idea about the two of us."

"I agree. There are some things that she doesn't need to know about at her age." Catherine said as she blushed at the memory of his lips on hers.

"Well I guess that is settled then." He said before holding the door open for her. They had lunch and dinner together and during dinner James told Sara about the trip.

"Why do you have to go tomorrow? Can't it wait?" She begged.

"I have to go Sara it is very important. You know that I will be back as soon as possible though." He promised. Sara looked about to cry as she stood up and ran over to Catherine who held her close to her chest.

"Catherine get him to stay. Make him not go. Please." Sara mummbled against Catherine's chest.

"I can't do that darling. It is for his job. He has to go. Besides it won't be like the other times. I will be here with you." Catherine promised. Sara stopped after that and after awhile was asleep in Catherine's arms. James helped take her up to bed before they retreated to the parlor together. After awhile James finally broke the awkward silence between them.

"I don't like this awkwardness between us." He admitted. Catherine closed her book and looked at him.

"Well I don't know how it can be avoided." Catherine said.

"I mean it was just a kiss between two mature adults. Besides you enjoyed it didn't you? I know I did." James inquired.

"I did indeed. I don't think it is proper of me have though. I mean you are my employer after all." She said shyly.

"Catherine is that the only way you see me? Can you honestly look me in the eyes and say you didn't feel anything resembling passion during that kiss?" He asked as he put a hand on each of her arms. She looked up at him and took a deep breath.

"I did not say that. I simply said I do not think it is proper feeling this way about you considering the situation." She said. Suddenly he was leaning in towards her.

"How about we give it another try." He suggested. She swallowed and barely nodded before his lips met hers and he was holding her in his arms. She let a soft moan escape her lips when his tounge touched hers after a few minutes. Then she felt him pull away. "I know my limits." He said out of breath. All she could think was that it shouldn't be allowed for one man to have this effect over her. She had completly forgotten why she had thought it wasn't proper. Then it all came back to her. She had just kissed her employer twice in one day.

"Oh my god!" She whispered before her hand flew too cover her mouth.

"Is something wrong?" He asked.

"You kissed me. And I kissed back. Oh my god what have I done? You must think me a terrible flirt." She said as she covered her face, ashamed of herself.

"Catherine I don't know what came over me. I would like to ask you to forgive me for my immoral behavior." He said. When she didn't reply right away he pulled her hands away from her face gently and pulled up her chin to look at him. "Do you forgive me?"

"Yes." She admitted her voice barely audible. He smiled back at her.

"We should probably say goodnight." He said as he lead her out into the entry way and up to her room.

"Good night James." She said shyly.

"Good night Catherine." He said. Then they parted ways untill the next morning. When Catherine got down to the entry way the following morning James way saying good bye to Sara. Then he looked down at her and locked eyes with her. "Good bye Catherine." He said.

"Good bye James. Have a good trip." She said. Then she made a daring move and went up on her toes and kissed him on the cheek. This made him smile. He gave her hand a quick, but loving squeeze before leaving. During lessons that afternoon shortly after lunch Sara looked up at Catherine.

"Are you and Uncle James in love?" She asked. Catherine couldn't help, but blush.

"I don't know what you are talking about." She lied.

"The way Uncle James looked at you before he left. I see him look at you that way sometimes when you aren't paying attention. It is how Papa used to sometimes look at Mama before he would tell her he loved her." She said in explanation.

"Oh. I wouldn't know about such things. I know I am attracted to your Uncle, but..." She started then she let out a sigh. "Who am I joking. Yes I am in love with your Uncle, but I don't know if he feels the same."

"He loves you too. He told me so yesterday when we were waiting for you to come down from getting dressed." Sara admitted before covering her mouth with her hand. "Oh no it was supposed to be a secret!" She exclaimed. "Are you two going to get married?" She asked innocently a little while later having forgotten her earlier slip of the tounge.

"Sara you shouldn't talk of such things." Catherine scolded. However it didn't really work since she was blushing.

"Why not? Isn't that what people do when they love each other?" Sara asked.

"It is more complicated then that. You see people usually don't marry the people they work for." Catherine said in explination.

"Oh." Was all Sara said in reply sounding disapointed. The next few days went by fairly quickly. On the fourth night as Catherine was coming downstairs from putting Sara to bed she heard a knock at the door. When she answered it to her utter shock she found Joseph Richardson.

"What do you want?" She demanded. He stepped inside the doorway making her step back and he quickly backed her up against a wall.

"I came to see you. And Sara of course." He said leaning in close.

"You escaped from jail didn't you." She demanded as he tried to kiss her and she turned her head away sick at the thought of anyone except James kissing her.

"Come now don't be like that. And for your information I did." He said with a grin as he turned her face with his hand and forcefully kissed her. She beat against his chest and when that didn't work brought her knee up between his legs before running upstairs to Sara's room and slamming the door shut and locking it as she heard Joseph running upstairs.

"What is going on?" Sara asked confused.

"Your father is here. He broke out of jail. Come here." Catherine said as she grabbed Sara's hand and they huddled together in the corner. A few hours later when they heard the door slam shut downstairs Catherine told Sara to stay there while she called James. She told the operator the name of the hotel and told the hotel clerk she need to talk to James Richardson right away. That it was an emergency and gave her name.

"Catherine what's wrong?" He asked a few minutes later.

"James it's you. He came to the house and he cornered me and then I had to injure him so I could run upstairs and hide with Sara till he left. I don't know what to do. I mean what if he comes back?" She asked in a rush.

"Wait slow down. Who came to the house?" He asked.

"Sara's father." She admitted.

"Oh my god! Are you two alright? He didn't hurt you did he?" James asked concerned.

"No it just scared me." She confided.

"Thank God! Now listen. I am coming home right away. I want you to go back upstairs and take Sara to my room and lock the door. I will be there by morning." He promised.

"Alright. See you soon." She said.

"See you soon." He said. Then he hung up. Catherine did as he said and ended up falling asleep in James' bed with Sara untill she was being gently shaken awake. She opened her eyes to find James sitting on the bed beside her.

"James you're home." She said as she threw her arms around him releived to see him. He laughed and held her close.

"Yes I'm here. Now why don't you tell me what happened exactly." He suggested.

"Well I had just put Sara in bed. There was a knock at the door and I answered it. When I opened the door he just came in and cornered me against the wall and started trying to kiss me. I tried to fight him off, but when it didn't work I brought up my knee between his legs then ran up to Sara's room, locked the door, and we hid till he left when I called you." She explained.

"Don't worry you're safe now." He promised as he held her closer before rapping his arms around her waist. She cuddled up close to him as much to stay warm as to feel safe. A few minutes later they heard Sara start to stir so Catherine climbed out of his lap.

"Uncle James you're home!" She exclaimed when she was fully awake. James held out his arms to her and Sara climbed into his lap where Catherine had just been.

"Yes I am. I missed my girls." He said looking at first Sara then Catherine. Catherine knew she was blushing and looked away.

"Uncle James are you going to marry Catherine? Because I thought that is what people do when they love each other, but she says that people don't usually marry their employers, but what do you say?" Sara asked innocently not knowing she was making Catherine blush even more.

"Sara you are embarrassing Catherine. Besides you shouldn't ask such questions it is impolite." James scolded with a smile on his face as he pondered his niece's question. "However to answer your question I honestly do not know."

"I am going to go to my own room now." Catherine said embarrassed.

"Catherine please don't leave." Sara pleaded.

"Please Catherine." James said joining in with a smile. Catherine sighed before turning around and sitting back down on the bed. They sat in bad for most of the day untill lunch time when they went down to eat. That evening after they put Sara to bed James and Catherine went to the parlor like usual. Except as soon as they sat down in the sofa James pulled her into his arms.

"I missed you." She whispered looking up at him.

"I missed you to. I am glad my brother didn't hurt you." He said before leaning down to kiss her. She practically melted against him. After his brother's rough treatment the night before James gentle kisses felt like heaven. His grip on her was gentle and loving. When one of his hands slid to her waist to pull her closer she started to pull away. "What's wrong?" He asked.

"James this isn't proper." She whispered looking away. As much as she enjoyed being in his arms she knew it wasn't proper to be kissing and to have these feelings about her employer.

"Catherine I am sorry I keep being forward to you, but you are just so beautiful that I just can't help myself sometimes." He said. She look away from him.

"James it isn't that I'm not attracted to you. I am just trying to avoid heartache. We both know men of your station do not usually conduct relationships with women of mine except for mistresses and I refuse to be any man's mistress. I don't want to get my hopes up." She said before she knew better.

"So you do find me attractive?" He asked sounding hopefully. She avoided his gaze that she knew was on her.

"You know I do. I just said so." She said blushing. Suddenly he put a hand on either side of her face and tilted it up to look at him.

"Catherine I think I fell in love with you from the start. I realized it though the night of the party. You were so beautiful. I was so proud to be your escort." He admitted.

"Don't say that. I don't want to make this any harder then it already is. We both know this relationship can not be no matter how much we want it too." She said trying not to cry. She knew she had to say it even though she didn't want to. At the same time she wanted to throw her arms around James and believe that he was in love with her and that they would get married and admit that she loved him to.

"Who says it can't be? We are both adults and if you have the same feelings for me that I do for you who could stop us. Why do we care what others say?" He said.

"James you have to be practical about this. Think of the scandel it could cause. Think of what people would say if we got married. You know what they'd say don't you? That you got me with child and had to marry me. I couldn't bear people saying that about you." She said.

"Catherine I don't care what they say. Anyone who saw me around you would know I wasn't forced to marry you. I can deal with any gossip and anything they would say as long as I had you as my wife. As long as I knew you loved me too." He said. Then he went down on one knee and she almost started crying again. "I know you are afraid of what could happen. So am I, but all during my business trip I was thinking of my future and I realized this morning as I came into my room and found you asleep in my bed that no matter what was in my future. No matter how much money I had or how many things I had, none of it was worth anything without you as my wife. I need you Catherine. So I am asking you right here, right now. Catherine Jones would you do me the extreme honor of becoming my wife?" He asked as he pulled a ring out of his pocket. It had a round ruby in the center surrounded by tiny diamonds all set in gold.

"Yes. Yes I'll marry you." She managed to say after she got over the shock enough to speak. He smiled and slid the ring on her finger before pulling her into his arms and kissing her. She wrapped her arms around him and let him hold her close and kiss her. He had just asked her to marry him and she was overjoyed. When he pulled away he noticed tears running down her cheeks and wiped them away.

"Are you alright?" He asked. She nodded.

"I am just so happy." She admitted as she admired the ring. "Oh my lord we really are engaged. This isn't all a dream is it?" She asked.

"No it isn't." He promised. He sat back down on the sofa and she lay back against him resting her head on his chest as he wrapped his arm around her waist. "I love you Catherine Janes." He whispered into her ear.

"And I love you to James Richardson." She said bringing one of her arms up to wrap it around his neck. He planted a single kiss on the side of her neck before they heard a knock at the door. James reluctantly let go of her and went out to answer it.

"Joseph what are you doing here?" She heard him demand from the entryway. Catherine came out into the entryway to see James blocking his brother from entering the house.

"You know very well why I'm here brother. I want my daughter." He replied. Then he caught sight of Caterine standing in the doorway of the parlor. "Hello lovely. I told you I'd be back." He said blowing her a kiss before continuing. "Why don't you come over here and give me a kiss hello?"

"Joseph I suggest you do not speak like that to my fiancee." James said clencing his fists.

"Ah so she agreed to marry you did she? Did you consider brother that she may just want your money." Joseph said smiling evilly. Catherine walked over to the door absolutely furious and smacked him across the face as hard as she could.

"How dare you say such a thing? I happen to love your brother. You are just jealous because he is a gentleman and you are not." She accused as James pulled her back by her waist to stand beside him.

"I suggest you get off my land Joseph before I call the police. I won't have you accusing Catherine of such things. You are lucky I wasn't the one who hit you for saying such things." James said.

"I am not going anywhere till I have Sara with me." He said.

"Over my dead body." James said right before Joseph swung at him. The two men started fighting. Catherine backed away trying to think of what to do. "Catherine go up to Sara's room and stay there till I come get you." He called.

"No! I am not going to leave you." She insisted rushing forward to try to help him.

"Go! For the love of God Catherine go!" James yelled as he managed to get Jospeh down to the floor. Catherine didn't do what he said and instead ran to the phone and called the police, hoping that James could keep Joseph at bay untill they got there. When they finally arrived the men were still fighiting, but the police managed to get a hold of Joseph and take him away. As soon as he was out she ran to James.

"Thank God you are alright!" She exclaimed throwing her arms around him. He lightly pushed her back and held her at arms length away.

"Catherine why didn't you do what I said? You could have been hurt." He demanded.

"I didn't want to leave you and to not be able to help you if you needed me." She admitted. He sighed before pulling her close.

"Next time do as I say. Alright? I couldn't have lived with myself if you had gotten hurt." He said. She nodded and let him hold her till one of the officers came over to them.

"Excuse me, but I need to know what exactly happened here." The officer said.

"Well basically my brother came to this house and demanded that I give him his daughter. He escaped from prison where he has been for the past 5 years. Which is why I have custody of her. I refused to let him have her and we fought." James said leaving out the argument about his and Catherine's engagement.

"Well it was good you had this lovely lady here to call us. We will let you be for now. We will get him back in jail and you have nothing to worry about. We will most likely have someone stop by tomorrow to ask some more questions. Have a good night." He said before leaving them alone once again. James pulled her into his arms and kissed her soundly. They pulled apart when they heard a little voice coming from the stairs.

"Uncle James I had a bad dream." Sara said standing there watching them in her nightgown holding her favorite doll. They let go of each other and James walked over to her and picked her up.

"Well let's get you back to bed. You need your sleep. We have some exciting news for you." He informed her.

"What is it?" She asked suddenly excited. Catherine and James both smiled.

"Catherine has agreed to marry me. Isn't that wonderful?" He asked.

"So that means she will be my aunt now right? And she is going to live with us forever?" Sara asked happily.

"Yes it does." James said before carrying her up to bed. About an hour later he came back down to join Catherine in the parlor where he pulled her into his lap.

"You should go rest." She advised.

"Will you come with me?" He asked teasingly.

"James we both know that wouldn't be proper. We aren't married yet." She scolded.

"I wasn't thinking of that. I just don't want to let you leave my side. I am afraid I will wake up and this all will have been a dream." He said. She laughed.

"It better not be." She said just before he scooped her up in his arms and carried her upstairs to his room. He laid her down on the bed and climbed in beside her before pulling her close. She couldn't help, but be happy.

"I love you." He whispered before kissing her. She kissed back and wrapped her arms around his neck as he pulled her closer and wrapped his arms around her waist. A moment or two later his hands slid up her back to push her closer against him. She sighed against his lips. A few minutes later she felt his hands hesitate on the ties of her dress. Her hands flew over his to stop him and he pulled his mouth away from hers. "Is something wrong?" He asked concerned.

"James I do love you, but are you sure we are ready for this?" She asked feeling nervous.

"Catherine if you feel uneasy tell me. I would never force you to do anything." He promised.

"I just don't want you to change your mind about me because we make love before we are married." She said shyly.

"Is that what you're worried about? That would never happen. My love for you is far beyond physical attraction. If it worries you though then we won't make love till were's married. I will have to control myself." He said giving her a kiss on the forehead. She was lying so near him that she could tell that he wanted her a lot. However he was going to put her wants and worries above his. She loved him so much for that.

"I love you so much James. I know that you want me and it means alot that you are putting your wants aside to put my mind at ease." She said giving him a quick kiss before sitting up. "I should most likely being going to my room." She said before trying to get out of the bed, but he wrapped his arms around her waist to stop her. She turned around to look at him.

"Goodnight Catherine my love." He said.

"Goodnight James." She said kissing him again before leaving to her own room where she changed into a nightgown and fell asleep dreaming of her future with James. When she woke up the next morning she lay there for a few minutes staring at her engagement ring. Then she suddenly sat up straight in bed. She would be needing to send her mother a letter with the good news. She wasn't sure how her mother would react to her marrying her employer. She got out of bed and got dressed before sitting at her desk and writing the letter then sealing it in an envelope. When she got down to breakfast James was already there.

"Good morning. Isn't Sara awake yet?" She asked.

"Good morning too you as well. She already ate. She is playing upstairs in her room I think." He said setting down his paper as she sat down beside him. 

"I slept late didn't I? We were supposed to start our lessons an hour ago." She said as she put food on her plate and glanced at the clock.

"You had quite a day yesterday. It is understandable if you take the day off today." He said.

"I still can hardly believe everyting that happened yesterday. I mean we're engaged now and Sara's father was arrested again. I don't want to see that man ever again." She said before eating a little.

"Me either to be competely honest." He said with a smile and taking hold of her hand lightly. "Sara is already excited for the wedding. She is practically in heaven."

"I bet she is." She said smiling back at him.

"Speaking of which we need to set a date for the wedding." He said. "When do you want it to be?" He asked.

"November 25th." She said instantly.

"November 25th?" He asked laughing. "Why November 25th?"

"That was the day we first met. Don't you remember? You were swinging Sara around in the entryway as I was walking into the room." She said.

"I remember. You looked like you weren't sure what to do." He said.

"I was trying not to stare at you. Even then you were the most handsome man I'd ever seen, and I could hardly believe." She confessed guiltily looking down at her plate. He laughed.

"Really? I certainly couldn't tell. I guess that day would be fitting. Though I must admit I don't know how keen I am to wait that long." He said as she finished eating her breakfast.

"I really should go start lessons with Sara now." She said standing up.

"Alright I have to go into the office today. I will be back for dinner." He promised before giving her a quick kiss and leaving. Catherine then went upstairs to get Sara. When she entered the room Sara was playing with her paper dolls like they were at a wedding.

"Sara are you ready for you lessons?" She asked getting the little girls attention.

"Oh yes. Uncle James told me he wasn't sure if you were up for my lessons today. I was just playing with my paper dolls." Sara said.

"I saw that. What were they doing?" She asked.

"I was pretending it was your and Uncle James' wedding." Sara said. "This one is you, that is uncle james, and that is me." She said pointing to the various dolls.

"It looks lovely. Why don't you put them away so we can go start our lesson. We are going to be studying Greek Myths today." Catherine said.

"Alright. Those are my favorites." Sara said enthusistacually as she picked up her dolls and put them away before skipping down the stairs into the parlor ahead of Catherine who was smiling. By the time it was nearing time for James to come home Catherine caught herself checking how she looked in a miror hanging on the wall. Then they heard his car coming up the drive they both of them grew anxious. A few minutes later he walked into the parlor with Mr. Smith and his wife.

"I hope you two don't mind that I invited them for dinner." James said.

"Not at all. I will go tell the servants to set two more places at the table." Catherine said.

"I already did." James said as he smiled at her and grabbed her around the waist before she could walk out of the room.

"Oh. Alright." She said as she blushed and pushed his arm away embarrassed, worried about what the Smiths would think of his casual displays of affection.

"Did uncle James tell you that he and Catherine are engaged now?" Sara asked.

"No he didn't." Mr. Smith said glancing at James.

"I was going to tell them during dinner. Thanks for ruining the suprise." James said scoldingly as he was smiling at Sara.

"Well congratulations." Mrs. Smith said with a smiling before taking Catherine's hand. "If you need help planning anything for the wedding I would be happy to help you out." She offered.

"I will keep that in mind. It is a very kind offer thank you." Catherine said.

"It's no problem at all my girl. I am glad to see all of you so happy." Mrs. Smith said. “James has been lonely for far to long.”

“Shall we go and have dinner then?” James suggested.

“Certainly.” Mr. Smith said. Then they all proceeded into the dining room. During most of the meal Mrs. Smith was asking her about what kind of wedding she wanted.

“Do you have any idea where you want to have it?” She asked at one point.

“I hadn’t really thought about it.” Catherine confessed. “Maybe we could have it outside on the grounds.” She suggested.

“That could be quite lovely. If the weather permitted.” James said approvingly.

“It would be even more lovely if you had it in the summer.” Mrs. Smith said. “Did you have a date decided yet.”

“We were planning on November 25^th. That was the day we met you see.” Catherine said.

“That is so romantic.” Sara exclaimed suddenly.

“That is almost an entire year away.” Mr. Smith pointed out. “Are you sure you really want to wait that long?”

“Yes, but it gives us plenty of time to plan. It could be quite nice not having to worry about planning in a rush.” Catherine said.

“That is Catherine for you. Always making sure things can be planned perfectly. She has her lesson plans done almost a week before they are needed I bet. Have you ever done something in your life that wasn’t planned?” James teased.

“Falling in love with you.” Catherine replied. “I certainly was not planning on falling in love with my employer.” Everyone laughed at this.

“That I think we all believe that darling.” James said as he took one of her hands and kissed it lovingly. After dinner the Smith’s left to go home and Catherine and James put Sara to bed then went to the parlor to spend some time together.

“So is there anything you want specifically to be in the wedding?” Catherine asked.

“You and Sara.” He teased.

“I am being serious. I want to make sure you are happy.” Catherine said.

“As long as I am marrying you how could I not be happy? Let me think. I would like to have a small wedding. Nothing to extravigant. I don’t think that is really either of our style though.” He said.

“That is true. Neither of us are really extravigant.” She said. “What about your family?”

“Well I don’t have a lot of family. Joseph is one of my few family members and he is never getting anywhere near you two again. The only family I really am in contact with is one of our aunts and her children. You should invite them. I think you all will get along very well. Most of our family shuns my aunt because she married a man who her parents did not approve of. She was in love and was 16 years old, they eloped. He died a few years ago though. They were some of the poorest people I knew, but the happiest and most in love couple I have ever seen.” James said.

“I will be certain to invite them.” Catherine promised as she leaned back so her head was resting against James’ shoulder. “What about the wedding party. I know I want my older sister to be maiden of honor and my younger sister to be a bridesmaid. What about groomsmen?”

“Well let’s see I could ask one of my cousins to be best man and a groomsman. Unless you have brothers.” James said.

“I only have a brother-in-law. He is my sister’s husband. He is overpratective like a brother is though.” She admitted.

“Good. Cause I only have one cousin who I can really stand.” James said as he whispered in her ear. The rest of the evening was spend in further wedding plans. The months that followed was an insane mix for Catherine between wedding planning and teaching Sara. The day Catherine’s finished wedding dress arrived at the house Catherine took the box from James’ hands and took it upstairs where Mrs. Smith helped her try it on while Sara watched.

“Oh Catherine you look beautiful!” Mrs. Smith said as she turned Catherine to look in the mirror.

“Uncle James is going to love it.” Sara exclaimed.

“You better not be spying for you uncle. The wedding dress is supposed to be a surprise for the groom.” Mrs. Smith said seriously. “If you go spilling details about it it will ruin our opportunity to see his reaction at the ceremony.”

“Surely he won’t have that big of a reaction.” Catherine said as she fingered the gown’s skirt.

“Oh Catherine you highly underestimate the sight of you in that dress.” Mrs. Smith complimented. Suddenly there was a knock at the door.

“Who is it?” Catherine called.

“It’s me. Your sister and her husband are outside the door. Should I let them in?” They heard James ask.

“They can come in, but you can’t” Mrs. Smith called back as she motioned for Catherine to move where she wouldn’t be seen when they opened the door. They could hear James mummble something and then Mrs. Smith opened the door and let in Catherine’s sister Cecila and her husband Thomas. They came in and they both hugged Catherine.

“Are you trying to give that poor lad a heartattack when he sees you on your wedding day?” Thomas said teasing Catherine as he stepped back from hugging her.

“Oh hush Thomas. You look lovely Catherine.” Cecila complimented taking her sisters hands. “The dress is beautiful. Mama and Elizabeth are downstairs getting to know your fiancee by the way.”

“I am not allowed to tell Uncle James what it looks like.” Sara said pipping up.

“This must be Sara that you have talked about in your letters.” Cecila said as she and Thomas smiled at Sara.

“Yes that is her. We hope she isn’t being a little spy for her uncle.” Catherine said.

“I won’t ruin the surprise.” Sara vowed.

“We will see how long that lasts once your uncle tries to get you to tell.” Catherine said with a smile. She had to admit that while Sara was not the best at keeping secrets in general she knew how to when it was meant as a surprise and it really mattered.

“Why don’t you and I go down and see your uncle while Catherine and her family catch up.” Mrs. Smith said taking the young girls hand and leading her out of the room. Cecila insisted on taking Catherine behind the changing screen and helping her change.

“So I hope I don’t have to explain to you what happens in a marriage bed.” Cecila said teasingly. “After all you have lived in the same house with the man for months now.”

“Cecila!” Catherine exclaimed at her sisters insinuation. Even if it was in jest it went almost to far.

“So he hasn’t bedded you already?” Thomas asked. He had obviously been listening to their conversation.

“No he has not. He is a perfect gentleman.” Catherine said.

“Good because if he had already bedded you I would have to fight the man on principle. You can’t tell me the man hasn’t tried though because I will not believe that.” Thomas said sounding like he was only half joking.

“Thomas you should not say such things about her fiancee. I must admit that I am curious though. Has he tried too?” Cecila asked.

“Only a very small attempt and that was only one time and he stopped as soon as I asked him too.” Catherine admitted. She knew full well that she must be blushing terribly.

“He has more self control then I do then. It took Cecila asking about 5 times to get me to stop the first time I tried.” Thomas said.

“Thomas you should stop talking about such things in front of Catherine. She isn’t married yet.” Cecila said.

“Fine darling. I will behave myself.” Thomas promised as Cecila helped Catherine back into her normal dress and they came out. Thren they went downstairs to join everyone else.

“So when am I going to hear something about your gown?” James asked when they joined them in the parlor.

“You will see the whole thing at the wedding tomorrow.” Catherine said.

“Sara will you tell me about Catherine’s dress?” James asked innocently.

“Catherine said I am not allowed to tell you.” Sara said seriously. Everyone laughed.

“Is everyone against me?” James asked.

“I can tell you from experience they are. When I married Cecila they wouldn’t tell me a single thing about it, but trust me when you see her walking down the aisle towards you in a dress she picked out just for the occasion of marrying you and to surprise you all the waiting and wondering is worth it.” Thomas promised.

“I certainly hope it will be. I know the waiting is certainly worth it to finally marry her.” James said as he looked at Catherine. A few hours later they all went into the dining room for dinner. Just before desert James’s cousin Steven , who was to be best man, stood up.

“I would like to say a few words. As most all of you know I am James’ cousin. When I got a letter from him asking me to be the best man at his wedding two thoughts ran through my mind. The first was, is this the same James I think it is? The second was, who is the lucky woman? You see James has always been very focused on his career and most recently taking care of Sara. I wasn’t sure he would ever find the right woman and get married, but he has found a very wonderful woman and I think our entire family shares my sentiments when I say that we will be very proud to have Catherine join the Richardson family.” He said. Everyone clapped approvingly.

“We will be pround to have you in our family, just as I am sure James is pround that you chose to marry him.” James aunt said as James wrapped an arm around Catherine’s shoulder from where he sat beside her.

“I am pround and a very lucky man indeed.” James said as he stole a kiss from her in front of everyone which left her breathless.

“James Richardson you better behave yourself young man. You are not to old for me to woop you. Look at the poor girl she is looks stunned.” His aunt said.

“She looks like that a lot when Uncle James kisses her.” Sara said innocently not knowing that all of the adults would diaprove of her uncle’s behavior. Most everyone in the room was looking at James disapprovingly except for Thomas who was trying to hide a laugh behind his hand as Cecila gave him a look that told him to stop.

“Why is it that if we kiss them breathless they act like we’re scouldrels, but when we barely kiss them they tell us we are being cold and distant?” Thomas said amused.

“I have no idea. I don’t see Catherine arguing that she is displeased with my kisses and until she does I will kiss her as passiontly as I find proper.” James said with a chuckle.

“Well we don’t find it proper.” Cecila said. Then Thomas was leaning over the table so Sara couldn’t hear him.

“Save passion for the bedroom I guess.” He said with a wink to James.

“Thomas!” Catherine’s mother said as she smacked him upside the head. “Watch what you say there are young unmarried girls in the room.”

“That enough of that talk from the both of you.” Catherine said to both James and Thomas since she had finally recovered. The women at the table nodded in approval. “Why is it that you both are gentlemen, but when we put you in the same house you both start acting like you are in a house full of bachelors?”

“Don’t be angry with him Catherine I was the one causing trouble after all. James’ comments were mostly innocent.” Thomas said in the other mans defense. Catherine looked at the clock and realized that it was time to put Sara to bed. She and James exused themselves to put her to bed, but Cecila insisted on coming with them just in case. Once Sara was in bed they all went into the parlor and talked for a long while before finally going to bed. When Catherine woke up the next morning it truly hit her that she was getting married that day to the man she loved. She went through the motions of the day mostly in a trance untill she was about to walk outside into the garden and down the aisle to marry James. She took a deep breath and stepped outside and looked to see James’ reaction. He was staring at her in awe as if he wasn’t sure she was quite real.

“Thomas was right. It was worth the waiting and wondering. You look so beautiful.” He whispered when she reached him.

“Thanks you. You look wonderfully handsome.” Catherine said honestly as she looked at him in his dress clothes. The priest was beginning the ceremony so they were forced to become silent. Before she hardly knew it it was time for their vows. James went first.

“I James Richardson,???take you, Catherine Jones,???to be my wife;???to have and to hold,???from this day forward,???for better, for worse,???for richer, for poorer,???In sickness and in health,???to love and to cherish, As long as we both shall live." He said as he looked into her eyes. Catherine took a deep breat before taking her turn.

“I Catherine James,???take you, James Richardson,???to be my husband;???to have and to hold,???from this day forward,???for better, for worse,???for richer, for poorer,???In sickness and in health,???to love and to cherish, As long as we both shall live."  She said. Then they exchanged the ring. When the priest ask if there was a reason why they should not be married no one of course objected.

“Then by the power vested in me by the state of New York I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may not kiss your bride.” The priest said. James took her in his arms and kissed her passiontly.

“I love you Catherine Richardson. Now and forever.” She felt him whisper against her lips.

“I love you too.” She said back after they finally pulled apart. James smiled and took her arm then led her inside proudly where they would have a celebratory dinner and a small reception before the left for their honeymoon the next morning. Part way through dinner a servant came in and whispered something to James who took Catherine by the hand and said that they had to go speak with someone briefly and would be back shortly. He led her into the parlor where a police officer waited for them. The officer stood when they entered and James quickly asked him to sit back down and make himself comfortable before helping Catherine sit down on the sofa and taking a seat next to her.

“How can we help you officer?” James asked.

“Well I hate to ruin such a happy occasion, but I am afraid I have some discouraging news. It is your brother Mr. Richardson, he has escaped from prison again.” The officer informed them.

“When did this happen?” Catherine asked now frightened.

“Just this morning madam. We have people out searching for him as we speak and will likely find him before the day is out, but we thought we should warn you. From the report you filed about the incident which happened last time he escaped it seemed likely that he may come here again to try and get his daughter once again.” The officer said.

“Thank you officer for letting us know. If he shows up here I will be sure you inform you.” James promised. The officer nodded and promised to inform them once they found Joseph before leaving.

“James what are we going to do? We can’t have him coming here. Especially not today. With all the confusion with everything happening with the wedding he could slip in fairly easily and steal Sara away.” Catherine said.

“I know he could. Don’t worry dear. I will not let him anywhere near you or Sara again. You can relax a little bit.” James said before kissing her on the nose. “You are safe as long as you are in this house and with me.”

“I know I am. I just can not believe he escaped again.” Catherine confessed.

“ Me either. For now let’s go back to the party. If we tell everyone what is going on we can strenghten security and better keep you both safe.” James said. They walked back into the dinning room and when everyone saw their facial expressions the mood immeditally turned serious.

“Did someone die?” Steven asked.

“No noone died Steven. Joseph, my brother and Sara’s father,” James said in explination for Catherine’s family’s benefit, “ has escaped for prison again. They are searching for him now, but he could be anywhere.”

“What should we do?” Cecila asked.

“We should go on with the party as we planned, but just be on your guard.” James warned. Everyone nodded that they would.

“Do you think father is going to try and come here?” Sara asked. James squatted down in front of her before replying.

“We think he might. So you need to stay with someone in this room at all times untill they find him. Alright?” James told her. Sara nodded that she understood. The rest of the day remained to be celebratory, but the spirit was dampened with the knowledge that a murder who had escaped form prison may show up at the house. When it was finally time to go to bed James was frustrated. “Shouldn’t they have found him by now?” James asked Catherine as he was taking off his jacket and Catherine was finishing putting on a different dress. She had decided that it would be best to be ready to leave at any moment.

“These things take time. Surely they will find him soon.” Catheirne pointed out. Suddenly they heard a loud crash from outside in the garden. They both rushed out into the hallway and were soon joined by everyone except Sara and Cecila who was already in bed and Cecila was watching over her.

“Let’s go see what it was.” Thomas said. James nodded and went back into his room and brought out a pistol.

“Just to be safe uncase it is Joseph and he tries to do something.” James said when he saw the women’s shocked reactions. He and Thomas then started to go downstairs. When Catherine tried to follow them James stopped her. “Stay here. I will be back in a minute.”

“But what if you need me?” Catherine asked.

“Thomas stay here with them just incase.” James advised. Thomas promised he would. Then the two of them left. The women stood there worridly in the hallway for about twenty minutes before they heard a gunshot that made Catherine rush outside to investigate. What she saw was James holding a smoking gun and Joseph lying dead on the ground.

“What happened?” Catherine asked.

“I killed him.” James said souding like he was in shock. “I tried to convince him to turn himself in, but he said he wouldn’t. He kept demanding I give him Sara and kept talking aobut taking you with both with him. Then he pulled out a knife. He tried to stab me. I killed my own brother.” Catherine look around an sure enough Joseph had a knife in his hands. She looked at James and noticed he was bleeding from a wound on his arm.

“He did stab you.” She said as she started to look at his arm. James dropped the gun and let it fall to the ground.

“I killed him.” James said again as everyone finally caught up with them. Catherine took James’ face in her hands and made him look at her.

“James listen at me. It was in self defense.” She said before pushing up his sleeve and showing him the wound Joseph had left. “He was stabbing you. You were just protecting yourself. Likely saving your own life and everyone else’s.”

“What do you want us to do?” Thomas asked.

“Can you phone the police and have them come Thomas? And mother can you and Elizabeth get me some water and bandages I can use for James?” Catherine asked. They all agreed to do so. It was hours later when they finally got to bed. They were both exhasted.

“I think I have had enough adventure in the past few months to suit me for a lifetime.” James confessed months later after the business was finally conpetely over as they sat in the parlor one night.

“I have to agree with that for the most part. I think a little excitement would be nice though.” She said.

“A little excitement perhaps.” He agreed as he kissed her.

“Maybe in a few months.” She hinted. “Maybe a bit of surprise actually.” She continued as he kissed her neck. James sat him seeming to finally get what she was hinting at.

“Are you pregnant?” He asked happilly.

“Yes I am. Which means we are going to have a baby in a few months.” She said.

“This is the best surprise I have ever had.” James told her after he kissed her again. “We are going to be a family of 4 now. Do Sara know yet?”

“No I have not told her. I just found out earlier today and I thought I would share the news with you before anyone else.” She said.

“I am glad you did. We will tell her first thing in the morning. I already know what her reaction will be though.” He said.

“Oh do you?” She asked with a laugh.

“Yes she will be extatic. She is going to have a little baby to help take care of.” He said.

“That is probably true she said.” Then he scooped her up into his arms. “What are on earth you doing?” She asked as she wrapped her arms around his neck to keep from falling.

“I am carrying my wife upstairs. Since you are pregnant it give me the perfect excuse to carry you.” He said. She just laughed.

“You have some of the silliest notions I have every heard of, but I do love you.” She said.

“Good because I think you are stuck with me now.” He said. Then he carried her upstairs to bed saying that the should rest so she had plenty of energy to handle Sara’s reaction.  8 months later Catherine Richardson gave birth to a baby boy that she names Edward.

“Are you happy?” She asked James as he was watching the baby sleep in her arms a few hours later.

“It is the third happiest day of my life.” He said honestly.

“The birth of your child is the third happiest day of your life?” She asked skeptically.

“Only after the day his mother agreed to marry me and the day she finally made her my wife.” He said. They he kissed his sons head and his wife’s lips. Thinking he had to be the luckest man alive.