Sunday, June 01, 2008
Chapter 21
Stephen was still worried about the letter he received from the King of Wales. He was still wondering if he should tell Sebastian about it.
Please tell the Duke of Cornwall that I would like to betroth my son to his daughter. It would be such an honor to have a pleasing daughter like Marie. I am looking forward to the engagement and meeting my daughter soon. Please inform me immediately of the Duke’s reply, Stephen. I entrusted you with this. These were the words of the King in his letter. He wanted to engage Sebastian and Marie. And in this case, it is hard for Marie to agree with the engagement. The event occurred in the opera house is unforgettable for her and it might actually bring nightmares to her. Marie wouldn’t like this. She dreaded this to happen.
Stephen is deeply troubled by the events occurring these past few days. After the incident in the opera house in Cornwall, he no longer has the confidence to tell Marie that the Duke is planning to betroth him to the Prince. He knew that the Prince would be enthralled by the news, but Marie won’t. And he cares for Marie’s feelings.
Stephen remembered the talk he had with the Duke of Cornwall. The Duke was hesitant at first, but Stephen persuaded him. He told him that his daughter is in good hands. He is man of honor and nobility, and the events that had occurred simply destroyed everything.
He already planned how to tell his cousin about the betrothal, and how will he announce it to Marie. He planned to say it in Cornwall so the Duke might help him in persuading Marie to agree with the betrothal. Yet now, Stephen’s hope is crushed.
He needed to do something. Before the King decided to go to Devon, and tell them the news personally.
The guests were settled in the dining hall. Marie is securely seated next to Edward, whose piercing glances are received by Sebastian. Meanwhile, Marie was uncomfortable by the tension exchanged by Edward and Sebastian. Sebastian gives her glances that are comforting and worried. Stephen, on the other hand, is fighting his own tension. Stephen is still bothered by the agreement of the King of Wales and the Duke of Cornwall. He needed to say it now.
The supper was quiet, and it ended peacefully. The guests were about to return to their bedchambers, but, Stephen stopped them and said he has an important announce to make.
“Sebastian,” Stephen started, “I have been in contact with the King of Wales every now and then and update him on how are you doing, Sebastian.” “Is everything alright? Is my Father sick?” Sebastian asked curiously. A tone of startle can be heard.
“Oh, no. He is very fine, and in good health.” Stephen reassured his cousin. He breathed deeply and spoke again, “He has entrusted me to arrange an engagement. And I mean it literally.”
The Duke and the Duchess of Devon gasped for air and watched their son with surprise. “Who will be engaged, my dear?” The Duchess asked worriedly. The guests were listening attentively to what Stephen has to say. He looked at them and their eyes were locked at him. They were waiting patiently for his reply.
Sebastian was worried. He was anxious, too. He knew that he might be the one who will be betrothed to unknown lady. It must be him. The King ordered his cousin to do specific arrangements. He was sure it was him. He is anxious on who might be her betrothed. He turned her gaze to Marie whose attention was focused on Stephen. He wished it was Marie who will be betrothed to him.
“I was supposed to tell you this, Sebastian. But unfortunately, incidents occurred, and I find it hard to talk to you.” Stephen paused. “I have been troubled by the King’s request, and I needed it to inform you before the King tells you first.” Stephen looked at Sebastian intently and turned his gaze to Marie. Marie looked shocked. She wasn’t expecting Stephen to look at her. Marie felt uneasy.
Stephen shook his head and bowed down. “Sebastian,” he said softly. “You are engaged to Marie.” Stephen added softly. The volume of his voice was almost inaudible, but Sebastian heard it well, and Marie, as well.
“I beg your pardon.” Marie mumbled. “Me? I am engaged to the Prince?” “Yes, Marie.”
“Does my Father know about this?”
“The Duke is happy to accept the proposition.”
Marie stared blankly at Stephen. She was still trying to register the words coming from Stephen’s mouth. She turned her gaze to Sebastian. He didn’t look disturbed. She guessed he was even ecstatic about the whole arrangement. Sebastian played the glass of wine he was holding and caught Marie’s eyes on him. They were looking to each other for quite long. It’s as if they are memorizing each of the person’s inch of the face. Marie tore away the staring and wetted her lips. She was shock. And she doesn’t know what to do.
The story is already finished writing. :) Wait for the rest of the chapters to be posted. Thanks for reading.
Labels: Chapter 21, Fortuitously Enamored
