The London Affair

Chapter Nine: Stay Numb and Carry On

Chapter Nine: Stay Numb and Carry On

"I know I said I wasn't going to ask anything of you and I do not want to pressure you but.... if you would ever be so inclined to marry, marry me, you made me a better man. I know I could make you happy, you'll have my constant love and we'll someday have children if you so desire," Peter declared.

"Peter that all sounds lovely and you know I love you, I do. But from the moment I met you, we were, through no choice of my own already engaged to be married. I think we need to become friends first because to me the most important element of marriage is friendship. And perhaps when we are friends, we could formally court and then maybe someday you could propose again!"

"Then it's settled," Peter smiled happily. "We are to become friends!"

Maria giggled in agreement. "Yes we will become friends," she said in a almost very seductive manner for a lady.

A Week Later:

"Anyone can build an empire but it is a true hero, who can maintain an empire," declared Queen Victoria. She was inspecting the troops with Robert by her side in front of the Prime Minister and members of Parliament . This was the day Robert was to leave for war. "Each and every one of you is a hero, you have my love and the love of the island, you are what makes England, England. And under the brilliant leadership of my General Robert Taylor, you will be successful. Today I am proud to announce that I'm making General Taylor, Lord of Edenberry due to his service to the crown! A multitude of cheers and claps were heard from the soldiers, who adored their general. However a lukewarm reception was given by the members of parliament, who were shocked that the Queen dared to elevate such a lowly person like Robert. Upon this announcement, Robert fell to his knees, he mouthed the words, "thank you ." The Queen smiled and gently said, "Arise my Lord and be recognized."

"Robert, General, I mean my Lord..." Peter called once the ceremony was over. Robert turned on his heel and was face to face with Peter. "My apologies Prime Minister I'm not use to the title."

"A little advice one never gets used to it."

"You seemed comfortable with it that day, when we were young and you yelled and said you were Lord and Master of the estate."

"My apologies, I was just young and foolish. Listen, I came to offer my congratulations."

"Thank you, this was actually a bribe from the Queen, so I would come back after the hostilities are over."

"You were set on not coming back?"

"I'm still set, every lord has his staff attend to the estate, why should I be any different? I will stay in the colonies I can make a good living there. There's nothing for me here. I saw the way Maria looks at you, you belong together, she loves you more, though she doesn't dare admit it to herself. I do not know if Maria will desire to marry you in the future but...,"

"She refused my second proposal but wants to become friends and maybe something more down the road..."

"I see," replied Robert bitterly. "But whatever happens take care of her, she's a strong, independent woman but protect her from Lord Grey."

"She would hate that we were having this conversation."

Robert laughed , "true but Lord Grey is a monster in how he treats his daughters and wife, I'm afraid he might force her to marry, send her off to a nunnery or worse disinherit her !"

"Don't worry, I won't let anything happen to her, I give you my word."

"I appreciate that, I know I can trust you with this."