Everything I Do, I Do For You

Chapter 23

Belinda had been to Scotland before. She and her family had visited her aunt and uncle plenty of times while she was growing up, but nonetheless, this visit felt different. If she had ever planned on marrying before, she had never expected to be so far from her family. Spinsterhood had promised her the opposite. So it was no surprise that Belinda found herself bursting into mini fits of tears every once in a while.

Kellan had taken notice "You know I realized that we do not live too far from the Earl and Lady of Killmarin. We should have them over at some point."

Belinda nodded silently.

"You know, I am sure you will love the Highlands. Definitely something to write home about... Err. or at least in your journal."

Home. The word stung her heart. In a way. Home was back in England, back in Hastings' house. But another piece of home was in the carriage with her- Kellan. And if Kellan had to be in Scotland, then she would have to be as well, as much as it may hurt.

"You know Clara has been making improvements on the house since I left for the season. She wanted to fix it up before I brought someone home."

Belinda nodded.

"She left a list of notes for you. Things she learned while managing the house. She tells me I must not read it at all."

"I didn't realize your sister and niece would be leaving the house upon our return," Belinda spoke up. Growing up in such a large household, the thought of being alone, even if it was with the one she loved, frightened her.

"She didn't want to step on any toes-" Kellan began

"Where will they be going?" Belinda asked

"Well I believe it is one of the family's summer homes."

Belinda tried to imagine the young mother and child alone in a big house. It was what she had pictured for herself and the nonexistent bastard she had dreamt up just a few weeks ago. The more this year progressed, the more Belinda realized how dreadful living alone could be.
"If it is alright with her," Belinda began, "Then I would like them both to stay. It seems unfair that I would shoo them away so quickly. Besides, I am sure your house is large enough to accommodate the four of us."

Belinda watched a smile crawl across Kellan's face, " Yes, but..."

"But what?" Belinda asked with genuine confusion.

"You didn't ask if it was alright with me."

Belinda put on at least some air of confidence, "If I am to be in charge of the household, a job I take on because I must, then I believe it is my choice as to who lives there."

"There you are," Kellan said, "I was beginning to think you were crawling into a shell of misery."

The words were sharp, but comforting to Belinda, "Now I may need a bit to adjust to life in such a new place, but I will never crawl into any shell without my own consent."

"I wouldn't want you any other way." Kellan answered.

Once they arrived at Wexford Manor, Belinda took a deep breath, ready to take in what would be her new home. It was no different than any house in England, she reassured herself, except for the fact that she was now completely responsible for it. She took a minute to say a silent prayer for the manor's staff. She knew she wouldn't be a tyrant, but she also knew that she was one of the least skilled mistresses they would ever meet.

Belinda had already told herself that her first task as lady of the house was to find Clara and Lily, and ask them to say. Fortunately for her, she found both ladies waiting for the newlyweds inside the sitting room. Cheerfully hugging her sister in law and niece, Belinda went straight to her request.

"Kellan tells me you two are set to leave sometime soon."

Clara nodded, "We can leave tonight, if you wish."

"Nonsense," Belinda shook her head, "Kellan and I insist that you stay. We certainly have plenty of room here."

"We wouldn't want to intrude." Clara said

Behind her, Lily sat patiently on the couch. Belinda admired the young girl's patience.

"Clara, I grew up with four siblings and nearly thirty cousins. I can't imagine living alone ever. Especially," she leaned in and whispered to her new niece, "With this big stinker."

Lily broke her composure to giggle.

"Oh Belinda, you really don't have to." Clara smiled.

"This was your house before it was mine. It would be so wrong of me to take it from you."

Clara leaned in and gave Belinda a hug. It wasn't the same sister that she was used to, but Belinda was glad to have her.

Belinda pulled back, "And that is why I also insist you be the one to show me around the house. I do not trust that my new husband won't head for the most sensual spots of the house first."

Belinda watched Clara's face turn red, then a small laugh escaped her petite lips.

"I told you she was something, didn't I?" Kellan laughed.

"Yes. You did. And I think she is all the more a perfect bride for you." Clara answered. "Now come along Belinda, I have much to show you."